Writing a good resume could be overwhelming, let alone trying to match your qualifications to potential employers’ needs when stepping out into the unknown and at times scary territory of employment. It is, however, an important step towards the realization of your career objectives. What you must remember is that writing a good resume is a task that requires work, precision and following of some ground rules that will guide you through this challenging process.
1. Put down contact information first
At the top of your page should go your name, address and contact information, such as email and telephone number. Some sites suggest putting your date of birth as well. Whatever it is, the header should look appealing and concise.
2. List your highest achievements first
If this is your first time applying for a job and you don’t have any former work experience, many sites suggest putting your qualities first (for example descriptive adjectives, such as hardworking, goal- and task-oriented and so on). Then follow up by your latest education, the title your received, the date received (or expected).
3. List skills
In fact, list as many skills as you can or as you think would be sufficient and important to list. Since you have no work experience, you should place all your emphasis on the skills and qualification section.
4. Make sure you are offering something to the prospective employer
In other words, instead of writing what you want from the job, what kind of salary you need, try showing what you can bring to the company, what the prospective employer might gain if they hire you.
5. Have an objective
Say, your objective is to become a chef. Then prior to your education section you should state so. And your whole resume should read as the objective to become a chef. You should highlight your educational background that directly matches the job you are looking for, if you have a high GPA and it is required by the employer then list it as well. Your goal is to make sure whoever’s reading your resume understands why you are qualified enough to be hired.
6. Where to send it.
Of course, once you’ve written your amazing resume for job start looking at where to send it. Unless your goal is very explicit (like “I want to work as a chef at Tony Romas”), remember to always start by looking for a job on a free classifieds website. If instead of looking for a job right away you’d like to broaden your knowledge about your desired career, check out other sections on Trade Stabel where you can find internships, workshops, weekend courses, masters, you name it!
Writing a good resume will take you some time and effort, but remember to never give up and to always keep your eyes on the prize.
