Don’t underestimate the power of a resume when applying to jobs; simply writing your previous job duties and descriptions on your resume is a huge mistake. When trying to stand out from other applicants, it is key to reflect on your career accomplishments to show value that sets you apart from other candidates. Did you make or save a company money, create a process that saved time or have some other type of impact? These are the types of things that should be included to catch the eye of the reader.
It might sound silly but all you are is a measly piece of paper until you get through the gatekeeper and land an interview. The goal is to quickly communicate why you are uniquely qualified for the position based on your skills and career experiences.
Formatting
While the layout of your resume is important, you should also pay attention to formatting details like font style, font size, margins and spacing. Formatting your resume can make it look clean, professional and improve readability. This is key when attempting to keep an employer’s attention. Here are a few key tips that can help make your resume look polished:
- Make your font between 10 and 12 point size.
- Each position should only have 3-5 bullets outlining your experience there.
- Select a font that is clean and easy to read like Arial or Helvetica; avoid stylized fonts.
- Make your name and section headers bold or slightly bigger in font size (no more than 14 points).
Using a website like https://www.resume-now.com/build-resume can make formatting and creating a resume much easier and faster.
Hiring managers look for these 3 things:
- Does the candidate have the skills to perform the job?
- What level of problem complexity is the candidate capable of solving?
- How will the candidate bring value to the company?
How do you communicate you have what it takes?
Customize your resume: Each role has a different job description and is looking for different skills. Tweak your resume with each role you apply for to make sure you include relevant experience and remove anything that is not applicable
Make sure you are updating your resume often: Add any certificates or awards you have earned and keep roles up to date. Be sure to also include volunteer experience and any community events you participate in. It is key to remove any experience that is not relevant to the role you are applying for.
Using your resume: Be prepared to tell your career story as you walk a hiring manager through your resume. Talk about your experience within the role and not just the job description. What did you learn, accomplish and why did you move on. This is important for showcasing the skills, projects, and any other experience gained in the role.