Content
1. Be specific about skills and experienc2. Include related keywords
3. Keep it simple and concise
4. Highlight results, not responsibilities or tasks
5. Format resume sections correctly
6. Avoid more than 2 pages
7. Don't list references
8. Avoid overused words and phrases
9. Don't include reasons for leaving past jobs
Common Resume Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Resume Writing FAQs
Make your resume concise and include critical information on the first page!
On average, recruiters spend less than 10 seconds reviewing a resume - so check out these nine resume tips to help make your resume stand out.
How To Write A Better Resume | 9 Resume Writing Tips You Need For Amazing Results
Are you hunting for a job and don't know how to write a resume? You're not alone! Writing a resume can be a challenge, but writing an effective one can get you the specific job you want!
Resume Writing Tips - How To Write A Resume for a Job
1. Be specific about your skills and experience
When you list your skills, be sure to give specific examples of how you've used them in the past.
For instance, if you say that you're an expert in a particular project management software package, highlight to the hiring manager the functions you are an expert in and how many years of experience you have using the software.
Leave out non-relevant skills and responsibilities for the role you're applying for, especially if they are things you don't enjoy doing and don't want to do in your next job.
2. Use keywords related to the job description
If the job listing includes keywords like "management" or "team player," then make sure to include those in your resume (and cover letter).
This is called resume keyword optimization, and it shows hiring managers that you have read the job ad and can provide what they are looking for.
Resume keyword optimization offers several benefits.
- Increased visibility to potential employers
- Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) prioritize resumes with relevant keywords
- Use of keywords demonstrates attention to job ad and positions you as a suitable candidate
- Shows understanding of industry language and specific role needs
- Enhances professional image
3. Keep it simple and concise
Use a traditional font (like Times New Roman) and make sure all of your wording is easy to read on the page. Avoid unecessary text that just occupies space but with no purpose!
- Use Bullet Points: Organize information with bullet points for easy readability. Ideal for listing skills and job responsibilities.
- Eliminate Jargon: Avoid industry-specific terms that may confuse the hiring manager. Keep language clear and simple to showcase qualifications and experience.
- Include Relevant Information: Focus on experiences and skills relevant to the job. Irrelevant details can make the resume appear unfocused and lengthy.
- Quantify Achievements: Utilize specific numbers and statistics to illustrate accomplishments. This adds concrete and concise details to the experience.
- Edit and Proofread: Review the resume multiple times to eliminate unnecessary or redundant phrases. Meticulous proofreading ensures clarity and conciseness.
4. Highlight results, not responsibilities or tasks
Instead of saying "managed social media accounts," say something like "increased Facebook followers by 25%." Highlighting results will entice potential employers because they show what you've achieved in past positions.
5. Format resume sections in the following order
Header, Professional Summary, Skills, Professional Experience, Education, with additional sections as needed. Format for consistency. Spacing, punctuation, font, bullet points, and tense should be consistent.
6. These days, a 2-page resume is okay
If you are fresh out of college or only have a few years of experience, you shouldn't have to go over 1 page.
But once you have around 5+ years, you can go to 2 pages, which should help if you struggle to fit your entire work history on 1 page.
The only situations where you would go to 3 pages or more would be at the Chief Executive level, an academic CV, or a federal resume that requires a specific resume format.
7. Don't list your references on your resume
You don't want your references to be overwhelmed with calls/emails without preparation. Once you are far along enough in the interview process, they will ask for references, and you can provide them at that time.
Contact references, let them know about the position you're interviewing for - and maybe give them some talking points to highlight relevant information to the job.
Also, omit References Available Upon Request. That's a given, and it just takes up space on your resume that you could devote to something more impressive.
8. Try to avoid overused and lukewarm words and phrases
Words and phrases like "responsible for," "managed," and "handled" are overused by job seekers.
Try to use stronger verbs that position you as an achiever and someone who takes the initiative rather than just a doer or someone who is passive.
Instead of "responsible for" use "lead" or "launched" instead of "managed," use "supervised or spearheaded" and instead of saying "handled," use "coordinated".
9. One final tip - Don't include reasons for leaving your past jobs
If there is a gap in your work history or something else that might be glaring, you can address it in your cover letter.
In your resume, you should focus on highlighting your accomplishments and relevant experience.
Avoid putting anything negative or irrelevant in it that could distract from showcasing yourself in a positive light.
Common Resume Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Spelling and Grammar Errors
Even with spell check, spelling and grammar errors are a common mistake that can lead to your resume being overlooked. Always proofread your resume before submitting it to prospective employers.
Lengthy Career History
A good resume is concise and to the point. Stick to one page if possible. Include only relevant career history and use active language and action verbs to draw attention to your significant achievements.
Listing Too Many Unrelated Skills
While it's important to showcase a variety of skills, ensure that the skills section of your resume is targeted to the job you're applying for. Avoid industry jargon and focus on concrete examples of how you've demonstrated those skills.
Neglecting Volunteer Work
Volunteer work can significantly enhance a resume, especially for those early in their career progression. Don't overlook including this valuable experience.
