You've worked as an Operations Manager for years. You also have a good background in photography. Should you include this on your resume? Let's figure it out.
Your resume is a tool for getting a job. It needs to show your skills clearly. But what if your skills come from very different fields, like operations and photography?
Understanding Your Goal
Think about what you want from a job:
- Do you want another Operations Manager job?
- Do you want to switch to a photography role?
Check Job Descriptions
Look at job descriptions for roles you want. Focus on the skills they ask for. Does your photography experience match any of those skills?
For Operations Jobs:
- Focus on management experience.
- Highlight leadership and problem-solving skills.
- Include photography if it shows useful skills like project management.
For Photography Jobs:
- Include all your photography work.
- Show projects that highlight creativity and technical skills.
Think About Transferable Skills
Some skills work in different jobs. These are called transferable skills. For example:
- Did you manage teams in your photography work?
- Did you communicate well with clients?
These skills can help in an Operations Manager role too.
How to Craft Your Resume
Here's a strategy for writing your resume:
When Both Matter:
- Professional Summary: Combine both roles. Example: \"Experienced Operations Manager with 20 years in management. Accomplished photographer.\"
- Skills Section: List skills for both fields. Example: \"Project Management, Leadership, Creative Problem-Solving.\"
- Work Experience: Separate sections for Operations and Photography. Highlight key achievements in both roles.
When Operations is the Focus:
- Professional Summary: Focus on management. Example: \"Operations Manager with 21 years of experience in performance and results.\"
- Work Experience: Focus on Operations roles. Briefly mention photography in an \"Other Experience\" section.
- Skills Section: Include the most relevant skills.
Special Sections
Use special sections for unrelated achievements:
- Qualifications: List key skills from both fields at the top.
- Projects: Include a “Notable Projects” section if you managed big photography projects.
Pros and Cons
Including Photography:
- Shows versatility.
- Highlights creativity.
- Demonstrates diverse skills.
Excluding Photography:
- Keeps the resume focused.
- Emphasizes relevant experience.
- Less chance of confusion.
Expert Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Tailor each resume for the job you apply to.
- Focus on Results: Highlight your achievements.
- Use the Cover Letter: Mention photography in your cover letter if it adds value.
Conclusion
Including unrelated experience depends on the job you want. Focus on your most relevant skills. If your photography work shows valuable skills, include it to add depth. Every job application is unique, so tailor your resume to each one. Good luck!