How temporary jobs can help you build a strong resume
Temporary jobs can help you keep your skills current, and the experience you acquire can help boost your resume. It is not unusual for a temporary job to turn into a full-time position, especially if you go the extra mile in helping the employer succeed.
As a skilled worker you can make the mistake of relying too heavily on job applications to showcase your skills and abilities rather than focus on creating a strong resume. Be mindful that your resume will often represent you first before a hiring manager talks with you, and the way you present your temporary experience is essential.
Often, skilled workers tend to discount the significance of their temporary job experience and instead play down their contributions while on the job. They are inclined to list their responsibilities or job duties rather than mention their skills in accomplishing tasks.
The key to generating attention is by writing a resume highlighting your key skills and value regardless of the position.
Think of your resume as your marketing sheet that conveys your unique features (contributions) to the buyer (employer). While in a temp position, it is a good idea to record what you did to help the department or manager succeed.
Temporary jobs can give you an advantage in showcasing your skills because you can adapt to change. Unlike a fulltime employee, who usually stays in one position for a while, you gain skills by continually learning new work environments and building rapport with new teams.
If you want to create an outstanding resume, focus on what employers are looking for in their workforce, such as being flexible in a changing business market. While a resume will not get a job for you, a poorly written one will prevent you from a possible interview. The way you present your information makes a significant impact on a hiring decision-maker and working with a temp agency.
One of the most critical steps in writing a good resume is thinking like an employer. As an employer, what key skills would interest them the most? What areas on your resume would cause them concern? Instead of going back to listing job duties, tell the employer what you can do for them through your accomplishments.
Here are some do’s and don’ts for building a strong resume:
• Do use action verbs in your accomplishments.
• Do include key skills you developed from temporary jobs.
• Do be clear on how your skills and experience match the employer’s needs.
• Do make your resume format easy to read.
• Do keep your resume on two pages or less.
• Don’t list job duties or tasks.
• Don’t include experience unrelated to the job you are seeking.
• Don’t use industry jargon with extensive detail, be clear and concise.
• Don’t list reasons for wanting to leave a temporary job.
• Don’t overstate your accomplishments. Back them up with results you can verify.