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Resume Writing Tips: How to Write a Perfect Resume

By Andrew Reed

Writing a Resume can be a difficult task especially for those making a first attempt.

It is always confusing as to what to include or not include. Indeed, there are so many ways to create and format a resume, it is easy to see how someone can be intimidated by the whole process.

It is important to remember that every resume is an individual sales tool and as such can be very different. Having said that there are ways to present information that is both familiar to employers and proven to work.

How to Write a Perfect Resume

1. Be clear about your objective prior to writing the resume

This is vitally important as it can determine what information you include and to some extent the format of the Resume. If you write your Resume without having a clear objective in mind, you may come across as unfocused and the emphasis may not be clear.

2. Sell Yourself

Your Resume is a sales tool and focus should be on your Unique Selling Points. Where do you excel?, What are your best achievements? What makes you better than other prospective applicants? The key is to communicate this information at the start of the Resume.

3. Short bulleted sentences.

When formatting, it is best to use short bulleted sentences rather than lengthy paragraphs. An employer will have a short time to read each resume and bulleted sentences make it easier for someone to scan quickly.

4. Match Your Employers needs

You can get many more interview invites by adjusting your resume and cover letter so that they address the specific skills each employer needs

5. Use action words.

Action words always work well on a resume. For example, action words like delivered, created, prepared, developed, increased, presented etc are all very powerful. Also, avoid the use of 'Responsible for' as this tells an employer little about how good you are.

6. Quantify Your Experience

Numbers, dollars, and percentages stand out in the body of a resume so as far as possible quantify your experience. Cite figures for example:

Managed a team of 50 with a budget of $5,000,000,
Increased overseas sales by 20% during a 12 month period

7. Proofread

Common mistakes such as spelling errors discount even the best applicants. Review and re-read carefully and correct spelling and grammatical weaknesses before sending your resume out.

Finally don't forget about the interview; InterviewGOLD™ will get you hired first time...

 

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