The competition is tight regardless of the industry and it’s crucial to get things right every step of the way when looking for a new job. While a great personality and skills can help you get the job, the first thing employers are going to look at is your resume. So, before uploading one at JobStream App, here are a few expert resume writing tips you could use.
Table of Contents
Pay Attention to Format
Not many pay attention to their resume’s format. This is the first thing you need to work on when writing a resume since you want one that’s structured, easy to read, and effectively highlights the most important parts.
Choose the type of resume you’d like to use. It can be functional, reverse-chronological, or a mix of both (combination). The choice typically depends on what you want to highlight, but the most popular one is the combination resume.
The top part of your resume should have your:
- Name
- Contact details
- Photo
Then use subheadings in the body to make it easier for the reader to find the information they’re looking for, this includes:
- Professional background
- Achievements
- Certifications and trainings
- References
Keep It Simple and Consistent
An easy to read, direct to the point resume is what you need. Use easy to read fonts and use the same one throughout your CV. Write the subheadings in bold or use a slightly bigger size to help draw attention. Keep in mind that recruitment goes through hundreds of resumes regularly and it’s easy to lose interest in one that’s hard to read or understand.
If you’re in the creative field, it’s alright to apply a dash of creativity onto your resume, just keep in mind that it needs to be legible and easy on the eyes.
It Should Be Focused and Professional
Your resume is a brief introduction to your professional competencies, make sure to keep it to just 2-3 pages max, enough to pique the prospective employer’s interest. You can tell them more about yourself during the interview.
Starting with your most recent (or current) job, write a brief job description of each professional experience. Make sure to include your achievements during your stay at the organization. Keeping your resume professional also means paying attention to your verbiage and choice of words. Keep in mind that it’s always about quality over quantity—your statements need to be concise yet impactful.
It’s Who You Know
Do not downplay the importance of character references. If you know someone at the company you’re looking to join, let them know about it and make sure to put them down as a reference. Former superiors and influential people also make good character references, granted you’ve worked with them and they can back you up with your application.
Proofread and Revise
This is one of the crucial steps in writing a resume yet many skip it. Prospective employers need to ensure they’re making the right choice and a typo or incorrect grammar can easily get you off the list. Proofread your resume and have someone else proofread it, too. Make any necessary revisions until you’re happy with the final copy.
Getting ahead of the competition requires more than just talent. Candidates need to know how to catch the employer’s attention and keep them interested enough to schedule you for an interview. With these tips and some good confidence, you’re on your way to landing your next online job in the Philippines.