You’re almost there! Now that you have your cover letter ready, it’s time to build your resume. Even if you already have some experience in your field, you still need to take some extra steps to ensure that your resume is effective and stands out from the crowd.
Even if you don’t have much work experience, your resume needs to tell an employer who you are and what you can do for them.
If you aren’t sure where to start, check out these 7 tips that will help you create a resume that will get you hired.
Be Honest
One of the most important things you can do to make your resume stand out is, to be honest. If you have a list of volunteer work, it doesn’t hurt to mention that, but don’t make it seem like this is your main career. Be clear and concise in what you put on your resume.
Stick To Your Target Audience
Stick to your target audience when creating your resume. The resume is a marketing piece, so make sure you are targeting the right people and what they want to see. If you’re not sure who your target audience is, figure it out with some market research.
You can start by asking yourself what type of job you are applying for, then focus on that audience. If you are applying for a position in marketing, maybe someone in the field would be interested in reading your resume.
On the other hand, if you are applying for a job at a department store where customer service is key, your resume should emphasize that skill set. Additionally, if you know any specific employers or hiring managers who will be reviewing your resume, reach out and ask them about what their ideal candidate looks like.
They might have insight into how they want their employees to look and act on paper.
Make Sure Your Resume Is Easy To Read
One of the first things most employers will look at is your resume. Make sure that it’s easy to read. If it’s difficult to make out what you are trying to say, chances are your resume won’t get you hired. Keep font sizes consistent, use white space where appropriate, and use bullets whenever possible.
Another important thing to consider when writing your resume is how much information you need to include. While some people prefer a short resume with all their qualifications, others may prefer a longer one with more detail about their work history and experience.
It comes down to personal preference and what you feel best conveys who you are professional.
Include Your Skills And Achievements
It’s important to include your skills and achievements on your resume. The more specific you are, the easier it will be for employers to see how well you can do the job.
Avoid Super Specific Requirements
Your resume is meant to be broad, not specific. Don’t put the words “entry-level” or “full-time” on your resume; you want it to be clear that you are a professional. Just remember that you need to communicate your experience as broadly as possible so that employers can understand what you can do for them.
