Are you eagerly awaiting that interview? Are you actively searching for opportunities right now? Or perhaps you’re unsure where to begin your job hunt? The answer to all these questions lies in crafting a well-put-together resume.
From a recruiter’s perspective, having a well-organized resume with all the necessary information is crucial to capture our attention. In recent times, job applications are primarily submitted online, requiring you to provide an electronic version of your resume. Most companies use an applicant tracking system connected to their job boards, making it vital that your resume is well-constructed to navigate through this system. However, you still need to include the standard information in your resume. Consider these reminders when updating your resume:
Keep it Simple
Opt for a document with a clean, modern font such as Calibri or Verdana, and maintain professional formatting. Avoid fancy shapes, headers, and panels. Bullet points can serve as a suitable substitute for icons.
Compartmentalize
Organize the sections in your resume effectively. Include the usual sections like contact information, education, and work experience, and label them clearly in bold text.
Keywords and Highlights
Recruiters and employers often search for specific skills or actions when reviewing resumes, so it’s important to describe your work experience in a comprehensive yet concise manner. Highlight words or phrases that are crucial to the job you’re applying for or have come across in the job description.
Reverse Chronological
Present your work experience and education from the most recent to the oldest. This ensures a smoother flow and better comprehension of the information. Don’t forget to include dates or years!
Optimize your Resume for Digital Devices
Ensure that your resume remains readable across different devices and that its format remains consistent. A tip for achieving this is to submit it as a PDF file.
Review
Before submitting, carefully review your resume. Check for any grammatical errors or misspelled words. These details matter during recruiters’ or employers’ initial screening and ultimately during your interview.
Keeping these considerations in mind should increase your chances of landing an interview. And when you do get interviewed, remember to prepare thoroughly and conduct your research. Avoid rushing when crafting your resume. Dedicate a little extra time, care, and attention to this crucial document, as it will pay off in the long run.
Preparing for a job interview? Read this article to learn more about common interview questions and how to answer them.
