 How to Write a Resume in 2026 That Actually Gets Interviews By, Shawna L. Turner If you’ve been applying for jobs and hearing… nothing, it can start to feel personal. But most of the time, it isn’t. In 2026, resumes are often scanned by software before a human ever sees them. And even when a person does read it, they’re usually skimming fast—looking for proof you can do the job, quickly. The good news? You don’t need a “perfect” background to have a resume that gets interviews. You need a resume that is clear, targeted, and easy to trust. Here’s how to build one that works in today’s job market. 1) Start with the job posting, not a blank page The biggest resume mistake is writing one general resume and sending it everywhere. Instead:
2) Use an ATS-friendly format - simple is stronger A resume can be beautiful and still get rejected if the software can’t read it. Use this format:
3) Write a “Summary” that says what you do - in 3–4 lines Think of your summary like a movie trailer—not your life story. Good summary formula: Role + years/strength + specialties + value you bring Example: Customer Service Specialist with 6+ years supporting high-volume clients in retail and hospitality. Skilled in conflict resolution, scheduling, POS systems, and team training. Known for calm, professional service and improving customer satisfaction. If you’re changing careers, your summary is where you connect the dots. 4) Your “Skills” section should match the job description This is the section that helps you pass both the ATS and the skim test. Make a skills list that includes:
5) Turn job duties into accomplishments Most resumes list responsibilities. Interview-getting resumes show results. Use this formula: Action verb + what you did + how often/how many + result Instead of:
6) Use a strong bullet structure (easy to skim) For each job, aim for:
Start bullets with verbs like: Managed, Coordinated, Supported, Assisted, Trained, Implemented, Maintained, Organized, Resolved, Improved, Created, Documented. 7) Address gaps without apologizing If you have time off work, you’re not alone. It’s common—and employers are used to it. Options:
8) Tailor your resume in 10 minutes You do not need to rewrite your entire resume every time. Quick tailor method:
9) Don’t forget your references and follow-up plan A strong resume is step one. A system is step two. Keep a simple tracker:
A quick resume checklist Before you hit submit, check:
We’re here to help At Adonai Counseling and Employment, we support people who are trying to move forward—whether you’re:
#employment #jobseeker #secondchance #adonai #counseling #shawnaturner #job #interview #livelifetothefullest
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 Finding Work in Washington: Real Numbers, Real People, Real Next Steps By, Shawna L. Turner Looking for a job can feel like carrying two things at once: the practical pressure of bills and responsibilities, and the emotional weight of uncertainty. Even when the economy looks “okay” on paper, the experience of job searching can still be exhausting—applications, interviews, no responses, and the quiet worry that starts to creep in at night. At Adonai Counseling and Employment, we want you to know this: you are not alone in it, and you do not have to do it by yourself. Below is a snapshot of what’s happening in Washington’s job market right now—plus what you can do next, and how we can help. What the Washington job market looks like right now (facts & figures) Here are a few recent indicators that help explain why some job searches feel competitive, even when hiring is still happening:
This is why “just keep applying” isn’t enough. The job search works better when it becomes a strategy—not a grind. Practical steps that help right now (even if you’re overwhelmed) If you’re job searching today, here are four moves that consistently improve results: 1) Make your resume speak the employer’s language Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS). That means your resume needs:
The state publishes ongoing labor market reports and projections that help identify where demand is trending. Even if your “dream job” is the goal, a strong bridge job in a hiring-heavy sector can stabilize income and rebuild momentum. 3) Prepare for interviews like they’re a skill (because they are) Interview confidence isn’t personality—it’s practice:
Job searching can impact mental health, relationships, and self-worth. Support matters—especially if you’ve been discouraged for a while. How Adonai Counseling and Employment can help We’re here for both the practical and the personal parts of employment. Resume + job search support
We offer workshops and classes designed to meet people where they are—whether you’re starting over, changing careers, re-entering the workforce, or just trying to land something stable. Depending on your needs, topics can include:
