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How can I structure my resume to reflect what I want to do instead of what I am currently doing

Veteran

Teresa Brown North Little Rock, AR

I am currently in the mortgage field and would love to utilize my media and production degree in communications

13 November 2018 4 replies Career Exploration

Answers

Advisor

Jason Bunyea Brownsboro, AL

Hi Teresa!

My wife just finished her degree in communications, and had a difficult time moving away from her previous work experience.

As the others have mentioned, your resume is going to tell the story you want it to; I would recommend trying to highlight your education before work experience. Additionally, it will absolutely be worth investing some of your personal in brushing up on some of the latest technologies and techniques. Google AdWords, Google Analytics, Adobe Creative Cloud, some sort of social media management platform. These are some of the things that my wife worked on after graduation before she got her job.

Try and look for something that can combine your existing skills with your degree. Are then any smaller, local mortgage companies that are looking for a social media / marketing person? That kind of synergy in your skills is going to be a big boost in your resume.

Lastly, I would recommend not limiting yourself to just job boards. Reach out to people you know. It can be through a private message on social media if you prefer. Start looking for marketing, public relations, etc social media groups in your area. My wife found her internship with the Chamber of Commerce from a Facebook post.

I hope this helps!

Jason

Advisor

Tom Muszynski Tucson, AZ

Hi Teresa,
Similar to what was already mentioned, definitely leverage any skills or activities with the degree. Maybe any projects, a side business, or hobbies that support the "what I want to do" coupled with ensuring your resume is aligned with the job(s) that you are interested in applying for. Hope that helps and good luck!

Advisor

Dan Conn Arlington, VA

Hi Teresa,
Another way to work your resume is to create a skills resume that highlights your skills (in relation to the job requisition) and only briefly touches on work experience history to show that your not entry level. Another way to show experience is through volunteer work at local community venues to show the use of your skillsets.

https://jobs.raytheon.com/

S/F
Dan

Advisor

Susana Moraga Hayward, CA

Teresa,
Every resume is focused on the position you are applying for. You need to highlight your experience that the employer is interested in.
Experience does not mean paid, include what you have done on your own.
If you aren't currently using your skills find ways to do so. There are lots of non-profits that could benefit from your skills.
What are you passionate about, find a non-profit and propose a project. Definitely include class projects.
Do you have a webpage with examples of your work?
You are also using skills now that are valuable so some of those should be presented.
Good luck,
Susana

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