Not Highlighting Educational Background
Whether it's a degree, a certificate, or a foreign language proficiency, your educational background can set you apart from other candidates. Make sure your most important academic credentials in education section are well represented on your resume.
Ignoring the Power of Personal Websites
For creative professionals, a personal website can serve as a great addition to a standard resume, showcasing your work in a more dynamic format.
Incorrect Personal Details
Including unnecessary personal details such as marital status is a common mistake. Stick to relevant information about your professional capabilities.
Failing to Optimize Your Resume for each Job
Tailoring or optimizing your resume to each specific job can make your application stand out. Just as companies reach you with targeted advertising online, you can target or optimize your resume for each job you want, rather than using a generic resume for every application. This can be a winning resume strategy for getting the attention of many hiring managers.
Remember, a strong resume is detail-oriented, highlights your career snapshot with specifics, and leverages software tools for a polished and professional look. The best resume is always the one that best represents you as a candidate.
FAQ - Resume Writing
What should be included in my resume?
Your resume should include your name, contact information, education, work experience, and skills.
Are resume objectives outdated?
In the contemporary job market, resume objectives are often considered outdated. Why? Objective statements tend to be self-focused and may not align with the employer's needs.
Instead of stating what you are looking for in a role, try including a professional summary or a resume headline that highlights your qualifications, experience, and how you can contribute to the company's goals.
This approach is more employer-centric and better tailored to the competitive nature of job-seeking today.
Do paragraphs belong on my resume?
Recruiters often view traditional paragraphs on a resume as bulky and hard to skim.
What's better?
Use concise, bulleted lists. They are more effective and make it easier for hiring managers to identify key qualifications and accomplishments.
Use short, impactful statements tailored to the job description to improve readability and ensure your resume stands out.
For detailed experiences, use a hybrid approach. Start with a brief introductory sentence and then use bullet points to give structure without sacrificing clarity.
How do I format my resume?
There is no one definitive way to format a resume. However, many resume formats follow a similar structure: name and contact info at the top, followed by education and experience.
Should I list all of my work experience?
Yes, list all of your work experience, regardless of how irrelevant it may seem. Remember that the interviewer is trying to get a sense of your career trajectory and what you have to offer their company. Therefore, they will want to know about all of your work experience,
How do I list my skills on my resume?
You can list your skills in several ways, such as bullet points or a table. Listing your skills will help potential employers see at a glance what your strengths are.
Does my resume need to be in chronological order?
Chronological is generally the best way, but you can also mix it up a bit with a functional format. So long it emphasizes your skills and accomplishments, you'll be fine.
Is there anything I should leave out of my resume summary?
Yes - Information about your religion, race, gender, national origin, age, or sexual orientation.
How do you translate experience into bullet points when writing your resume?
Your resume should reflect your skills, experience, and accomplishments. To that end, you want to make sure that you accurately translate your work experience into bullet points that will showcase your qualifications.
Here are a few resume writing tips for doing just that:
- Start by tailoring your resume to the job description for which you are applying. Highlight only relevant information, experience and skills related to the job requirements.
- Focus on specific accomplishments rather than general duties or tasks. For example, instead of saying "developed marketing materials," say "developed marketing materials that resulted in a 15% increase in sales."
- Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use numbers, percentages, or dollar amounts to give the reader a sense of scale.
How can I avoid spelling errors on my resume?
Spelling errors are a common mistake because they can be easy to overlook, especially after spending hours writing and perfecting your resume. Undetected spelling mistakes, however, might convey that you are not detailed oriented to potential employers. You can avoid them by using professional spell check tools, proofreading your resume multiple times, and having someone else review it for you.
What is the importance of being detail-oriented when creating a resume?
Being detail-oriented when creating a resume is a very important tip to remember because it demonstrates your professionalism and your ability to carry out tasks thoroughly. A well-crafted, error-free resume shows potential employers that you take your career seriously and that you have the ability to handle tasks with precision and care.
What should I include in my resume objective to make a great resume?
When writing your resume objective statement, include information about the skills and experience that you have that make you an excellent fit for the position.
What is the difference between hard skills and soft skills?
Hard skills are tangible; they are the specific, technical knowledge (tech skills) and abilities needed to do a job. Soft skills, on the other hand, are interpersonal skills and qualities that enable someone to work well with others.
Hard and Soft Skills Examples
| Hard Skills | Soft Skills |
|---|---|
| Technical skills | Interpersonal Skills |
| Programming Skills | Communication skills |
| Data Analysis Skills | Conflict Resolution Skills |
| Software Skills | Time management Skills |
| Digital Literacy Skills | Leadership Skills |
| AI & Machine Learning Skills | Problem-Solving Skills |
What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and how does it relate to job postings and the hiring process?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software application that helps recruiters manage the recruitment process. The best Applicant Tracking Systems automate and streamline many of the steps involved in finding, screening, and hiring new employees. The software is typically used to publish job postings online, manage applicants’ resumes, and track applications through the various stages of the hiring process.
What is the most effective job search strategy?
The most effective job search strategy is to research and understand the job duties and responsibilities associated with the position you are seeking. Being clear about what employers are looking for and understanding the job duties will help you write a stronger resume and cover letter that can help your application stand out when the hiring manager opens it.