Top 10 Insider Tips for Building a Stand out Resume
By Derrick Chow
1. Tailor your resume to the specific job for which you are applying. Also, be sure to clearly address the specific skills and values that you can bring to the position if hired. Why are you the ideal candidate?
2. Do your homework! Be sure to understand the job requirements and address them in your resume. Think of the job description as a cheat sheet, as this is a valuable tool in helping you to tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for.
3. Be sure to state your career objective and goal – it shows you have a sense of direction/goals for the future.
4. Develop a brand for yourself. What are your three strongest qualities? Draw attention to the skills and experiences you have that support your brand.
5. Emphasize your accomplishments and successes. Clearly demonstrate the value that you brought to your previous employers. A resume should not be a checklist of previous work responsibilities and duties.
6. Use the PAR technique. Short for Problem, Action and Result, the PAR approach is a great way to avoid having your resume read like a responsibility checklist. Basically, when writing your previous work experience, as opposed to merely listing your job duties, outline the specific skills and abilities you used that resulted in measurable success.
7. Highlight personal and academic accomplishments. These are all relevant if you lack work experience. Don’t exaggerate and stay relevant!
8. What to sell when you lack experience?
- Emphasize your part-time and co-op work experience (show the value that you brought to these jobs – remember the difference between responsibility and accomplishment!)
- Convey your style, attitude and leadership (be likeable!)
- Include an action plan and goals you have for gaining relevant experience
- Address gaps in career / jobs on your resume (even if you were taking time off to travel the world, it is important to show that you were doing something with your time)
9. Does it look good? There is much to be said for a consistent, stylish and unique resume.
10. Proofread, proofread, proofread! There is no excuse for spelling errors, typos and poor grammar! Also, be sure your contact information is kept up-to-date and accurate.
