A resume is not a substitute for experience
When I think of traditional careers, the resume or CV is the first item that comes to mind. Likely because I've reviewed so many of them over the years, but also because I spend the majority of my time training managers to not allow the resume to be the focus as they evaluate candidates. Most societies have centered the resume as the most important aspect of a job search, fueling a boom of resume writers and "experts" who will do the work for you. Here's what I want you to keep in mind, a resume is not a substitute for experience.
Having a stellar resume may get you a first look and possibly land you the first interview, but if you are interviewing anywhere worth your time it will take so much more than your resume to land you the gig. Spend more time on positioning yourself to gain a variety of experience than having the perfect resume. If you plan to hire a resume writer, consider a review of your current qualifications. If there's an opportunity to make an investment in yourself first by pursuing a certification or taking a course, prioritize your development. If you still have money left over or simply don't have any additional developmental opportunities (is this possible?) then proceed to the next step and hire the resume writer.
I've worked with several people over the years on their resumes, from entry to executive level. My approach is not what they expect but the outcome always elevates their resume and their ability to detail their experience and success throughout their career. They become confident storytellers that are connected to their career story. My process extends beyond the resume itself, which in the end showcases the time invested in preparing for their job search or next career move. My process is well thought out and provides an opportunity for you to really consider the aspects of your work that bring you joy and fulfillment, which makes identifying your next step much more clear. A job search or curating your career, you have the opportunity to decide which approach is the best fit for you.
Experience is the gateway to opportunity in life and in your career. It's quite easy to get stuck in a rut, I've had that experience myself. Once you have demonstrated that you are great at something, people will hire you to do it and the next company will pay your more than the company before. If money is your driving motivation that may work in your favor. My caution here is to avoid trading true growth for stunted growth. At some point, we all have an awakening when we realize that we want more than what we have accepted as success today. When that shift occurs be prepared to use that time to investigate what motivates you at your core. Once you have identified your motivation, then evaluate your gifts. With clarity of those two elements, it's time to find the experiences that will expand your vision.
Look for experiences that challenge your beliefs, make you think differently, and ultimately expand your mind. These experiences may provide exposure to additional knowledge or simply place you in a space with new people. If you are in the early stages of curating your career, you may find yourself drawn to more knowledge based experiences. This includes reading more text about a specific subject or field of work. You can also find more knowledge in conferences, networking, or podcasts. For those that are further along in your career, you may be seeking experiences that expand your mind or closely align with your passion(s). Consider events and conversations that affirm the career change you've been dreaming about or move you out of your comfort zone. As you seek to have more experiences in life, you will undoubtedly learn new skills that will enhance your career.
It's true a great resume, written by you or an expert, may help you get your foot in the door, but without experience you will find yourself waiting in the lobby of your dream career.
*First article written specifically for CYC. Written in PDC, MX in a living room with a view of the ocean.