Newsletter Archives /Today's Career Voice - August 2010
Uncover Simple & Effective Strategies to Build your Resume and Skills while Employed
Working full-time and trying to build your resume at the same time may seem impossible. After all, there are only so many hours in a week, and there is only one of you. However, there are lots of ways you can work in some resume and skill boosters while holding down your day job.
Think about what you like to do best.
The best way to choose a career is to think about what you most enjoy doing, and this is also the best way to boost your resume. For example, if you love reading, consider volunteering at a library or as a researcher for a non-profit organization. The more you enjoy what you are doing, the less it will feel like work. You will likely even feel more energized during and after activities like this if you’re sincerely interested in doing them.
Look into clubs and organizations that match your goals.
Many offices have clubs that get together to volunteer or bolster skill sets such as public speaking. Start looking around at bulletin boards in your office—you might be surprised at how much is going on there. These can be great networking events, and they can also be great ways to meet new people and make friends.
Check with your company's human recources department.
Many companies have special programs for employees to help them grow on the job. You may find out that you can join mentorship programs, which look good on a resume and can help develop your career. There may even be an education reimbursement program, which could help you go back to school or continue your education further. Getting to know the people in human resources is also good, since it makes you stand out as a proactive employee who wants to push themselves to continually improve.
Remember that giving back counts, too.
Volunteering may not sound like an obvious resume item, but it is. It shows you are a conscientious member of your community and that you donate your time giving to others. This is the kind of person that most people want to work with, and it can also be a fun an encouraging activity.
Join networking and professional organizations.
Good networking is one of the best ways to develop your career. It not only looks great on a resume, but it also lets you meet the right kind of people in your field who can help you get where you want to be. Showing up proves that you are engaged and invested in your career.
It’s great that you're thinking about how to boost your career even while you're employed. Think about your passions and follow them, and the results will stand on their own.
