Updated post from years ago.... Please take not how things have changed
Hey there, job seekers! As an experienced professional, landing a new job
1. Include Key Information (not everything)
Start with the basics:
- Name
- Email Address
- Cell Phone Number
Marital statusAgeAddressEducational background
These details, along with your college performance, help the employer assess whether you have the right qualifications for the job. Details matter, but only as they apply to the job description of the open role. Your college experience is only a checkmark, have it, good, don't have it, out of the running.
2. Highlight Your Strengths (for what they want)
Your resume should emphasize your strengths related to the position you're applying for. Include:
- Achievements and accomplishments from past work experiences.
- Matching qualifications with the job requirements, showing that you meet or exceed them.
Avoid being overly boastful, but ensure the information isn't bland either. Strike a balance to show you’re a perfect fit for the role.
Write for the ATS score. Search 40x50.com for ATS. Boast away, no one is going to go to bat for you.
3. Be Honest (always)
Accuracy is crucial. Be truthful when listing your:
- Skills
- Achievements
- Qualifications
Honesty ensures that if you get the job, you won’t face issues performing tasks you claimed to be proficient in. that you can get this job and the next one, and the next one, and the next one.
4. Keep It Elegant and Simple (remember the computers read first, humans last)
Design your resume to be professional yet straightforward. Avoid overly artistic designs that might give the wrong impression. Aim for a formal, competent look:
- Use standard fonts like Times New Roman or Arial.
- Stick to an average size, such as 10 or 12.
- Write in plain text, so the ATS system can parse your resume, easier
5. Prioritize Relevant Information (humans scan, they don't read, usually)
Place the most important professional skills and experiences at the top. If you have special skills that set you apart, highlight them early. Remember, the person reading your resume won’t spend much time on it. In fact they read it after the computer screening and only prior to the interview. Capturing their interest quickly increases the chances they’ll read the entire document. see something they like and give you an interview.
Following these five tips will help you draft an ideal resume that presents you favorably to employers. Good luck with your job search!
