Never underestimate the importance of writing an eye catching resume! This could be the first impression that an employer will have of you and you want to make it unforgettable. It is well known that employers only spend around 5-10 seconds reviewing a resume, so it is crucial that it makes an impression. The job market today is increasingly competitive and you need to have a professional resume that contains the right information so it will stand out among the countless other resumes that your potential employers are receiving.
Today I will answer the top 5 questions that I receive about resume writing.
- What should I include on my resume and what should I leave out?
Your resume should include the following qualities:
- Contact information such as your name, email address, one phone number, and LinkedIn profile URL.
- You should keyword optimize your resume so that it will effectively move beyond an ATS system.
- List your accomplishments, awards, and achievements to show the employer how you would contribute to their company.
- Quantification will show prospective employers that you are capable of strategic planning, leading a team, and growing their business.
- Remember that you do not need to include every single detail about your job. You do want to include high-impact achievements that are relevant to the position you are pursuing.
- How do I cut down the length of my resume?
Remember, you do not need to include every single detail about your role as a Project Manager. If you try to include too much information on your resume, it will appear cluttered and unorganized. I recommend limiting your resume to two pages by cutting any excess or unimportant information.
- Why can’t I use one resume for every position?
You will be making a huge mistake if you do not tailor your resume to the job that you are seeking. You will only stand out from other resumes by customizing your resume to each job! If you are not incorporating the proper keywords and showing your prospective employer irrefutable evidence that you would be a fantastic fit, then you may be passed up for that coveted interview. Remember, the more your resume matches the job description, the more likely they will consider you for an interview.
- Which resume format is best: reverse chronological or functional?
Most hiring managers will thank you for writing your resume in a reverse chronological format. This format will allow them to easily see what you did and where. One of the greatest reasons for using this format is that it will show your impressive career growth. Employers love to see upward mobility when it comes to your job titles and responsibilities. If you are pursuing a career change, then a functional or mixed format may be better for you.
- Should I include an interests section on my resume?
It is not necessary to include your interests (golfing, wine tasting, table tennis, etc.) If your interests or experience are crucial to the position that you are pursuing, then I recommend that you add a section that highlights your community involvement.
Your resume is an extremely important document and it can help you land your next career. These are just a few questions that I hear frequently. I completely understand that updating your resume and tailoring it to every single position that you apply to can be a daunting task. The Resume Assassin would be happy to help if you have any questions. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Mary Southern, Founder of Resume Assassin