subject: A Guide for the Unemployed in Making a Resume That Will Stand Out From Others [print this page] A Guide for the Unemployed in Making a Resume That Will Stand Out From Others
With so many unemployed in the country, job search can be pretty hard these days. The resume is not only a document that will highlight your personal data, employment history and qualifications; think of it as a tool that will help catch the manager's attention. When you submit your resume together with the application letter, think of creative ways on how to keep the HR manager's eye glued on your paper. Here are a few points on how to make your resume stand out from other applicants who are vying for the same position as you are.
List down All Your Expertise and Skills- When you write down your expertise and skills, it is not merely enumerating your experiences in your previous employment. Come up with a common theme out from your employment history. If you have been working as a manager in McDonald's, Starbucks, and the like; you can make it look like you are an expert in managing a food chain company. The expertise listed must be in congruence with the position that you are applying for. Be honest on this because even if you have an excellent resume, the company will know during your interview if you are telling the truth or not.
Gather All Your Certificates of Employment, Training, And Awards- If you have been unemployed for a while, why not use the time in training or graduate studies? It will help boost your resume. Take some time to obtain professional certifications like the Chartered Financial Analyst or Project Management Professional. Certifications like that will surely make your resume stand out from among others. If you have no intention of enrolling in further studies, gather all your previous certificates and awards instead. The important thing is that the company will know that you will be an asset to the institution, not a liability.
Volunteer while Unemployed- Hustle while you wait because the more time you waste lounging in the sofa is a disadvantage on your marketability. Employers will look on how long you have been unemployed and what you have been doing during those times. By volunteering, you will meet contact people who can give you recommendations; you might even meet a potential employer along the process. The idea of volunteerism is to make use of your expertise and skills for the good of the community; this will surely help make your resume stand out.