| We are all aware that a well-written, attention-grabbing resume is critical to getting the opportunity for an interview. Be concise, highlight your qualifications, and most important is to present yourself as an eager learner who is a proactive employee. Professional Recruiters only skim your resume to determine if you are “worthy” of their time. Therefore, your presentation must make it easy for recruiters to find the information that sells them on you. |
SECTION ONE: The Resume
| In order to be effective, highlight your strongest skills and abilities. It is always recommended that you make improvements in the following areas: |
Do not use objective statements
- Objective statements focus on what you want (i.e. to obtain a job in the XYZ industry), and not what future employer’s wants. Do not waste this valuable space on an objective. Rather use the top of your resume to emphasize your competitive qualities and most relevant skills. Make sure your resume sells you to the hiring in manager at first glance.
Consistently format your resume
- When a hiring manager sees a consistently formatted resume, they know you pay attention to detail. Take pride in your work and show the employer you will put as much effort into working for him as you did into your resume. Use consistent formatting on abbreviations for states & dates, and be sure to present headings, job titles, school names, etc… using the same format.
Use action verbs
- A resume should identify you by using action verbs. This gives the hiring manager the impression that you are someone with a “can do” attitude. Your vocabulary used sends a message all its own. Make sure your message is not telling them you are a passive employee, but rather a proactive one who will take action and drive results.
Don’t date yourself
- You do not need dates older than “10 years” showing in your resume. Even if you graduated from college, simply list the degree and no date. The employer only needs to know that you have received one. Their focus will be on what you have done more recently. An employer might infer negative thoughts about your age before they even meet you. Always protect yourself from age discrimination.
Include your first and last name in any file name created
- Prevent your resume from getting lost on the hiring manager’s computer. Recommendations are that you use both your first and last name in any file name of your resume. When you use a generic file name (i.e. Resume 3), it causes difficulty for any employer to locate you. You should always position yourself as being easy to hire, easy to contact, and easy to work with candidate.
Keep in mind that your resume is a marketing tool.
You must display “only” the most pertinent and impressive pieces of your experience. If needed, locate a professional resume writer who can prepare your resume to make a positive first impression. Make sure they are experts in the field, and know how to construct a resume that will get interviews. After you write and re-write your resume, do not forget to check your spelling and grammar before using it to apply for a position. People overlook their own spelling and grammar errors. Have several friends or colleagues look. They should determine that it is easy to understand, free of inconsistencies, and minor mistakes.
Written by: Christine Foster, Alumni Secretary 09’