If you’re tired - You're not alone If you’ve been applying for weeks or months, it can start to feel personal. It isn’t. The job market is data, timing, systems—and sometimes bad luck. But you are not stuck. With the right resume, the right positioning, and consistent support, most people do not stay in the “no” season forever. If you need help, Adonai Counseling and Employment is here—to help you build the next version of your working life with dignity, clarity, and real tools that work. #employment #jobseeker #secondchance #adonai #counseling #shawnaturner #job #interview #livelifetothefullest  Youth: Building Skills, Confidence, and a Future By, Shawna Turner Employment readiness for young people is not only about getting a first job. It is about becoming the kind of person who can show up, communicate, learn, and grow—no matter what job they start with. When we talk about youth and work, we often focus on paychecks, schedules, and applications. But underneath those details is something deeper: employment readiness is a bridge between childhood and adulthood. It teaches responsibility, self-respect, and the basic habits that make opportunity possible. And yet, many youth enter the working world without the tools they need—not because they are lazy, but because no one ever taught them what employers expect or why those expectations matter. Some young people have never watched an adult prepare for work with consistency. Some are juggling school, family responsibilities, unstable housing, or anxiety. Some have been told so often what they are doing wrong that they struggle to believe they can do anything right. Employment readiness, then, must be more than a checklist. It must be a community effort to train, guide, and encourage youth into becoming capable and confident contributors. Readiness begins long before the first application A resume is not where readiness starts. It starts at home, at school, and in everyday routines. It starts when youth learn to be on time, to follow instructions, to manage emotions, and to finish what they start. These may sound like simple expectations, but they are the foundation of every workplace. A young person who can show up consistently, take feedback without falling apart, and keep going after a mistake has already gained an advantage that will outlast any single job. This is why employment readiness is not only the responsibility of the teenager. It is also the responsibility of the adults around them. Parents and guardians help by modeling work ethic and professionalism, even in small ways—how they speak about their boss, how they respond to stress, how they handle conflict, how they keep commitments. Teachers help by linking classroom habits to real-life success—effort, respect, teamwork, organization, and problem-solving. Community leaders, coaches, and mentors help by giving youth safe places to practice adult skills without being shamed for not knowing them yet. Skills matter, but character carries the skill Youth employment readiness includes practical skills: filling out an application, writing a resume, interviewing, and understanding workplace rules. But the truth is, many employers will train a young worker on tasks. What they struggle to train is character. Employers notice reliability. They notice attitude. They notice whether someone takes ownership or makes excuses. They notice whether someone can communicate respectfully when they’re stressed. A young person may have talent, but if they cannot accept correction, they will struggle. A young person may be smart, but if they cannot handle frustration, they will quit quickly or burn bridges. A young person may have ambition, but if they cannot manage time, they will miss deadlines and lose trust. Employment readiness, therefore, includes building inner strength: patience, humility, accountability, self-control, and persistence. These traits do not appear overnight. They are formed through guidance and repetition. Youth need adults who can say, “Here’s how to do this better,” without insulting them. They need consequences that teach, not punish. They need correction that is firm but respectful. Most importantly, they need someone who will still believe in them after they fail—because failure is part of learning. Confidence is often the missing piece One of the quiet struggles many youth carry into the workforce is fear—fear of looking stupid, fear of being rejected, fear of being embarrassed, fear of being talked down to. Some young people cope with that fear by withdrawing. Others cope by acting tough. Some cope by joking, being defensive, or refusing to try at all. Adults often misinterpret these behaviors as disrespect, but in many cases they are protection. Employment readiness must include confidence-building. Not fake confidence, but earned confidence—the kind that comes from learning skills and practicing them. When youth learn how to introduce themselves, how to shake hands, how to answer questions, and how to ask for clarification, they begin to feel capable. When they learn how to manage nerves and communicate clearly, they begin to feel in control. When they experience one small success—one interview that goes well, one supervisor who says “good job,” one paycheck they earned honestly—they begin to see themselves differently. That shift is powerful. It can be the beginning of hope. Teaching youth how workplaces actually work Many young people struggle at first not because they can’t do the job, but because they don’t understand workplace expectations. Adults assume youth “should know,” but a lot of youth truly don’t. Employment readiness includes teaching the invisible rules:
