Contemplating a Job Change? Here’s How to Navigate the Overwhelm

Thinking about changing jobs? The idea can feel overwhelming—we’ve all been there. Your mind races with questions like:

• Is my résumé even relevant right now?
• What’s the correct résumé format?
• Can I get through an ATS (Applicant Tracking System)? Wait, what even is an ATS?
• Should I include a picture?
• Is two pages too long?
• Is my LinkedIn profile good enough?

The concerns pile up, and the uncertainty about what’s “right” in today’s job market doesn’t make it any easier. The truth is, career development and job hunting have shifted dramatically in just a few short years. It can be tough to trust your instincts or even know where to begin.

The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Here are the answers you’ve been searching for, straight from a recruiter’s perspective.

1. If your résumé hasn’t been updated in 3+ years, it’s time for a refresh.

The job market evolves quickly, and so do expectations for résumés. If yours hasn’t evolved with it, chances are it needs a revamp.

2. Format matters more than you think—readability is everything.

Recruiters often spend less than 10 seconds scanning a résumé. If it’s too cluttered, long-winded, or complicated to read, we’re moving on. Keep it clean, concise, and easy to scan.

3. Understand the ATS (Applicant Tracking System).

An ATS is a software that parses résumés into fields for recruiters to sift through digitally. Your format influences whether your information is captured correctly. And then there’s AI. Keywords are key (pun intended). Including the right terminology can be the difference between landing an interview or being overlooked.

4. Should you include a picture? Yes—but do it wisely.

Photos used to be a hard no, but times have changed. Recruiters will inevitably check out your LinkedIn or social media, so adding a professional (but approachable) headshot can humanize you and help you stand out. Just ensure it’s high-quality, head-and-shoulders, and nothing too casual.

5. A two-page résumé is fine, but relevance is what matters.

Sure, a one-page résumé is ideal, but if you’ve got a long career history, two pages are perfectly acceptable. Just make sure everything included aligns with where you’re headed next, not just where you’ve been.

6. Your LinkedIn profile should tell your professional story—not just list jobs.

A strong LinkedIn profile is a must. Make sure it’s complete with a professional photo, an industry-relevant banner image, and a compelling summary that highlights your expertise. Don’t just list job titles in your header—tell people what you’re great at.

7. Yes, you can update your LinkedIn while employed. It’s YOUR profile.

Worried about your boss noticing? That’s on them, not you. Your LinkedIn profile is your personal branding tool, and keeping it updated is always a good idea. If it raises eyebrows, it’s probably a sign of deeper issues in your current workplace.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Changing jobs doesn’t have to feel paralyzing. By addressing these questions and taking intentional steps, you’ll turn what feels like an overwhelming mountain into a manageable path.

Here’s the thing to remember: your career belongs to YOU. Not your boss, your company, or your colleagues. Take ownership of it, and approach each step with clarity and confidence.

Interested in having all of the guesswork removed and just hiring someone to do it all for you? Let's chat!

Email me at [email protected] or schedule a quick exploratory call by using the link below.

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