To get a recruiter to be interested in you, your resume should clearly, concisely, and strategically describe your qualifications. Your skills, experience, and assets should be included in your resume. Your resume should describe your professional accomplishments and show what you can do for employers. Unexpected job opportunities may arise. A modern, updated resume is key to a successful job hunt. These are the essential elements of a great resume.
How to Write a Resume
Your resume should be concise and clear
A resume is typically read by an employer in 30 seconds. They should be able to immediately see that you are qualified for this job.
You should proofread your resume many times
Make sure you don’t make any grammar or spelling mistakes. It is a good idea to have someone else review it. An employer can be put off by a simple spelling error on a resume. This can even stop you from being hired.
Keep your resume to no more than two pages
Your most recent experience should be the focus of your resume. You should eliminate or reduce experience and jobs that are older than 15 years. Employers can then focus their attention on the most relevant information.
Your resume should be tailored to the job you are applying for
Please list any relevant work experience and achievements you have that relate to the job you are applying for. This can be done by looking at the job description and the employer’s website.
Highlight the accomplishments
You should be able identify the most successful examples of your skills. These examples should reflect what you have done in your job and show what type of employee you are. This information should be included in the “Work Experience” section of your resume.
Be honest
It is not a good idea to lie on your resume. Employers will be misled if you exaggerate your abilities or achievements. Be confident in the skills and abilities you offer.
Your achievements can be quantified
Employers will be impressed by firm numbers. You can list the number of people you managed, the number of products you sold and how much you increased sales.
Use simple words and action verbs
Your resume may not be read by the employer every time. Human Resources specialists and recruiters can review resumes. Be simple and clear, but use persuasive verbs like handled, managed, led.
You can also include unpaid work to showcase your skills
You should include any volunteer work or volunteering experience with a prominent organization in your resume. These experiences should be included under the “Work experience” and “Volunteer work”, especially if they relate to the job you are applying for.
Double-check your contact information and add it to the list
On your resume, include your name, address and email. This information should appear at the top of your resume. This information must be accurate. If you don’t provide accurate information, your employer will not be able contact you.
Do not write a resume
Use an appropriate email address
Your email should be easy to read and type. It should also be professional and not offensive. Your email address should be based on you name. You should not include any nicknames, numbers or special characters.
Avoid including unnecessary personal information
It is best not to reveal any personal information such as weight, height, marital status or religious preference. This will avoid any bias. Lastly, do not include your Social Insurance Number on your resume.
Do not include a photo of yourself
While it is acceptable in certain countries to include a photograph, it is not a common practice in Canada. This can reduce your chances of getting a job and distract from the main point of your resume. Employers should be able to see your experience and skills, not your appearance.
Use only a few bullets
Limit each section of your resume to 5 bullet points. Employers will find it easier to read your resume and determine your potential. You should use each bullet point wisely, keeping it relevant and concise.
Use personal pronouns sparingly
Avoid using “I”, “my”, or “me”. Your resume should be written in third person as if it were being written by another person.
Do not simply list job responsibilities.
Your job title will make it clear what your job duties are. Instead, put your personal touch on your job duties by giving specific examples and highlighting your accomplishments.
Don’t make general statements
Avoid vague statements that do not highlight your contribution. Employers will not be provided with any information by vague statements like “Responsible to improve efficiencies and make cost savings”. Personalize your experience
Do not include reasons why you left your previous job.
Your resume should promote your achievements, skills, and experience. Your resume should only be positive and should not contain reasons to leave as they do not add value as candidates.
Refer to not
Referees are only required by employers if they are serious about hiring you. Refer to references on a separate sheet, and only provide them when requested.
Do not include hobbies and interests
Because potential employers may make judgments about your hobbies, it is best not to mention them. If your hobbies are relevant to the job, it is possible to include them if they can be used to show the employer that you are a good match.