When applying for a job, there are a lot of things that you must keep in mind. One of the most important things you must remember is to create a well-written resume. You must create a unique resume that is unique and interesting enough to catch the hiring managers’ attention. However, creating a resume can be difficult, especially if you are a fresh graduate or if you are not used to creating one. In this very competitive industry, quality is everything. You can use a resume format if you are wondering how to organize your resume. There are a lot of websites that offer formats for resumes to help you organize the information better. But before you start writing your resume, you must first know the basics.
What is a resume?
A resume is a document that is submitted when you are applying for a job. The purpose of the document is to show how qualified an applicant is for the job hiring.
What should a resume contain?
The basic elements of a resume are your personal information like name, address, contact numbers, and email address. The goal contains a statement that shows your objective for the job search. Your educational background, where you studied, the city and state, the fate of your graduation, and certificates and awards you’ve received that are relevant to the position you are applying for. You must also include your work history and other work-related experiences like freelancing projects, internships, and even summer jobs that are relevant. Your resume should also contain your soft and hard skills and some hobbies. Make sure that the hobbies you include would reflect your character, mindset, and personality.
What are the types of resume formats?
- Chronological – In the chronological resume format, you are to list your work history in reverse. You being with your most recent job and then going backward. This type of format is best suited if you have a steady employment history. This will also show your responsibilities and job titles along with the dates. This will highlight your growth as an employee, which can be your strength. If you have lapses in your job record, it is best to avoid this format.
- Functional – The functional or skill-based format, from its name, highlights the skills you have. The names, specific dates, and places aren’t required in this format. Even if you do not have a very consistent work history, you can make up for it using your skills. This format is best for fresh graduates with little to no work experience. This format also suits you if you are changing career paths or just doing freelance work.
- Combination – From its name, the combination format has the features of chronological and functional mixed together. The good thing about this format is it is more balanced. This format showcases both your skills and development. This format is best for those with a decent work history with little to no gaps and great skills. This allows you to show the skills you have developed through the years. Not only will they see how your responsibilities and job titles have improved, but they will also see your skill growth. Your hiring managers will experience the best of both worlds.
Now that you know the basics, here are some tips that may help you in writing your resume:
- Keep it short and direct to the point.
- Do not add irrelevant and unnecessary details.
- Find the best format for your situation. Your weaknesses can be highlighted if your format does not suit your situation.
- Reread the job description and use the keywords there in your resume.
- Never reuse resumes even if the job descriptions of the other job you are applying for are similar.
- Make it unique to stand out.
- Have a good opening and ending statement to catch the hiring managers’ attention.