Resume Help Blog

A majority of people make the same mistake when it comes time to write their  resume. Most forget to develop their resume from the employer’s point of view, an absolute must if you want that interview.

Within seconds of glancing at your resume they want to know several things about you. Your job is to make it “plain as your face” obvious who you are, what job you’re seeking and what you have to offer them.

When sifting through resumes, most employers and recruiters know exactly what they’re looking for. Resumes that meet their expectations are ones that respond to all of the following questions:

• Who are you? To determine how well your resume addresses this, we suggest having friends or colleagues read it. Give them about ten seconds then snatch it back from them and ask them what they know about you as a job seeker. If they can’t give you a quick answer that truly describes you, your resumes summary needs to go back to the drawing board.

• What can you do for me? The most effective way to show employers the value you offer is to show them how you’ve contributed to another employer’s success. This summary must be specific and compelling or you will be perceived as having made the facts up. You must be specific with the facts that cite numbers and other details.

• Do you have the skills I’m looking for? Scan job ads and job descriptions to determine which skills seem the most relevant to the employers and recruiters receiving your resume. The same thing applies as when you do web page entries. In that case it is keywords, same application here. Strategically place them throughout your resume to ensure it makes it past computer scans and into the hands of employers and recruiters.

• Previous employers? This one should be simple. Employers want to know where you worked, for how long and what you did.

• Is your experience relevant to my needs? Sometimes it’s necessary to stress a job title or job description. Don’t exaggerate, be truthful but truly demonstrate that you have the experience for the job you’re applying for.

• Do you have the right education and credentials for the job you are applying for? Do you have the education, credentials and training needed to qualify for the job, if so don’t be bashful, be sure to say so! Important: Use commonly accepted terminology and keywords in this section to ensure your information isn’t overlooked by employers or resume scanners.