You’ve probably read plenty about how to write the perfect resume, but you don’t find as much about the ways that you can prep before actually putting fingers to keyboard. There are several steps that you can take to help you make sure that you gather the right information. 

As you know, preliminary work is just as important, if not more so, than the work itself. So let’s look at some ways that prepping can help you create one of the best resumes you’ve ever sent off. 

Start with a Wish List

It’s pretty common to start a job search by hopping online and venturing to a job search site where you enter a keyword search for the type of industry or position you’d like to find. While this definitely is not a bad way to find the job of your dreams, it’s not the only way. In fact, one tactic that experts suggest you consider in order to align yourself more closely with the job you want is to make a wish list of the companies you’d like to work for.  

By creating a wish list, you already know what the companies offer their employees, and have determined that in some way you’re a good match. With already having some insight into the workings of the company, you can create a resume tailored to the position you would like to acquire, as well as the specific needs of the company. While making a wish list isn’t mandatory, it is a recommended way of fine-tuning your job search and resumes.

Prepare the Story You Want to Tell

Right off the bat, you’re probably wondering how in the heck you’re going to fit a story into a 1-2 page resume. That’s not exactly the idea behind preparing the story you want to tell. You’re still going to construct the same bullet-point styled resume with plenty of white space that you’re used to. However, within those bullet points will be a carefully-crafted explanation of how much you’ve accomplished in the past – and thus, how you will be great in a position with their company.

Here’s how you can get this done. Think of numerous work-related circumstances/obstacles that required you to take action to resolve an issue for each position you’ve held. Carefully note the actions you took in detail and also jot down the results of your actions. Make note of dollar amounts if profits were involved, the number of people on the teams you led, and so on. After you’ve thought of these circumstances then you can chip away at them until they make bullet-point descriptions. 

Think of Personal Touches You Can Add

If you know some quotes from the CEO of a company, or have kept up with quarterly figures, it doesn’t hurt to keep them in your arsenal of prep material. You might even include some of these notes or facts in a handwritten note that would accompany your resume. Not bad for adding your own personal touch. 

Writing a resume can be a tough job, but someone has to do it. Since that someone is you, it’s good to make sure you gather as much background information as you can to create a series of top-notch resumes for your job search.

Resume Tips for the Health Care Professional  Trying to find a job in any industry can be pretty difficult during times when thousands are losing their jobs every week. But one industry that seems to keep steaming ahead is the health care system.

There is still a need for professionals in this field because individuals are needed to accommodate new health care reform. So if you’re looking for work in this industry, here are a few tips to help you get your foot in the door sooner than you could imagine.

Choose Your Resume Format 

Depending on the type of health care professional you are, you may have to choose a resume format that compliments your level of skill and responsibility. For example, if you are seeking health care positions in the administrative or back-office areas then you would probably want to go with the traditional reverse-chronological resume. The same type of resume is suggested for you if you’re seeking management, accounting, plant operations, or purchasing positions because learning the newest skills first can help the employer correlate your abilities with their latest needs.

On the other hand, if you are looking for employment in the medical, academic, or scientific professions within the health care industry, most employers will be looking for you to present curriculum vitae (CV). The CV offers a different tone than the traditional resume, which focuses specifically on work and educational history with highlighted skills. The CV lists the professional’s credentials, but focuses more on academics than work experience. So on the CV, you might find headings like internships, professional experience, speaking engagements, conferences, professional affiliations, and publications. Also, the CV will likely be longer than a traditional resume. It is not uncommon to find one that stretches out for several pages.

Utilize Keywords 

Another tip to consider when preparing your resume for a health care professional job is the keywords. Because most employers accept resumes and CVs online and utilize software that picks up relevant words and phrases, most job candidates have to consider keywords. However, when applying for a health care position, it’s important to know the ones relevant to your industry.    For example, it’s a good idea to think in terms of the “caseloads” you’ve taken on in your specific field. You can elaborate on caseloads you’ve managed, how many patients or clients you’ve served, and any challenges associated with those caseloads. Another keyword phrase to consider is “quality initiatives,” or QI, which focuses on an understanding of problem identification, systems and process analysis.

Showcase an Understanding of Your Industry 

Each industry has something unique about it that those within it should know in order to stay relevant to hiring managers. For instance, it’s good to know that funding sources for public and private healthcare organizations have in recent years cut back allowable expenses and reimbursement. As you present your experience and commitment to quality, it’s good to show that you understand the adjustments made to your industry and how your accomplishments reflect this.

Knowing the ins and outs of any field you’re in is crucial, especially when creating your resume. So as you create one as a health care professional, consider these tips to help you create a stronger resume, and increase your chances of standing out in the applicant pool.