When searching for a job, having a well-written resume is the key part of the documentation included with your application. A resume is the first impression a recruiter has of your skills and experience. Creating an exciting or engaging image is critical to receiving an interview request from a potential employer. Your written resume can create interest, encourage the reader to review the document, and reach out to learn more about you is the goal.
Your resume summarizes your work experience, skills, and qualifications for the position’s hiring manager. A well-customized resume also helps your application proceed through the automated screening software many organizations use for job applications.
Resume format
There are different types of resume formats such as chronological and functional. A chronological format means you list your work experience on your resume from the most current position to the oldest. This design is a traditional format and is best for job candidates with a consistent employment record. If you’ve spent several years in your profession, progressing into more senior positions, a chronological resume shows potential employers your career advancement and skills development.
A functional resume focuses on the relevant skills and competencies for the position rather than your work experience. This is an ideal format for someone with gaps in their work history or needing consistent work experience. If you’ve been out of the workforce for a considerable time, you can use a functional resume to highlight transferrable skills relevant to the job. If you have volunteer or non-paid work that shows relevant skills, you can add this information under work experience.
Resume tips
Make sure to always proofread your resume. Ensure that your resume is accurate and free from errors, including grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting. Even minor mistakes can undermine your professionalism and credibility and cause hiring managers to pass on your application. In addition, ensure that your resume is accurate, such as the dates and employers of your work history are correct and reflect your period of employment.
An exciting headline grabs the recruiter’s attention, encouraging them to read further. A resume headline is a sentence of approximately 15 words summarizing your skills, experience, and qualifications relevant to the job. This sentence summarizes who you are and what you can offer the company. Instead of focusing on a career objective as your resume statement, consider writing a headline to show why you’re the best candidate for the position.
Another important aspect of submitting job applications is customizing each resume and cover letter. Many companies use automated software for accepting and screening resumes for available positions. When submitting your resume, the software filters the document for targeted keywords and phrases that the hiring manager requires. If an application doesn’t match any keywords, the program rejects the resume or files it away for future positions.
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