1. Establish The Correct Frame of Mind
When sitting down to write your resume, don’t view it as a long boring task, view it as an exciting reflection of your work history and achievements thus far, all to be delivered in a concise and compelling manner. Your tone and mood will come across to the reader, so think “hard hitting and wow” instead of “long and boring”.
2. Back up Your Strengths
Simply stating your strengths actually looks weak. Back up your strengths by linking them to real life work experiences. Give solid examples of when your strengths were called into play.
3. Identify Industry Keywords
Did you know that many career agencies run keyword searches on databases to match jobs to candidates? Therefore, it is important to identify the keywords of the industry you are looking to work in so that you are matched with suitable vacancies.
4. Identify Industry Buzzwords
In addition to keywords, identify buzzwords that will impress potential employers. For example, if you want to work in sales you might want to include the words, diligent, self-starter, self-motivated, personable – you get the drift.
5. Use Compelling Titles
Make job titles and descriptions stand out by using glamorous titles, for example:
Bad title: Sales Team
Good title: Sales and Marketing Consultant
6. Utilise Bullet Points
Bullet points will help you summarise past work responsibilities and help employers efficiently scan your resume for essential qualities. Bullet points also help to dilute text and keep your resume nice and concise.
7. Avoid Silly Statements
Clearly you are available for interview and would be fully expected to be able to provide references. Therefore you should never write silly statements like, “Available for interview”, or, “References available on request”. These are classic resume errors, and also waste valuable “selling yourself” space.
8. Proofread Your Resume Three Times
Don’t rush it. One silly mistake could cost you an interview. Proofread your resume three times and then get someone else to proofread it too.
9. No Negativity
Don’t highlight weaknesses or complain about your last company. Don’t even mention the reason for wanting to leave in your cover letter. Secure the interview first and then prepare yourself for answers to these questions in the event that the employer asks them at a later date
10. No Pictures and Don’t Mention Your Age
If the employer doesn’t specifically request to see a picture don’t attach one, and, if the position doesn’t specify an age don’t include one. We all know discrimination is illegal, but you don’t want looks or age to go against you before you’ve had a chance to get a foot in the door and sell yourself.
