Bradenton FL Unemployment Career Center Office

I understand that you’re looking for help creating a resume after being unemployed for a few weeks and relocating from Wisconsin in January 2024. I’d be happy to assist you! Here are some tips and resources that can help you get started:

General resume writing tips:

Focus on achievements and skills: Instead of simply listing your job duties, highlight your accomplishments and the specific skills you used to achieve them. Use strong action verbs and quantifiable results whenever possible.
Tailor your resume to each job you apply for: Identify the keywords and skills mentioned in the job description and make sure your resume reflects those requirements.
Keep it concise and easy to read: Aim for a one-page resume unless you have extensive experience. Use a clear and consistent format with easy-to-read fonts and headings.
Proofread carefully: Typos and grammatical errors can make a bad impression, so double-check your resume before submitting it.
Addressing the unemployment gap:

Focus on the positive: You can briefly explain the gap in your cover letter without dwelling on it. Instead, emphasize how you used your time productively, such as volunteering, taking courses, or starting freelance projects.
Use a functional resume format: This format emphasizes your skills and accomplishments rather than your work history, which can be helpful if you have a significant employment gap.
Quantify your accomplishments: Even if you haven’t been traditionally employed, you can still quantify your achievements. For example, if you volunteered, you could mention the number of hours you volunteered or the impact you made on the organization.
Additional resources:

Online resume builders: There are many free and paid online resume builders available that can help you format your resume and choose templates. Some popular options include Canva, Resume.com, and Zety.
Career counseling: Many community colleges, universities, and government agencies offer free or low-cost career counseling services. A career counselor can help you create a resume, write a cover letter, and prepare for job interviews.
Job boards and networking: Utilize online job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor to search for opportunities. Additionally, attend industry events and network with professionals in your field to increase your chances of getting noticed.
Specific tips for your situation:

Highlight your adaptability and resilience: Moving to a new location and finding a new job within a short timeframe demonstrates your ability to adapt to change and overcome challenges.
Emphasize soft skills: Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are valuable in any industry. Be sure to highlight these skills on your resume and in your cover letter.
Network with people in your new location: Connect with local professional organizations and attend industry events to build your network and learn about job opportunities.