How Far Back To Go On Resume
Posted: 08.14.2015
Whether you’re writing your first professional resume, updating your current resume, or are actively on the job market—one of the most common resume-writing questions is how far back you should go. The answer is not set in stone, but the tips below will help you to decide.First Professional Resume
If this is your first professional resume after earning your degree in healthcare, then you probably lack industry experience and possibly general work experience. If this is the case, your resume should be centered around your academic achievements, internships, volunteer work, and community activities. Even if you’ve had a string of summer or seasonal jobs during school, it’s best to only place a handful of jobs on your resume. Preferably ones you maintained at least 12-months or short-term and seasonal jobs where you’ll receive a glowing review. Your first resume should be no longer than one page.
Minimal Industry Experience
If you’ve been in the workforce for at least a couple years, then you may have a mix of jobs within and outside the senior care industry. Your resume should never be more than one to two pages long. You should highlight your industry experience or other work experience that has transferable skills. For example, if you used to work in retail management, you’ve already developed skills that transfer into healthcare management.
Mid-Career Resume
If you’ve worked in the healthcare industry for many years, listing all of your jobs or promotions may be too cumbersome. In this case, go back no more than 10 years; less if your tenure and experience is strong in the last several years. Your resume should never be more than two pages long and, when possible, should feature consecutive periods of employment.
Keeping Your Resume Up-To-Date
If you’re not on the job market and are simply looking to keep your resume up-to-date, then it’s wise to sit down at least twice a year to update your resume. As you do this, you may decide that some of your previous positions are no longer relevant and that it’s best to highlight more recent professional accomplishments. When updating your resume, consider factors such as:
- promotions
- additional job duties
- additional specialty training
Published by: SeniorCare.Jobs Editorial Team
Author: Joanne Silatei
Date: 8/14/2015