Id done so many different things that it read more cant commit to a career than seasoned professional.
This post originally appeared onThe Muse.
Fast-forward five years and halfway through a PhD program, and my experience hasnt magically gotten any more cohesive.
Another option is askills-based resumerather than a chronological one.
Is this the right option for you?
Its hard to say because many employers have different preferences.
So see to it that whatever format you choose, youre emphasizing why youre the best fit.
Emphasize the Continuities
Most job experiences have some common threads.
I remember when I was in college, every semester taking a wide variety of classes.
Our brains are wired to want to make connections.
Spend time thinking broadly about your jobs.
Have they all involved customer service?
Critical thinking and analysis?
Using new technologies or creative problem solving?
If nothing comes to mind,ask a friendto give it a look.
Leave Off the Irrelevant
Not everything youve ever done has to go on your resume.
For most people, all of your experience just wont fit, but theres definitely a strategy involved.
Worried about long gaps thatll surface on your resume if you go with this technique?
But keep in mind that just a month or two doesnt constitute a recognizable gap.
But you still have to tell a compelling story about where youve been and where youre going.
How did all of those past experiences lead you here?
How and why do you plan to build upon what youve done so far?
Skills are skills, no matter where or how you obtained them.
Which is exactly how I feel now.
I may be biased, but my winding career story sounds pretty good these days.
She also coaches clients privately, focusing on career transitions and women in leadership.
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Top image byRed Monkeyandirin73bal(Shutterstock).
