Resume Tips

Clear. Concise. Tailored.

A strong resume is the first key in your job application process. Employers typically only look at a resume for an average of six to seven seconds. It is always a good idea to submit your resume within the first four days of a posting, and keep your resume clear, concise and tailored to the job you are applying for. Here are a few tips to help you stand out in a crowded job market and grab our attention during the selection process.

Keep your resume short and direct, the rule of thumb is no longer than one page unless you have a very good reason to be longer, like an extensive career history or applicable work experience
Create an original, unique resume template.
Format your resume so it is easy to identify your qualifications
The top third of the resume is the prime resume real estate, instead of an objective statement include a career snapshot or clear career summary
Skip information regarding your marital or family status, personal health, ethnic origin, gender, date of birth/age, social security number
Use proper punctuation, and proofread carefully
Avoid using all capital letters

The first thing a hiring manager should see when they look at your resume is your contact information. Your full name, email address, phone number, city and state should all be listed at the top of the document
Be sure to keep this information up-to-date and accurate
Do not include private data or information. You are not legally required to provide any private information pertaining to SSN, date of birth, marital status, race or ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability status, religion, age, and national origin.

Keep your experience relevant by only including recent or related positions
Include only jobs from the previous 10 to 15 years. Including more will make your resume appear busy and draw attention away from your relevant qualifications
Demonstrate results with numbers and metrics, it is always good to quantify your successes. Use measurable outcomes when possible
Think beyond job duties and concentrate on examples of accomplishments and how you can make a difference in this new position
Stand out with the right words. Make sure to use strong action words such as achieved, designed, improved and established while describing your roles and projects
Use the right keywords. Carefully read the job posting and include relevant keywords
List the months and years of your employment for each employer.
List any software programs, tools, and/or equipment you have used
Keep this information up-to-date and accurate

Include the names of schools you have attended and the title of your specific major or degree
If your degree has not been completed yet, list the date it is expected to be awarded
You should include the name, city and state of your college or university, technical or trade college, or other school. If your highest level of education is high school, you should list the highest grade you completed and diploma received
If relevant, include your GPA and any academic awards or certificates

List any awards you have received, including the date of the award
Depending on the job, you may want to include volunteer positions, professional acknowledgments/memberships, and personal interests
Include any additional skills and abilities
List your social media profiles. Including LinkedIn or your personal blog can help managers screen your professional experience
List any additional languages you speak fluently
Make sure that everything is relevant and appropriate, when in doubt, opt for simplicity