A few weeks ago, a career changer posted a message on Monster’s Resume Tips board and explained that he is using “the world’s shortest resume,” admittedly created using a Microsoft Word template. (Click here to read the thread.)

Can you hear me gasping?

His message has been bothering me not only because I know he will have a difficult job search (career changer after 39 years in his field), but also because he’s not alone — many others are trying to achieve major job transitions using inferior job search documents.

If you’re apologizing for your resume, you need to improve it!

If you’re using a resume that’s not the best representation of you, you will pay with a longer and more frustrating job search and possibly lost wages.

Job searching is hard enough for people on a steady career track, and although some can get away with throwing a resume together using a Word template, most require a well-strategized document that markets them effectively. This is even more true for career changers.

Don’t have the skills to write a resume that will open doors? Bite the bullet and pay for a professional resume service. There are many talented resume writers available to take on the headache of creating your resume. Whether you take the time to learn how to write a winning resume and do it yourself, or hire a professional resume writer — please make your resume a priority. You’ll enjoy a more successful job search (and I’ll rest easier!).

All the best,

Kim Isaacs