Guidelines and formatting layout:
How long should my resume be? 1-2 pages. Yes, you can use more than one page, however it
is not always necessary.
What size font should I use? No smaller than 10 point, standard serif or sans serif fonts. Don’t
use intricate fonts that are hard to read. Keeping your fonts standard will also help combat
conversion issues.
What is a good layout option? The Chronological Resume format. This the most common and
traditional layout option, preferred by most employers. The work experience begins with the
current or most recent job, followed by the job before that, and so on. Most employers respond
favorably to this resume layout because it enables them to quickly see whether the job seeker
has a steady and successful work history that leads logically to the open position. It also
emphasizes the most recent work experience, which employers see as most relevant.
Realize the Aim
Before starting to write, you have to realize whom your resume should be addressed to and what
the job criteria are. These create your starting point, from which you will organize your resume.
That’s why, before starting to write it is important to spend time for investigating, deliberating,
and forming a clear image you promote the strengths and experiences which best qualify you
for THIS position. General and vague never fair well.
Market Yourself
You should realize that your resume is a great marketing tool and it is necessary to present
yourself as a product, which potential employers are going to choose. So, think of this process
as creating a brochure about you, including benefits and features. As every best-seller product,
you have to be unique and really useful for the hirer. Check if you have mentioned this in your
winning resume.
Use It as a Gateway to Obtain an Interview
While writing your resume, your focus should be on obtaining an interview, rather
than a job in general. Mentioning every detail and fact about your outstanding
personality, rather than your tangible successes and qualities, fails to catch an
employer’s immediate attention. Concentrate your attention on generating real
interest. Your personality can shine during the interview.
NO Long Sentences or Paragraphs
You resume should be easy and quick to read. Bullet points work best so the
reader can clearly get the main idea and absorb it.
Choose Action Words
Action words in the beginning of bulleted sentences can really add life to your
winning resume. Choose such words as presented, monitored, developed and
prepared.
Ask Someone to Review
After reading your resume many, many times and making sure that it has no
mistakes ask someone else to read it. Ask the reader what impression your resume
delivers. Moreover, encourage the reader to offer constructive criticism.
Submit Your Resume
After accomplishing the process of writing, your task is to present your resume as
often as possible, even where you may lack excessive interest in a position. Often
times, when you come to have an interview, a position will appear to be more
interesting than it appeared or it may be a stepping stone towards professional
development.