If you are planning your career change or just need to update your resume here are “ Ten Principles” for Powerful Resumes.
- Remember that a resume is a marketing tool, not a complete chronology of a lifetime of work. Content should be selectively chosen using the “self as product” mind-set.
- Realize the primary purpose of a resume: to get the interview, not a job – at least not directly. Remember that the job search is a two-part process. The first part is marketing oneself sufficiently on paper for (or networking) to get the interview. The second part is selling oneself in person at the interview to ultimately get the job.
- Lead with your best tangible skills. Many job seekers make the mistake of putting their “soft” skills in the first third of their resume. This is usually not what screeners are most interested in.
- Customize the resume for each job opening applied for.
- Use a combination functional/chronological resume (especially with recruiters). This format provides you with the ability to effectively showcase your skills up front.
- Begin the resume with “Summary of Qualifications” instead of Job Objectives followed by a list core competencies. Follow this first section with your career accomplishments. The reader should be able to identify you as a potential candidate by reading just these sections. Of course your chronological list of jobs and education will follow these sections.
- Follow design protocol. Use standard-size paper, white or cream in color. As well as standard fonts such as Times Roman, Arial, or Helvetica, print in black ink. This will help convey a professional impression.
- Consolidate your background into no more than two pages.
- Avoid any unnecessary information, but include all that is required. Be sure that your name and phone number appear on all pages of the resume.
- A good resume, like any good marketing tool, entices the reader to want to know more. Don’t be afraid to accurately demonstrate your strengths and talents.
