Sunday, April 11, 2010

6 Tips for a Mind-Blowing Resume

By Sarah Herbert


When it comes to looking for a job in this economy it is apparent that jobs are scarce and the environment is competitive. Having a resume that stands out and portrays you at your best is essential when landing a new position. Here are a few tips that will help you in your search.

1. Use an easy to read format. Remember, sometimes your resume is what will mark your first impression. Make sure that your resume contains information that is relevant to your prospective employer and arrange it on the paper so that there is plenty of white space.

2. Always include a Job Objective. Employers not only want to see where you have been but also where you plan to go. It does not have to be long, one carefully worded sentence is enough.

3. Always include a cover letter. This is where you can show your savvy communication and writing skills.

4. Don’t hesitate to change your resume so that it addresses the needs of the employer and the specific skills they are looking for.

5. According to Yana Parker, author of Damn Good Resume (http://damngood.com/), your resume is about you and your undertakings. Parker states, “It’s not just about past jobs! It’s about YOU, and how you performed and what you accomplished in those past jobs—especially those accomplishments that are most relevant to the work you want to do next” (http://www.damngood.com/jobseekers/tips.html).

6. Follow up, follow up, follow up! When you drop off your resume, ask if you can follow up and who to contact. This shows diligence and persistence.

Good Luck!

2 comments:

  1. Sarah, your blog was perfect for me because the tips that you provided will prove to be most helpful in tweaking my resume. Thank you so much!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. You are welcome. I am glad you can benefit from it.

    ReplyDelete