Writing a good resume

A resume is the first contact the potential employer has with the applicant for the position. It needs to convey professionalism and maturity as well as demonstrate why the potential candidate is a good choice for the position. There are many aspects of a resume that should be included to convey these points such as;

Relevant work experience. Many times applicants include a broad overview of their work experience. This is too broad, the employer is only interested in the aspects of your past job history that are going to bring technical skill, experience or relevance to the position.

References. Each resume should include at least two references as this is the amount that potential employers look for in the interview process. Should these references not be written on the resume they should be given to the employer during the interview process. The references should be aware that they are liable to be contacted so they are prepared for the conversation.

Education and training. What courses have you completed that can help you perform better on the job or become knowledgeable about the position? First aid courses, safety courses and formal education are all adequate sources of this section of the resume.

A good resume should be as to the point as possible. Employers do not have time to read through pages of job experience and hobbies. A resume should draw the reader in with a top section such as “highlights of qualifications” or the like. A standard font in a standard size should be used in the resume for a professional and readable approach. As well, applicants should avoid brightly coloured fonts, brightly coloured papers or anything that will draw the reader away from the important information. Subtle details may be added such as cream coloured paper, or a bold heading – but this should be the limit when writing your resume.

This article was written on behalf of Martin Ward Anderson who deal withfinance recruitment and recruitment foraccountancy jobs.