Everyone who is to apply for a new position faces the question of exactly how present themselves by preparing a CV or resume. This article is about the meaning of a resume and about its main points. Separately we will look at what not to include in a resume and how to prepare for interviews.
What is the purpose of your resume?
The first impression. To engage the one who decides by your resume whether you will be invited to an interview. These people receive hundreds of resumes. Why choose you?
The resume is not meant to tell your life story but to create interest, so people would want to hear more about you. So do not include much detail – you would have the chance to tell more during the interview.
When preparing a resume, you address people who are used to scanning - they read only the main points, concentrate on numbers and percentages, and do not notice the wordy explanations. You have less than 8 seconds before the recruiter moves on to the next resume. Not because that's how resumes are reviewed, but because research shows that the time we focus on something without being distracted is 8 seconds.
Then what to do?
Be different. Say what you really want to say. Stand out from the rest.
Aim at one page. If you have many years of experience, the maximum is two pages, if you really have that much to say. Don't limit yourself to boring formats like the EU CV.
Forget about goal summaries and wordings - no one will read them, much less be impressed.
Do not overdo the descriptions of the details. Every word must be well thought over and at the right place.
Short sentences. Bullets. Key achievements, not descriptions. Don't write that you can send mails - default activities are taken for granted and do not sound serious.
Achievements, achievements, achievements.
Quantitative measures of your success - this is the important content. You do not need to describe a situation, problem and solution. Achievements speak for themselves. The description of your achievements should also speak of a positive attitude, motivation, teamwork and work ethic. Emphasise the added value you bring and why it is worth investing in you. Make clear how you will be best suited for that particular position.
Update your LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and all other social accounts. If your accounts are career-relevant, include them in your resume. It is important to start building your professional presence on social media. And, don't upload photos that you're not ready to discuss during an interview. What's worse is that they may not invite you because of such.
Use visualisations wisely - 90% of the information that reaches the brain is visual and is processed much faster than text. Use graphics and visualisations, but don't overdo it - the goal is to make the information clearer, not more colourful.
Creative resumes with web design or infographics are also very relevant. They can reflect your personal style and really help you stand out from the rest of the applicants. Companies with very conservative culture may not admire creative resumes. It is up to you to make the right decision what resume style to use.
Creating a good resume is a challenge. To be sure of its quality, entrust it to professionals. At ExcluCV we will be happy to be a part of your success! Impress employers! Don't get chosen. You choose!