Not all resumes are created equal! While many people create one, generic resume which is then sent out to dozens of employers, to be truely successful in your job search, it is best to create a unique resume each time you apply to ensure that you are focused on the skills needed for each specific job.
Chances are, if you have a resume that you have been using since high school, major updating may be needed to bring it up to par for university-level and professional positions. Learn some quick tips below, but more importantly, visit us to have your resume critiqued by trained professionals.
Resume Basics
Tailor Your Resume to Each Job: Every job requires a different set of skills and thus, using a general resume for every position will not suffice. Adapt each resume you submit by focusing on keywords from the job posting.
Provide Enough Detail but Be Concise and Focused: The average amount of time an employer spends reading a resume is between 5 and 30 seconds. This means that you have to use the first page of your resume wisely, removing extraneous information, and never exceed 2 pages max.
Focus on Accomplishments and Skills, Not Job Duties: When creating your bullet points, also known as accomplishment statements, think beyond general job duties and focus on achievements and skills. Don’t just list your skills – provide proof of how you demonstrated or gained them.
Ensure No Grammar or Spelling Errors: Employers will find it hard to take your resume seriously if it contains errors. Proofread your resume to ensure there are no mistakes.
Keep Consistent Formatting & Make Sure It Is Easy to Read:
- Use a consistent and professional font: Typically between size 10 – 12pts.
- Do not exceed 2 pages in length: Remember to keep the readers attention by remaining focused and concise!
- Place most important information on the first half of the resume: People read top to bottom, so ensure your most impactful achievements and skills are at the top of your resume.
- Use bullets, not paragraphs: Keep the reader`s attention by using bullets rather than full paragraphs.
- Order Sections and Bullets Based on Relevance: Make sure the most relevant information is earlier in resume and on first page.
- Use consistent formatting throughout: Keep headings, subheading, and formatting of bullet points consistent within each section and for each experience.
- Keep titles to the left and dates to the right: People read left to right, so keep the most pertinent information (titles) on the left and less pertinent information (dates) on the right.
- List experiences in reverse chronological order: Within each section, dates should be listed from most recent to least recent.
- Maintain consistent tense: Whether you choose past or present tense, keep it consistent throughout the resume.
Discover the best way to organize your resume by reviewing our resume formatting tips or learn how our office can help!