To update and improve your resume, make sure all details are correct and reflect your current skills, experiences, and achievements. Include metrics to specify responsibilities and outcomes, highlighting your impact. Create room for more relevant information by removing weak bullet points or insignificant sections. Customize section headings and showcase achievements that align with the target job description. Add links to relevant social media accounts or portfolio websites. Prioritize quality over quantity.
The best time to update your resume is whenever you gain new skills, experiences, and achievements.
The second-best time is now.
With an updated resume, you’re always prepared to seize new career opportunities without worrying about pulling off an all-nighter.
In this guide, we’ll share how to effectively update your resume, including specific, step-by-step instructions and examples.
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When to Update Your Resume?
Update your resume at least once every six months. If you’re currently employed, aim to update it at the end of each quarter to make sure you include key details without forgetting them, such as specific numbers or metrics for accomplishments and responsibilities.
A complete resume revamp isn’t necessary when you’ve just landed a new job or recently updated your resume.
Here’s when to definitely update your resume:
- Your work experience has expanded: if you’ve been promoted, taken on new responsibilities, or accomplished something significant, update your work experience section to reflect these changes.
- You’ve gained new qualifications or certifications: adding any new accredited courses, certifications, or projects you’ve completed can enhance your job prospects.
- You’re considering a career change: make sure your new resume fits the field you’re seeking to enter. Highlighting relevant skills and experiences can make you a more attractive candidate in a new industry.
In short, update your resume whenever you accomplish something significant. Get into a habit of adding these accomplishments immediately to your LinkedIn profile to make all future resume updates easier and more streamlined. This advice, as discussed on a Reddit thread, helps you remember all those important highlights.
How to Update Your Resume
This is how to update your resume:
- Refine your existing resume bullet points by using clearer action verbs and rearranging sentence structures to emphasize your impact.
- Use the reverse chronological resume format to highlight your work history.
- Include the most up-to-date information about your work experience and current (or most recent) job position.
- Consider removing additional resume sections and weak-sounding bullet points to create room for more relevant details.
- Mention new quantitative achievements, qualifications, and responsibilities.
- Describe positive outcomes you contributed to, using resume keywords that align with the target job description.
- Customize resume section headings and bullet points to further align with the job description.
- List any new skills, tools, and technologies that you’ve become proficient in.
- Add a link to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio.
- Double-check to make sure all information is correct.
Below, we’ll go through everything you need to do to update your resume to be prepared for the job hunt at any given time.
1. Refine your current resume bullet points
Review your current resume bullet points and rewrite them to make them sound more compelling.
Here’s exactly what to do:
- Replace generic action verbs like “increased” with action verbs that are more specific and different, like “accelerated.”
- Reorder sentences and the structure of bullet points based on what you want to highlight. For instance, change “Developed an effective content strategy, resulting in 50% more website traffic” to “Generated 50% more website traffic by developing an effective content strategy.” Vary sentences to emphasize different aspects, like achievements or technical responsibilities.
- Quantify achievements and responsibilities by including specific numbers, percentages, and metrics.
- Directly mention key skills that are pertinent to the target role and job description.
Another alternative is to use Rezi AI Bullet Point Editor.
Simply highlight the sentence you’re looking to edit and press “Rewrite Bullet.” Then, you’ll receive up to three alternative bullet points, as shown below:
You can try the Rezi AI Bullet Point Editor feature for free by signing up here!
2. Switch to the standard reverse chronological resume format if you haven’t already
The reverse chronological resume is the most standard format there is.
If you’re using another type of layout, such as the hybrid or functional resume format, definitely consider switching to this one, especially when you have at least two years of experience.
It’s the one most recruiters are used to when reviewing candidate resumes. It’s also the one that most recruiters prefer because one of the first things they check for is your employment history for relevant experience.
To switch to the reverse chronological format, rearrange your resume sections in the following order:
- Summary
- Work experience
- Additional sections (e.g., certifications and projects)
- Education
- Skills
3. Include your current or most recent job position
Follow the same format as for any other role, but when listing the dates of employment, begin with the month and year you started. For the end date, type “Present” to indicate it’s your current position.
Here’s an example:
4. Remove old job positions
Consider removing job positions that go further than 5–7 years. After all, hiring managers only want to see details that are related to the job requirements.
Some recruiters may even expect resumes to only go as far back as 3–5 years because they only care about your most recent experience, but then again, if you have older work experience that’s still relevant, recruiters may still want to see it. Ultimately, how far back your resume goes depends on how relevant it is to the company’s needs and the job requirements.
So, check if all entries in your work experience section align with the company’s job description. If not, you can remove some.
5. Add new achievements, qualifications, and responsibilities
I suggest updating your resume as soon as possible while all the details are fresh. Otherwise, you might forget important metrics related to specific responsibilities, tasks, or achievements that can make your resume sound twice more impressive.
