Whether it’s been a while since you’ve updated your resume or you’re creating your very first one, it can be hard to know where to begin. What experience and accomplishments should you include to wow the hiring manager? Are there new resume rules or trends you should be following? And can someone settle it once and for all, one page or two?
We’re outlining some of our top tips to help you craft a resume that will leave a lasting impression and move you through the hiring process.
Tell Your Story
Think of your resume as a marketing document – but the product you’re selling is you and your skills!
As you tell your story and share your work experience, remember that each resume you send out should be tailored to the specific job requirements. What skills and accomplishments can be highlighted as most relevant to the role? Don’t forget to include numbers and statistics showing how you contributed to the company’s success or growth.
When putting your experience on paper, it’s okay to include non-traditional work experiences if it will enhance your resume. In particular, what soft skills might be demonstrated in a given activity or personal achievement? Maybe you were on a committee – a commitment that shows your drive, hard work, and determination.
One piece of experience many resumes emphasize in your education. If you have not obtained an Associates or higher education, you should focus on your specific experiences relative to the job you are applying for. Certifications should be included if they are relative to the job.
Formatting
The one-page versus two-page resume is a hotly contested topic. In the interest of staying concise and skimmable, keeping your resume to one page is our recommendation. If you truly have enough relevant and important experience the hiring manager needs to know, a two-page resume may be necessary.
Your experience should be presented in reverse chronological order. Your most recent work experience is likely to be most relevant to the job you’ve applied for and should be easily reviewed. If you gained important and relevant skills from an earlier job, consider adding a skills section to call these out.
Don’t forget to put your best, most important experience above the fold. A summary statement or highlight of your core competencies can be a great tool to emphasize these skills and experiences.
Finishing Touches
Proofread it once, then do it again! It seems like a no-brainer to ensure your resume is free of grammatical errors and typos. Submitting an error-free resume is a great way to showcase your attention to detail. An extra layer of attention to detail – include your first and last name in the title of your file. Using “John Smith Resume” instead of “Resume” allows the hiring manager to know exactly whose resume they’re reviewing without extra research.
When downloading your document, download it as a PDF rather than a .doc. This prevents any formatting changes when the hiring manager opens your resume on their device. Be sure to preview your PDF before submitting your document to ensure the formatting is saved as you’d expected.
We also recommend reviewing and updating your resume a few times a year – even if you aren’t actively looking for a new opportunity. This way when your dream job becomes available, you’re ready to apply with a resume you know is up to date with your latest skills and experience.
These simple tips will help you stand out from the crowd during the hiring process leading to more interviews and more offers for roles you’re excited about! Happy hunting!