Last month I wrote about Update Your References Month. In tangent with that, another expert recommendation for effectively managing your career is to update your resume on a regular basis. Career Directors International (CDI) also promotes the annual Update Your Resume Month in September of each year. Although you may not be inclined to update your resume each and every year, the idea is not to let five years go by without realizing what you have contributed to your company during that time period.
At the very least, all workers and professionals should have a manila folder, two-pocket folder, or binder where they periodically collect reference letters, positive accolades, and yearly performance evaluations (yes, don’t forget to ask for a copy from your employer once it is completed). Why you ask? This data provides information that can (and should be) included in your next resume.
When supervisors and/or colleagues make positive comments about your work habits and productivity, YOUR resume immediately gains credibility. Additionally, the folder or binder is where you can put projects you have worked on or mention any accomplishments you have had since you last updated your resume. This way, when you do go to update or create a new resume, you won’t forget to include some things that you did that were meaningful and an important part of your job requirements that could possibly position you for an internal promotion or career advancement.
One last way to manage your career is by enrolling in opportunities for professional development and continuing education. This allows you to be a more marketable job seeker and shows potential employers that you are a continual learner in your area(s) of expertise. Many employers will pay all (or a portion) of this cost for their employees to keep up-to-date with training and seminars. Keep your training and seminars as current as possible since your resume should only reflect the last 10 years of professional development.
