Formulating a resume can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a fresh graduate with little experience. However, whether you just came out from a university, or you’re already working and you’re applying for a new job, creating a resume doesn’t have to be an intimidating process.
Why Are Resumes So Important?
First of all, what is a resume? A resume is a written document of your education, work experience, credentials, and notable accomplishments. Along with the application and cover letter, a resume is one, if not the most important document in applying for a job.
Hiring managers look at your resume to screen if you’re a potential job candidate. Having said that, it is truly your “first impression,” and we all know what they say about the first impression: it lasts! Before you appear in front of your employer, they already have an idea of what you can do, your skills and whatever information that’s listed on your resume.
Creating Your Resume
Have you sent out a handful of resumes and haven’t gotten a call back? Here are some tips to create a resume that will (actually) get you hired:
Professional Appearance
Looks matter, and not just in your interview, but also with your resume. Your curriculum vitae should look put together and professional. You’d want a resume that looks enticing, and worthy of your potential employer’s time. If possible, stick to one or two colors, use fonts that are easy to read. Make it cohesive by following a theme or template.
Information
Keep only relevant information to your resume – your education background, recent or relevant jobs, skills, and achievements and omit unnecessary details (for example: you’ve had a job which lasted for only 2 or 3 months, you may want to remove that). Also, guarantee that all the information you provided is accurate and up to date. Don’t forget to include your contact details!
Formatting & Grammar
The first rule of your resume’s layout/formatting is that it should be legible in both online and print. Choose a readable font with a size of 10 to 12 point (some fonts may be bigger/smaller than the others so take note of that). Then check your spacing and the paper you’ll use. Remember to double check your grammar and spelling. If possible, have someone like a colleague or career coach check it for you.
Keep It Short
The truth is, most employers don’t have the time to read a 2 or 3-page curriculum vitae. They will usually skim the first page and turn to the next if it’s interesting enough. Stand out by making sure your resume clear and concise. If possible, keep it to one page. Be brief while maintaining a professional aesthetic.
Customize
This is usually overlooked by a lot of applicants. However, in some fields (like creative, for example) customizing your resume can add a bonus point or even get you hired. Most people send out a generic looking curriculum vitae, so most definitely, a creative resume will set you apart if the situation calls for it.
There you have it, use these tips to create your resume. If you have an old one, reread this article and check if you can improve it.