When you are competing with hundreds of applicants for a job, it is critical to have a resume that doesn’t hurt your chances of making it through the first round of reviews.
When you submit your application, it is obvious you want the job. Objective statements – “to find a position as X were I can use my skills and abilities…” – are a thing of the past. For your resume to be the best it can be, use the opening portion of your document to summarize the value you offer an employer rather than what you are looking for in a job.
Most experts agree that resumes get little more than a 10-second scan so using formatting that is too fancy, hard to read or includes small font sizes isn’t in your best interest. With this in mind, keep your fonts easy to read and your content to stand out. Qualify information highlighted by bullet points by asking “What happened next?” or “Can I quantify the outcome?” and stay away from full narrative style work history.
Your email address helps people get to know you so keep it neutral by using your name (or some configuration there of) Zombiefreak or Rodeoqueen will probably not help you make a great first impression. TSmith@myemail.com creates a better impression than winedrinker@myemail.com.
Begin you statement with an action verb (answered calls) and leave off personal pronouns (I, she, he). If you still hold the position, the verb is present tense (Answer calls). If it is a position you’ve held in the past, the verb is past tense (answered calls). Keep you tenses consistent throughout to avoid confusing the person reviewing your document.
The information you share on your resume should add value to the position you are seeking. Your resume should summarize your relevant work experience and shouldn’t date back more than 15 years. Packing your resume with all the jobs you have held is a common mistake people make. Keep it focused on skills related to the position you are seeking.
Employer’s at the discovery phase of the job search do not need personal details beyond your name and contact information so leave your hobbies, pictures, and other personal data off your resume.
Again, at the discovery phase of your job search, you do not need to share that you have references available should the employer need them. They will ask for them at the appropriate time. Making this statement on your document is wasting space that could be used for more relevant information.
Follow today’s best practices to create a resume that tells your story, highlights your skills and abilities, and gets employers to call you in for an interview!
If you need help developing or polishing your resume, Breakthrough Resume Writing Service is a virtual (online) business that offers assistance to people from around the globe. From the privacy of your own home, you can contact Tammy at awordpro@aol.com.
About the Author:
Tammy Shoup, Executive Director and Head Writer of Breakthrough Résumés, is among a small number of professional résumé writers in the U.S. who has earned the title of Certified Professional Résumé Writer from the Professional Association of Résumé Writers / Career Coaches.
Shoup is also a member of the National Résumé Writers’ Association and Career Directors International. Her activity in both organizations ensures that her knowledge of industry and employment trends remains current. It also indicates her dedication to continuing education in her industry. Her work is published in both JIST and Barron’s career books. Please review Shoup’s information at www.breakthroughrésumés.com or www.tammyshoup.com or inquire directly to Tammy Shoup at awordpro@aol.com
Wishing you the best in your job search campaign! †
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