For example, if you achieved something significant in your current role, add a bullet point about it in your work experience section. Similarly, if you completed a master’s degree or a new accredited course, update your education or certifications section accordingly.
6. Focus on quality bullet points
Focus on quality over quantity by reviewing your bullet points to make sure they’re all relevant. Aim for a concise resume with high-quality content. A one-page resume with only essential and relevant details can be more effective than a two-page resume.
Minimize repetition, so each bullet point provides unique information. Avoid repeating the same responsibilities or achievements unless emphasizing a particular specialty is necessary based on the job description.
7. Include or remove additional resume sections
Another way to reinforce your credentials is to include an additional resume section to highlight further achievements or qualifications. Such sections include licenses, certifications, and extracurricular activities.
Or, you can remove additional sections and save space for more bullet points to showcase professional achievements in the work experience section.
8. Match the company’s job description when it comes to sharing positive results
If the target job description mentions a need to solve a certain problem, update your resume by adding a bullet point about how you successfully solved that problem in the past. Frame it as an achievement to demonstrate your proven ability to address the company’s specific needs.
Let’s say the job description seeks someone to improve customer satisfaction and retention.
In this case, you could update your resume and include something like, “Increased customer satisfaction scores by 25% and boosted retention rates by 15% by implementing a new customer feedback system and follow-up process.” This shows your direct experience in addressing similar challenges, making you a stronger fit for the role.
9. Include new tools and technologies
If you’ve acquired or developed proficiency in anything new, include these as skills on your resume.
Update your skills section, create an additional section, or add a bullet point in your work experience section about how you used these new tools and technologies to achieve a positive outcome. It’s a big bonus when the company you’re applying to is looking for someone skilled at a particular tool or skill that you excel in.
10. Customize resume section headings
Adjust the headings of your resume sections to create a more tailored and customized resume for the company you’re applying to.
For example, rename the “Skills” section to “Specializations” and list your top areas of expertise that align with the company’s requirements. Customizing sections like this without compromising clarity tailors your resume, making it more impressive to hiring managers.
However, only make these changes when they help highlight your qualifications more effectively based on the company’s hiring standards.
11. Add a link to your LinkedIn profile, website, or portfolio
Including a link to your LinkedIn profile, personal website, or portfolio in your resume header is a strategic way to give potential employers a closer look into your professional background.
A well-optimized LinkedIn profile can further reinforce your credentials, while a personal website or portfolio can showcase detailed examples of your work, projects, and accomplishments. Adding these links can boost your chances of making a strong impression.
12. Make sure all information is accurate
This may seem obvious, but make sure all information on your resume is factually correct.
Double-check for any changes, such as your location, phone number, or email address. Update all details to reflect your most current information, including personal details, qualifications, and top competencies.
Example of Before and After Updating a Resume
Let’s review a sample resume before and after being updated. The “before” version is a well-written resume. The “after” version will also be well-written, but will include a few refinements based on some new example details.
Before updating a resume
Jane Doe
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: jane.doe@example.com
LinkedIn: [LinkedIn profile URL]
Summary
Experienced marketing manager with over 7 years in the industry. Skilled in developing and executing marketing strategies, managing campaigns, and leading teams to achieve company goals.
Work Experience
Marketing Manager
ABC Company, Anytown, USA
March 2018 – Present
• Developed and implemented marketing strategies that increased brand awareness by 25%.
• Managed a team of 5 marketing professionals.
• Coordinated and executed successful marketing campaigns across various channels.
• Conducted market research to identify new opportunities.
• Collaborated with sales and product teams to align marketing strategies.
Marketing Specialist
XYZ Company, Anytown, USA
June 2015 – February 2018
• Assisted in the development of marketing materials and campaigns.
• Conducted market analysis and research.
• Supported the marketing manager in executing marketing plans.
• Monitored and reported on the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.
Education
• Bachelor of Science in Marketing
• State University, Anytown, USA
• Graduated May 2015
Skills
• Hard skills: Campaign Management, Email Marketing, Paid Marketing, SEO.
• Soft skills: Communication, Leadership, Public Speaking.
After updating a resume
Jane Doe
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: jane.doe@example.com
LinkedIn: [LinkedIn profile URL]
Summary
Dynamic marketing manager with over 7 years of experience in creating and executing innovative marketing strategies. Proven track record in boosting brand awareness and driving sales through data-driven decision-making and cross-functional collaboration. Adept at leading high-performing teams to exceed company objectives.
Work Experience
Marketing Manager
ABC Company, Anytown, USA
March 2018 – Present
• Spearheaded the development and execution of comprehensive marketing strategies, resulting in a 25% increase in brand awareness and a 15% rise in sales.
• Led a team of 5 marketing professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Orchestrated multichannel marketing campaigns, including digital, social media, and traditional advertising, driving a 20% increase in customer engagement.
