How do you include past experience on a resume that was pre-military (12 plus years ago)?

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 12:19:31 -0500

Okay, I am getting my resume ready to apply for this job and I have some questions that I hope someone can help me out. The position is for a Production Supervisor in a food manufacturing plant. I have spent the past 12 years as a Supervisor food inspector and I have most of the skills that they are looking for, except recent manufacturing experience. I do, however, have manufacturing experience from before I joined. How do I (or do I) show that on my resume? It was experience that goes back 15 plus years, is that even relevant at this moment? I was a R&D designer for almost 10 years with 3 different companies in a very bad Michigan economy and was downsized. Any assistance would be greatly beneficial...

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Dec 15 at 2015 12:40 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 12:40:45 -0500

SPC(P) Jay Heenan I concur with SMSgt Minister Gerald A. Thomas's response.
I recommend you target each resume to focus on the particular company you are sending it to. Some of your past experience will most likely be relevant to a company. Emphasize your experiences which fit well with the company your resume is targeted towards.
Remember that teh resume is designed to get you to an interview only. The interviewer is interested in your potential which would benefit their company including talents, knowledge and ability to work with and for others.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 5:00 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 17:00:35 -0500

SPC Jay Heenan, a couple thoughts for you. First, I would NEVER mention the reason for leaving a position (unless asked). Second, since the manufacturing experience is relevant for this position, I would put a "Summary" at the beginning of your resume. Something short with a few powerful statements hitting all their requirements, and all your skills that match.
If you would like another pair of eyes on it, I'd be more than happy to take a look at it before you submit it. Let me know.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Dec 15 at 2015 8:30 PM

PO1 John Miller — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 20:30:57 -0500

I was always told to go back no farther then 10 years.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Dec 15 at 2015 11:27 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 23:27:34 -0500

There is a type of resume that is designed for people with very established careers that separates experience you deem directly applicable for the position , then you list all employment sequentially toward the end. An example is on page 54 of "The Military to Civilian Transition Guide" by Savino and Krannich.

I would also not tell people why you left, but have an answer that works to your advantage for an interview.