A well-crafted resume is often the first step in securing a job interview. Your resume should highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments in a succinct and easy-to-read format. To help you create a resume that stands out, here are some dos and don’ts of resume writing.
DO:
1. Tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for – Make sure your resume emphasizes the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position you’re seeking.
2. Use bullet points – Use bullet points rather than long paragraphs to make it easy for potential employers to skim your resume quickly.
3. Highlight your achievements – Instead of simply listing your job duties, highlight specific achievements or accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and abilities.
4. Keep it concise – Try to keep your resume to one or two pages maximum. Avoid including irrelevant information, such as hobbies or personal details.
5. Use keywords – Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for certain keywords. Make sure you include industry-specific keywords that match the job description.
DON’T:
1. Use a generic objective statement – Instead of using a generic objective statement, use a summary section to highlight your skills and experiences that match the job you’re applying for.
2. Include outdated information – Don’t include outdated information, such as references or a physical address. Instead, focus on highlighting your skills and experiences.
3. Use unprofessional email addresses – Make sure your email address is professional and appropriate for a job application, such as firstname.lastname@email.com.
4. Use a difficult-to-read font – Stick to simple, easy-to-read fonts like Times New Roman or Arial. Avoid using fancy or decorative fonts that can be difficult to read.
5. Lie or exaggerate – Never lie or exaggerate your skills or experiences on your resume. Not only is it unethical, but it can also damage your reputation and potentially harm your career.
By following these dos and don’ts of resume writing, you can create a resume that highlights your skills and experiences in a way that is clear, concise, and easy-to-read. Remember, your resume is often the first impression potential employers have of you, so make sure it stands out for all the right reasons.