Helping youth choose healthy paths, not quick ones Employment readiness is also about decision-making. Many youth are tempted by shortcuts: easy money, risky situations, friends who pull them into trouble, or lifestyles that look glamorous but lead to consequences. A steady job may feel slow compared to what they see online. But adults must teach youth how to see the long game. A job builds more than money—it builds references, skills, and credibility. It builds the ability to say, “I can take care of myself.” It builds a future. Youth must be taught that freedom is not doing whatever you want. Freedom is having options because you made wise choices early. The role of opportunities: practice changes everything Talking about employment readiness is not enough if youth have nowhere to practice it. Communities can strengthen youth readiness by creating opportunities:
Conclusion: readiness is a gift we give our youth Youth employment readiness is not just a “teen problem.” It is a community mission. If we want young people to become productive and successful citizens, we must train them—not only with information, but with guidance, encouragement, and real opportunities. We must teach them the habits that create stability: showing up, communicating, learning, and persevering. We must help them build character that holds their skills together. And we must remind them that their future is bigger than their mistakes, bigger than their fear, and bigger than what anyone has told them they “can’t” do. When we equip youth to work, we are not only preparing them for a job. We are preparing them for life. #youth #mentalhealth #community #depression #anxiety #parents #stress #feelings #adonai #counseling #shawnaturner #Employment #job # Interview
 Interview Basics By, Shawna Turner Interviews aren’t just about proving you can do the job. They’re about helping a stranger feel confident that you can do the job with them—under pressure, on a team, with real customers, real deadlines, and real misunderstandings. That’s why two equally qualified people can walk into the same interview and get different results. The good news: interviewing is a skill. You can practice it. You can improve quickly. And you don’t need to become a different person—you just need to communicate like someone who’s ready. 10-minute prep that changes everything Right before your interview, do these three things:
How to sit and conduct yourself - what interviewers notice fast Your posture and presence
You don’t have to stare. Aim for:
What to do with nerves If your hands shake or your voice wobbles, don’t apologize for it. Most interviewers expect nerves. Keep going. Calm confidence is built while you answer, not before. The most common interview topics - and how to answer them 1) “Tell me about yourself.” They’re not asking for your life story. They want a quick professional snapshot. Simple formula (30–60 seconds): Present role/strength → relevant experience → what you want next Example: “I’ve worked in customer-facing roles for about four years, mostly in fast-paced environments. I’m strong at handling high volume, staying organized, and keeping a calm tone when someone is frustrated. I’m looking for a stable role where I can grow and contribute to a team.” 2) “Why do you want this job?” They want to know you’re not applying randomly. Answer structure:
“I like work where I’m busy and helping people. I’ve heard your company values teamwork and training, and that matters to me because I learn fast and I want to improve. This role fits my strengths in communication, consistency, and staying organized.” 3) “What are your strengths?” Pick strengths that match the job and prove them. Best practice: Choose 2 strengths and give a mini example for each. Example: “One strength is reliability—I’m consistent and I show up ready. Another is problem-solving. In my last job, I regularly handled customer issues by listening, staying calm, and finding a solution without escalating the situation.” 4) “What’s a weakness?” A weakness answer isn’t a confession. It’s a growth story. Safe formula: Real weakness → what you’re doing about it → improvement Examples:
5) “Tell me about a time you handled conflict.” They want to see emotional control and professionalism. Use the STAR method:
“A customer was upset about a billing issue and was raising their voice. I listened without interrupting, repeated the concern back so they knew I understood, and explained the next steps calmly. I offered a solution I could do immediately and escalated only what I couldn’t. They left calmer and later thanked me for helping.” 6) “Tell me about a time you made a mistake.” They’re checking honesty and accountability. Answer structure:
“Early on I entered a scheduling change incorrectly, and it caused confusion. I owned it, corrected it quickly, and started using a checklist before submitting changes. Since then I’ve been much more careful and accurate.” 7) “Why did you leave your last job?” / “What happened there?” Keep it short. Don’t trash anyone. Good reasons:
“I’m grateful for what I learned, but I’m looking for a role with more stability and room to grow.” 8) “Do you have any questions for us?” Always ask something. It shows maturity and interest. Great questions:
