Every time I review resumes at Cleared Job Fairs, I see a lot of resumes with professional summaries and objectives and skills lists that take up most of page one. Don’t be this self-focused! A resume needs to show how you can help the potential employer now!
You need a meaty but short summary on your resume. Fill it with 3-4 bullet points about actual info important to the specific job you seek.
- Intel analyst recognized for excellence in data analysis and reporting at the national level.
- Program Manager, PMP and MS Cybersecurity, with extensive experience turning failing projects into on-time, on-budget results which clients appreciated.
- Skilled trainer whose safety and security programs have been accepted and used across two major commands.
Then back those bullet points up in your Work Experience section with some more details.
In a technical field? Add a line or two with the most compelling and relevant technologies. You can always add a fuller list at the end of your resume if you think it necessary.
If you did not put it with your contact information, be sure your security clearance is also a bullet. Keep it short and simple: Top Secret/SCI
Skip all the way too common buzzwords: leadership, team-work, top performer. Your actual achievements should demonstrate those qualities.
Your goal is to get a recruiter or hiring manager’s attention and entice them to keep reading. Don’t lose their attention with useless, wasted words. Move into work history and critical achievements in your jobs quickly!
Originally published in ClearedJobs.net
