Knowing the best ways to develop your resume is key in securing an interview and ultimately a job. A well developed resume addresses the needs and wants of the employer. Yet some professionals still choose the route of submitting the same chronological resume to every job posting.
Resume Tips That Work
The latest unemployment figures shows the lowest unemployment rate in the last 20 years in the United States. With an unemployment rate of 4.4% many professionals have been successful in finding employment. While these numbers are quite impressive it does not account for the underemployed. Those professionals who settled on a job knowing they were over qualified but nonetheless accepted the position. So whether you’re looking for a job or currently underemployed you need to know how to properly prepare your resume before submitting to the hiring company.
Many professionals have a wealth of experience but oftentimes have to make a decision about how much information to include in their resume. It is totally acceptable to have a 2-3 page resume since employers know that the average job seeker has had many jobs in their career. Knowing the 4 best ways to develop your resume is key. The length of the resume is not as important as the use of keywords and highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. The days have passed and job seekers should know that employers are looking for specific skills and qualifications. If the employer doesn’t see these qualifications or can’t find the relevant experience in your resume they will pass on it.
Customize Your Resume
1. Take the job description and dissect it by looking for those skills and qualifications that are the most important. Does it require that you have a four year degree?
2. If it is a technical or scientific job does it require a certification?
3. if a skill is required then you must possess this skill; if it is a preferred skill then you are OK if you don’t have it.
4. Is it entry level or does it require experience?
Once you have dissected the job description you are now on your way to developing your resume. Now you must start mapping your qualifications according to the needs of this employer. You can now start adding more value to your resume by elaborating on [soft skills] or those additional skills that will set you apart from other job candidates. Be sure your value proposition statement is well written to address the value you will bring to the company.
Companies want to know that you are qualified for their job posting and that you can come aboard and contribute immediately. Most job postings will receive at least 100 resumes in response to the posting and the Recruiter only wants to see the top matched candidates. You are now closer to securing that position that most fits your skills and qualifications.