If you are building a resume, certain tips will help you create a document that is professional, attention-grabbing and that showcases your talents and abilities in the best possible light. Those who have never before written a resume often don’t know where to start, or what information to include. You want a prospective employer to easily recognize that you are the best candidate for the job. Before building your resume, review the tips found in this article.
Common mistakes made when writing a resume
There are a few mistakes that are made by many on their first attempt at writing a good resume. First and foremost, choose the format that is right for your needs; you can learn more about that online. Use basic, easy-to-read fonts and avoid fancy artwork or graphics. The prospective employer should be able to quickly scan your resume, so it needs to be simple with plenty of white space.
Also, try to demonstrate enthusiasm in your resume. Don’t simply list duties and responsibilities – sell yourself! Highlight your accomplishments and strong points; relate your information directly to the position for which you are applying.
Here are a few of the most essential resume building tips:
1. Keep your resume short, one page if you can. The idea is to present your information in a brief, to-the-point manner that demonstrates your talents and strong points, so that an employer can see how you would benefit the company.
2. Use action words or verbs in your sentences to prevent your content from reading as dull or boring. Employers appreciate words like “motivated,” “increased,” “organized,” “developed” and so on. These words demonstrate to an employer that the duties you performed resulted in improvements for the company.
3. Write a strong objective or career summary. This may be the most important thing you do, as it is usually placed at the top of the page – the first thing an employer notices. Write a good objective, and it is likely that the one reading it will continue reading the rest of your resume.
4. Keep your information sections consistent and neat looking. In your qualifications and employment sections, use bulleted lists to describe your talents, skills and accomplishments.
5. Proof, proof, proof! You cannot read over your resume too much. Spell check all of your information, and check for grammar errors as well. Make sure that you have left nothing important out, such as your contact information.
Writing a resume can be an intimidating task, not only for someone building a resume for the first time, but for those with a slight bit of experience as well. Keep in mind that what the prospective employer primarily wants to know is what you can offer the company; how your talents can impact the position directly.
While building your resume, consult the tips above. Begin with a simple draft, and work your way through from the beginning, reviewing these tips along the way. Your finished resume will likely outshine those of other job candidates, making you the ideal pick for the job.