Is Your Resume Outdated?

Have you been using the same resume format for the past 15 years and wonder why it isn't getting you the callbacks you'd desire? You might take a look at it to make sure that it isn't outdated.

But what if it is? What can you do? You could get professional help with resume writing or make adjustments on your own. If you want to try by yourself then consider the following tips...

Drop the Objective Statement

The objective statement offers employers a look into what you want in your career and why you're pursuing the position. However, they're much more interesting in what you can do for them than what you think they can do for you. So instead of using an objective statement, try a career summary. It works as a miniature cover letter that gives insight into your best professional accomplishments and engages the reader enough to have the stick around for more.

Get Rid of the Fax Number

Since no one uses a fax machine anymore except in extreme circumstances, it's a good idea to go ahead and remove the fax number from your resume. Instead, just add a URL to your LinkedIn or Facebook page - or add a link to your blog.

Try More than One Font

When typewriters were the only way to create resumes, one font size was the only option. Now, computers offer hundreds of options. Of course, you don't want to use most of them because they're just too funky and weird for a resume. But if you want to switch it up by adding two unique font styles and more two or three sizes, it's a great route to take to not only give your resume an updated look but make it easier to read.

Sidestep the "References Available Upon Request" Phrase

This phrase was popular over a decade ago when trying to let a manager know you could offer references if they needed them. But now, this is pretty much understood by all parties, so you don't need to go out of your way to add the phrase. If you have a LinkedIn page, your recommendations may be enough information for employers, but if not, don't worry, they'll ask for whatever information they need from you when the time is right.

Your resume may be outdated, but the good news is that this is an easy problem to fix. It's better to start updating it sooner than later, however, so that you don't have too many more people looking at it thinking that your approach as an employee is as old and stale as your resume.