8 resume writing tips for the unemployed

Searching for a job is not an easy feat to conquer for the majority of job seekers, especially if they are unemployed. A job search can be a particularly stressful experience for job seekers who are employed and have a steady income. Those who have quit their jobs or have been laid off face additional financial stress on top of their job search stress.

A strong resume is something you should aspire to have for your job search. A well-written resume presents your best skills, experiences, and qualifications in an attractive manner to potential employers. However, crafting a resume when you're unemployed is not an easy task. You will have to find a way to address your employment gaps and other resume red flags. Here are some tips that will help you create a better resume:

1. Start with a strong summary statement

Not every job seeker starts their resume with a strong resume summary. A summary statement has the power to grab the reader’s attention and compel them to read your whole resume. Also, your summary statement is the first thing a potential employer notices on your resume. One way to write a strong summary statement when you are unemployed is to emphasize related skills and your ability to learn fast.

2. Highlight your skills and accomplishments

The main focus of your resume must be on your skills and accomplishments. These are the two resume components that every hiring manager gives priority to. Create a separate key skills section that highlights 10–15 of your related skills to present yourself as a strong candidate. Your achievements do not have to be entirely obtained through paid work experience. You can mention the skills and accomplishments you have acquired through volunteer work, internships, or freelance work.

3. Use action verbs to describe your experience

One mistake most candidates make when writing their resumes is to use bland, generic language. Your resume should be an interesting read for potential employers and hiring managers. The next time you write a resume, say that you have “Driven profits by 50% through executing novel marketing strategies” instead of mentioning that you were, “Responsible for strategy making.”

4. Customize your resume for each job

Whether you are unemployed or searching for a job while working, you should always tailor your resume for each job you apply to. Ensure that you tailor your job application each time by mentioning the most relevant experience, skills, and qualifications on your resume. You can also create a master resume template and edit it for each application.

5. Emphasize your education and training

When you want to draw the hiring manager’s eye away from the chronological work history, you can emphasize other sections of your resume such as education and certifications. If you have graduated recently, having an elaborate education section in your resume is acceptable. Also, create a separate certifications section for your resume and mention the training, certifications, and licenses you have earned.

6. Include volunteer and freelance work

Paid work experience is not the only way to hone your skills in the job market. Even though you are not currently employed, you have a wide range of work experience from the past. Put your volunteer work and community service to good use by mentioning them in your resume to elaborate on your work experience. You can also list your freelance work and side hustles to emphasize job-related skills.

7. Focus on your transferable skills

If you are planning to change the trajectory of your career, transferable skills will add extra value to your resume. These are the skills that can be used across multiple industries and job roles. Some examples of transferable skills to add to your resume are communication skills, problem-solving skills, and time management skills. These skills are essential for almost any type of job, making them versatile.

8. Don't be afraid to explain gaps in employment

Employment gaps have become very common after the effect of the pandemic on the job market. Hiring managers and employers are sympathetic toward job seekers with career gaps today more than ever. If you have gaps in your employment history, avoid glossing over them. The best thing you can do is to list your employment gaps upfront on your resume and provide a brief explanation.