subject: Tips For a Stronger Resume [print this page] Tips For a Stronger Resume Tips For a Stronger Resume
There are many tips and tricks of the trade that will allow you to craft a stronger resume. However, before you get to that point you need to be sure your resume has a solid foundation in the basics of construction. So, what is in a traditional resume?
First is the Objective. This is a short statement about who you are and which position you are applying for. Most resume readers are screening applications for a number of different positions so the main purpose here is to clarify which position you are interested in.
The Summary: this is where you demonstrate how your individual set of skills and abilities dovetail with the job description for the position. While a general list of skills is OK, you should always try to include the exact wording from the posting. Many resumes will be put through an automated screener to search for these terms as an initial sorting step and having the words prominently displayed will increase your chances of getting noticed.
Next is the Work History. KISS- keep it simple stupid. You want to include enough detail so the resume reader knows what you are capable of, but you do not want to over burden them. In general a resume reader will give a resume 10 seconds- don't waste it. Your Work History is the heart of what a resume is.
Next comes the Education portion. Nothing fancy here. Where did you go? What degree did you earn? Unless you have a unique situation that is it.
Now comes the hard part. How do you format all this information once you have written it? 10 minutes online will present you with conflicting advice. There are as many views on formatting as there are resume writers. No one format is going to be perfect for everyone, so decide on a one that works for you and stick with it. However, there is one tip that can help.
Think Like a News Site
Most resumes today are read online, or on a computer screen, therefore thinking like a website designer for a newspaper can give you a step up. When we read a computer screen we read from the top left corner to the right. Therefore the top left corner is the most coveted piece of real estate on your page. Look at any successful website and you will see an ad near, this spot. Make sure you fill it with important information.
Keep most of your best detail, above the fold. This is old newspaper-speak for the top half of the front page. Only about 30% of online readers scroll down, so make your point at the start of your resume.
With the right information, and a formatting strategy you'll be a step ahead of many resume writers in the great job hunt.
