The average resume gets read in 10 seconds. So, often, this is all the time you have to make a great first impression on a potential employer. Put your best foot forward and make those seconds count.
Here are some tips in helping you get started in creating a successful resume and securing a job.
- Be concise. A resume should be one to two pages. Provide all the necessary information; however, don’t make it longer than it needs to be. The shorter the resume, the better.
- Keep typography traditional and consistent. Consider a font like Times New Roman or Arial in an 11 to 12 point type size. You can use different size type for your name and your previous companies, but don’t use too many styles and sizes.
- Avoid industry and technical jargon. The first person reading your resume, like the HR manager, may not understand all your industry’s terms. Spell out any acronyms that are not easily understood by all.
- Use reverse chronological order when listing employment.
- Put the most important information first. When describing your experiences or skills, list the most important ones first where they are more likely to be read.
- Create your resume in Word. Word documents can be viewed on most computers.
- Use bullet points and short sentences. The main selling points of your resume should be easy to scan and see.
- Tailor your keywords. Many employers use automated systems to identify qualified candidates. Make sure the keywords from the job description are mirrored in your resume.
- Use action verbs. Words like managed, organized, led and planned will make your resume stand out.
- Avoid the first person pronoun. This information is superfluous.
- Include numbers, statistics and percentages. Be specific about how you increased profit by 20%, how you came under budget by 15%, and how you managed a $10MM budget.
- Avoid unnecessary information. You don’t need to include statements like, “References available upon request,” “Objectives,” or anything that may be controversial like age, religion or political affiliation.
- Proofread, proofread, proofread. One small typo can decrease your chances of getting hired.
- Consider getting professional help. If you are having a hard time creating your resume or just need another set of eyes, consider a company like Edit The Work.