Creating A Winning Resume

Conducting a successful job search begins with a winning resume. If your current resume isn’t providing you with results, don’t blame it on the economy. Yes, today’s job market is tough, but that shouldn’t keep you from getting interviews. Job seekers can beat the odds if they know what does and doesn’t work in a resume. We’ll let you in on some resume writing secrets that can put you one step ahead of your competition.

RESUME WRITING RULES – There are as many resume writing rules as there are people who write them! You can show your resume to 10 different people and quite possibly, you’ll get 10 different opinions. There’s one rule that does hold true with every resume or professional document. You CANNOT have any typographical or grammatical errors. Always proof read your resume and have someone else proof it as well. Your resume must be error-free.

VISUAL APPEAL – There are literally hundreds of ways to format and design a resume. The bottom line is that no matter how fancy your resume may look, if the content doesn’t gain the employer’s interest, grab their attention, or if it’s difficult to follow, your opportunity to be contacted for an interview is most likely gone.

YOU ARE A VALUABLE PRODUCT – Resume writing is merchandising. It’s a self-marketing tool to advertise you, the product. As advertising agencies market merchandise by highlighting benefits and features of the product they’re trying to sell us, your resume must take on the same approach. Your resume is your personal ad campaign to employers and recruiters. What benefits and value do you have to offer that will set you apart from the other candidates applying for the same position?

DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE RESUMES – Providing a laundry list of job duties and responsibilities doesn’t work in today’s competitive job market. It’s understood that employees have job duties and responsibilities. Yes, include them in your resume, but don’t focus on them. Apply the 80/20 rule – focus 80% of your resume on achievements and 20% on core duties and responsibilities.

Achievements demonstrate and validate what you can offer employers. Achievements are your key selling points. Include information that will benefit employers and concentrate on their needs. Position yourself as a top interview candidate by demonstrating in your resume that you, without a doubt, can meet their needs. For example, learn more about the vacant position, find out what they are looking for in qualified applicant, and research the company.

WRITE IN FIRST PERSON – Don’t write in second or third person. The objective is to market yourself, your qualifications, and your career accomplishments. Don’t use the word “I” or “my” in your resume. To avoid this, simply drop the phrase. For example, instead of saying “I decreased corporate expenditures 75%,” you could say “Decreased corporate expenditures 75%.” Be direct.

MAKE YOUR RESUME POWERFUL – Convey your skills, talents, qualifications, achievements, and value in an easy-to-read, informative, yet concise manner. This is easier said than done and will require time and effort. This is not just a resume, it’s your career and due diligence will pay off. Be willing to put in the time and effort to make a great first impression with your resume. This can make all the difference.

Writing an effective and powerful resume can be challenging and many people find it difficult to be objective about themselves. Get feedback from past employers, supervisors, and colleagues who have first-hand knowledge about your working habits, your drive to succeed, and what you can deliver as a team player.

Take advantage of the resources available to you. Visit your local library to learn more about resume development, look at resume samples written by certified resume writers, or consult with a certified resume writing expert to help you create a highly competitive resume. These resources can provide you with the tools necessary to develop a resume that draws attention and motivates employers to contact you for the interview. Your resume plays a vital role in conducting a successful job search and it should be taken seriously.