There is nothing like updating/revamping one's resume to clear out those cobwebs and let one reflect on what they have done and where they want to go. Recently, I presented a presentation at a scientific meeting and so I decided to update my resume with the information. Coincidentally, I was sent an email about a position that looks too good to pass up. What better reason to update the resume? A few evenings later working intensely and asking opinions/comments/feedback from super supportive friends and I have a revamped resume and fantastic cover letter to boot!
However, the whole process was very interesting. I found myself looking at my resume in a new light. Being a supervisor myself and having to sift through resumes every so often, I find that my decision making process has changed. No longer am I trying to express myself or have the resume be a representation of me as a person. Those thoughts have become simply trivial. What I do focus on is visual aesthetics, content, and clear comprehensibility. Is that even a word? What I mean is I want someone to see my resume, enjoy reading it [aesthetics], have the content that says 'you need me for this position', and be able to easily understand the information I am trying to convey. In science that is not always the easiest thing to accomplish.
Additionally, I have found myself reflecting during this resume process. Each position is like a chapter in my life and I do not often revisit them. Most of my time is spent in the present or planning for the future. In the past, reflection was filled with bitterness and discontent. I was very happy to have let go of some of the bitterness and discontent while reflecting upon my previous work experience. It was refreshing to look bad at my previous work experience and acknowledge that yes, I was not very happy during those times, but I am very happy now, and without that experience, I may not be here.
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