Resume Writing: 10 tips

         Many people have a false assumption that writing a professional resume is simple. What they don’t understand, is that writing a professional resume is time consuming and can be difficult if you don’t have a good idea of the a well formatted resume.  There are 10 the tips of writing an effective resume:

1.     Start with a clearly stated job objective or background summary. An objective works best when you can be specific as to the type of position you are looking for.

2.     A good resume sets forth your accomplishments. It should not be a list of job duties. Employers want to know what can do for them and how you have contributed in your previous positions. Begin each statement with an action verb and provided quantifiable information whenever possible

3.     It is not necessary to list every job you have ever had. Employers care mostly about what you have done recently – only put your history that related to the job- because employers don’t care anything else

4.     Erase the mind frame that “you got to keep a resume length 1 page!” In fact, if you have been in the workforce for any length of time, it would be impossible to communicate everything you have to offer in one page. Again, keep it relevant to the job you are applying for- but try to keep within 2 pages.

5.     Do not list hobbies or outside interests unless they have a direct correlation to the skills and abilities an employer is seeking- because employers don’t care if you like “long walks on the beach” as a hobby.

6.     DO NOT FALSIFY your work history or education. Keep your work credible as more employers than ever are doing background checks

7.     Don’t get cute or fancy with bold colors or graphics- Keep it simple- which is what employers like. Do not include a picture! Don’t use a template in word for a resume- otherwise your resume will look like everyone else’s

8.     Do not overuse bolding, underlining or mix fonts. This is where tone and style doesn’t matter- employers JUST want to know the facts about you. Don’t forget to also check and double check for spelling and typos

9.     Make sure your contact information at the top of your resume is current- avoid putting your address too- employers don’t need that information- it can cause employer biases if they know you don’t live close to the job

10.  Seek professional help if you do not have good writing skills

Sources:

http://www.effortlesshr.com/blog/employee-hiring/top-ten-tips-resume-writing/