Is it wise to list multiple careers on one resume?
Q: I am preparing to start looking for another position, but my big dilemma lies in what areas to look for when contacting employers.
When others look at my resume, they comment on how many different jobs I have in my background. So far, I have three separate careers in various fields. Do I combine them in one resume?
A: It is not uncommon for job candidates to have multiple careers. However, the key to implementing a successful job search begins with how you present your skills to potential employers. Having a broad background can help your career by giving you more depth in experience and acquiring different skills.
Having a diverse industry background can convey your ability to adapt to new working environments and highlights your skills in learning how business is conducted in different fields.
Multiple careers can add to your distinct value and, in many ways, helps you stand out from the crowd of applicants.
You have to be careful on how you present your value when applying for a specific position. Resume scanners, or ATS (applicant tracking software), look for keywords or terms that match the job posting. The software helps screen candidates to make sure they fit the requirements and have the employer’s required experience.
Studies that measure eye-tracking discovered that readers who looked at resumes indicate that most of their attention goes to the top portion of your resume and that you have approximately six seconds to generate interest. If your resume has too much detailed information regarding multiple careers, you could lose the employer’s attention.
One effective way to begin your search is by targeting your resume to the industry rather than sending one resume that includes all your experiences. It could seem too generic with no focus. An excellent way to target your resume is by using a summary and utilizing keywords that relate to the position you are seeking.
The danger zone with having three separate careers listed on one resume is that they might confuse the employer about what interests you.
It is much easier for the reader to grasp your skill set that applies to the position rather than broad, generic perception. Think in terms of combining transferable skills, the skills that cross over industries.
Job seekers often have multiple resumes to use in their search to help the reader quickly identify the skill set and how their backgrounds relate to the position. Having multiple careers is an accomplishment rather than unplanned mayhem. With each career move, think of the experience gained and how this makes you unique.
Having multiple careers is an accomplishment rather than unplanned mayhem. With each career move, think of the experience gained and how this makes you unique.