A well-crafted resume is key to making a strong first impression. Follow these best practices to create a compelling resume that stands out.
1. Choose the Right Format
- Reverse Chronological – Best for most job seekers; lists experience starting with the most recent.
- Functional – Highlights skills over experience; ideal for career changers or those with employment gaps.
- Combination (Hybrid) – Blends skills and experience for a balanced approach.
2. Craft a Strong Summary or Objective
- A brief 2-3 sentence statement at the top of your resume.
- Summarize your skills, experience, and what you bring to the table.
- Tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for.
3. Highlight Key Skills
- Include a “Skills” section with hard and soft skills relevant to the job.
- Use industry-specific keywords to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
4. Focus on Achievements, Not Just Duties
- Instead of listing responsibilities, showcase quantifiable results.
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your
accomplishments.
- Example:
“Increased sales by 30% by implementing a new client outreach
strategy.”
5. Optimize for Readability
- Keep formatting clean with clear section headings.
- Use a professional, easy-to-read font (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roma).
- Maintain 1-inch margins and appropriate spacing.
6. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job
- Customize your resume by incorporating keywords from the job description.
- Align your experience with the job’s core requirements.
7. Keep It Concise
- Aim
for one page (unless you have extensive experience, in which case two pages are acceptable).
- Remove outdated or irrelevant jobs and details.
8. Include Essential Sections
- Contact Information: Name, phone, email, LinkedIn profile.
- Work Experience: List relevant roles with accomplishments.
- Education:
Include degrees and certifications.
- Certifications and Training: If applicable.
- Optional Sections: Volunteer work, publications, languages.
9. Proofread and Get Feedback
- Avoid spelling and grammar errors by proofreading carefully.
- Have a mentor, career coach, or friend review your resume.
10. Save and Send the Right Way
- Save as a PDF unless the job description specifies otherwise.
- Name the file professionally (e.g., JohnDoe_Resume.pdf).