- Career Development
DO
Include any experience (previous employment) you’ve had that is relevant to the job for which you are applying.
If the job you had previously is quite different from the job you’re aiming for now, focus on qualities that helped you excel in that position that might overlap or be helpful in the next role. Leadership abilities, organization, collaboration, and creativity are always things an employer wants to hear about.
DO
Make sure you have your contact information on the document.
You can’t get the job if they can’t contact you!
DO
Include any training, courses, certifications, or experience outside of work or school that have helped prepare you for this job.
Related hobbies and spare time endeavors can show how passionate you are about growing your expertise.
DON’T
Don’t make your resume too long.
Your work experience and education should be able to fit neatly on one page. Your resume is a highlight reel, not a chapter book. If you truly can’t fit all of your experience, education, and expertise on one page, go ahead and expand if necessary – but just make sure the document stays concise and focused.
DON’T
Don’t make your resume too short.
Your resume should be a complete, full page. If you don’t have enough entries to really fill the page, play with formatting to give a sense of fullness – but make sure you’re saying enough about you, your experience, and your qualities that make you a standout. Don’t skimp on the sell!
DON’T
Don’t be too crazy with style or formatting.
You want your resume to stand out and be memorable because of the excellent experience you’ve highlighted, not because of the wacky layout you chose. This is a professional document so strike the right balance; creativity works, chaos does not.
Presentation starts on paper. You can’t get the job without the interview, but you can’t get the interview without the resume. A clear and compelling document is a must have for any job search or college application. Reach out to schedule a free one-on-one resume coaching session.