Are You Ready for a Resume Review? Here’s What to Know (and Do) in Advance

Are You Ready for a Resume Review? Here’s What to Know (and Do) in Advance
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A winning résumé is an important tool to have in your career transition toolkit. It showcases how your skills, talent, and experience are a match to a particular job or industry.

 

While there is no résumé Bible, there are ways you can articulate your value to prospective employers. Along with a suite of reference materials at MOAA.org available to everyone, MOAA Premium and Life members should consider a résumé review to maximize your application’s effectiveness.

 

But before you sit down for a review, get the basics in order. Whether your review is in-person, virtual, or via email, the reviewer will have a limited time to tailor your materials to your target audience – any help you can give in advance will streamline the process and improve the final product.

 

For anyone looking to craft, rewrite, or hone their résumé, consider these tips:

  • Know Your Audience: Ensure your résumé is targeted and tailored to the specific job or industry.
  • Stay Simple and Straightforward: Your résumé should be two pages or less, with 1-inch margins and sufficient white space.
  • Dump the Jargon: Most readers won’t understand a hodgepodge of military acronyms and service-specific lingo.
  • Watch Your Personal Info: Include your name, phone number, email, and customized LinkedIn URL. Only list metropolitan area or city and state – not your personal address.
  • Make It Matter: Describe your specific accomplishments instead of providing a long job description. And keep your work experience recent and relevant -- only go back 10 to 12 years
  • Choose Your Words (and Commas) Carefully: Lead with action verbs (“led,” “streamlined,” “created,” “produced,” “designed”). Remember to proofread, then proofread again, and again.

 

Want more tips? Visit MOAA.org/resumehelp for answers to specific résumé and application questions. MOAA Premium and Life members can check out the Résumé Development section of MOAA’s Webinar Archive.

 

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Newly updated! Learn what you can do to prepare yourself for a successful transition from military career to civilian career. This handbook shows you how to create an attention-getting resume, cover letter, and more. Get tips on self-marketing, job search, interviews, and interviewing. (Available to Premium and Life members)

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About the Author

Capt. Pat L. Williams, USN (Ret), PhD, PHR®
Capt. Pat L. Williams, USN (Ret), PhD, PHR®

Williams serves as MOAA's Program Director, Engagement and Transition Services. She served 35 years in the Navy in multiple high visibility leadership positions. She is a Certified Professional in Human Resources.