Fall is a great time to be thinking about what’s next. That end of the year reflection time is fast
approaching. Did you know that this is one of the busiest recruitment months of the year? So I know that many of you out there are thinking about a move and sprucing up that resume.

I used to help people with resumes, though I must admit, it has been years and things change. So this week, I bring you my tips along with some other experts to help you think about that next step.

Earlier in the year, I was asked by Fast Company about common bad advice around the resume – and there is a lot of it!  They compiled the top 6 myths about resumes and the job search.  My tip…Don’t skip the cover letter!

I actually once hired someone based on their cover letter. It is a compelling insight into why someone feels they are a fit. You can see personality, writing skills, and get a window into what is important to the candidate. I expand on this idea in the article.

Once you heed the advice in that article, it is time to think about how to Nail the Interview (and Land the Job).  Often the traits that got you where you are can hurt you as you advance. Keep in mind some of those characteristics as you interview for those bigger roles.

Another Fast Company article I contributed to was about 7 Traits That Can Help You Get Ahead, and Then Harm You As You Move Up. My tip was about self-reliance…

“Taking initiative, being self-motivated and figuring out how to get the job done and then doing it will make you an invaluable resource early in your career. As you become a people manager, it is your job to not go it alone. You need to develop skills in others, delegate, and you are evaluated on the results you get with and through other people. Remember, it is the relationships that you build that will elevate your career. Self-reliance can be self-destructive.”

The article is full of great tips. Depending on where you are at on the ladder, they may be traits that you want to lean in to or move away from. See the full list here.