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A resume is more than just a list of your job experiences and education. It’s a marketing document that highlights your strengths and shows why you are the best candidate for the job. Crafting a job-winning resume requires careful thought and attention to detail. We’ve seen our fair share of resumes over the years and have pulled together a guide to help you craft one that stands out to employers (including us).
Choose the Right Resume Format
There are three main types of resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. Choose the one that best highlights your strengths.
- Chronological: Lists your work experience in reverse chronological order. Ideal for those with a consistent work history.
- Functional: Focuses on skills and experience rather than chronological work history. Great for career changers or those with gaps in employment.
- Combination: Blends chronological and functional formats. Perfect for highlighting relevant skills while providing a detailed work history.
Write a Compelling Summary Statement
Your summary statement should be a brief paragraph at the top of your resume that summarizes your professional background and what you bring to the role. Tailor it to the job you’re applying for by including relevant keywords and showcasing your most impressive accomplishments.
Highlight Your Work Experience
When listing your work experience, use bullet points to make it easy to read. Start each bullet with an action verb and quantify your achievements when possible (e.g., “Increased sales by 20% in six months”). Focus on results and how you contributed to the success of your previous employers.
Showcase Your Skills
Include a skills section where you list both hard and soft skills relevant to the job. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your resume gets past applicant tracking systems. Highlight skills that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for.
Include Your Education
List your educational background, starting with your highest degree. Include the name of the institution, degree obtained and graduation date. If you have relevant certifications or training, include those as well.
Add Additional Sections
Depending on your background, you might want to include additional sections such as:
- Certifications: Any professional certifications relevant to the job.
- Projects: Key projects that showcase your skills and achievements.
- Volunteer Work: Relevant volunteer experiences that demonstrate your skills and values.
- Publications: Articles or papers you’ve published.
- Awards: Any awards or recognitions you’ve received.
Use Professional Language and Formatting
Use professional language and avoid jargon or slang. Keep your resume concise, ideally one page for less experienced candidates and no more than two pages for those with extensive experience. Use a clean, easy-to-read font and avoid using too many colors or graphics.
Proofread Carefully
A single typo or grammatical error can ruin an otherwise perfect resume. Proofread your resume multiple times and consider having a friend or professional review it as well. Make sure your contact information is correct and that all dates and details are accurate.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Job Application
Customize your resume for each job application. Highlight the most relevant experiences and skills for each position and adjust your summary statement and keywords to match the job description. This increases the chances of your resume being noticed by hiring managers.
