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How do I keep from being pigeonholed based on previous job titles?

Advisor

Mark Tegtmeyer Denton, TX

I have been deployed 3 times each about 3 years apart doing transportation and logistics work. Each has provided invaluable business experience. I've done project management, data analysis, system and data processing and communications that directly relate to business administration operations. I'm afraid that prospective employers will only view my job titles when they skim my resume. Any suggestions on how to ensure my experiences are what stand out and not the job titles?

29 February 2012 3 replies Resumes & Cover Letters

Answers

Advisor

Tim Sullivan North Kingstown, RI

A competency based resume is a great way for focus on what you bring and have delivered vs. titles and time lines, (however employers will still want those to see growth and diligence etc.)

This book is fabulous, but be ready to work at getting it right:
Amazon.com: Competency-Based Resumes: How to Bring Your Resume to the Top of the Pile (9781564147721): Robin Kessler, Linda A. Strasburg: Books http://amzn.to/zfAn7a

Best
Tim

14 March 2012 Helpful answer

Advisor

Judy Tomlinson Dallas, TX

Setup a "Skills" section on your resume to outline what you can do in various areas like Computer/PC, Management, Organization, etc. Then, when HR people skan your resume they will see the skills you have in addition to the job titles.

Judy Tomlinson

Advisor

Stephanie Wolcott New York, NY

Hi Mark!

In the very beginning of your resume, you can list expertise and focus on the skills you have that you really want to use. That is the first thing prospective employers will see. You can also state an objective, so say, "To continue a successful career in...that leverages my expertise in..."

If you want me to review your resume, I'd be happy to.

Stephanie
sawolcott@mac.com

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