• Leveraged advanced analytics to identify market trends and opportunities, enhancing campaign effectiveness.
• Partnered with sales and product teams to ensure alignment and coherence in marketing strategies, contributing to a 10% improvement in product launch success rates.
Marketing Specialist
XYZ Company, Anytown, USA
June 2015 – February 2018
• Contributed to the creation of impactful marketing materials and campaigns, supporting overall brand goals.
• Conducted in-depth market analysis and research, providing valuable insights for strategic planning.
• Collaborated with the marketing manager to execute targeted marketing plans, achieving a 10% growth in customer base.
• Monitored and analyzed campaign performance metrics, optimizing strategies for better outcomes.
Education
• Bachelor of Science in Marketing
• State University, Anytown, USA
• Graduated May 2015
Skills
• Hard skills: Strategic Marketing Planning, Content Marketing, Copywriting, Multi-Channel Campaign Management, Data Analysis.
• Soft skills: Leadership, Delegation, Communication, Presentation, Public Speaking, Relationship Building, Storytelling.
Key improvements in the updated resume and why it works
Here’s a summary of what’s new when comparing the updated resume to its previous version:
- More dynamic and impactful language. Refined phrases like "Developed and implemented marketing strategies" to "Spearheaded the development and execution of comprehensive marketing strategies."
- More specific, measurable outcomes. Expanded the results in the work experience section, adding extra details such as a “15% rise in sales” and “contributing to a 10% improvement in product launch success rates.”
- Enhanced skills section. The skills section reflects the candidate’s current abilities and includes more strategic competencies.
- Clearer contributions. Specified the purpose and impact of actions. Rather than just writing that you managed a team, clarify what came of it.
Why this updated resume is 2x better:
- Emphasizes results. Not only does the updated resume include more specific, quantifiable achievements, but it also expands on them by specifying results. This reiterates the candidate's ability to drive tangible outcomes, which is attractive to hiring managers.
- Highlights leadership and collaboration skills. The new work experience section demonstrates leadership abilities, teamwork, and cross-functional collaboration more clearly.
- Relevant and more competent industry skills. The updated skills section is more aligned with industry trends, making the candidate appear more competitive.
- Reflects a more proactive approach. Using stronger, less generic action verbs (e.g., “Spearheaded” and “Orchestrated”) makes the resume more engaging and reiterates the candidate's ability to drive impact.
Summary
Let’s recap on how to update a resume:
- Improve your resume sentences by using clear action verbs and including metrics to specify duties or achievements.
- Use the reverse chronological resume format to emphasize your work history, which hiring managers usually prioritize.
- Add new qualifications and accomplishments to highlight your level of expertise.
- Include your current or most recent job position and remove job entries from five or more years ago unless relevant to your target job description.
- Create customized resume sections to showcase relevant achievements or projects.
- Remove extra resume sections to make room for more relevant information, such as work experience.
- Mention new tools, technologies, and skills you’ve developed, and how you applied them to make a positive impact.
- Add a link to your LinkedIn profile, website, or portfolio to further showcase your credibility and track record.
Now, you know how to update your resume. Use all the steps discussed in this guide to refresh your application and ensure you’re prepared to secure any new career or job opportunities that come your way!
FAQs
Why should I update my resume?
You should update your resume so that you’re prepared for new job opportunities or career advancements at any given time. Regular resume updates also make sure you include key details while they’re still fresh in your mind, such as specific metrics for responsibilities or accomplishments.
What do I need to update on my resume?
Update your resume with any new work experiences. Add your current or most recent job position, along with any promotions, additional responsibilities, and significant accomplishments. Also, include any new qualifications, certifications, courses, or skills that you’ve developed. Lastly, make sure your contact information is all correct. Additionally, consider removing bullet points or resume sections that aren’t as relevant to your field.
How often should I update my resume?
At least once every six months, but ideally, update your resume at the end of every quarter or month. Any time you gain new experiences, receive promotions, complete significant projects, achieve something profound, or earn new qualifications, update your resume so that it reflects your most current skills and accomplishments.
How to fix my resume?
Fix your resume by making sure everything is up-to-date with your latest experiences, skills, and achievements. Next, make sure it’s tailored to the specific job description you’re applying for. Highlight relevant accomplishments that prove you can solve a particular problem that your target company is looking to solve. Add numbers to specify responsibilities and accomplishments. Correct any outdated information and consider removing bullet points to create room for more relevant content.
How to update a resume after graduation?
After graduating, update your resume by first polishing your education section. Add your degree, institution, location, major, and date of graduation. List any relevant coursework, internships, projects, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and experience. Highlight any honors or awards you received, too. Next, tailor your resume to the jobs you’re applying for by including keywords from the target job description and emphasizing the most relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences.
