At some point, most every person needs a resume overhaul or resume redo. I know I did. With the real estate market fluctuating and wanting a steady income, I set out to find more consistent work-from-home options. 

In order to get noticed, you need to make sure you resume stands out. After I redesigned my resume, I was able to line up many job interviews. Here’s what helped me become a working mom.

Resume Redo :: Step by Step

There are many online platforms, such as Upwork.com or Fiverr.com, where you can essentially freelance and send your resume to many companies, if that is something that appeals to you.

First, put your name in a large, clean font at the top of the page. This is very eye catching and looks appealing and sophisticated, like you are ready to take on anything thrown at you.

Side note: Since many work-from-home jobs are based somewhere else, there’s an option to put at the bottom for them to inquire for your home address and phone number, as well and just leave an email.

Second, put a short summary about yourself below your name. Write something that lets recruiters see a small smidge into your life, maybe a fun hobby or your family life. It may be a hobby related to the job you are applying for. For instance, if you are applying as a receptionist, include that you like to organize. Then in the last sentence of the summary make a transition to your past work history — basically summarize your past work history.

Wow with Your Work History 

Next, put all your past work history. Start with the most recent to the oldest job so it is organized and chronological. Title the jobs with the name in all caps (similar to your name at the top) and the years worked, which helps maintain that sophisticated look. Then, recap what you did at each job below it. Bullet points are often used, with each job responsibility on a new bullet, although I chose to write a short paragraph that included my duties.

If that’s the route you’d like to take, make sure the introductory sentence is strong; not just a list of job requirements. Try to tell a short story with your previous jobs and what you enjoyed most or your strengths in that particular job, especially if it pertains to the job you are applying for.

Education, Training, & Skills

The next component to include is education. Depending on your life situation, it is always good to include high school and any college or special schooling. Recruiters want to know if you have any specific certificates.

Next, I prefer to include some skills. As a mom, I am able to relate this to my family life by saying I can manage multiple people’s schedules, plan birthday parties, and work efficiently. Include skills that correlate to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying to a restaurant include you are very sociable — it is not cliche!

Reliable References

Last, include two or three references. Make sure to tell your references if you are going to use their name and phone number. 

I hope this helps any mama’s who are looking to go back to work or start fresh in a new career! It is never too late to go after what you want.