Top 5 Resume Design Musts
Learning how to write a good resume can be quite a daunting task. You need an expert with solid advice to share to help you write a resume that isn’t just OK but is a good resume that helps you get the job. Follow the top 5 design musts for learning to write a good resume.
1) You MUST Use Consistent Structure – make sure everything that is bolded, italicized, underlined, tabbed, etc in one section is done the same way in each section. There should be consistency through the resume to create a “flow”. The readers eye should be easily able to move through the resume without getting caught on inconsistencies. The best way to accomplish this is to have someone else proofread your resume each and every time you revise it for any reason – and periodically when you haven’t revised just to make sure you have the opportunity to catch something you may have missed before.
2) You MUST Always Have An Objective – do not skip this – it is the most important part of the resume and tells the employer what you want and relates your resume to the specific employer you are applying with.
3) Eliminate the “References Provided Upon Request” line. This is an old cliché about what is necessary on a resume. This is really a total no-brainer. Employers already know this – either you will provide references if asked to or you won’t get the job – so it’s a given. No need to put it on there at all. There are better uses of your valuable resume real estate.
4) Education or Experience – always put first the area where you have the most credibility. If you are a new graduate, it’s OK not to have lots of experience – that would be expected. So really make your education credentials stand out. Never fabricate anything, however, put as much detail into your accomplishments in education as you can, for instance, good GPA or awards received. If you do not have a formal education but many years of experience, play up the relevant experience angle and place this before education in the design of your resume. It is also great in your cover letter to explain in detail any areas you may be lacking in and how you intend to overcome the deficiencies.
5) Keep Your Resume to 2 Page and You MUST Attach a Cover Letter – You should keep your resume to 1-2 pages. One page is better but if you have more than five years of experience, it will be difficult to get it to one page. Just don’t drag it out more than it needs to be – keep it as compact and easily readable. Over 2 pages is not recommended and is really pushing the envelope but may be appropriate for certain positions or for longer-term careers that simply require more detail. Remember, the longer it is, the easier it better be to read and scan and the more specific highlights should stand out so that the reader can quickly and easily assess the candidate against the needs of the position. The cover letter is so often overlooked. It is your opportunity to sell yourself in a more personal manner – in a way you might if you were just having a conversation. This is where you “shine” – really stand out from other candidates. You will also stand out from many candidates just by having one when others do not.
Follow the MUSTS of Resume Design and pull yourself out of the bottom of the pile for a nice cushy place on the top. Learn how to write a good resume early in your life for an advantage throughout your career.
To Your Success,
Abbey McGuire
Take Action Today to Change Your Life Tomorrow…
Abbey McGuire offers many years of experience in employee coaching, training and development as well as human resources. She has been marketing online for approximately eight months with her most recent venture joining the Wealth Magnet System. Abbey lives by the idea “Take Action Today to Change Your Life Tomorrow…” Only you can take the necessary action to get what you want from life. Success to You!!
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