Fill The Holes In Your Resume

Many people fail to prepare and update their resume until a job they want pops up. They then realize they don't have the latest skills needed to move forward in their career. And by then, it's often too late. Don't get stuck behind.

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: January 16, 2006 - 7:34 AM

If your dream job is advertised in today's Star Tribune Jobs section, is your resume up-to-date and ready to send to the employer? Does your background match the skills the employer is looking for?

Chances are, probably not. Many people fail to prepare and update their resume until a job they want pops up. They then realize they dont have the latest skills needed to move forward in their career. And by then, its often too late. Dont get stuck behind. After you have updated your resume, analyze it to see where there are holes. What training is needed? How can you make yourself irresistible to employers?

One way to find out what the latest skills needed are is to read job descriptions from a variety of openings in your field locally and nationally. What are employers asking for? Read job postings within and outside of your field. Is there a common trend in a variety of industries?

"When updating your resume, it is important to research the position and industry youd like to pursue," says Kyle OKeefe, branch manager of OfficeTeam in Minnetonka. "You need to know which skills are in demand and the qualifications companies seek. If you've held the same position for many years, you may be unaware that some companies now expect candidates to hold certain degrees for roles or require knowledge of technologies that weren't available when you took your current job."

If you are unfamiliar with new procedures in your field, consider enrolling in a continuing education course to get up to speed.

"Learning about your ideal position will also help you identify current industry jargon that should be included in your resume," says OKeefe.

In addition, you may discover your resume contains outdated terms or specialties - such as knowledge of old software programs- that will make you appear behind the times.

Industries are always evolving, and those who are up-to-date with the latest trends will move ahead. Filling in the holes in your resume now may keep you from missing out on an opportunity later an opportunity such as your dream job.

Matt Krumrie is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, and has eight years of experience reporting on the employment industry. The first Sunday of each month this column will answer readers questions. E-mail questions or subject ideas to askmatt@startribune.com.

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