Q: After four years of level one tech support (I am currently a Lead), it is time for me to find a new challenge, but the next level doesn’t meet my needs. How can I find openings that build on my skills, yet differ in scope and advancement opportunities? How can I update my resume to show leadership skills?
A: It’s important to know that resumes are not chronologies or a list of your skills. They are marketing documents that should say, “I’m the perfect person for the role that you’re hiring for!” So if you aren’t clear about what you want (and no, “not tech support” is not clear!), then the hiring managers are simply going to look at your resume and your current job… and offer you something similar. You need to make a case for yourself, and you need to branch out beyond updating your resume and applying for any job that strikes your fancy.Here are my recommendations:
Resumes do not get you a job. People do! Get clear about what you want, tell people what you want, ask for advice, follow that advice, rinse, repeat, until you get it!
My Career Design Studio can help you with this process. Over 30 research-based activities guide you through identifying what you want to negotiating your salary once you get a job offer. Get the guidance you need to get the career you want!
First published on The Muse, January 26, 2018.
Sheri Mahaney has worked as a therapist, career counselor, supervisor, staff mentor, group facilitator, teacher, and consultant throughout her career in social services and higher education. Now in private practice, she created New Insights Consulting to provide national certification (NCDA FCD) and private practice tools for those getting into the career coaching field.
