Top resume tips
- Make it about you.
Use your own words to describe your own examples. The employer wants to understand why they should interview you, not a generic graduate. - You want to hire ME.
- Sell your unique experiences that show how you are different to other applicants.
- Convince the employer of your abilities. Show how what you have to offer will benefit their workplace.
- This is your marketing tool. Be positive, specific and clear.
- Mind your language.
Begin statements with descriptive verbs so the important information is read first. Avoid using 'I' in your resume. (For example, don't write 'I worked with...'. Did you: negotiate, collaborate, liaise, support?) - Use industry language.
Use language appropriate to that industry or field. Identify key phrases or skill descriptors to use as headings or subheadings. Don't copy and paste whole phrases. Beware of extreme jargon. - Know your audience.
Understand what the employer is looking for and confidently show you meet their criteria. - Keep it relevant.
Ask yourself 'Does the employer want to know this?' and 'Does this show I'm suitable for the job I am applying for?'. - Hitting the highlights.
Your resume is like a movie trailer that summarises all the best bits. Highlight specific and relevant information that you can back up with more detail in your cover letter. You can detail your claims even further when you are in the interview. - Tell the truth.
Sell your strengths, but don't lie. Everything in your resume can be asked about in an interview.
Find Deakin on:
29th August 2012