Resume Tips | Cover Letter Tips | Resume Writing Tips | Example of a Cover Letter

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Resume Tips

Here is a short list of DOs & DON'Ts that our writers have come up with for individuals who want to write resumes on their own.

* Proofread your resume a few times before you send it to anybody. This is the most important thing to do according to our writers. There is absolutely no place for typos and inconsistent formatting.

* If you are mailing a hard copy of your resume, it should be a standard A4 size paper.

* There are four main types of resumes: chronological, functional, combination, or a targeted resume. Choose one type and stick to it.

* A chronological resume is ideal for you if you have a strong and long period of work experience.

* A functional resume talks more about the skills that you can bring to your employer. This format is ideal for those who are transiting to another field or have a considerable gap in their employment history.

* A combination resume talks about your skills and experience first, and after that your experience.

* A targeted resume specifically highlights the experience and skills that make you the ideal candidate for the particular job that you are applying for.

* Use a basic font such as Times New Roman, Arial or Verdana and keep the size at 12. Your resume should be easy to read. You can use bold, underlines and italics, but do not overdo it.

* Use keywords in the top section of your resume. These keywords should highlight your core strengths. The main reason for this keywords list is to make your resume software-friendly. Most HR departments use software to filter out the resumes by keywords and you should know which keywords are in-demand in your industry.

* Do not write an objective. The employer wants to know what you can do for him, not what you want. Instead of an objective, you can try a positioning statement that mentions in a concise manner what you have to offer.

* Make sure your name is mentioned on every page of the resume and that the resume length should not exceed 3 pages.

* There is no need to mention that you have references available upon request. Also, do not list the references. It is understood that you have references that you will give out when required.

* And most important of all, do not lie on your resume. Employers do verify. If you have an employment gap, and there is a valid reason for that, explain that in the cover letter.

Testimonials

Lauren, Atlanta, GA
After being out of the workforce for eight years, I knew that a good resume was the first thing that I needed to break into the job market. I am sure its because of the great job you guys did with my resume that now I am at least getting calls.