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Climbing the corporate ladder with a dynamic resume.

© Annemarie Cross

It is not uncommon for people to believe that the only time a candidate is required to submit a resume is in support of an application for a position with a new employer. While this may be the understanding of many, another instance where a resume could be utilized as an important tool is to enhance a candidate's application for an internal position, whether it be a promotion or lateral move within the company they are currently working for. However, unfortunately in the latter, a resume is often overlooked or fails to incorporate relevant information that will position the candidate's submission in the best possible way.

When planning an application that is targeting a current employer, it is easy to assume that management will be aware of the accountabilities that a job entails through accessing a job description or other resources obtainable from the Human Resources department. I caution those who believe this to be true, and point out that they could be placing themselves at a serious disadvantage. Just because you are currently working with the employer does not mean that your manager (or prospective department head) is aware of the initiatives and contributions you have made within the work place, so it is up to you to portray this - and what better way than within an achievement-oriented resume.

Treat the development of your resume as if you were applying for a position with another employer, and do not assume that management is already aware of the work you have been doing. This is particularly true if you are targeting a position senior to that which you are in now, and need to validate the application by providing evidence of management and leadership competencies.

The following list has been developed to assist you in compiling relevant information that can be included in your resume:

- If you are targeting a more senior position than your current role, try to pinpoint instances where you have demonstrated leadership/management competencies. This could involve training, supervising or supporting new staff members; the successful completion of in-house leadership/management professional development programs; heading a special assignment; or spearheading an initiative that rectified an organizational problem through strategic analysis, planning and execution.

- Identify any special challenges you were faced with in the workplace and how you overcame these. If possible include accurate figures and facts to quantify your statement.

- Did you undertake any professional development or in-house training courses to demonstrate willingness and proficiency in assimilating and applying new techniques within the workplace?