Divide Your Resume into Chunks

Divide Your Resume into “Chunks” If you have written your own resume, you have probably opened the file and changed it from time-to-time after you send it to various companies. Sometimes you tweak the educational portion, listing important classes that are applicable to the job opening. Other times, you may change the core competencies to match the key words utilized in the advertisement. By the time you have applied for 4-5 jobs, you probably have 4-5 different versions of your resume. There is an easier way to accomplish the same feat: divide your resume into “chunks.” I realize that “chunks” isn’t a technical word, but it is a great way of describing the method I use for my own resume. I have various sections that I utilize for different types of job openings and I save these sections in a separate Word document. For example, I have a great deal of experience working in creative environments like a commercial photography studio and printing company. I use the technical jargon I learned in those industries if I am applying to the same sort of position within a creative field. If I want to emphasize my business teaching skills, then I am sure to include a “chunk” that shows all of the classes I have taught and my teaching philosophy. If you wish to have one education-related resume and one business-related resume, then you can change your core competencies to match either industry. When a job opening develops, you can simply open the file and switch the pertinent information. You can use this method to mix-and-match resumes for various opportunities that arise. Saving your resume into various sections or “chunks” may not sound pretty, but it is a very useful tool. When I work with resume clients that wish to have more than one version of their resume, I often include a separate document with these sections so they can change when needed. The most important thing to remember is that one-size does not fit all. You need to change your resume to meet the needs of the marketplace. Dividing into “chunks” allows you to do that on a timely and efficient basis.