Dear reader, we know that a resume is an important part of getting a job. But what makes a good resume? What does a good resume consist of? Well after a
workshop I attended recently in campus, I now know and am happy to share with all of you.
Firstly, the two most commonly used terms for the document we submit
to potential employers in hopes of securing a job. Curriculum Vitae (CV) and
Resume, what is the difference? Well nothing really, it is just that CV is the
term used for more accomplished professionals with years and years of
experience and Resume is the term used for fresh graduates and professionals
with less experience. Aside from that, it is the exact same thing. There is no
exact format or design for resumes and it would actually be better if yours
looks unique. Rule no. 1, NEVER follow an online template! Human Resource
managers will know just by looking at it. Here are the dos and don’ts on good
resume writing.
Dos:
- Be Honest
- Current achievements and awards
only
- Clean design, clear headings and
straightforward writing.
- Use active words
- Be result oriented and give only
highlights of roles, responsibilities and tasks
- State, qualify and quantify
actions. Eg: produced a communications plan that generated an outreach increase
of over 50% for the company.
- Is easy to read
- Use bullets and bolds
- Standardise everything
- Proof read and ensure zero
errors.
- Have a few referees if possible
- Ideally one page but a maximum of
two pages.
Don’ts:
- Put Private Details such as your
passport number, ID number, height, weight, religion, marital status, race
or gender.
- Attach a photo (you will be
judged on your looks)
- Add irrelevant information
- Use all CAPITALS
- Use passive words
- Use clichés such as “team player”,
“born leader”, “highly motivated”, “Able to multitask”, “think creatively”.
Rephrase instead to what you did and its outcomes
- Share everything under the sun
like your hobbies or favourite food
- Have more than two pages
- State Referees upon request (it
sound pompous, so either provide referees or leave it out)
- Lie, overstate values or
oversell yourself.
Hope this post will help any of you who don’t know where to begin
when writing a resume. I knew I didn’t. Also don’t forget to attach your resume
in the appendix section of your report, just saying. *cough*
All the best dear
PR393 mates, in finishing up this unit and job hunting.
Cheers,
Josephine Joeyna
