Ilene Fisher
Is there anyone who can lend some resume advice without charging an arm and a leg? I've been out of work for almost 6 months, my unemployment just ran out, and I cannot find a job. I can't even land an interview! I've been in the nonprofit field for 25 years as fundraiser/ grantwriter, but can do so much more. Don't know how to position my resume for a transitioning career. Maybe it's my age? I'm 51. I've literally applied to nearly 75 jobs. Any advice would be appreciated.
There are local agencies that have resume review and job hunting classes...also, many libraries do the same.
I will be happy to review your resume. There is no way employers would know your age when you are responding to a job posting, so I doubt it is your age. I have worked at a non-profit outplacement agencies. So I have helped a lot of people with successful job searches. Most important - don't give up!! Lisa
Some job search sites give free, Resumé advice, tips and pointers, Some state run employment offices Offer Resumé building applications.
Ilene; Go to your local library and look into books that they may have on resume writing and cover letter writing; Two books that are great for beginners are: "Resumes for Dummies" by Joyce Lain Kennedy; and "Cover Letters For Dummies" by the same author. also check out www.dummies.com. These books are written for the beginner; and do not assume any prior experience with writing and creating such documents. What I like about these books is that they are simple, straightforward; do not assume any prior knowledge; and are actually an enjoyable, even fun read.
Unfortunately too your age is likely also an issue; you're in great company however, many of the posts I read here lament this issue. I too am in this situation: I'm 57; I'll turn 58 in less than two months; and I used to like birthdays: not anymore. "Too old to Rock 'N' Roll" but too young to die."
I hope that these books can offer you some advice; check out your local libraries they often have many titles on these subjects. Speak with the Reference Librarian: they're a great source of information and guidance. And, they're usually really great people.
All the best!
Keith
Hi Ilene: I know you asked for help with your resume, but have you tried looking on Guru.com and Upwork.com for grant writing projects? It's a great way to make money for yourself while you're looking for another gig, OR it could be your full-time job. It's worth checking out!
Try to find out what the next job up is and then google the job description. Then, you can pattern your description of your experience to fit. If it requires exempt experience or supervisory experience, list that and include the time (Over a 3 year period, I supervised...). Certainly if you are not getting interviews, the resume is not quite right and needs refinement. Also, you may need to narrow down the type of business to one that would hire someone like you. Best of luck.