If you’re like most people, you have a resume. Maybe it’s been years since you’ve updated it, or maybe you’ve dusted it off and are realizing it’s lacking in substance. Whatever your current situation, being able to produce a quality resume depends heavily on your work experiences, skills, and how the document is prepared. Keep reading for some things you can do to build a better resume.

Gain Experience

With a resume, experience matters. Work experience, education, and professional or volunteer-related endeavors all have a huge impact on your overall document.

Wondering what you can do if your resume is lacking this substance? Taking continued education classes is a wonderful way to not only gain knowledge, it’s a way to qualify for higher-level positions than you may not have before. These days, continued education is made so simple due to so much being offered online. This is especially great if you’re currently employed, a parent or caregiver, or just someone who simply doesn’t have enough hours in the day to get it all done. Taking courses through programs such as AscendEducation makes it easy to reach your educational goals while still maintaining your normal lifestyle.

Volunteering is another wonderful way to add life to your resume. Not only is it an effective way to network, but it’s also an opportunity to learn through real-life experience that isn’t always found in a workplace setting.

If you’re just starting out in the workforce, don’t hesitate to try a few different things. You never really know what’s right for you until you shop around, and job-hopping isn’t as frowned upon these days as it used to be (within reason, of course).

Give It A Makeover

Making over your resume doesn’t need to be complicated, but it will take some time and a good eye.

If you’re not sure where to start, research some tips on changes you can make that will have the biggest overall impact. If you’re not confident in your editing abilities, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend or colleague who is. Not only can a second set of eyes be really helpful, but you might also even get some useful feedback or advice as well.

Your resume says a lot about you, both professionally and personally. Remember that whatever progress you make will shine through to potential employers and ensuring that it’s in tip-top shape will make it even better.