This is the fourth post in a series of job searching tips during the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions. We know it’s hard right now to think about job searching, but if you are making an effort to find work, we’re here for you. If you would like to speak to a counsellor, check our Covid-19 Provision post for details on how to reach out.

This extended lockdown period is a great opportunity to dust off, update or otherwise rebuild your resume. There are many resources to help you build a great resume. Our online resources for job seekers can get you started on the right track.

Here are a few more things to consider while you’re updating your resume.

Include a skills and qualifications section

One of the most important parts of the resume is the skills and qualifications section. We always recommend including one at the top of your resume. This is a collection of soft and hard skills that you possess that are relevant for the job that you are applying for. Soft skills are transferable from job to job, often relate to your characteristics and personality, and are increasingly important to employers. Linkedin Learning’s 2020 Workplace Learning Report‘s top 5 soft skills for the workplace are creativity, persuasion, collaboration, adaptability and emotional intelligence. Check out Indeed’s guide to soft skills to find out what you can add to your resume.

Don’t use an inappropriate email address

You might think an employer won’t mind if you have a funny email address listed, but they certainly do notice it. There’s no reason not to have an email address with your name when there are so many places you can get register for free. Still using your alma mater’s email address? Some colleges and universities only allow access for a certain period of time after you graduate. Register and start using something that won’t expire. It’s also important to remember the password so you can log in from anywhere, not just your phone.

Check your Linkedin or Indeed profiles

If you’re using either Linkedin or Indeed to apply for jobs, it’s just as important to have a well-written and completed profile as it is to have a paper copy of your resume, and it should match what’s on that paper resume. Having different things in different places can get confusing for both you and the employer, especially if you show up for the interview with a resume that has different information than what was provided online. It could get awkward, and give an employer a bad impression.

Include relevant keywords from the job posting

Have you ever heard of an Applicant Tracking System? An ATS helps companies and recruiting firms filter out applicants that don’t meet the criteria of the job vacancy. They scan your resume for relevant keywords that match the requirements and description of the job. To help you get past an ATS for that job you really want, we recommend making sure that your resume includes all of the relevant information that the job posting is looking for – as long as you have those skills and qualifications. Don’t try stuffing your resume with “hidden keywords” in a white font because the ATS will catch them. You can use a service like Jobscan.co to compare your resume to the job posting so you have a better chance.

Feel like you need a second set of eyes to help you build a better resume? Contact us to speak to an Employment Counsellor who can help you by providing advice and assistance.