3 steps to build a solid resume
Your resume is the first thing a recruiter will consider in deciding whether to invite you over for an interview or not. This critical document will be your first (and sometimes only) chance to convince your future employer that you are worthy of the position you are applying for. You also need to bear in mind that most recruiters will only devote a few minutes, or even just seconds, to skimming through the document. As such, you need to create a resume that will be a cut above the rest and one that will surely catch the attention of the one perusing it. So how do you build a solid resume?
1. Get to know the company and the job position.
The first thing you need to do is to know the company you might be working for and the position you are applying for. This way, you will be able to determine exactly what your potential employers need from their candidates. You will also be able to get a clearer idea of the characteristics and qualifications that the company’s ideal candidate would have. Are they looking for someone with extensive experience in the field? Are they content with someone who has a strong grasp of the theories involved in the trade? Do they want a team player, an individual worker, or a combination of both? Only by getting the answers to questions like these will you be capable of building a resume that highlights the strengths and qualifications that will surely fit the bill.
2. Start writing the resume that will get you closer to that dream job.
Once you have done your homework on the company and the job position, it’s time to get down to the serious business of writing a solid resume. Don’t know where to start? Well, for starters, you need to decide on what to include in your resume. Typical parts include personal and contact information, work history, educational background, and a list of references. As you write each part, particularly the sections concerning your experiences and educational qualifications, remember to emphasize the items that will make you suitable for the job. Don’t be too modest. If you’ve got the attributes they’re looking for, be not afraid of placing a spotlight on them. You can be sure that the other applicants won’t hesitate to do the same thing. However, you should always make sure that what you’re writing checks out with the truth. An embellished resume filled with lies won’t do you any good.
3. Proofread, proofread, and proofread!
When you are through with writing your resume, don’t think for a second that your work is done. Surely, you’ve heard the benefits of reviewing the entire document for errors. No matter how careful you were in the process of drafting your resume, there are bound to be some mistakes. And when it comes to applying for a job, there’s no such thing as a minor mistake. Even a little typographical error could be the cause of your downfall. So better gear yourself up for some intensive proofreading. If it helps you to spot the errors more quickly, get yourself a printed copy of your resume. You could also enlist the help of a friend or family member to read through the document. Do whatever you can to ensure that your resume is flawless in all aspects of formatting, grammar, and spelling.
A solid resume doesn’t just drop from the sky and into your hands. You have to work hard at creating it from scratch. Thankfully, with the numerous guides available, you’ll certainly be able to build an excellent resume that will be your gateway to nailing that job.
