Resume Tips
Your resume is the first thing a potential employer will see from you. Make sure you take time planning and thinking about your resume, which is not just an overview of your technical skills but should also demonstrate your written, communication and organisational skills.
Your resume can make you stand out from the crowd and persuade the employer to move your application onto the next stage. Remember, there may be many people applying for the same job. So why should an employer shortlist you above others?
Things to triple check: spelling, dates of employment, tenses. Read and re-read: spell check will not pick up on all errors, punctuation or misused words (e.g. Manger instead of Manager).
What about my references?
You should have three recent referees available to provide references for you.
Your referees should be people who can provide detailed responses on how well you performed your tasks and responsibilities, they should be someone you actually reported to and you must get their permission first.
Keep in contact with your referees, especially when you are actively seeking a new role as it is likely that someone will call them and ask about you.
Resume do’s
- Make sure your resume is easy to read, concise and to the point.
- Address each selection criteria listed in the job advertisement and make sure these are also listed in the body of your resume.
- Stick to short sentences and keywords.
- List your outcomes and achievements – not just your daily activity.
- Be sure to focus on what you can do for the employer, include specific examples.
- Always quantify your past achievements and experiences.
- Use a font that is easily legible – take extra pages if needed to explain your relevant experience.
- Be specific. Keep to the point and include only what will sell your skills and abilities.
- Use white space in your resume. It’s easier to digest and looks better than a cluttered resume