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Every position you apply for represents a different opportunity, and each position is deserving of a uniquely tailored resume. To save time, you can use the same basic template for every resume.
It is very important, however, that you customize the details of your resume to address the unique requirements of each job you are applying for. Hiring managers are much more likely to be responsive to application materials that speak directly to their organization's needs.
An obviously generic resume, on the other hand, may be taken as a sign that you weren't sufficiently interested in the position to invest any extra time in the application process. Even a few personalized details can vastly increase your chances of success. You can use the following guidelines to customize your resume for each company you are contacting.
Formatting Your Resume
Create your resume in a format that is easily readable.
- Use standard fonts that are simple and easy to read, such as Arial, Helvetica, Future, Verdana and Times New Roman.
- Use font sizes ranging between 10 to 12 points.
- Justify the entire resume on the right and left.
- Provide enough space between headings to make the resume look uncluttered and organized.
Align Your Objectives with the Company's
The functional resume format that begins with a statement of your objective as the first heading is more popular than ever. But surprisingly few candidates take the time to modify their objective statement for each position applied for. This will convey the impression that you know what you want and you'll be on the right path toward your career goals with this position.
Find Out What the Company Needs -- and Be It
Scrutinize the position description or the company's mission statement, and then tool every statement in your resume to address these needs. Don't stretch the truth, but make sure you frame your experience in a way that is as consistent as possible with the company's stated needs, values, and goals. Every word in your resume, cover letter, and other application materials should resonate with your potential employer's
requirements.
Put the Spotlight on Results
Sure, it's important to outline your past employment experience and responsibilities in your resume. But it's even more important to highlight tangible results you've achieved. Experts suggest that you include a separate 'results' heading with bullet points that list achievements such as stellar rates of appetizer, dessert, and drink upsells or dramatic customer satisfaction improvements.
Ruthlessly Eliminate Spelling, Grammar, and Word-Use Errors
Nothing will guarantee your failure faster than a resume that is riddled with glaring mistakes. Make use of every resource available to identify and get rid of errors, including word processing programs, university writing centers, tutors, or even professional resume consultants. The time and money that you expend to fix these problems will be repaid many times over.
Don't Send Your Resume Out There Alone
While experts agree that your resume is probably the single most important part of your application package, a well-written cover letter can also be enormously helpful. A succinct opening paragraph should demonstrate awareness of the company's business and current needs. In closing, draw attention to a few of your most impressive qualifications, express gratitude for their consideration, and request a meeting to
discuss the opportunity further.
Following are the links to know more about resume making techniques:
ResumeMaker Deluxe Edition: www.resumemaker.com
Explore the #1 selling resume and job search software. It includes sample resumes, cover letters, interview tips and more.
Free Resume Critique: www.career-resumes.com
Get free advice from expert Peter Newfield and Career Resumes.
Have your resume professionally written and delivered to you
quickly online: www.e-Resume.net
Free email accounts to help job seekers keep their searches confidential: www.jobmail.net |
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With a record 12.5 million people unemployed in today's labor market, it's apparent that now, more than ever before, the people looking for employment must work even harder to ensure that they stand out to employers through their applications.
Nearly 25 percent of human resource managers said on average, they receive more than 75 résumés for each open position and 42 percent receive more than 50 résumés per position, according to a nationwide survey released in March 2009 by CareerBuilder.com.
The majority of these managers say that at least half of those résumés are from unqualified candidates.
With that type of pressure and competition, the question becomes, how will you stand out among the masses? The answer is simple: through your résumé.
If crafted effectively, your résumé is perhaps the most valuable marketing tool you've got. After all, in a matter of seconds, its contents can make or break your chances of landing an interview.
Thirty-eight percent of human resource managers say they spend one to two minutes reviewing a new application, while 17 percent spend less than one minute, according to the survey.
Unfortunately the days of making your resume stand out from the pile of other applicants just by using colored paper or a fancy font are long gone. In this age of recruiter databases and automated e-mail responses to applications, you really need to make some extra effort on your resume to ensure it stands out from the pack.
This does involve a change of mind set for many job seekers as you need to think of your resume as a strategic document. It should not just be a list of your previous work experience; it should be a marketing tool to sell you as the best applicant for the role.
The first 10 seconds that a potential employer spends looking at your resume can be pivotal in whether you receive an interview invitation. |
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