By Rich Bruchac, Account Manager
What’s your construction story? Does your resume clearly tell your story to potential employers and construction recruiters, or does it create more confusion? Is your resume specific to the opportunity you are targeting and does it highlight your construction skills related to that opportunity? Don’t make the mistake of underestimating the value of your resume when you apply for a position, as it paints your picture as a professional. In order to write a construction resume that helps you make it to the interview and clear the way for more opportunities, you need to keep the following tips in mind.
Give it the Right Shape
You most likely agree that not every job or project is the same. With that said, sending out the same resume for every opportunity that comes your way is not going to build your construction career. If, for example, you are applying for a job in commercial construction, you need to write a construction resume that highlights your commercial construction skills and background. A general resume that doesn’t create interest or answer basic questions is going to end up in the pile of rejected resumes. Invest time in shaping a resume that helps your construction career move forward.
Talk About the Details
As you write a construction resume, keep in mind that details make the difference. The first thing a hiring manager does when they receive your resume is to see how your construction skills match with their needs. A great way to make your case is by providing clear examples from your construction career. Talk about the responsibilities you had and the construction skills you put in practice at previous positions and projects. Use your construction resume to add credibility to your application and to demonstrate that you are the right person for the job.
Speak the Same Language
Like any industry, the construction industry has its own terminology and “code” of communication. It is important that when you write a construction resume, you use words and terms that immediately help others understand the value you bring to the table. Avoid making vague and general statements, and talk specifically about the equipment you have experience with or the certifications you have. Don’t let hiring managers or potential employers make assumptions about your construction skills. Show them that you know what you are talking about and that they have found the professional they need.
Connect the Dots
If you are applying for a job after a period of unemployment, make sure to explain in your resume what actions you took during that period to keep your construction skills up-to-date and stay in touch with the industry. Were you working on side projects? Did you renew your licenses or attend any training classes? Are your certifications valid? Do you have a “brag book” with photos of personal work that you can share with the hiring manager? Don’t hesitate to include facts like that when you write a construction resume as they show how seriously you take your construction career.
Reach Out to the Experts
When looking to write a construction resume, work with an expert in the industry. Reach out to a construction staffing firm and take advantage of their expertise in promoting a construction career like yours. Let them do what they do best and help you build a construction resume that describes your background in detail. A qualified construction recruiter knows which construction skills to highlight based on the position you are going for. They are your advocate in making sure that the right information is passed out and in the right way. They ensure that a professional with your expertise has the right resume to get them the job.
Key Takeaways to Does Your Resume Tell Your Construction Story:
1. Adjust your resume to fit the position you are applying for
2. Give examples of personal achievements in previous positions
3. Use industry language that demonstrates you know the industry
4. Give examples of how you stayed current with the industry during periods of unemployment
5 Work with a construction recruiter to help you write a construction resume
About TradeSource
Founded in 1993, TradeSource is a construction labor solutions firm focused on delivering labor solutions to contractors throughout the United States. By supplying skilled tradespeople – where and when they’re needed – we help contractors grow their companies, without the associated costs and hassles of full-time hires. Likewise, we match qualified employees with rewarding and well-paying job opportunities in the construction industry. www.tradesource.com
