Your resume is the first representation of yourself a hiring manager will see. This simple piece of paper with words written to describe who you are at work and the skills you can bring to the company. With this paper, you have only a few seconds to grab the attention of the reader and make him/her want to learn more about you and how you could contribute to their team.
Before sending out your resume, ask yourself: Is this compelling? Have I properly highlighted my skills and accomplishments? How will I differentiate myself from other applicants? Can the hiring manager understand how I will add value to the team?
Study the job posting and identify the skills the company is seeking as well as possible skills inferred from the listing. Make it simple for the hiring manager to see how your skill set would be perfect for this position. If you don’t have the exact skills they are seeking, look at transferrable skills obtained from previous work that could relate the job you are applying for.
Every employer wants to hire an accomplished problem-solver. Be sure to emphasize your past accomplishments, both team and individual, and highlight the positive outcomes. Use words that show initiative and value add. Examples include: exceeded, increased, decreased, eliminated, developed, launched, and spearheaded.
Stay away from vague claims about attitude and personal strength. Examples of this: reliable, responsible, self-starter. Use the interview time to show your motivation and discuss your tenacity for timeliness.
The most important resume tip is to review your resume and proofread, proofread, proofread! This is the first impression a hiring manager will have, don’t waste it!
