Five Resume Writing Tips That Will Improve Your Career

Julie Shenkman
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Think of it this way - when you go shopping, chances are, you make a purchase because you have seen the product advertised. What grabbed your attention? The ad, the product description, the benefits, or the packaging? This is the way your resume should be presented, as an advertisement that highlights YOUR relevant skills, accomplishments, and answers the employer's question. "What can this candidate do to solve our problems?"

Organization of information

The data presented in your resume needs to be easy for the recipient to read and understand quickly. Create a highly visible and attention-grabbing section - this must be located at the top of the first page. Remember you have five to twenty seconds to grab their attention - make it count. This is the summary section and also where you include keywords, without making it obvious. You can have the best credentials and accomplishments for the position, but if they are poorly presented you can easily be overlooked for the position of your dreams.

Valuable and convincing content

This is imperative and will certainly decide whether you secure an interview. Write powerful statements that match the skills, abilities, and qualifications to the company's needs. Many job seekers have difficulty writing their resume and emphasizing how their skills relate to the position.

Let your personality shine

It is a well-known fact that hiring managers hire candidates with a pleasing personality. Words used in a resume can convey a personality that sets you apart from the rest of the candidates. Use vocabulary that interests the reader rather than dull sentences that will make them put your resume in the "NO" pile.

Class and professionalism

Understand that your documents must demonstrate and display your "best" work. Would you hire yourself if your resume was in a stack of 1000 others? To ensure professionalism, send a cover letter that is addressed to the hiring manager - make sure the name is spelt correctly. Do not fold your documents - send in a full sized envelope. If you are unable to personally deliver the resume, send it by overnight express to make a "powerful and lasting entrance".

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