Keep that resume up to date
Think back to the last time you were looking for a new job and had to update your resume. You might have had some difficulty in remembering everything you did in a previous job, and everything you’ve done in your current position. My suggestion is this – always have a current updated resume on file. If you complete a major project or get a promotion, add it to your resume right away. If your duties and responsibilities change make sure to adjust your resume to reflect your new skill set. Did you take a course that is relevant to your career, or become certified in something related to your job? Add it to the education or certification sections of your resume. When the time comes for you to search for a new job you won’t have to struggle to remember everything you’ve done over the past few years to add to your resume. And here’s something else to think about. You never know when a headhunter might call you up with the opportunity of a lifetime. Do you want it to pass you by because you had to spend days updating your resume? What if you run into an old acquaintance from college that tells you his/her company wants to hire someone with your exact skill set? Do you want to miss out because you don’t have an updated resume to email to your acquaintance the next day?
Having an updated resume does not mean you’re actively on the job market, or that you are dissatisfied with your current job. It’s just a smart move on your part to be ready to act when that opportunity you can’t pass up comes your way.