You're torn between resume advice from a peer and a branding expert. Whose guidance should you follow?

1 Peer Insight

Your peer likely knows your work ethic, skills, and achievements firsthand. They can provide personalized feedback that resonates with your experiences and career goals. This inside knowledge can be instrumental in making your resume authentic and relatable. When considering their advice, remember that it's grounded in familiarity with your character and professional history. This can be especially beneficial if you're applying within the same industry where your peer has a proven track record.

2 Branding Wisdom

On the other hand, a branding expert brings a wealth of knowledge about current market trends and how to position yourself in a competitive job landscape. They can help tailor your resume to appeal to the modern employer, focusing on keywords, personal branding , and digital readability . Their expertise is particularly useful if you're looking to pivot industries or climb the career ladder . A branding expert's advice might be less personal but is designed to make you a more attractive candidate to a broader audience.

4 Context Matters

The context of your job search is also an important factor. If you're seeking a position in a field where cultural fit and personality are highly valued, your peer's advice might carry more weight. Conversely, if you're targeting a highly specialized or highly competitive industry , the branding expert's approach could be more advantageous. Tailor your resume according to the specific norms and values of the sector you're interested in.

5 Continuous Evolution

Remember that resume writing is not a one-size-fits-all process, and it should evolve as you progress in your career. As you gain more experience and your professional brand develops , you may lean more towards the strategic advice of a branding expert. However, never underestimate the power of personal connections and the nuanced insight that a peer can contribute to your resume's narrative.

6 Final Choice

Ultimately, the decision on whose resume advice to follow comes down to your personal career goals and the nature of the job market you're navigating. Consider what you want to convey through your resume: Is it the depth of your personal and professional journey or the strategic positioning of yourself as a brand? Your final choice should reflect not only where you've been but also where you want to go in your career.