I was recently working with a client helping her with her resume. I did some research on today’s market and writing effective resumes. Here is some of the information and tips I found.
Research shows that for the average employer, only 1 interview is generated per 200 resumes. Resumes are quickly scanned in 10 to 20 seconds, so you must make a strong impression at first glance.
Write powerful but, subtle advertising copy. You are selling/advertising…YOU! People more often buy the best advertised product, not necessarily the best product.
Focus on the employer first. Get clear on what the employer is looking for and what you have to offer before you begin your resume. Ask yourself: What makes me a great candidate for this job?
Because your resume is being scanned, you must grab the reader right away in the top half of the first page of your resume. Write a powerful Objective! You want the first sentence of your objective to convey “I want exactly the job you are offering!” I am an excellent candidate because I recognize the qualities that are important to you, and I have them! Communicate that you want to make a contribution to the company. This area will either make you or break you! The first few lines are extremely important. You want it to have same result as a well written ad: to get the reader to respond!
In the first section you want to make assertions about your achievements, abilities and qualities. Write powerful and honest advertising copy that makes the reader immediately get present and realize you are someone special!
The second section is where you back up your assertions with evidence of what you have done, by listing and describing the jobs you have done and your quantifiable results.
If you are applying for several positions, you should have a resume that speaks to each position. If you are making a career change or have limited work experience, you want the reader to focus on where you are going, your goals and how that would benefit that company.
Good Luck!
