Preparing your resume can be daunting, especially if you haven’t updated it in a while or starting from scratch. However, with the right tips and strategies, you can create a resume that showcases your skills and experience in the best possible light. Here are some tips to help you prepare your resume.
Tailor your resume to the job
One of the biggest mistakes that job seekers make is sending the same generic resume to every job application. To stand out from the competition:
- Tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for.
- Read the job description carefully and identify the key skills and qualifications required.
- Make sure that your resume highlights those skills and qualifications.
Use a clear and easy-to-read format
Your resume should be visually appealing and easy to read. Use a clear font, such as Arial or Calibri, and a consistent formatting style throughout the document. Avoid using too many graphics or fancy fonts, as they can be distracting.
Start with a strong summary or objective statement
Your summary or objective statement is the first thing that a recruiter or hiring manager will see, so it’s important to make a good impression. Use this section to highlight your key skills and experience and to show how you can add value to the organization.
Highlight your achievements
Instead of just listing your job duties, focus on your achievements and accomplishments in each role. Use specific examples and quantify your results wherever possible. For example, if you helped improve sales, try listing it as “increased sales by 20% in six months.
Use keywords
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes before a human recruiter even sees them. To ensure that your resume gets past the ATS and in front of a human, use keywords from the job description throughout your resume.
Keep it concise
Your resume should be no longer than two pages, so be selective about the information you include. Focus on your most relevant experience and skills, and leave out anything that doesn’t support your application.
Proofread and edit
Spelling and grammar mistakes can make a bad impression on a recruiter or hiring manager. Make sure you proofread your resume carefully and ask someone else to review it before you submit it.
Preparing your resume can take time and effort, but creating a document showcasing your skills and experience in the best possible light is worth it. By following these tips, you can create a resume that stands out from the competition and gets you noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.