When applying for that new job or promotion, you may well be qualified, but it’s how you communicate those qualifications that ultimately matters. The first step? Creating a sharp and polished resume that stands out among the other applicants. Here are five tips from the experts over at the Job Placement Resource Center on how to amplify your resume.
There is no one-size-fits-all resume. Employers expect your resume to be written specifically for the job you are applying for. Customize your resume each time by incorporating the key words of the industry and the requirements of the position you are seeking.
Employers want to know that you will be able to do the job they hire you to do. Highlight the skills, education and past accomplishments that you can bring to the new job that will make you successful. Your resume should “show” not “tell” what you can do. Write your resume using powerful verbs and result-oriented statements.
Not every job allows you to increase the profit margin or reduce costs, but if you can quantify your accomplishments, numbers are a great addition to your resume. Think out of the box – consider how many customers you help, or meals you serve or phone calls you answer.
Employers review resumes for thirty seconds or less. Your resume must hold their attention by being relevant and relatable. Your resume is not a narrative – use bullets, keep the resume’s length to one-to-two pages and avoid using personal pronouns.
Your resume provides your first impression. Review your resume from the employer’s perspective. Make sure it is clear, concise and clean with no spelling, grammar and formatting errors. Proofread your resume, then proofread it again. Make sure your resume looks as amazing as you are!
Your dream job is calling. Need further training or credentials? We got you. Visit harpercollege.edu/mysuccess to get started.
