Top 20 Resume Writing Tips

Working on your resume. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

The Internet is filled with tips and tricks on how to create a winning resume. Some articles explain what sort of language to use; others offer advice on what information to include and what to leave out. And along with each article come numerous samples of resumes, from simple and straightforward to ornamented and outlandish. Sometimes, the sheer amount of information available about resume writing can feel overwhelming. Here we offer a concise, effective list of the best tips for writing an interview-winning resume.

1. Don’t assume a chronological format is your only option. While listing your job history sequentially is common, it may not be the best format for every job hunter. You might have taken a break from the labor force for any number of reasons: retirement, college education, kids, or just an inability to find work. Maybe you tried your hand at an entrepreneurial venture! When you decide to go back to work, there will be a gap in your years a part of the workforce, so a chronological resume may not be the best choice.
2. Don’t underestimate yourself. Everybody has something to offer, you just have to find that special something within yourself. Focus on the skills that you possess and which you think are needed at the company where you’re applying.
3. Highlight the areas that deserve the spotlight. Once you’ve identified your strongest skills, decide which of these you want to highlight in your resume. If you’re applying for a job in marketing, for example, you will want to emphasize your communication skills.
4. Anticipate future accomplishments. If you are pursuing a Bachelor’s degree or any other form of higher education but haven’t yet finished your program, include the expected completion date in your resume. For example, “Spring 2015 – Doctor of Philosophy in Medieval Trebuchet Building, Yale University (anticipated).”
5. Write about achievements, not tasks. A common mistake job hunters make is listing their job responsibilities or tasks, not their accomplishments. As a cashier, for example, instead of writing, “Took payments from customers,” this task could be reworded as, “Coordinated 45 transactions per day,” or, “Balanced money drawer at end of shift.” These sound more interesting, right?

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Article contributed by Almagreta