Dear J.T. & Dale: My company is going to make everyone “re-interview” for their jobs. We were advised to make resumes. Any advice for someone who has worked for the company 12 years? – Bart

Dale: In my experience, “re-interviewing” is usually the start of major staff changes, sometimes presented with a smiley-face positive spin, such as, “We’re not laying off 20 percent of the staff, we’re rehiring 80 percent!”

J.T.: If so, there will be lots of negativity going around. If you aren’t going to be able to remain positive and refrain from saying things like, “We used to do it this way,” then this might no longer be the company for you. So redoing your resume is a good idea!

Dale: You might prepare two, Bart. We normally are proponents of the one-page resume, but for the re-interviewing process, I’d suggest including detailed lists of experiences and accomplishments. Typically, you keep the resume short to make it handy for the interviewer to screen you in, but here it will guide the conversation about your work.

J.T.: The best thing you can do to prepare is to ask for a written job description for the “new” position. That will help you get a feel for their understanding of the role, as well as the “attitude” they are looking for. These will guide you in your resume preparation. You also might try to meet with a local staffing firm. Not only will they give you feedback on your resume (for free), but they also can share insights on the job market for someone with your skills. Start exploring other options, and you’ll be more confident and prepared for the re-interview. Further, if you aren’t chosen to stay with the company, or don’t want to, you’ll also have the job-search process rolling.

Dale: Great advice. Your company is re-evaluating you; it’s time for you to re-evaluate them.