Your resume should present your qualifications clearly, concisely, and strategically in order for a recruiter to be interested in meeting you. You need to convey your skills, work experience and assets. The resume is used to describe what you can achieve professionally in a way that also illustrates what you can do for an employer. Job opportunities can arise unexpectedly. An up-to-date modern resume is the key to a successful job search. Here are some tips on how to write a good resume and what to include.
What to do when writing a resume
Keep your resume clear and concise
An employer takes an average of 30 seconds to flip through a resume. You want them to see right away that you are qualified for the position.
Check your resume several times
Make sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Have someone else read it too. A simple spelling mistake on a resume can give an employer a negative impression. It may even prevent you from getting the job.
Limit your resume to two pages
Put the emphasis of your resume on your most recent experience. Old jobs and experience of more than 15 years should be eliminated or minimized. This way, the employer can focus on more relevant information.
Tailor your resume to the position you are applying for
Specify any work experience or accomplishments that are related to the position you are applying for. applying to. This can be done by reviewing the employer’s job description or website.
Highlight what you’ve accomplished
You want to be able to identify the best examples of where you demonstrated your skills. These examples should speak to what you accomplished in your position and should show what kind of employee you are. It’s best to include this information in the “Work Experience” section of your resume.
Be honest
Lying on your resume is never a good idea. You don’t want to exaggerate your skills or results, as you will mislead the employer. Be confident in what you have to offer.
Quantify your achievements
Use firm numbers that the employer will understand and be impressed with. For example, how many people did you supervise, how many products did you sell, by what percentage did you increase sales, etc.
Use simple words and action verbs
The person reading your resume might Not always be the employer Resumes may be reviewed by recruiters or HR specialists who may not be familiar with your specific field. Use simple, straightforward language, but also persuasive verbs like managed, managed, led, developed, augmented, achieved, leveraged, etc.
Include unpaid work that demonstrates your skills
If you’ve volunteered with a well-known organization or worked for an important cause, include that on your resume. You should include these experiences in the “Work Experience” or “Volunteer Work” section, especially if they are related to the position for which you are applying.
Double check and include your contact information
Your resume should include your name, address, email, and phone number. This information should be placed at the top of the first page. Also, make sure this information is accurate. Otherwise, the employer will not be able to contact you.
Resume writing what not to do
Do not use an inappropriate email address
Make sure your email is easy to read, easy to write, professional and non-offensive. In general, your email address should be based on your first name. Exclude any nicknames, numbers, or special characters.
Do not include unnecessary personal information
It is best to omit any personal information such as age, weight, height, marital status, religious preference, political opinions, or any other personal attributes that could be controversial. This will avoid any potential bias. Most importantly, never include your social security number on your resume.
Do not include a photo of yourself
Although in some countries it may be acceptable to include a photo, it is not the norm in Canada. It can actually reduce your chances of getting a position and take the whole focus off your resume. You want the employer to focus on your skills and experience, not your appearance.
Don’t use too many bullet points
Make your resume easy to read by limiting each resume section or subsection to 5-7 bullets. This will make it easier for the employer to scan your resume and identify your potential. Each bullet point should be used wisely while keeping the information relevant and concise.
Do not use personal pronouns
Do not use “I”, “my” or “my”. Write your resume in the third person, as if someone else were writing it.
Don’t just list job responsibilities
Your job duties will be obvious from the job title. his work.Instead, highlight their accomplishments by putting a personal spin on their job duties and providing specific examples.
Don’t make general statements
Stay away from vague statements that don’t highlight your real contribution. Unclear statements like, “Responsible for improving efficiency and saving costs,” provide no information to an employer. Personalize your experience!
Do not include reasons why you left previous jobs
The main purpose of your resume is to promote yourself, your skills, experience and achievements. It should be entirely positive and therefore should not include reasons for leaving as it adds no value to you as a candidate.
Do not include references
An employer only requires references if they are seriously considering hiring you. Keep references on a separate sheet and provide them only when specifically requested.
Do not include hobbies or interests
Mentioning hobbies is not recommended due to judgments that potential employers may make. However, if your hobbies are related to the position, you can include them as they can show the employer why you are a good fit.
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