Resumes are the most important part of job searching process. The right type of resume can be the difference between getting a call back or having your resume thrown away. There are a lot of mistakes that can stop you from getting a job. A resume is the first impression an employer gets of a job seeker so you have to make sure it is a very good one. The sections below are the most important and if done correctly, can get you the perfect job.
Your Objective
The objective is the first section on the resume. It lets the employer know what type of job you are looking for and should be very brief and to the point. If you want to add more information, omit the objective and just include a summary.
Your Summary
A summary is an abbreviated version of your job experience and education. Summaries should be included in every resume with large work histories. Employers don’t have time to read a long resume so a summary makes it easier for employers to make a quick decision if they want to go on to read the whole resume or discard it and move to the next one. Make sure all the experience, skills and education required and listed on the job is in the summary.
Your Experience
Your work history is the most important part of the resume. Make sure you include all the pertinent details in your job duties. If the job you are applying for requires a certain type of experience, put those qualifications in the spotlight by putting it first under the company contact information and including all the details of the task.
Your Education
Education doesn’t just include the schools and classes you attended, it also means volunteer and charity work. Include any special organizations, groups or sports you belonged to while you were in school or college. Applicants should include all the home office software and equipment you possess that can be used to perform the job.
Your References
Most people just say “references available upon request”. That’s okay, but the best method is to include a couple of references. It validates your experience and makes the employers trust you more.
Your Cover Letter
The cover letter is usually the first information the employer sees and includes what type of position you are looking and all the experience you have for the job. It’s like a personal sales letter to the employer to let them know why you would be perfect for the job. Keep the cover letter 3 paragraphs or less. Don’t include too much information because it could be overwhelming and turn off the employer.
Telecommuting Resumes
Telecommuters should include skills on the resume that are required to work at home such as separate phone lines, a quiet home office, reliable Internet service and a laptop.
Keep these tips in mind when you create a resume and cover letter. Get to the point and don’t include information that isn’t required. If an employer wants more information, they will ask you. You do not need a resume with a fantastic layout with special effects, a simple bold and bullet formatted resume will do just fine.
By S. Marie Surles, President of HEA-Employment.com