Resume Re-do

There's an old saying, "you never get a second chance to make a first impression". That fact holds true in any case and even on a resume. A resume is your first impression to your new and potential employer. Nothing is really more important than that first impression. You need to stand out from the crowd and that old, worn-out resume you used 3, 5, 10 years ago just isn't going to cut it.

So, what to do? Take that old resume out of the filing cabinet and knock the cobwebs off of it. Do a resume re-do. You have the same experience and now you've added to it. Punch it up.

• The first thing to remember is to make it relevant to the job you are seeking. One of the best things to add is your "objective statement". This leaves no doubt in the employers mind what position you are applying for. You can add your objective statement to the resume or cover letter just put it in there somewhere.
• Always use action words such as managed, determined; just don't overuse the same word to display your abilities.
• That brings us to the next tidbit of advice. Play up your abilities to their best, make your experience shine. Do not create abilities you do not have. In other words, never LIE.
• Be the most positive person they ever read about. Don't let any negativity creep into your resume. This is your opportunity to show all the great things about yourself, it is your very own and first promotional tool you'll use to win this employer over. Don't waste it.
• Use bullets, much like these to highlight your talents. Short and sweet is the best way to go.
• Font size is important. It should never be less than a 10 point font. Employers or hiring managers look at a lot of resumes. Don't make them have to strain to read yours. Also, use a standard font; this is no place for the fancy stuff.
• Resumes, as a rule, should be no longer than two pages. The older standard was one page but you can go two so you get in all your best points and to keep it neat. Just remember that a longer resume does not constitute a more qualified or better educated individual. It could just be full of junk.
• Keep the resume very interesting, concise, to the point. Don't let the employer get bored.
• Have an objective friend look it over. Ask, "Would you hire me on the basis of this resume"? Listen to their advice as they could point out something confusing or even tell you some talent you missed.

Now get out there and apply.

Tags & Keywords : Resume, help, advice, jobs