My two teenagers landed new jobs this summer.
As a professional résumé writer and career strategist, I’m always behind the scenes, reminding my kids to download the job postings for their new positions and update their résumés before they forget.
- Kid 1 upgraded their skills in lifeguarding, serving, and first aid.
- Kid 2 enhanced their expertise in food safety, completed driver’s education, and earned a WHMIS certification.
I sat down with each of them at the computer to help update their résumés. As we worked, they both identified achievements they had forgotten to include—details that could make a strong first impression on their next employer.
Some overlooked items included:
- Testimonials from teachers, previous employers, and clients
- Volunteer work
- Academic achievements
Every day, I help executives recognize and articulate their achievements. Many people neglect to track their skills and accomplishments, sometimes for years. Let this serve as your reminder to help your kids get a head start: teach them to track their wins now.
When my children were starting out, before landing their first jobs, I asked them to identify achievements worth tracking, such as:
- Language proficiency
- Academic achievements
- Awards and recognition
- Interests and hobbies (music, guiding/scouting, creating, travel)
- Willingness to pursue certifications
- Experience (travel, fundraising for school trips)
Initially, it may not seem like much, but over the years, collecting and monitoring this information has helped both of my children grow. Now, as young adults, they need their résumé-writing mom far less—they’ve learned the value of tracking their accomplishments and ensuring nothing is missed.
Additional benefits of having a résumé-writing mom:
A complete résumé helps to:
- Validate their achievements and anchor their successes
- Boost their self-confidence and ability to communicate their skills
- Encourage them to pay attention to kudos and achievements worth adding to their résumé
By fostering these habits early, you can empower your children to recognize their strengths and present themselves confidently to future employers.
Related Categories: Advice, Resumes & ATS, Students & Parents
About The Author
Maureen McCann is an award-winning career coach, master resume writer, and master certified interview, employment, and career strategist whose clients include C-level executives, managers, and professionals in all industries including the Canadian banking, oil and gas, healthcare, IT, and government sectors.