Job Search Tip #1 - Resume Preparation

In these uncertain economic times it is wise to prepare for the worst. Perhaps your current employer has already let you go or has indicated that layoffs are imminent. Take the time now to look at your past career and document your accomplishments.

OK, you say, how can I possibly remember everything I've done in my career? I've spent the past 25 years working for one company and I've never written a resume before. Where do I start?

One way to nail down the highlights of your career is to talk about it. Reach out to people that you worked with, colleagues, former managers and former clients. The more people you can talk with the more you are likely to remember. Have these people ask you questions or just reminisce about past projects on which you collaborated. If possible bring someone with you to record all of those memories.

But, you say, I've lost contact with all the people I worked with in the past. If you can't or don't want to find your former colleagues you can also use this process. Work with a friend or family member and have them ask questions about your career. The more probing the better. Ask a third person to record your accomplishments as you remember them.

What kind of questions should your colleagues and friends ask? Try some of these:

• What was the company like when you first joined? How big? How old were you? What was your role?
  
• Who was your best/worst manager? Why? What was your role at the time?
  
• How has your career grown over the years? What positions have you held? Is there a clear progression or have you tried a number of different things?
  
• What events stand out in your memory? What were the issues? What did you do to address the issues? What were the results?
• What role/tasks did you most/least enjoy? Why?