How to answer hard questions without getting stuck If you don’t know an answer Say: “I haven’t used that system yet, but I learn quickly. If you tell me what you use, I can share similar tools I’ve worked with.” If you have a job gap Keep it simple and forward-focused: “I had a period where I needed to handle personal responsibilities. I’m ready to work now and looking for a stable position.” If you’re changing careers Bridge your skills: “Even though my last role was in hospitality, the core skills—communication, staying calm, problem-solving, reliability—carry over strongly into this position.” The small details that quietly win interviews
Then ask: “What are the next steps in the hiring process?” After the interview: one move that helps a lot If you have an email address, send a short thank-you note the same day:
“Thank you for your time today. I appreciated learning more about the team and the day-to-day responsibilities. I’m very interested in the role and would be excited to contribute.” Final thought A good interview isn’t a performance—it’s a conversation with structure. If you can communicate clearly, show you’re dependable, and demonstrate how you handle real situations, you’ll stand out more than you think. If you want, tell me what kind of job your readers are applying for (hospitality, warehouse, office, healthcare support, retail, etc.), and I can tailor a set of sample answers that match that field. #employment #jobseeker #secondchance #adonai #counseling #shawnaturner #job #interview #livelifetothefullest
 From Surviving to Thriving: The Power of Purpose After Prison By, Shawna Turner Beyond the BarsEvery year, hundreds of thousands of individuals return home after serving time in prison. For many, that moment of release is met with both relief and dread. Yes, they’re free—but now what? Society often expects the worst. Stereotypes persist. Doors stay closed. And for some, the stigma of incarceration becomes a lifelong sentence. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Reentry can be more than survival—it can be transformation. Across the country, formerly incarcerated individuals are not just finding their footing—they’re finding their purpose. They’re becoming business owners, counselors, educators, artists, community leaders, and change-makers. And what makes the difference between someone who falls back into the system and someone who rises to build a new life? Purpose. Not punishment. Not fear. Not shame. But purpose. The Harsh Reality of ReentryBefore we celebrate the success stories, we need to name the real obstacles returning citizens face:
But when a person finds purpose—something meaningful to work toward—something changes. The Game-Changer in ReentryPurpose gives people a reason to resist despair. It provides a goal, a structure, a sense of identity beyond a prison number or a rap sheet. And that sense of purpose can be found in many ways: 🛠️ Work That MattersWhen someone is given the chance to contribute, earn a living, and be seen as capable—they begin to rewrite their story.
📚 Education as a LaunchpadHigher education has become one of the most effective reentry tools:
We All Benefit When No One Is Written OffHere’s the truth that often gets lost in political soundbites: successful reentry isn’t just good for individuals—it’s good for everyone.
What We Can DoWhether you're an employer, a teacher, a voter, a faith leader, or a neighbor--you have a role to play in helping people find purpose after prison. ✔️ Hire someone with a record.Skills can be trained. Character, work ethic, and loyalty often shine strongest in those who’ve been overlooked. ✔️ Support second-chance education.Advocate for in-prison and post-release college programs, GED initiatives, and vocational training. ✔️ Invest in mentorship.If you’ve walked through hardship, your story might be the hope someone else needs to hear. ✔️ Challenge the narrative.Share stories of transformation. Use your platform to humanize—not stigmatize—those who’ve paid their debt to society. ✔️ Vote for policies that support reentry.Support local and national efforts that fund reentry services, reduce legal barriers to employment, and restore civil rights. Final Thought: From Brokenness to BreakthroughThe journey from prison to purpose isn’t easy. It takes courage, support, structure, and grace. But it is possible. And when we believe in the potential of every person to grow, change, and contribute, we create a society rooted in hope—not fear. No one should be forever defined by their worst moment. When we stop writing people off and start writing them into our collective future, we all thrive. Let’s stop asking “What did you do?” and start asking “What can you become?” Because surviving is only the beginning. Thriving is the goal. #metalhealth #reentry #hope #education #adonai #employment #counseling #shawnaturner
 Real Challenges of Prison Reentry—And What We Can Do About It By, Shawna Turner For many formerly incarcerated individuals, being released from prison is only the beginning of a new—and often overwhelming—chapter. After months or years behind bars, they face a world that has moved on without them. They must navigate housing, employment, family reintegration, mental health issues, and a justice system that doesn’t always offer a path forward. Reentry is one of the most difficult transitions a person can experience. Yet, it's also one of the most critical to get right—not just for the individual, but for the health and safety of entire communities. If we truly want safer neighborhoods, lower crime rates, and more productive citizens, then reentry must be about restoration—not punishment. The cycle of incarceration won't end until reentry becomes more than just survival—it must become opportunity. The Hard Truth: What Returning Citizens FaceEach year, more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons in the United States. Many more cycle in and out of jails. When they return home, they often encounter: 1. Housing Discrimination and Homelessness
