Should I include non-related job experiences?

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Should I include non-related job experiences?

Jul 10, 2010

Including non-related job experience
by: Joye

Yes, definitely add the receptionist position. Remember that in 99.9% of the cases, that resume is the first impression the hiring manager will have. When there is no work activity listed, especially after having a year's gap from graduation, a hiring manager will bypass your resume for two reasons. Remember that if a hiring manager is getting a lot of resumes, they will not call and ask, they will look for a more qualified candidate.
a) They by pass it because it's been a year since you've graduated and according to your resume you have not found employment.
b) If you have been working, you're not listing anything on the resume to explain that gap, why is that person hiding the information.

Showing that you have been working as a receptionist is key here. It shows you are willing to start at the bottom and do what it takes to help the organization become successful.

A smart receptionist is the go to person for the other employees. In my new job, I know that the receptionist is often the person who knows where to find something. So demonstrate those accomplishements on your resume.

Good luck to you on this issue. Most employers will understand that you can't always start at your ideal position. If you are currently employed at this job, it also is to your advantage as it shows you are currently working.

Jun 04, 2009

Give Yourself Credit
by: Kathi

Hi Kelly... Sorry for the delay in answering (I'm getting married and have been a bit tied up with arrangements!). But you definitely want to put your receptionist job on your resume. Believe me, employers know about the recession and how hard it is to find a job in your field. They know because they're rejecting hundreds of applicants for every available position.

So show what you HAVE been doing. It demonstrates your work ethic and there will always be transferable skills from any job, such as organizational skills, communication skills, etc.

Good luck!
Kathi

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