Tips for Writing an Effective Resume, Study notes of Communication and Presentation Skills

Download Tips for Writing an Effective Resume and more Study notes Communication and Presentation Skills in PDF only on Docsity! DOCSITY Notes by Hussain Afzal RESUME  A resume is one of the most important tools in the job-seeking process. It’s the first contact most employers have with a potential employee, so properly constructing the resume is the first step in the job-seeking journey. Writing a resume can seem like a daunting task, especially to those with limited experience in the field. However, by following a few simple steps, anyone can create a standout resume.  When creating a resume, it’s important to keep it succinct and professional while also showcasing accomplishments and qualifications. Follow these tips and tricks to create an effective resume:  First, select a format. There are four main types of resume formats: chronological, functional, combination (also known as hybrid or chrono-functional) and targeted. Chronological is the most commonly used in the United States, but the other two formats can be used for those with limited prior experiences, as they emphasize specific qualifications needed for the position.  Second, quantify accomplishments and use key skills words. Employers need to be able to quickly and accurately gauge how well someone can perform a job, so it’s best to use quantifiable measures for accomplishments and skills. For example, if someone was in a customer service role, instead of saying “worked with clients,” they should write “served over 1,000 client requests within the allotted time frame.” Also, use keywords from the job advertisement in the resume to show that the applicant is qualified for the position.  Third, start with a comprehensive list of every job and educational experience, then cull it down to the relevant experiences. Included experiences should be ordered by relevance and if needed, each can have a brief description of the duties performed.  Fourth, review several resume examples. Knowing what a good resume looks like and what format and content should be used is key to constructing a successful one. Find an example online or from a friend, mentor, or career counselor that captures the position one is applying for, then model their resume after it.  Last, ensure that the resume is proof-read. Grammatical errors and typos appear unprofessional and can easily be avoided by running spell-check software, asking a friend to read it, and/or having a professional review it.  Having a great resume can help a potential employee stand out from the crowd and land the desired job. By following these steps, applicants free themselves up to focus on researching employers and honing their interview skills.