When is the best time to update your resume?

Many people come to me looking for resume help the day before the closing date of an application. I have had a lot of other people contact me months, even a year, before they will start looking for a new job. So, what is the right timeline for updating your resume?

Ideally, you should update your resume regularly, about once a year, even if you are not actively seeking a new job. One way to keep track of your professional experience is a "brag book." Use a three-ring binder to keep copies of certifications, lists of training courses, transcripts, performance assessments, emails or letters of commendation, old resumes, project lists, awards, and anything else that shows your successes. Also, keep track of supervisors' names and phone numbers, company addresses, start and end dates (mm/yyyy or mm/dd/yyyy) of each job, official job title, and formal job description. The brag book will provide you with easy access to the content for future resumes. It is never too late to start compiling your documents.

Ok, so you don't have a brag book but you are looking for a new job. Start brainstorming. Jot down everything you can remember about your previous jobs. Ask for help from friends, family, or a professional resume writer. (A professional resume writer can also compose an excellent resume using a brag book!)

You know you will be looking for a job. Now what?

• Graduating high school or college? Compose your resume early in your last semester (or before) and start job hunting at least 2 months before graduation. 
• Transitioning out of the military? Start getting ready 3-6 months before your ETS date.
• Thinking about a job with the federal government? That process can take 6 months or more.
• Changing careers, going back to work after retirement, or looking for a promotion? Get the resume ready as soon as possible. Do not procrastinate.

Why does it take so long? The hiring process is rarely fast and easy for the hiring managers and HR personnel. First, there is the resume review process, followed by interviews, selection, negotiations, justifications, paperwork, possible background checks, etc, etc.

Don't worry if you have waited until the last minute. These are suggestions instead of firm rules, but the more time you have to work on your resume (or the more time you give a professional resume writer to work on your resume), the more comprehensive and polished the resume will be.

 Moral of the story:  Be prepared, and be prepared to be competitive.

Professional resume writers can work with you to compose a resume that will help you stand out from the crowd.

Have a question for a Certified Professional Resume Writer or an interview coach? Post it in the comments below or check out www.epikosinc.com.