RESUME CONSULTING AND YOUR PERSONAL RESUME DATABASE

RESUME CONSULTING AND YOUR PERSONAL RESUME DATABASE, PART II  RESUME CONSULTING

In Part I we learned the nature of work continues to evolve.  To have any measure of success and satisfaction, we must evolve with it.  One of the primary tools that will allow us to prepare in a matter of hours instead of days to a potential job opportunity is to create and maintain a personal resume database  (PRD).  RESUME CONSULTING

How do I assembly and maintain a Personal Resume Database?  RESUME CONSULTING

The easiest way to start and organize a PRD is to use a binder with several tab sections.  To begin, you need copies of your past and current job descriptions.  Each time you start a new job, you should have been given a copy of the organization’s official job description for your records.  This one document includes at a minimum –

• Overview of the position
• Minimum qualifications
• Job duties
• Knowledge, skills and abilities
• Who you report to
• Where and when you work

How to configure your Personal Resume Database –  RESUME CONSULTING

Section I:  Employer Information –

• Legal name of employers
• For profit; non-profit; foundation; public/private education; government
• Privately held; publically traded
• Primary industries
• Product or service driven
• Product life cycle segment(s); service type and segment

Section II:  Job descriptions  RESUME CONSULTING

Section III:  Cross tabulation table, list for each position -

• Legal name of employer
• Primary industry
• Product life cycle segment
• Start, end dates
• Reason for leaving
• Immediate supervisor/manager
• Starting and ending salaries
• Annual bonuses
• Networking connections used
• References used

Section IV:  Networking and references (combined as professional references may be your networking connection to a position) –

1)      Networking contacts should be listed in one of the following categories –

• Superior
• Peer
• Subordinate

Note 1:  update annually as some networking contacts will change status. 

2)     References should be listed in one of the following categories –

• Professional references
• Character/personal references

Note 2:  references with matching job titles as your potential supervisor allows for strong feedback from someone in a related position and provides a strong frame of reference.

Note 3:  references from upper management and professionals in your industry indicate the extent of your professional contacts in your field.

Note 4:  character/personal references are effective if they have common educational institution, service club, or other non-business link to the hiring manager.

Note 5:  should go without saying, however, make sure you notify a reference that he/she may receive a call, and verify what the reference will say about you.

Section V:  Resume documents

• Copy of each job notice
• Copy of each cover letter
• Copy of each resume

Section VI:  Miscellaneous

• Copies of annual reviews
• Copies of certifications and/or licenses
• Updated copy of employment datasheet
• Copies of letters of reference

As PRD’s expand, many have found it necessary to convert from a paper format to electronic in order to identify and glean information in a more expedient manner.  When creating your cross  tab table, always complete in an electronic format.

If you find yourself unsure of start/end dates, employers, etc.  Spend some time down at your local Social Security office.  For a nominal fee, you can obtain a printout of you past and current employers, reportable wages, and time periods covered.

See Part III next week for a detailed discussion on how to use your PRD to map out your career path, or to make a mid-stream career change.

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