Learn How to Make a Resume for Any Job Profile
Are you burnt out searching for professional resume writing websites or techniques to write a resume quickly? Do you want a comprehensive guide on resume writing? If so, then this blog is the answer to all your queries.
In this blog, we will learn about the optimal resume writing formats, resume structuring, the ideal resume layout, and some important points to remember while you write it. You will get extensive tips on how to make a resume which is all you need to build an informative and attention-grabbing document to ace any job opportunity.
Which Resume Layout Should I Opt For?
It is crucial to understand how to write a resume and for that, it is important to have some grasp of the layouts used for writing a resume.
Below are the three resume layouts that are mainly used:
- Chronological Layout- It will be ideal to use this layout if you have rich working experience and have been in the field for an ample amount of time. You must highlight your professional experience in the first section when you use this layout.
- Functional Layout- This layout will be a good option for you if you are trying to switch companies or positions, or if you have some gaps in your working years. In this layout, you are required to mention the section about skills first.
- Combination Layout- You can use this layout when you have a good amount of both work experience and skills. It will be a good choice for you if you are applying for a position that requires you to list experience in the field along with the skill set that you possess.
The optimal resume layout varies from person to person. It is up to you to choose the layout from the three mentioned above, according to your experience and the role that you want to apply for.
Resume Structuring
The following points contribute to and make up the structure of your resume, they are explained in detail below:
- Contact Information: You should include this section at the top of the document and it must have the following information:
- Name
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- LinkedIn Profile Link
- Professional Summary: You should try to write a concise but descriptive summary of your professional experience in this section. Do not forget to emphasize the qualities that are relevant to the role that you would be applying for. It will leave a lasting and good impression on the reviewer of your resume.
- Work Experience: In this section, you should list out all the professional experiences that you have gained over the years. Make sure to present them in an attention-grabbing way, and try to keep them short but compelling. Do not brag about your experience at any point, rather try to be humble as you walk the employer through them.
- Educational Qualifications: This section of your resume must include all the information about your education. You should try to list them in reverse chronological order so that the reviewer can easily figure out what is your latest qualification. Do not miss out on any certifications or training that you might have completed. It will leave a lasting impression on the employer if those qualifications stand relevant to the role that you are applying for.
- List of Skills: You must mention all the skills that you possess and see relevant to the position that you are applying for in this section. Make it look like you have talents that you are proud of, as your confidence will reflect on the reviewer. A clear listing of all the skills will help the employer gain a better insight into the abilities that you possess.
- Employment History: You should arrange the details and information about all the organizations and positions that you have priorly worked on in this section. A review of your professional history will put an impact on the employer and help them judge you better. Do not forget to highlight any special contribution or achievement during your tenure with the previous companies.
- Personal Achievements: You must not forget to mention any personal achievements that you have accomplished over the years. You can list them by mentioning any targets that you completed at the company that you were previously working with or any awards that you received. You can also mention the achievements that are based on the relevant skills that you possess.
- References: This section can help you big time. You should mention the references of people that you trust will speak well of you or people that you have worked with. It indicates that you have good social relations and the employer will have a positive outlook on this. If you are a fresher, then you can refer your professors or teachers for a good impression.
Resume Writing Format
On average, an employer can scan a resume in 10 seconds. No matter how qualified you are for the job, your resume won’t get a thorough look if it isn’t presentable which is why the following points should mandatorily be followed when writing a resume:
- Single Page- The resume should not cross one-page length under any circumstances as it breaks the interest of the reviewer. They tend not to read the elaborated two to three pages of a resume.
- Headings- Make the sections heading clear, setting them in a font size that is visible and understandable to everyone.
- Structure- Make sure you bring forth the most relevant information across the employer first. Mention any student exchange program or summer schools attended abroad under separate headings. Such accomplishments generally tend to give you an edge over other applicants.
- Negative Space- Do not hesitate to leave ample white space between the lines. It will give a neat and clear look to the resume and make it presentable.
- Font- Use easy-to-read fonts and avoid decoration. The resumes look best when presented with simplicity and clarity. Arial with a font size of 12 is ideal for resumes.
- Reverse Chronological Order- Simply put your accomplishments in college weigh more than your accomplishments at school and try to prioritize the content in each description.
- File Format- Always make sure to send and upload your resume in PDF format. It is easy to read and accessible for all organizations.
Resume Writing Tips
Below are a few important points to keep in mind while writing your resume:
- Quantify Your Work- Tell your story through numbers and statistics. Making a general claim and using too much jargon would kill the reading appetite of the employer whereas crisp numbers would keep them engaged.
- Keywords are Key- Include relevant keywords to enable the employer to gather maximum information about you in a matter of a few seconds. Make sure to use words that are a part of the job description.
- Aim for the Industry Not Firm- Make yourself an ideal pick by showing how suitable you are for the industry. Put out the relevant points that will urge them to think about hiring you.
- Highlight Your Skills- Try to mention as many relevant skills as possible. You should be utilizing the space very judiciously as you are on a strict word limit.
- Never Falter with Spelling and Grammar- Incorrect tenses, wrong punctuation marks, and inappropriate verb-phrase could prove to reflect carelessness. A practice of thorough proofreading is a must and beneficial to avoid silly mistakes.
A great resume lays the foundation for your internship/job search. While you may knock on several doors, your resume is something that helps you open them; make sure you get it right! You can check out a template for a resume – Sample Resume.
Conclusion
Making a resume does not have to be a difficult task. Now that you have understood how to make a resume go ahead and apply for exciting job opportunities. Don’t know where to start looking for jobs? Register on Internshala and apply to some super cool jobs and internships.