Friday, November 18, 2011

How to write a great resume

With employers receiving hundreds of resume on a daily basis, how do you ensure your resume hooks an employer’s attention in just a glance? Writing a resume involves a lot of tips and tricks. A great CV must follow certain dos and don’ts. Although there are tons one can add on to this list, here are a few basic points your resume cannot miss.

1. Know the purpose of your resume

The first thing that you need to understand is that a resume is not going to fetch you a job. It is the first step to get an interview call which will in turn land you in a job.

2. Back up your strengths

While most of us like to flaunt off our strengths, a resume is just not the right place do to so. Any company or recruiter will get a better idea of your strengths when you relate it with your work/college experience, lest it might appear too vague.

3. Usage of language

Like it or not, employers can judge your resume in no time. Using the apt language is the key to get interview calls. Simple English is appreciated over long, complex sentences. Avoid jargon, keep the titles short and crisp, be descriptive and stick to ...

4. Order of details

Ensure your education details follow ascending or descending order. Your prior work experience can help the recruiter gauge your skills and abilities. So put them first. While adding your other achievements, add the most recen

5. Typography

Big fonts make the recruiter’s job easier. However, 11 or 12 is the smallest you can go. Do not use capitals all over your resume. Remember your goal is to communicate the message as crisply as possible. Stick to one font style.

6. Keep negativity at bay

Spare your resume from any kind of negative information. Things that you hated about previous employer, personal opinions etc can create a negative impression about you.

7. Irrelevant information

Don’t include irrelevant information like your religion, age or political affiliation. Just skip these! It might interrupt your chances of landing in an interview.

8. Sell your fish

Remember you have to market yourself through your resume. However, never overdo it, as you might end up blowing your own trumpet. As long as you avoid this, your marketing efforts are sure to fetch you a job.

9. Length of your resume

No matter how long you have worked, never let your resume run for more than one or two pages at the maximum. Bear in mind that no one will have the patience to flip them. Keep it short and to the point.

10. Read and re-read

Once you are done, proof read your resume. Check for spelling errors, facts and other important factors. You could also take help from a friend, family or someone who has more experience than yourself.

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