Resume Tips
7 Tips For Writing the Perfect Resume
Having an effective resume can be a key factor in getting you a job with company of your dreams. How can you ensure that your resume will attract the attention and interest of potential employers? This article will review seven tips that will help you say all the right things in your resume.
1) Adapt Your Resume to the Job You are Applying For.
Instead of having just one resume format for every job you will be applying for, try to focus on the particular job needs of each specific company. Think about the qualities and skills needed for each individual job, and adjust your resume accordingly. Analyze the skills you possess, and adapt wording so that it closely matches the wording of the job description, to the extent that your actual experience will allow. By doing this, employers will more easily see that you are perfect for the job.
2) Make Your Resume Easy to Read.
Make sure that you use a font size of at least 11 point, so that your resume is easily readable. Make sure that the information is not too crammed together. If you need more room to expand on your job qualifications, you can always extend your resume to a second sheet of paper. Bold, underline and capital letter can be used discreetly, but should not be overdone.
3) Emphasize Your Accomplishments.
Don’t be afraid to brag a little bit about yourself! A common mistake that job seekers make on their resume is that they downplay their skills and experience. After having thought about what job skills are needed for the job you are applying for, list ways your experience can be beneficial for the company. If you have served as a manager, or in some position of authority, make sure to list all relevant experience.
4) Make Your Resume Interesting Right From the Beginning.
Start out with something attention grabbing and relevant to the particular needs of the company in question. You may choose to use a powerful objective statement to start out your resume, or a list of job skills and experience that are most relevant to the job you are applying for. Remember, most employers look through hundreds of resumes. You want to make yours jump out at them, so that they will call you in for that crucial interview. Prioritize your resume, and make sure that you put the most relevant skills and accomplishments at the beginning.
5) Check and Recheck Your Resume for Correct Spelling and Grammar.
Always make sure that everything in your resume is spelled completely correctly, and that you use perfect grammar. If you do not, potential employers will notice right away, and it is very unlikely that you will be contacted for an interview. Always use spelling and grammar checking software, but keep in mind they often do not pick up on contextual errors. You will want to print and proofread your resume several times. It is also a good idea to have a friend or colleague check your resume for accuracy. Make sure all names are spelled correctly, and that all reference information is accurate.
6) Always Include Contact Information in the Header of Your Resume.
While you will most likely include a cover letter when sending in your resume, never assume that just because you have listed your resume information on your cover letter that you do not need to include the information on your resume. Often, your cover letter will be set aside while the focus will be on the job skills and experience you possess based on your resume. Make it easy for potential employers to contact you, don’t forget to include your home phone number, cell phone number, home address and e-mail address in your resume.
7) Write Your Resume For the Salary You Want to Earn.
If you have experience in a particular field, sell these skills to your potential employer. Specifically list your accomplishments, while drawing attention to expenses avoided, and benefits to the company for which you had worked. Do not say you want an entry level job for a field that you have worked in for years. Highlight how your experience will benefit your future employer.