There are always conflicting opinions about resumes, and it’s no wonder since a well done resume will probably be one of the things that puts you over the top and lands you that job you really want to get. It’s often the first thing of you that an employer will see and also what will get your foot in the door for the interview, your chance to shine.
How long should it be? What should be on it? Does it look O.K.?
There’s a lot riding on a resume, and being concerned is totally acceptable. Here are some things to keep in mind when you are constructing your resume:
Avoid typos. At all costs. Even one might just cost you the job you want to get.
You’re still pretty young, so using more than one page on your resume is pushing it. Keep it clear, simple, to the point and on a single page.
Make sure it looks good. Show it to several people and see if they think it’s an attractive document, as well as free of typos.
Write in an active voice with active verbs. Keep pronouns (I, me, you) and unnecessary articles (a, an, the) out of your resume.
Stick to one font. Make sure it’s simple, readable and conservative –– no crazy fonts. Fonts like Times New Roman, Arial Narrow, Georgia, and Tahoma are all good bets.
Make sure your contact info is correct for you and your references. Double-check it.
Let your references know you’re using them! Employers will call them and you don’t want them to be caught off guard –– if they’re not aware they are a reference, they might not give the best recommendation they could!
Pass the skim test. Make the resume meaningful; don’t clutter it with unnecessary information or autobiographical (hobbies, relationships, etc…) details. Don’t repeat yourself, too.
List work experience in reverse chronological order, from most recent to oldest (again, you do not have to list every single one, if they’re not relevant).
Be detailed, avoid broad or vague statements. Rather than “worked in office,” talk about skills and tasks or achievements involved with working in the office.
INTERVIEW TIPS
Don’t be late! Get there at least 10 or 15 minutes early. You’re there for them, they’re not there to accommodate for you.
Dress to impress, but don’t be too flashy. Keep it simple, conservative, neat.
Be professional: maintain eye contact, speak clearly, sit with good posture and, please, cell phones off.
Listen. No, really, listen –– be polite, thoughtful, and engaged.
Be yourself when you speak. Avoid using “slang” at all costs. When you’re asked a question, answer it. Don’t hijack the conversation or avoid questions.
Be prepared. Keep several copies of your resume and relevant letters of recommendation handy.
Sell yourself. Don’t be boastful, or too modest, but make yourself seem as valuable as possible.
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