You’re selling a product – YOU
Writing a resume can be daunting, but your resume is just an advertisement, and you’re selling the thing you know most about in the world – you! It’s all a matter of knowing what it is you can offer – and figuring out how to lay it all out in the right way.
Even if you don’t always feel like it, you’ve accomplished a lot to get to where you are today, and you have a lot to offer. Your resume is all about putting that information in an easy to read format so that prospective employers can see who you are.
The 35-second rule
Most job ads get a lot of responses, so you have to make sure your resume makes the right impression – and quickly.
Keep it short, less than one page if you can, two at most, and only include information that is relevant to the role.
Resume deal-breakers
Spelling mistakes and grammatical errors – Always double check your spelling, and always get someone else to take a look through the resume before you send it out.
Using shorthand or text language – Avoid using acronyms that a recruiter or employer may not know. Don’t write 1st/2nd – write out the words instead.
Unprofessional email addresses – You’ll lose credibility if your personal email address includes a silly nickname – make a new account for your job search.
Resume basics
- Put your name, address and phone number at the top of the document – double check all the details are correct!
- Include a short professional profile at the start of your resume. Just a few sentences that will introduce you to the employer and give an overview of who you are.
- Use clear formatting and bullet points to draw the reader’s eye to key information.
- Include any relevant qualifications and training you have.
- List your most recent position first.
What to leave out
- Your date or place of birth
- Your marital status or number of children
- Photographs or graphics
- Your reasons for leaving your previous job
- Your hobbies – unless they are relevant to the job
- Your salary expectations
Note: Whether or not you include references is entirely up to you. If you’d like to leave them out, instead write: “References available upon request” at the bottom of your document.
Don’t be modest!
Sometimes it can be hard to talk about yourself. Talking to the people around you – friends, family and people you’ve worked with (or for) in the past, can help you identify your strengths if you’re having trouble.
Don’t be afraid to make edits
Your resume is a living document, if it’s not getting you the interviews you want, don’t be afraid to change it up. Even just making a few tweaks to your language or formatting can make a big difference.
Finally – don’t give up!
Looking for work can be frustrating, but the right job is out there for you – don’t lose hope! Need some inspiration? Click here to take a read through some of our success stories.
Looking for some extra support in your job search?
If you’re looking for a supportive employment services provider who takes the time to listen to your individual needs and is with you every step of the way, get in touch with our friendly team today.