Updating your resume for 2026

Most resumes are screened by software (ATS, applicant tracking systems) before a human ever sees them. That means your resume needs keywords that match the actual job description. One-page resumes are still standard for under 10 years of experience. PDF format is safest unless the posting specifically requests Word. Applying to dozens of jobs with one generic resume rarely works, tailoring for each posting takes more time but produces results. The steps below will help you build a strong foundation you can customize quickly.

Standard sections in order: contact info (name, city, phone, email, LinkedIn if you have one), a brief professional summary (2 to 3 sentences, optional but useful for career changers), work history (reverse chronological, most recent first), skills, education. Skip the objective statement. Your name on the resume should be the name you want to be called, you can update this without a legal name change. Include volunteer work, caregiving, and community organizing, they count as experience.

If you've changed your name: use your current name. If a reference knows you by a previous name, brief them before they're contacted, you don't owe employers an explanation. For employment gaps: "personal medical leave," "family caregiving," or listing freelance and volunteer work done during that time are all complete, professional answers. Employers cannot legally require medical details. If you were incarcerated, Ban the Box laws in Oregon limit when employers can ask, and many trans-affirming employers explicitly welcome returning community members.

Instead of describing what your job was, describe what you achieved. "Managed scheduling for 30+ clients" beats "Responsible for client scheduling." Quantify wherever you can, numbers catch the eye. If you have significant gaps, a strong skills section matters more than ever: list technical skills, languages, software, certifications, and transferable skills from any role including unpaid ones. Peer support, community organizing, and advocacy all develop real skills that employers value.

Tools like Claude, ChatGPT, and Jobscan can help you tailor your resume to a specific job description, check for ATS keywords, and sharpen language. Paste the job posting and your current resume and ask for feedback. Use it to improve, not to fabricate. Only claim skills and experience you actually have. AI-generated resumes sound generic if you don't edit them into your own voice. The goal is your story, told clearly, not a perfect document that doesn't sound like you.

Worksource Portland offers free job coaching, resume review, and career services to Multnomah County residents. Outside In serves trans youth and young adults with employment support. Worksource Oregon has career centers across the metro with free computers, printing, and job coaches. Radical Abundance offers free professional clothing if you need interview attire. You do not have to pay for resume help, these services are funded specifically so you don't have to.