2. Employment Barriers
3. Lack of Access to Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment
4. Strained Family and Community Ties
What Actually Works: The Pillars of Successful ReentryDespite these challenges, we know what works. Decades of research and community-based programs have shown that successful reentry depends on three major pillars: ✅ Stable Housing
✅ Supportive Relationships and Services
Who’s Doing the Work: Real Examples of HopeAcross the country, nonprofits, churches, and bipartisan initiatives are stepping up:
What You Can Do: Turning Compassion Into ActionWhether you’re a neighbor, business owner, policymaker, pastor, or simply a concerned citizen, you can help break the cycle. Here’s how: 🛠 Employ — If you run a business, consider becoming a second-chance employer. Skills can be taught; character is priceless. 🏠 Advocate for Housing Access — Support local zoning changes and programs that create affordable, inclusive housing for all. 🤝 Mentor or Volunteer — Many organizations need mentors, tutors, or volunteers to run life skills classes, mock interviews, or support circles. 📣 Change the Narrative — Speak up. Challenge stigma. Share stories of redemption and resilience, not just crime and punishment. 💒 Open Doors Through Faith Communities — Churches and religious organizations can be powerful bridges between returning citizens and the community. People Are More Than Their Worst MistakeWe cannot call ourselves a just or moral society if we continue to throw people away after they've served their time. Reentry is not about being “soft on crime”—it's about being smart on restoration. It’s about recognizing human dignity and investing in potential. A person who has made a mistake and served their sentence should not be locked out of life forever. When we offer empathy over judgment, support over suspicion, and opportunity over obstacles—we all win. Because breaking the cycle of incarceration doesn't just change one life. It changes families. It changes neighborhoods. It changes futures. #reentry #community #employment #Adonai #Employment #Counseling #Mentalhealth #shawnaturner
 Finding Work After Setbacks: Employment Strategies for Second Chances By, Shawna Turner Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Illness, incarceration, addiction, caregiving responsibilities, or just plain bad luck can sideline anyone’s career. But a setback doesn’t have to be a dead end. For thousands of Americans each year, it becomes the turning point that opens the door to a new beginning. Whether you’ve been out of the workforce for months or years, re-entering employment can feel overwhelming. The job market is competitive, technology is constantly evolving, and stigma around certain life experiences—like incarceration—can make it even harder to get a foot in the door. But here’s the good news: you are not alone. And there are practical, proven strategies that can help you reclaim your place in the workforce—no matter your background. 1. Acknowledge Your Value The first and most important step is internal. Shame and self-doubt are powerful forces, but they don’t have to win. Whether you were raising children, serving time, caring for a parent, or dealing with your own health—you gained skills along the way. Time management, problem-solving, resilience, negotiation, endurance, adaptability—these are all valuable in the workplace. Give yourself credit. Employers are looking for people who are reliable, teachable, and ready to work. Don’t disqualify yourself before you even apply. 2. Tell Your Story—Strategically You don’t have to share every detail of your past, but you can frame your experiences in a way that highlights your growth. Instead of saying, “I was in prison for five years,” try: “After facing legal consequences, I spent several years rebuilding my life. During that time, I completed a vocational program in welding and volunteered in my community. I’m now looking forward to using those skills in a steady, long-term position.” This kind of honesty, paired with progress, can be incredibly compelling to employers—especially those who value loyalty and character. 3. Use Support Networks That Exist for YOU There are countless organizations, programs, and government agencies whose sole purpose is to help people like you re-enter the workforce. Some examples:
