How To Write A Resume - Make It Unique!

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

by Jane Calhoun

When deciding how to write a resume, the most important thing you want to consider is how you can stand out from the others on the employer's desk. Rather than using form and simply inserting your own information, how to make a resume unique should be your goal. The content of your resume, you cover letter, and listing the experience that makes you the right choice for the job are all important. but don't neglect the design of the resume either. Eye-catching elements are critical to make your resume look professional, but don't go overboard with graphics either.

How to write a resume that is sharp and professional is tricky. First, you resume must absolutely use proper English. If you are unsure of some of your usage, have someone read over it for you who knows their grammar rules. Likewise, any spelling mistakes look very bad; ask someone to edit your resume and cover letter for any mistakes in spelling and punctuation. You want your future employer to know you have an eye for detail!

Also resist the temptation to put in every last thing you ever did when writing your resume. You want to include important experience, relevant talents and things you've accomplished in your life. However, being chosen as the director for your child's elementary school play is not likely to be something your future employer will want to know. Try to keep your personal items to a minimum; some resume experts recommend leaving them out altogether unless they directly relate to your job (such as article you've written on a topic that is related to your profession).

Making your resume clean and neat is key. Using lines and bullets to highlight certain sections works very well. Don't use pictures, photos, or other items that can appear to just clutter your document. If you're asked to provide a photo of yourself (some businesses need a headshot), make that an additional item in your package.

Don't be afraid to list everything you've done that could impress an employer. This means relevant information, along with professional experience or accomplishments that will show your character. For example, if you've every been published in an industry journal or other publication, that's impressive - even if the topic is slightly different from the focus of the employer's business. The reason is that someone who takes the initiative to publish is someone who has language skills and is able to market themselves. Of, if you've received awards either in a previous position or in school, those are important even if not relevant, because they show an important level of hard work on your part.

On the other hand, do leave out experience that is not relevant. If you have prior job experience for example that is not relevant to the position, it is OK to simply list the name of the employer, and the dates you worked there. It's likely that the employer will not be concerned with your work history that is either very old or not relevant.

Lastly, when you are trying to decide how to write a resume targeting a particular job, you will want to learn more about that employer first. being able to find information on the company's website and then weave in details about your past that complement the work that company is doing, and then referring to what you found in your cover letter, shows that you are serious enough about wanting the job to do your legwork.

Follow these steps when deciding how to write your resume to show your unique qualities. This can can make all the difference in getting that important interview.

About the Author
Jane Calhoun writes on a variety of business topics. Find sample resumes and covers letters to show how to make a resume at http://www.best-online-resume.com.

Source: www.goarticles.com