Does Work History Impact Your Job Hunt?
In many ways, the job search has not changed much. For most jobs, you still go through an interview process. You still have to present yourself in a positive, professional manner. You still need to create an impressive resume and cover letter.
But how does your work history impact your job hunt? Are you automatically eliminated from consideration if you have had multiple employers over a short period of time? Let’s take a look at a few different ways to frame up responses to questions about your work history.
Upward trajectory
Historically, the hallmark of a quality career path was defined within the four walls of one company by a series of promotions and increasingly important jobs that led to management roles. Today, it is now common for people to change jobs frequently and not always for a definite advance in title. Lateral moves are the norm. People are often recruited by start-ups or offered attractive opportunities to enhance a skill set or simply to be part of something new and exciting.
Traditionally, this might be a red flag to a hiring manager. But this is not the case anymore. Today’s recruiters understand that many people make lateral moves not for salary, but for learning opportunities or experiences.
Multiple employers
A generation ago, a solid work history with one employer was the gold standard for a potential new hire. Today, the exact opposite is true. A work history that is laid out under one company logo is viewed as a one-stop career. The question is usually asked, “Why has no one else come calling?”
If you have moved through two or three companies, from working as a sales rep, then into sales management and then into a marketing manager position, that work history can easily be defined as professional growth.
It’s all about skills
In today’s job market, your ability to get a job lies more in your skills than your ability to remain employed with one company. It’s not enough to give a vague listing of skills on your resume. In other words, putting “budget management” on your resume simply won’t cut it. Instead, offer details on budgets you’ve managed before. For example, how big was the budget and what were the expectations for how the money was spent? Did you produce results under budget and save your employer money? Be specific and provide concrete examples of your talents and capabilities.
Tipping points
The difference between two candidates can come down to intangible qualities. If you can highlight the fact that you are innovative, dynamic, a hard worker, and a results-oriented worker, it could give you the edge you need to land the job. Take the time to know your value, and then weave that into your resume and cover letter. If there was a time you addressed or solved a problem, share that, but do so succinctly; you are writing a resume, not a novel.
When you are ready to see what the job market has to offer you, think of Snelling. We have helped match exceptional people with exceptional opportunities for over 65 years. Let us help you find your best-fit job – locate your nearest Snelling office and contact us today.
