Writing a resume can be a daunting task with so many things to include. Knowing what to have in your resume and how to present it can be the deciding factor between getting an interview and not. So, let’s have a look at what you should and shouldn’t do so you can step up your game and make sure your resume stands out from the crowd.
What You Should DO:
- Show, Don’t Tell: Ever heard the saying “actions speak louder than words”? Well, that’s the motto here. Instead of listing vague skills, illustrate your expertise with specific accomplishments. Don’t just say you’re a marketing guru; mention how you increased sales by 30% in six months. Numbers and results speak volumes.
- Customise Like a Pro: Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all resumes. Tailor your resume for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific role. It’s like putting on a custom-tailored suit for your dream job interview – it fits perfectly.
- Make it Eye-Catching, Not Eye-Straining: Ditch the fancy fonts and neon colors unless you’re applying for a job as a party planner (and even then, maybe not). Stick to a clean, professional format that’s easy on the eyes. Bullet points, headers, and bold fonts can help organise your content and guide the reader’s attention.
What You Shouldn’t DO:
- Write a Novel: Your resume is not the place for your life story. Keep it concise and relevant. Aim for a one-page resume, unless you’re a seasoned pro with a lengthy career. Nobody has the time or patience to read a 10-page saga about your career journey.
- Tell Your Life Story: While it’s good to include your work history, leave out personal information like your age, marital status, and whether you prefer cats or dogs (unless you’re applying to work with pets, of course). Focus on your professional qualifications, not your personal life.
- Lie or Exaggerate: Honesty is the best policy, especially on your resume. Stretching the truth or outright lying about your qualifications is a fast track to disaster. Employers can spot a fib from a mile away, and it’s not worth the risk to your reputation.
Your resume is your ticket to the job of your dreams, so make it count! Show your worth with accomplishments, customise it for each job, and keep it visually appealing. Just remember, it’s not a novel, a dating profile, and not the place for tall truths!
