10 Resume Writing Tips To Help You Land a Position

Resume Formatting Tips

Formatting your resume is the first step to writing a good resume that meets the hiring manager's expectations. When it comes to resume writing, there are some basic rules you should follow. Make sure your resume is an easy-to-read font, such as Times New Roman or Arial. Avoid using a variety of fonts or font sizes that can make your resume look cluttered. Improperly formatted resumes are more likely to be passed over. It's also important to include a header with your contact information so the hiring manager knows how to reach you.

What You Should Include on Your Resume

When it comes to essential information to include on your resume, there are some key components you shouldn't leave out. You should list your professional history, relevant skills, and educational background. You should also include a couple of bulleted paragraphs that provide an overview of your previous job roles or achievements. For each job role listed, you should include a summary of responsibilities to help the hiring manager understand what you have done before. Use keywords that are relevant to the job posting to make sure your resume is picked up by the hiring manager's applicant tracking system.

Writing a Resume Objective

A resume objective is a brief statement at the top of your resume that tells the hiring manager what kind of job you are looking for. This is an important component to include on a resume, as it helps draw the hiring manager's attention to your resume, and effectively summarizes what makes you the perfect candidate for the job. Focus on using active sentences and strong language to communicate your value and convey confidence in the hiring manager to make the right choice.

Bullet Your Achievements

Though all of the experiences included on your resume should be relevant to a potential employer, some experiences have more to them than can be explained in a paragraph. Use bullet points to highlight key achievements that you made during each previous job role. This can be a great way to quantify your success, help the hiring manager understand what you are capable of, and make your resume stand out.

Provide Examples of Your Skills

When it comes to skills, you should list the most relevant to the job role. It's important to back up your skills with examples. Try to think of specific examples where you have used the skills that you have listed. This can be a challenge, as it requires you to reflect on your past experiences and recall when and how you used those skills. The hiring manager wants to hear how your skills are applied in the workplace to provide value and help you stand out from the crowd.

Proofread and Check for Errors

Proofreading is a must when it comes to resume writing, as it is easy to miss mistakes or overlook important details. You should read through your resume multiple times and ask someone else to read it too. It's also wise to use a spellcheck tool, as there might be typos you missed. The hiring manager will likely be unimpressed and annoyed if your resume is littered with typos and grammar errors, so it's important to take the time to proofread it thoroughly.

Be Honest on Your Resume

An honest and accurate resume is crucial when it comes to resume writing. While you may want to embellish or exaggerate your qualifications or job history, it's important to be truthful and provide accurate information. Don't fabricate or include any information that is not true, as the hiring manager may find out and it will not do you any favors. It's better to focus on highlighting your strengths and experiences, rather than trying to write a resume that is too good to be true.

Conclusion

Resume writing is a skill that can be mastered with a few pointers and some practice. This guide provided 10 resume writing tips to help you land a job and stand out from the competition. As a rule of thumb, make sure your resume is organized, easy to read, honest, and error-free. Highlight your relevant qualifications, experience, and skills to help the hiring manager understand why you are the best candidate for the job.