Ask-A-Recruiter: Everyone Needs A Resume

Contributed by Caroline Ceniza-Levine of SixFigureStart

I’ve seen a lot of advice about having an up-to-date resume. Since I’m not actively looking and my job seems pretty safe, do I still need one?

Everyone needs an up-to-date resume. Even if you are not actively looking, updating your resume forces you to take stock of your career on regular basis. You will not let too much time lapse in the wrong area or industry or level. You will continually remind yourself of your achievements and what is truly important in your job. This will prevent you from getting stuck in the day-to-day minutiae of the job.

Having an up-to-date resume is also a form of job insurance. If something unexpected happens (e.g., your company restructures and downsizes, your role changes for the worse), you can quickly get out into the market. While networking is the best way to land a job, rather than just sending out your resume, having the resume readily available shows that you are serious about marketing yourself and prepared to move. Having the resume already available, you will have one less thing to do in times of turmoil.

Finally, an up-to-date resume signals to yourself and to the universe that you are prepared for an opportunity should it come your way. While there is always the element of luck, being prepared often creates luck. You are able to capitalize on opportunities because you have done the ground work in advance. If it happens to be the right time or right place for you, you have the material to back up your presentation. Putting regular effort into maintaining an up-to-date resume enables you to “effortlessly” catch those lucky breaks.

Need to get serious about your career? Be proactive with personalized, 1:1 coaching from SixFigureStart. Contact Caroline Ceniza-Levine at 212-501-2234 or caroline@sixfigurestart.com for a complimentary coaching consultation.