The first thing a recruiter will come across when looking at your resume is your overall presentation. Recruiters are busy people who have no time to waste on a badly presented resume. The only place for a badly presented resume is the bin as recruiters won't bother looking at it twice.
So how does one create a pleasing resume that recruiters won't find insulting? Simple, follow the tips below:
1. Research as much as you can about the company, it's goals, profits, working environment etc before you start to write your resume. If the company has a website, as most companies do nowadays, take a look. Focus on the language style and what type of words are used. Use a similar tone in your resume. If the company doesn't have a website you can visit it on the premises and look for brochures, sales leaflets etc.
2. Keep a copy of the job advert. Underline key words that the company wants a prospective employee to have. When you are writing your resume take in account what the recruiter is asking for. If they want a person with a certain degree or skill and you possess it then don't be shy and try and hide your talent.
3. Using the underlined words and the employers requirements do a brainstorm. How do you match up to the expectations? What skills do you possess? Education? Relevant job experience?
4. Start off with placing your name, address, telephone number and an email address. Make sure there are NO spelling mistakes.
5. If you are going to write an objective make it clear and to the point. Use two-to-three sentences to describe in general your qualifications, skills or knowledge. Make it unique and original so don't go copying from the internet. If you can't then just skip adding the objective altogether.
6. When you are writing about your education make sure you add the date when you attended the college/school/university. If it has been a while you should still add this information and make sure it is correct. If you need to spend some time doing research then do it. Even if you don't think it is relevant and decide not to include it the recruiter may view this as a warning sign and think you are trying to hide something.
7. As with education you need to add your job history. Include all the jobs you have had for the past 10 years. Include the name of the company, the name of you role, your responsibilities and the dates as to when you started and finished work. If there are any gaps explain why.
8. You can now add an 'Additional Skills' section to your resume. Add any training you may have taken whilst in your previous jobs, such as Health and Safety, customer satisfaction etc. If you have knowledge of certain software, such as MS Word, MS Excel etc add it.
9. Many recruiters do like you to add an interests section to your resume. It helps them to understand the person behind the resume. They DO NOT want your whole life's story. Use relevant interests to paint a picture as to how you are good for the job, for example playing a team sport such as football could show you are willing to work as part of a team. If you volunteer it could show that you are someone who is willing to participate in your local community and help others.
10. Do not add names in the references section. Instead type 'references available upon request.' That is unless the employer has specifically asked you for them. Ask permission from the people before putting them down.
11. Do not use fancy fonts. Don't make the font too small or large, keep it in Times New Roman font and size 12 should be fine. Using fancy font will get the recruiters attention but not for the right reason. It looks silly and childish, you want to create a professional image of yourself.
12. Before you print off your resume or send it off make sure you check and re-check it for any grammatical errors. Ensure the language is simple and easy to read.
13. Get someone who has good English skills to check your resume. They can point out any mistakes before you send your resume.
14. Do not keep repeating yourself. It's boring and unimaginative.
15. Your resume should be no longer then 2 pages. If it is then edit it.
16. Many employers give instructions as to how to apply. They may ask you to write a reference number or a certain method of sending your resume, such as email. Make sure you abide by those rules.
Attach a cover letter with your resume as a brief introduction. (To learn how to write a good cover letter click here). Good luck with your new job!