How to Write a Resume to Stand Out from the Crowd
The Access HR Team | 1 Mar 2009 1:14 PM
The resume that you submit to an organization is the first impression the person recruiting has of you. In that brief moment you need to get their attention, show that you are a professional and talented candidate, and most importantly get them to ring you. Therefore, it is not just the contents of the resume which is important it is also the layout and how it is written.
Your resume is the key to getting your dream role, and is essential that you get it right.
As with covering letters, Access HR has a service to assist you in standing out from all the rest, and receiving the longed for phone call. If you would like further assistance with your resume or covering letter please contact Access HR on 9544 1899.
What is a resume?
A resume is a professional introduction that is used to encourage a face-to-face interview with a potential candidate established from the skills and experience portrayed in the resume.
What should I write in my resume?
- Begin with your contact details such as your name, address, phone number and email address
- Career Objective
- Education / Qualifications details. Include institutes and dates attended and which course you completed
- Skills. Any computer and non-technical skills you have
- Employment History. Include company name, duration of employment, position, duties/responsibilities and achievements.
- References: professional and business. It is also acceptable to write “References available upon request”. Although if you are applying to job criteria they may request references to be given with the application.
What should I avoid when writing my resume?
It is very easy to write “too much” when writing your resume. Try to keep resumes to as little pages as possible, on average aim for 2 – 3 pages.
Leaving “gaps” in your resume is not a good idea, it allows for the person reading it to make assumptions on what you were doing in that time. Instead of leaving gaps where you didn’t work, write what you were doing for that period of time whether it is maternity leave or full time study. E.G. 1995 – 1996: Full time parent.
How should I write my resume?
The Chronological format of a resume is a lot more preferred by employers than a Functional format. Functional format is where you place the jobs with the skills needed for the position you are going for first under Employment History. This way can be confusing to read and comprehend. Chronological order is date order, from the most recent position you had.
When writing your employment history, try to list your duties and responsibilities in bullet points rather than big paragraphs. It needs to be easy to read so that your potential employer can scan through and know your experience. Bullet points also help key points stand out.
If you have several career objectives, then write one for each different employer you send your resume to. They will appreciate a personalized resume over a generic one.
Date of birth and other personal data such as marital status is your own preference. Just keep in mind that your aim is to get the recruiter / company to call you.