Are you looking to break into the GIS field, or perhaps make a career change into GIS? If so, congratulations on taking the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career! I’m rooting for you, and I believe you can do this! Being in the GIS Field has been one of the best things in my life (its how I met my husband!). I made a video on my career journey in GIS that you can watch here! The first step in creating the career that you love is by creating your GIS Resume.
I know that making a career change can be intimidating, but with the right resume, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job in GIS! Here are some tips to help you create a standout GIS resume:
- Tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for. GIS professionals work in a variety of industries, from natural resources to transportation to healthcare. Make sure your resume is tailored to the specific job you’re applying for by highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to that role. Did you know that different industries have
- Emphasize your technical skills. GIS professionals rely heavily on technical skills like ArcGIS, QGIS, and programming. Make sure to list these skills prominently on your resume, and consider including any relevant certifications you may have.
- Highlight your project experience. GIS professionals often work on complex projects that involve data analysis, map creation, and problem-solving. If you have experience working on GIS projects, be sure to include details on your resume. This can include the specific tools and techniques you used, as well as the outcomes of your work.
- Use strong action verbs. To make your resume stand out, use action verbs like “analyzed,” “designed,” and “implemented” to describe your responsibilities and achievements. This will help make your resume more dynamic and engaging to read.
- Proofread your resume. It may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s essential to proofread your resume carefully to ensure it’s error-free. A resume with spelling and grammar mistakes can make a poor impression on potential employers, so take the time to review your resume before you send it out.
- Keep your resume design simple and easy to read. While it can be tempting to use flashy design elements or unconventional formatting to make your resume stand out, it’s essential to remember that your resume is a professional document that needs to be easy to read. Use clear, legible font and plenty of white space to make your resume easy on the eyes, and avoid using design elements that might distract from the content of your resume. Your goal should be to create a resume that is visually appealing but also easy to read and navigate.
- Demonstrate that you have the necessary skills with a portfolio! A portfolio is a great way for you to stand out and demonstrate that you know how to do what you are saying that you can do. You can learn more about the portfolio challenge I run here.
If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of where to start with your GIS resume, don’t worry – I offer GIS career coaching to help you navigate the job search process and land your dream job. I’m here to support you every step of the way, and I believe in your ability to succeed. I also host regular Mappy Hour networking events to help you craft the career that you love! Good luck with your job search!