Long-Term Employment Is a Plus … So Prove It in Your Resume
While long-term employment is always favored over long-term unemployment or a job-hopping history, it’s easy as a worker to feel like you’ve stuck with the same title in the same company for too long. If you’re ready to move on to a new position but worry that hiring managers will think you don’t have enough variety in your resume, here are some ideas to give your resume that fresh, updated look you’re hoping for.
Remove Outdated Skills and Credentials
One way to move your resume out of the 20th century is to remove outdated skills and other credentials. For instance, if you don’t want it to appear that you still function at the same level you did in 1992, then it’s a good idea to eliminate phrases like “skilled at word processing” as it implies that you just recently retired your typewriter and learned how to use a computer. Instead, list specific and current programs that you’ve learned in order to give your resume a fresher look.
Highlight New Responsibilities
It’s good to show in your resume that you’ve taken on new responsibilities in your position over the years, even if you’ve kept the same title. As mentioned previously, it’s likely that you’ve had to learn new programs or adjust to new communication systems in order to adapt to evolving technology. Also, think about adjustments in your position that you initiated—and be sure to use action words such as: developed, programmed, organized, etc. to show leadership. Finally, consider listing years that your new responsibilities were acquired as a way to measure growth.
Show That You’ve Continued Learning
Of course, if you’ve learned technological skills, you’ve probably received some type of training along the way. So be sure to list training classes you’ve taken that make you relevant to new employers. And if you’ve gone back to school, be sure to say so to give younger candidates a run for their money.
Add a Career Summary That Shows Growth
In your resume, it’s always good to add a career summary near the top of your resume to provide hiring managers with a value proposition. But in your case, the summary works especially well in giving the company a snapshot (usually via a bullet-point list) of your career highlights, accomplishments, and evolution in your position.
Highlight Longevity in Your Job Target
Finally, your job target (also known as a headline) is a fantastic addition to your resume because it highlights the very best of your professional career in one sentence. You can use your longevity to your advantage by stating that you’re a “Legal Assistant with 22 Years of Experience in a Fortune 500 Law Firm Targeting an Executive Assistant Position with XYZ Company.”
There’s no doubt that long-term employment shows you are dedicated, loyal, reliable, and responsible—which is why your employer has held on to you for so long. So use those high points to your advantage as you write a winning resume for the next phase of your life.
For additional tips and advice on resumes and cover letters, follow us on Twitter @GreatResume or visit our blog.
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About the author
Jessica Hernandez, President, CEO & Founder of Great Resumes Fast
Hi, I’m Jessica. I started this company back in 2008 after more than a decade directing hiring practices at Fortune 500 companies.
What started as a side hustle (before that was even a word!) helping friends of friends with their resumes has now grown into a company that serves hundreds of happy clients a year. But the personal touch? I’ve kept that.
You might have seen me featured as a resume expert in publications like Forbes, Fast Company, and Fortune. And in 2020, I was honored to be named as a LinkedIn Top Voice of the year!
I’m so glad you’re here, and I can’t wait to help you find your next perfect-fit position!
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Hi Jessica,
Twenty+ years with the same company has left my resumes skills woefully out of date. I’ve been doing a lot of research on what to include and how to format a long employment resume. I have to say that this is one of the most helpful articles I’ve read on the subject. “Show That You’ve Continued Learning” Showcasing my ability to stay updated on technology was an especially good tip. It shows by ability to grow and evolve, keeping in step with current technological trends. It was very helpful to hear that long-term employment could actually be seen as a plus, too.
This is great.
Thank you!
Michelle