For most job-seekers, a good resume is what stands between a dream job and Choice D. Get your resume right, and you’ll be getting replies from every other company you apply to.
If your resume game is weak, though, you’ll end up sitting around for weeks, maybe even months, before you even get a single response.
Before we go into detail about how you should make a resume, here’s a summary of the most important steps and tips to keep in mind-
- Choose a resume format carefully.
- Add the right contact details. (E.g.: your LinkedIn profile, online portfolio, personal website, etc.).
- Write an impactful resume summary.
- Pay attention to your work experience section.
- Add the right skills for the job.
- Keep your education short and to the point.
- Leverage optional resume sections.
- Include a cover letter.
Follow these steps to build your resume-
Add your contact information
The first item on your resume should be your first and last name, a phone number, and an email address.
Include a professional summary
Since employers may only spend a short time reviewing your resume, you want to display your positive qualities clearly and concisely.
These statements should illustrate the qualities that make you an attractive candidate while also describing the engaging yet professional personality you bring to work.
Add your work experience
The work experience section of your resume should be more than a simple list of your previous positions. It should also effectively describe your work experience to enhance your candidacy.
Include your education
Most jobs require at least some education, and employers seek this information on your resume. List your highest level of education completed first, then subsequent degrees and diplomas.
List relevant skills
Near the end of your resume, you should include a section for any skills that may be relevant and can enhance your appeal as a candidate. When including your skills, choose both hard and soft skills that relate to the role.
Explain your achievements and awards
Employers may be more impressed if you can prove that your abilities have been tested and that you have found success despite challenges.
You can emphasize your victories by including a brief section in your resume that outlines your relevant achievements and awards.
Use a business format
The format of your resume quickly tells an employer if you can follow directions and communicate effectively and concisely. In a way, your resume format is the first test of your experience before a potential employer even reviews your document.
Include keywords
Use words that directly relate to the position in which you’re applying. Consider reviewing the job description for keywords and incorporating them in your resume.
Review samples
Reviewing other successful resumes can help you become familiar with the format, language and sections of a professional resume. When looking for samples, take two different approaches.
Select a template
While you can certainly draft your own resume using a word processor, you can also simplify the resume-building process by using a resume template.
These templates allow you to fill in blanks with relevant information, offering a complete, professionally formatted document.