When creating or updating a resume, it can be hard to know where to start. What information do you include? What do you leave out? Is color appropriate or do you stick with traditional black and white? There are many things that go into creating a noticeable resume. Here are some tips to help calm the anxiety and stop the sweating.
#1: Read the job description and pull keywords
Potential employers post job descriptions filled with qualities and expectations that they’re looking for in potential employees. More often than not, employers will skim resumes looking for keywords posted in the job description. In order to make your resume show up on your potential employer’s radar, read the job description multiple times and write down any keywords that might stick out to you. These keywords can include soft skills, hard skills, personal traits, and adjectives.
Once you’ve read through the job description and filled your resume with the keywords you identified, compare your resume and the job description through a cloud generator. Websites like Jobscan will compare your resume with the job description to ensure your resume is a match.
#2: Put the most important information first
Research has shown that most employers only read the top one third of an applicant’s resume. That means that you only have three inches to really impress your future employer. Make sure to put the most relevant and up to date information first.
#3: Give your sections simple subheadings
One of the top skills that all employers are looking for is organization. An organized resume is the first way that you can show your future employers just what an organized professional you really are. Divide your resume into simple subsections to make it more reader friendly. Some subsection examples are:
– Education
– Work Experience
– Skills and Certifications
#4: Balance your hard and soft skills
On job descriptions employers will often ask for both hard and soft skills. According to Indeed, “Hard skills are related to specific technical knowledge and training while soft skills are personality traits such as leadership, communication or time management.” Both hard and soft skills are important in today’s workforce. Organize your resume is a way that spotlights both hard and soft skills.
#5: Proofread, Proofread, Proofread.
One of the most common skills listed on job descriptions is “excellent written communication skills.” No matter what field you go into, the ability to write effectively is required. Don’t jeopardize your opportunity for an interview by having spelling and grammar errors on your resume. When writing your resume, be sure to use spell check and other grammar correcting software. Before submitting your resume have two to three people review for any errors.
By following these five steps, you are sure to impress the employer and get that first interview