Resume Writing for the New Millennium – From TurboTaps.org
In the current job market, managers receive dozens of resumes. They do not have time to read lengthy listings of skills and complete life histories. For them, “less is more.” Here are some tips on creating the most effective resumes:
Know the goal: The goal of your resume should be to motivate employers to call you in for an interview. Then during your interview, you can discuss your background in as much detail as the employer desires.
There are pros and cons to placing a career objective at the top of your resume. For example, a career objective statement clearly and unambiguously tells potential employers what you are looking for; on the other hand, it limits your flexibility by locking you into a specific position. After you visit a Career One-Stop Center or attended a DOL Employment or Service equivalent employment workshop, you will be able to decide what is best for you.
If you decide not to write an objective, consider using a three- to five-line summary of qualifications that concentrates on the skills and past experience you have that the employer wants. This summary can show an employer your efforts to assess your background and match it as closely as possible to his or her needs. “Targeting” your resume to the employer\’s current needs will increase your rate of success in getting an interview. A “one-size-fits-all” resume will not work in today\’s job market
- Focus on skills: Employers are more interested in what youcan do, not what you want to do. Today\’s resume emphasizes skills, allowing the employer to compare your skills to those required for the job. (Remember, volunteering is considered real work experience, so don\’t forget to include appropriate volunteer work when preparing your resume.) Writing a skills-oriented resume is easier after you have completed your skills assessment.
- Don\’t fuss over format: Don\’t get hung up on which type of resume to use; most employers appreciate a job history that tells them what you did and when. You should also state your accomplishments. Again, performing a skills assessment will help you do this.
- Create a “scan-able” resume: More and more, companies are scanning—rather than reading—resumes, especially if they get a great number of them. There are many books available to help you design a “scan-able” resume. Research the company. Use their language where you can.
There is no “perfect” resume, but you have to feel comfortable with the format you choose and be familiar with what you have written. The employer will use your resume as the basis for asking detailed questions during your interview.
Create a one-minute verbal resume that quickly highlights your experience and skills. Then, practice delivering your one-minute resume aloud until you\’re comfortable. This will give you the confidence to answer the “Tell me something about yourself…” interview question.
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