Your Resume

Creating a good resume is very imporant worth spending some time on. Some people may say that a resume is less imporant than it used to be but that isn't true. Sure, many employers will require you to fill out their application and they may not even accept your resume.

Creating a Resume

Creating a resume is a critical step in any job application process. It is your first opportunity to make a good impression on a potential employer, so it's essential to get it right. Here are some fundamental tips to ensure your resume stands out for the right reasons.

Keep It Simple

When it comes to resumes, simplicity is key. A clean, straightforward layout is much more appealing than a cluttered, overly designed one. Here’s how to keep your resume simple yet effective:

• Clear Structure: Use a clear structure with distinct sections such as Contact Information, Summary, Experience, Education, Skills, and Certifications. Headings should be bold or slightly larger to guide the reader’s eye.
• Easy-to-Read Fonts: Stick to classic fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. These fonts are easy to read and look professional.
• Consistent Formatting: Ensure consistent use of fonts, bullet points, and spacing throughout the document. This creates a polished look.
• Minimal Color: Use minimal color—black for text and maybe one additional color for headings. Avoid bright or neon colors which can be distracting.
• Avoid Graphics: Unless you're in a creative field, avoid using graphics, photos, or elaborate designs. These can detract from the content and may not be compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Focus on Content, Not Design

While design can enhance a resume, the content is what will ultimately land you an interview. Focus on creating strong, relevant content that showcases your qualifications and achievements:

• Tailor Your Content: Customize your resume for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the position you’re applying for.
• Use Strong Action Verbs: Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb such as "led," "developed," "implemented," or "achieved." This makes your accomplishments stand out.
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements. For example, "Increased sales by 20%" or "Managed a team of 10 people."
• Focus on Results: Employers want to see what you’ve accomplished in your previous roles. Focus on results rather than just listing duties. Show how your work had a positive impact on the company.
• Keep It Concise: Be concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy paragraphs; use bullet points for clarity and brevity.

Length: At Least One Page, At Most One Page Front and Back

The ideal length of a resume is a topic of much debate, but a good rule of thumb is to keep it at least one page but not more than two pages. Here’s how to strike that balance:

• One Page for Less Experience: If you have less than 10 years of experience or are a recent graduate, one page is usually sufficient. Focus on your most recent and relevant experiences.
• Two Pages for Extensive Experience: If you have extensive experience, multiple roles, or significant achievements, it’s acceptable to use two pages. However, make sure the second page is essential and not just filler.
• Use Space Wisely: Make the best use of the space you have. Avoid large blocks of text and use bullet points to list your achievements and responsibilities. Ensure there’s enough white space to keep it easy to read.

Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience is crucial when crafting your resume. This means knowing what the employer is looking for and tailoring your resume to meet those expectations:

• Research the Company: Research the company and the role you are applying for. Understand their values, culture, and what they prioritize in employees.
• Read the Job Description Carefully: The job description is a goldmine of information. It tells you exactly what the employer is looking for. Use the keywords and phrases from the job description in your resume.
• Show Relevant Experience: Highlight the experience and skills that are most relevant to the job. If you’re applying for a marketing role, your experience in a marketing internship should take precedence over a part-time job in retail.
• Speak Their Language: Use industry-specific terminology and jargon where appropriate. This shows that you’re familiar with the field and can communicate effectively within it.

Show Them What They Want to See

Employers often have to sift through many resumes to find suitable candidates. Make it easy for them to see why you’re the best fit:

• Highlight Key Skills and Achievements: Put your most important skills and achievements near the top of your resume. Use a summary or highlights section to draw attention to your key qualifications.
• Use Keywords: Many companies use ATS to scan resumes for keywords. Ensure your resume includes relevant keywords from the job description.
• Proofread: Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors. A resume with mistakes can create a negative impression.
• Provide Evidence: Back up your claims with evidence. If you say you have excellent project management skills, provide an example of a project you managed successfully.

• Keep it simple. Focus on content, not design.
• Use a template
• At least one page, at most one page front and back.
• Know your audience, show them what they want to see.

Use Your Resume

• Organize your thoughts
• Prepare for interviews
• Interview Cheatsheet
• Info for filling out applications & online profiles

Online Profiles

• Have an updated linkedin profile
• Scrub them
• Make them look like your resume