Preparing your own resume can seem a daunting
task. Apart from what to put in and what to leave out; describing
your own strengths and abilities is not easy. The following guidelines
aim to make the whole process a much easier one. It will ensure
that you end up with a professional document which shows you how
to pitch your skills and stand out from the crowd. The following
tips will help you craft a better resume:
Resume Format
Some consultants suggest that job applicants
use a chronological format. As the name implies, it
is a resume that details one's work experience in chronological
order. Some prefer to use a functional format. This
is a resume that is organised to highlight the applicant's qualifications
and skills, without much emphasis on the specific dates. Then there
are combination resumes that marry the best of both
worlds. It is similar to a functional resume, only specific dates
are provided on a separate sheet.
Most recruiters prefer a chronological resume as it helps
the recruiter get a quick overview of the applicant's experience.
Fresh school leavers on the other hand with very little work experience
may opt to send out a functional resume as it emphasises some of
their skills versus a very plain and empty chronological resume.
Presentation and Layout
- Always ensure that your resume is clearly printed on quality
white paper, using a clean typeface and not smaller than 12 point.
Ensure there is no smudging.
- The use of sub-headings (e.g. personal details, career history,
etc.) will help potential employers glean the information they
require with ease. There should be clear spaces between categaory
headings for easy clarification and definition.
- Your name, address and phone number(s) should form the start
of the document. If you are giving a workplace phone number, add
the following - 'please use with discretion'.
- Commencing with your present or most recent employer, state
your career history. Then list your professional qualifications.
If you have been working for many years, list your academic qualifications
and a brief mention as to your college or schooling. If you are
just commencing your working life, having previously been a student,
provide more in-depth knowledge regarding your academic achievements
to date.
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The article is extracted from a publication
by Kelly Services' called "Best Foot Forward". It is a
52 page guide for job seekers on job search tips. To obtain your
very own copy of "Best Foot Forward", please send an email
to marcom@kellyservices.com.sg.
Kelly Services is a Fortune 500 company offering
human resources solutions that include temporary services, staff
leasing, outsourcing, vendor on-site and full time placement. With
more than 2500 company owned and operated offices in 26 countries,
Kelly provides nearly 800,000 employees annually.
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