How to make a winning resume: Tips and examples
By Agustina Alvarez ♦ 5 min read
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As an IT consulting company, we know the importance of a great resume.
It's often the first impression a potential employer has of you, and it can make or break your chances of landing an interview. That's why we've put together these tips and examples to help you create a winning resume.
Tailor your resume to the job description
When applying for a job, it's essential to customize your resume to the job description. Look for keywords in the job posting and incorporate them into your resume. This will show the employer that you're a good match for the position.
Highlight your achievements
Rather than just listing your job duties, focus on your achievements. For example, instead of saying "managed a team," say "led a team of five employees and increased productivity by 20%." This shows employers that you're not just doing the bare minimum, but going above and beyond.
Include personal projects
If you have limited work experience, consider adding an achievements or personal projects section to supplement your resume. This can help demonstrate your skills and abilities, even if you have not yet gained significant work or educational experience. Personal projects such as freelance work, volunteer activities, or passion projects can provide valuable insights into your capabilities and showcase your potential to employers. Make sure that the projects you list are relevant to your career goals and demonstrate skills that are sought-after by potential employers. Additionally, it is important to present these projects in a professional manner, highlighting the key accomplishments and skills developed during the project. By highlighting your personal projects, you can demonstrate your potential and set yourself apart from other candidates.
Use action verbs
Start your bullet points with action verbs, such as "created," "developed," or "improved." This makes your resume more dynamic and shows employers that you're an active participant in your job, rather than just a passive bystander.
Craft a resume summary or objective
After your contact information, consider including a resume summary or objective statement. An objective statement is a brief explanation of your career goals, and is a good choice for job seekers with limited professional experience, such as recent graduates. A resume summary, on the other hand, is a concise statement that highlights your relevant work experience and skills, using active language to showcase your qualifications. Both a summary and objective can be effective in capturing the attention of a potential employer and providing a quick overview of your qualifications. Consider which option is best for your individual situation, and make sure that it aligns with the job you are applying for.
Emphasize your skills
Make sure to showcase your skills on your resume. Identify the keywords that match your unique combination of hard and soft skills, and create a dedicated skills section on your resume that highlights these skills. Prioritize any skills that are required for the specific job you are applying for, and consider listing any relevant certifications or licenses. By emphasizing your skills, you can increase your chances of landing an interview.
Keep it simple and clean
Avoid cluttering your resume with unnecessary information or fancy fonts. Stick to a simple and clean design, and use bullet points to make it easy to read. Remember, the goal is to make it as easy as possible for employers to see.
Include relevant information and keywords
Make sure to include all relevant information, such as your work experience, education, and skills. However, don't include irrelevant information, such as your hobbies or personal details. Stick to the information that's most relevant to the job you're applying for.
Make your contact information visible
Your resume should start with your name and contact information, prominently displayed at the top of the page. This includes your email address and phone number. (not sure about this) Ensure that your name is clearly visible in a larger, bold font than the rest of your resume. If you have an online portfolio, consider including a link to it as well.
Make sure to use a professional email address, such as firstname.lastname@email.com, and avoid using email addresses that are too casual or inappropriate, as this can create a negative impression.
Proofread your resume
Finally, proofread your resume to avoid any grammatical or spelling errors. Ask a friend or family member to review it as well, as they may catch mistakes you missed.
By following these tips you can create a winning resume that will catch the attention of potential employers.