10 Resume Tips

Here are some essential tips that summarize much of what we have already discussed, and add some new ideas. Read them carefully and act on them. They will guarantee that job interview.

tip 1: Use design that attracts attention

Employers don't have time to read through each of your job descriptions to know if you have the skills they need. The design of your CV must do it for them. Your CV should be well-organized and emphasize the most important points about your experience, skills and education. This information is the first impression that an employer has of you.

tip 2: Match your headings to the job

Use a job title and skill headings that match the job you want. An employer who sees unrelated job titles or skills will immediately think that you are not right for the job in question.

tip 3: Write convincing content

Good design will get an employer's attention. But after that, you must concentrate on the content of your CV, the actual descriptions of your skills and abilities, to ensure an interview and good job offer.

tip 4: Use power words

You need to control the image that an employer has of you. To do this, use power words that match the position you want. If, for example, you are applying for a financial post, you should use as many financial skills power words as possible

tip 5: Use numbers

People react to numbers! Numbers are alive and powerful. They create vivid images in our minds. General statements are easy to ignore. Be specific and use numbers when describing your duties and achievements. Don't talk about "managing a major turnover". Talk about "managing a $27,000,000 turnover".

tip 6: Put important information first

List important information at the beginning of your job description. Put statements in your CV in order of importance, impressiveness and relevance to the job you want. A powerful statement with numbers and power words influences every statement that follows.

tip 7: Find keywords from the job description

Let an employer do your work for you! Employers spend much time and money writing job advertisements and descriptions that contain keywords for the position offered. Read these descriptions carefully to find the keywords. Then use the same keywords in your CV and cover letter.

tip 8: Sell benefits, not skills

Holiday companies do not sell holidays. They sell relaxation, adventure, sun, sea and sand (the benefits of a holiday)! You should not sell your skills (many other people have the same skills). You should sell the benefits of your skills. When you write your skills and past duties, be careful to explain their benefits to the employer.

tip 9: Create the right image for the salary

Use language that creates the right image for the level of job and salary you want. Position yourself at the appropriate level. The language you use will immediately influence an employer's perception of you.

tip 10: Target the job

You will have more success if you adjust your CV and cover letter for the specific skills an employer is seeking. This means that you would write one CV for one particular job and a different, modified, CV for another job. You "re-package" yourself. In that way, an employer will see immediately that you correspond to the job description. It is not dishonest to re-package yourself. You are simply presenting yourself and your skills in the best light for a particular employer. This will help you to get more interviews. It will also allow you to apply for a wider range of jobs.

Bonus tip: Solve your employer's (hidden) needs

Employers want people who can solve problems, not create them! Your CV and cover letter should show how you can solve the employer's problems and needs. And in addition to the skills or needs shown in a job advertisement, an employer may have other needs. You should identify these additional needs and show how you can satisfy them too. But concentrate first on the needs listed in the job description. Your additional solutions should come later, and low-key, after you already have the employer's attention.