4. Start Small, Think Long If the perfect job doesn’t come right away, that’s okay. Sometimes the best path forward starts with a stepping stone job—a gig that helps you earn money, build a reference, and re-establish your work rhythm. Part-time work, gig economy jobs, food service, or maintenance roles can still offer pride and purpose. Don’t overlook temp agencies either—they often serve as a gateway to full-time employment and benefits. 5. Know Your Rights Many states have laws that protect people with criminal records from employment discrimination—especially if the offense is unrelated to the job. Some even allow for the expungement of certain records. Also, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, employers must get your permission before running a background check, and they must give you a chance to respond to any negative findings. Organizations like Legal Aid or local reentry programs can help you understand your rights and clear up old records. 6. Learn the New Job Landscape Workplaces have changed. Remote work, virtual interviews, and online applications are the new normal in many industries. If you’ve been out of work for a while, brushing up on digital skills will serve you well. You don’t need to master coding or be a tech wizard, but basic skills—email, word processing, video conferencing—can make a big difference. Websites like GCFLearnFree and LinkedIn Learning offer free courses to get you up to speed. 7. Lean Into Your “Why” Every second-chance story has a deeper reason behind it: providing for family, proving something to yourself, living a different life than before. Let that motivation fuel you. Employers can often sense passion and sincerity—and it matters. When you show that you’ve put in the work to change, and you’re committed to growth, the right job will find you. Final Thought: You're Not a Statistic—You're a Comeback Story In today’s political climate, it can feel like we’re more divided than ever. But one thing Americans across the board tend to agree on is redemption. The belief that people can change. That effort matters. That second chances should exist. Whether you vote red, blue, or not at all—opportunity and dignity at work are universal values. You have something to offer. The road back may not be easy—but it is possible. And you don’t have to walk it alone. #employment #jobseeker #secondchance #adonai #counseling #shawnaturner #job #interview #livelifetothefullest
 Essential Preparation Tips for Interview Success
By, Shawna Turner Preparing for a job interview is often approached with a mix of excitement and anxiety, and rightly so; this is the stage that can make or break your chance of securing a job. A well-prepared candidate not only feels more confident but also appears more capable and competent to potential employers. Here, we will explore several tips and tricks that can significantly enhance your interview performance and increase your likelihood of success. Firstly, understanding the company you're interviewing with is crucial. Doing your homework about the company’s culture, mission, and recent achievements can provide you with insights that might be useful during the interview. It allows you to tailor your responses to align with the company's goals and demonstrate your enthusiasm for becoming part of their team. Another important aspect is practicing common interview questions. While it’s impossible to predict all the questions you will be asked, familiarizing yourself with frequently asked questions such as "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" or "Where do you see yourself in five years?" will help you articulate your thoughts more clearly and calmly under pressure. Practicing out loud, either in front of a mirror or with a friend, can further refine your delivery and help you manage any nervous jitters. Moreover, preparing questions to ask the interviewer is equally important. Asking thoughtful questions not only shows your interest in the role but also your proactive approach in assessing whether the company is a good fit for you. Questions could range from inquiries about the team you’ll be working with, to the company’s plans for future growth, or specifics about daily responsibilities. Dressing appropriately for the interview cannot be overstated. Your attire should reflect the culture of the company and the nature of the job you are applying for. While some environments may require formal business attire, others might be more casual. Understanding this can make a good first impression and avoid any discomfort during the interview. The importance of arriving on time for your interview cannot be emphasized enough. Being punctual not only reflects your professionalism but also shows your respect for the interviewer's time. Plan to arrive a few minutes early to allow yourself time to settle and perhaps review your notes one last time before the interview begins. During the interview, your body language speaks volumes about your confidence and attitude. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and smile where appropriate. These non-verbal cues can convey your enthusiasm and engagement with the conversation. Following up after an interview with a thank-you note can distinguish you from other candidates. It demonstrates your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterates your interest in the position. A concise and timely email can keep your candidacy top of mind as hiring decisions are being made. Each of these steps plays a critical role in presenting yourself as the best candidate for the job. Preparation not only boosts your confidence but also equips you with tools to handle the unpredictability of job interviews, ultimately giving you a competitive edge in the job market. Remember, every interview is a learning experience, and each one prepares you better for the next. With thoughtful preparation, you can turn any interview opportunity into a potential job offer. |
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