Your resume is a calling card that introduces you to employers who are looking for the best candidate to fill a job position. In a page or two, your resume will present your credentials that can persuade reviewers to either interview you or to keep looking at other applicants’ materials. Information that should not be included on your resume can immediately eliminate the possibility of working for companies that receive it. You might think that the more that prospective employers know about you, the better. But it is quality of information that counts, not quantity. Be thoughtful and selective in organizing your resume to make a positive impression on readers instead of raising red flags. Use resume-quality paper and good ink for print resumes as well as clear digital formatting on electronic copies.
The old snail mail route has been largely replaced by digital communication media. You can now post your resume in your social media accounts, including Linked In, with SEO keywords that attract online browsers. You can design a simple but effective website to showcase your credentials as outlined in your resume. When you join community business organizations like the chamber of commerce or civic groups like the Rotary, you may be able to hand your resume to colleagues who indicate they are looking to hire someone with your skills. You might also want to try these tips:
Send resume copies with your application in applying to job posts in relevant industry publications; unrelated sources will toss it without reading through.
In addition to the above formatting requirements, organize your resume so that it is easy to read. Your name and contact information should be at the top. You might want to mention the specific position you are applying for. Below that, if you are a recent graduate, organize a section titled Education and list your major areas of study, graduation date, and GPA (grade point average). Include special projects or available portfolios that may interest employers.
The next section should be your employment history. List the relevant jobs – not necessarily every position you ever held. Do not complain about past employers unless there is an obvious reason why you do not work there, such as safety concerns. Mention your job title and the skills used – not every single task you performed.
Then add References with two or three names and contact information of professionals who have agreed to provide a verbal or written recommendation for you. Finalize your resume by listing personal interests or special skills, like a second language.
If you are unsure about how to organize your information as well as which details to include or leave out, contact a resume building service for assistance. Their experienced staff can work with you by analyzing your job history and work experience to help you craft an eye-catching resume. They can also advise you on diction choices as well as proofread for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and format. These “resume doctors” have worked with top-notch materials and can tailor a resume to reflect your best qualities as a prospective employee for companies that are looking to hire someone with your background. For help, gather your pertinent education and work experience facts and contact a professional resume building service that can explain the best way to represent yourself to industry employers.
Many experts believe the pen is, indeed, mightier than the sword. A powerful resume can open doors of opportunity that can pave your way to a bright future. Start working on yours now and contact professional resume builders for help if needed.
