How To Write The Perfect Resume

Did you know that it takes six seconds for hiring managers to make an initial fit or no fit decision when they look at the resume of an applicant? As such, a resume is your very own marketing tool. The product? Yourself.

So whether you’re a fresh grad or you’re looking for your next job, it’s important to know how you can set yourself above the rest. In this competitive market, you have to sell yourself as the perfect fit for the job position. And that all starts with a perfect resume.

CUSTOMIZE

First of all, tailor your resume to the position you’re applying for. If the position you’re aiming for is on the creative side, your resume should be creative to show your individuality. If it’s on the professional side, then keep it professional. Keep in mind that for them to find the “perfect” candidate, you need to present what you can do for the company.

MAKE IT APPEALING AND FUNCTIONAL

A perfect resume is one that is attractive and easy to read. Don’t cram in too much information. With hiring managers reviewing hundreds and thousands of applications, too much is actually a disadvantage. They won’t take the time to read through all of it. Remember the six seconds I mentioned before? Always keep that in mind. In a resume, less is more.

BE SPECIFIC

Like I mentioned before, too much information is a big NO. Don’t include such information like your hobbies and interests, unless it’s aligned to the job. You need to also use the right keywords. For example, Roxanne Peplow, a career advisor, said:

“So if a job posting says that they are looking for a ‘certified phlebotomist with 2-plus years of experience in a hospital setting,’ then you better have that somewhere in your qualifications.”

SHORT BUT DETAILED

You have to take note that a perfect resume is a short but powerful advertisement of yourself. The purpose of a resume is to get you an interview, a step closer to land the job. Ever heard the phrase “brief but pregnant”? That’s your motto when writing your resume. Here’s an example from Rockport Institute:

SELECTED SKILLS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Raised $1,900 in 21 days in canvassing and advocacy on environmental, health and consumer issues.
• Conducted legal research for four Assistant U.S. Attorneys, for the U.S. Attorney’s office
• Coordinated Board of Directors and Community Advisory Board of community mental health center. Later commended as “the best thing that ever happened to that job.”

With these tips, you’ll be able to write your very own perfect resume! In fact, if you’re looking for a job, why not check out our job openings and send us your resume? Let’s see if it’s indeed the perfect resume.