I typically write articles here specific to veterans who are transitioning into the civilian sector. However, this one not only is very applicable to the veteran community, but can help anyone who is looking for their next job!
One of the most challenging aspects of landing a new job is getting past the initial screening stage. Part of that process, involves condensing all your experience, info a resume that’s only one or two pages long (please don’t go any longer than that!).
This task is especially challenging for those who may have worked at many different companies; or for military veterans who not only worked at different commands, but also worked on many different things with acronyms and jargon that doesn’t always translate well into the civilian sector.
The solution for this? Job Competencies. You can do a quick search on the web on a competency based resume. While not always applicable, and sometimes recruiters and companies prefer chronological resumes; breaking out your experience into specific competencies can help bucket your experience into very relevant skills which are tied into the job posting you are targeting.
SHRM has a section on their website devoted to job competencies. While these are specific to the Human Resources industry, they give a great example on how a positions responsibility can be easily broken up into these categories.
Look at the role and industry you are in or interested in moving into. Categorize the relevant skills that are required for that industry and position, and then look back at your experience and roles and focus your resume towards these specific behaviors. When preparing for your interview, think about specific examples and stories in your experience on how you exhibited these competencies in your role, and you’ll be better armed to ace that interview and land that next job.
Good luck!
Tony Zamora is a Director of Human Resources for Ipsos, a global market research & consulting firm. After serving a little more than 4 years in the U.S. Navy, Tony found his passion helping people, understanding business challenges, and connecting the two thru his work as an HR business partner. Tony is the host of the “Unraveling HR- How Success Happens” podcast; listen in & follow the blog at www.tony-zamora.com and follow Tony on Twitter (@tonydzamora) and on LinkedIn.
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