Your resume Is NOT about YOU.
There have been blog posts about recruiters and hiring managers looking at resumes for about 6 seconds before making judgement about a candidate – do they want to bring them in or don’t they?
Does this mean, spend less time putting it together? No – it means the opposite. Make it clear, concise, specific.
And…
Despite appearances, your resume is NOT about you.
Your goal is to convey the following message to prospective employer: I have the experience, the skills, the traits, and/or the talent or aptitudes that will enable me to contribute to the success of the employer.
See a job you like? Before you apply – Customize your resume for each position!
1. A template created for another job site is not a good resume to use for all job applications. Indeed and other job sites have template builders to help you get a start with your resume but do not send this resume around to all employers. Take the time to build a resume putting it into a Word document. Remember this document is a reflection of who you are!
2. Review the job description carefully and tailor your resume for the position!
3. Match the key words from their job description in your resume! Many companies use ranking systems to sort the many resumes they receive. The more you can match their needs, the higher you will rank and the better chances you have in getting an interview!
3. Identify your strengths giving examples of how you can meet the prospective company needs by using the following formula – Action Verbs + Details + Results = Impressive Resumes
Review these examples for ideas.
| Good |
Better |
Best | ||
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Answered customer phone calls |
Answered an average of 25 customer calls per day. Answered questions, resolved problems, and recommended additional products or services they might find useful. |
Answered an average of 25 customer calls per day. Answered questions, resolved problems, and recommended additional products or services they might find useful. Increased customer satisfaction and loyalty, as well as follow-on purchases. | ||
|
Drove a forklift truck |
Drove a forklift truck, resupplied 12 work stations with all parts and materials needed to operate an assembly line. |
Drove a forklift truck, resupplied 12 work stations with all parts and materials needed to operate an assembly line. Maintained an accident-free driving record for more than 3 years, and ensured the assembly line never shut down due to a shortage of parts. |
Here is a list from NJ Career Connections of some great action verbs to help get you started!
Lastly remember:
- Do not include personal information, like your age, marital status, etc.
- Use present tense verbs when describing your current position; use the past tense for your previous jobs.
- Do not use “I” or “my” when describing your capabilities, accomplishments, or experience
- Proofread it, and proofread it again. Then give it to a friend who is good at catching errors to proofread it again!
SharpLink Staffing, LLC is always happy to help with resume advice – we want to help our candidates succeed. For help – give us a call at 856-582-2353 or email recruiter@sharplinkstaffing.com!
