Provided by Alyssa Gelbard, Founder & President, Point Road Group
In today’s world, it’s critical to have a strong, current resume at the ready. Chances are updating your resume is one of the last things you want to do, so you avoid it until it’s needed. The problem with this approach is that you then have to hustle to get it done, can’t spend thoughtful time and the end result is something that doesn’t present you optimally. Another problematic approach is when you just add your most recent job to the last resume you had. You’re starting with an outdated document, so it’s nearly impossible to optimally convey your current value and expertise.
Create your resume strategically. This means consider what you’re looking to do next and take the time to tell your professional story in a way that’s most relevant to potential employers (and the jobs you’re seeking).
As you do this, avoid some of these mistakes that finance executives frequently make:
1. Overly detailed, repetitive summary
A summary shouldn’t be a lengthy paragraph followed by a list of skills and then another list of keywords and areas of expertise, many of which have already been mentioned in the paragraph.
Your summary should briefly describe your unique experience, skills, background and areas of expertise - once. It should highlight impact and high-level results. Ideally, it’s a relatively brief paragraph or a relatively brief paragraph followed by a short bulleted list of key areas of expertise or results.
2. Long list of responsibilities
Many CFOs and senior financial leaders often write long lists describing tasks and responsibilities. By doing this, you make it easy for the reader to lose focus and possibly skip a critical piece of information that differentiates you as a candidate. You also don’t have to include everything you’ve ever done in each role – a resume is not a CV.
Instead, communicate leadership, influence and key results (quantifiable whenever appropriate). Curate accomplishments and how you solved problems that best relate to what you’re looking to do next. Concisely show how you played a key role in strategy, business transformation, global expansion, revenue growth, innovation, M&A etc. and what the impact was.
3. Skipping additional information
Excluding content that could differentiate you from other candidates is something many senior finance professionals forget to do. Aside from listing that you’re a CPA, have you included current and past board roles (corporate and nonprofit), volunteer leadership positions, professional memberships (like FEI!), specialized technical knowledge and awards & honors? This additional information improves your marketability and value.
Further Reading:
Top 10 Resume Writing Do’s & Don’ts
https://pointroadgroup.com/top-10-resume-writing-dos-donts
4 Must-Do Resume Tips for Senior-Level Jobs
https://www.themuse.com/advice/4-mustdo-resume-tips-for-seniorlevel-jobs
How To Write An Irresistible Resume In 10 Steps
https://executivecareerbrand.com/how-to-write-an-irresistible-c-level-executive-resume-in-10-steps/