Have you ever applied for a position and never received a response? GHOSTED!
Or perhaps you received that standard message, “Thank you for applying … we’ll keep your resume on file…

You’re not alone. It’s not you, the application process and resume criteria has changed in the last decade. Technology often drives this process.
The same resume that we use in the school system should be modified a bit to meet private industry criteria.

Winning Resume Makeover Tips for Educators Exploring New Careers
Ready to revamp your resume? These 8 simple but powerful tips, along with a few bonus suggestions, can set you up for greater success and help you stand out from the crowd!
While the following does not provide a complete resume makeover, it's a powerful start:
1. Incorporate Action Verbs to Describe Your Work Experience
The first thing hiring managers notice is your experience, and the way you describe it matters. Instead of using passive phrases, use action verbs that demonstrate results. Words like “developed,” “implemented,” “led,” “created,” and “managed” pack more punch and show that you take initiative. Grab that thesaurus!
2. Avoid Overusing Adjectives Like “Passionate,” “Hard-Working,” “Responsible”
While these words may feel like they're showcasing your dedication, they’re often too subjective and don’t communicate the specifics of your qualifications.
Instead of these adjectives, highlight your key skills and concrete achievements. Focus on data and results that speak for themselves.
3. Add Data to Your Accomplishments
One of the most powerful ways to show your impact is by incorporating data. Numbers catch the eye of recruiters and hiring managers because they’re tangible, specific, and measurable.
Example:
NO: I taught Math to multiple students using different methods of instruction for several grade levels for 6 periods a day. This included using personalized, differentiated, and blended learning models.
YES: Increased student achievement in Math to an 89% average per learner by implementing differentiated, personalized, and blended learning instructional methods.
NEXT, take the above, make a few quick tweaks to translate it for private industry language: Increased learner achievement to an 89% average, implementing diversified blended learning instructional methodologies.
By adding specifics like this, you show your potential value in quantifiable terms.
4. Omit the Career Objective; Replace It with a Professional Branding Statement
Career objectives are becoming obsolete. They’re often vague and don’t contribute much to your resume.
What is a professional branding statement?
Professional Branding Statement—a concise career summary coupled with a short list of your key competencies highlighting who you are and what you bring to the table. It should be located at the top of your resume.
A great professional branding statement captures the prospective employer's or client's attention and makes a strong first impression!
DON’T do this:
Career Objective: A passionate, hardworking, and dedicated K-12 Instructional Leader seeking a career to utilize my experience in...
DO this instead:
Senior-Level Education Leader & Organization Management Professional
Accelerates Learner Performance & Builds Organizational Capacity
A results-driven relationship management professional with extensive experience in youth and adult learning solutions ... (SEE BELOW)



5. Understand Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
Have you heard of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)? These are the computer programs (resume bots) that many companies use to screen resumes before they ever reach human eyes. They scan your resume for keywords based on the job description. If your resume doesn’t match the right keywords, it might get overlooked, even if you’re qualified.
To optimize your resume for ATS:
Include keywords from the job description.
Format your resume properly (simple, clean layouts work best).
Avoid images or fancy designs that can confuse the system.
6. Customize Your Resume for Each Job Type
The days of sending out a generic resume for every job application are over. Tailor your resume to fit the specific role you’re applying for. For instance, your resume for a Curriculum Manager position should look different from the one for a Professional Learning Facilitator role.
This also saves time in the long run—once you've customized your resume for one job, you can adjust it slightly for other similar roles, making each application more targeted.
7. Highlight Leadership and Initiative
Have you been part of any committees, organized school initiatives, or led special projects? These are valuable experiences to showcase on your resume. Private industry employers love to see evidence of leadership, problem-solving, and initiative. Make sure to include these activities, particularly those that involved collaboration and strategic thinking.
8. Keep It Short, Sweet, and Impactful
The private sector standard is a 2-page resume—no more than 3 pages maximum. Keep your job descriptions concise and to the point. Use short, bullet-pointed lists to highlight your achievements and responsibilities. Avoid long paragraphs or detailed sentences. The more succinct you can be, the better.
EXTRA TIPS:
Format matters: Aim for a simple, clean design that’s easy to scan.
Focus on achievements, not just duties: Recruiters want to see how you added value, not just what your job title was.
Don’t forget about soft skills: Skills like leadership, communication, and adaptability are essential—just make sure to back them up with real examples.
You've Got This!
Now that you’re armed with these resume makeover tips, it’s time to take action.
With a few tweaks and thoughtful adjustments, you’ll be much better positioned to get noticed in private industry and land your next career opportunity.
Don’t get discouraged—refine your resume, tailor it for each role, and show the world your incredible talent!
Good luck with your career transition! You've got this!
Need more guidance and resume support?
Check out our winning Virtual Resume Makeovers here:
The Educators Career Transition Experts
Broils Consulting Group, LLC
"Transforming Careers ... Transforming Lives"
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