Building a Standout Resume: Do’s and Don’ts

Introduction

Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers. Creating a standout resume can be the key to securing an interview and landing your dream job. To help you craft a compelling resume, here are some essential do’s and don’ts to remember.

Do’s

Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Customise your resume for each job application. Carefully read the job description and highlight the key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Tailor your resume to emphasise your most relevant experiences and accomplishments that align with the job requirements.

Use a Clean and Professional Layout

Choose a simple, clean, professional resume layout. Use a standard font like Arial or Times New Roman, and keep the formatting consistent throughout the document. Ensure there is plenty of white space to make it easy to read.

Start with a Strong Summary or Objective

Begin your resume with a strong summary or objective statement. This should be a compelling overview of your qualifications and career goals. Tailor it to the job you are applying for to grab the employer’s attention.

Quantify Your Achievements

Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements. This provides concrete evidence of your accomplishments and helps potential employers understand your impact in previous roles. For example, “Increased sales by 20%” or “Managed a team of 10 employees.”

Highlight Relevant Skills

Include a skills section highlighting your most relevant skills for the job. This can include hard skills (e.g., software proficiency, technical skills) and soft skills (e.g., communication, leadership). Be specific and use keywords from the job description.

Proofread for Errors

Proofread your resume multiple times to ensure no spelling or grammatical errors. Consider asking a friend or mentor to review it as well. An error-free resume reflects attention to detail and professionalism.

Use Action Verbs

Start your bullet points with strong action verbs such as “led,” “developed,” “managed,” or “achieved.” Action verbs make your resume more dynamic and emphasise your contributions and accomplishments.

Include Relevant Education and Certifications

List your educational background, including degrees, certifications, and any relevant coursework. If you have pertinent certifications, include them in a dedicated section.

Keep It Concise

If you have less than 10 years of experience, aim for a one-page resume. For more experienced professionals, two pages are acceptable. Focus on the most relevant information and avoid including unnecessary details.

Include Contact Information

Ensure your contact information is up-to-date and easy to find. Include your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile. Make sure your email address is professional.

Don’ts

Use a One-Size-Fits-All Resume

Avoid using the same resume for every job application. A generic resume that isn’t tailored to the specific job will likely be overlooked by employers.

Use Unprofessional Fonts or Layouts

Avoid using unprofessional fonts (e.g., Comic Sans) or overly creative layouts that make your resume difficult to read. Stick to a professional and clean design.

Include Irrelevant Information

Leave out information that isn’t relevant to the job you’re applying for. This includes outdated skills, unrelated job experiences, and personal details such as your age, marital status, or hobbies (unless they are directly relevant).

Lie or Exaggerate

Never lie or exaggerate on your resume. Employers can verify your information, and dishonesty can lead to losing a job offer or being terminated if discovered later.

Use Jargon or Acronyms

Avoid using industry jargon or acronyms that all readers may not understand. Use clear and concise language that can be easily understood by anyone reviewing your resume.

Overload with Graphics or Images

Refrain from including excessive graphics, images, or colours. These can distract from the content of your resume and may not be compatible with applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Neglect to Update Your Resume

Don’t forget to update your resume regularly. Ensure it reflects your most recent job experiences, skills, and accomplishments.

Include Salary Information

Don’t mention your current or desired salary on your resume. Salary discussions should be reserved for the interview stage or after a job offer.

Use Passive Language

Avoid using passive language or weak verbs like “responsible for.” Instead, use strong, active language to describe your experiences and achievements.

Forget to Include Keywords

Don’t neglect to include relevant keywords from the job description. Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes, and including keywords can increase your chances of passing the initial screening.

Conclusion

Creating a standout resume involves more than just listing your work experience and skills. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can craft a compelling resume that highlights your qualifications, catches the attention of employers, and increases your chances of landing an interview. Remember to tailor your resume for each job application, use clear and concise language, and proofread carefully to make a strong impression. With a well-crafted resume, you’ll be well on your way to securing your next job opportunity.