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Organization of Headings
Make sure that the most important information is placed first. Example: If you have strong computer skills, place them at the beginning of your resume.
Length
Could the resume tell the same story if it were shortened? Don't put in unnecessary information, it will only lengthen your resume. If your resume is more than one page do not forget to put your name and page number on every additional page. (Pages have been known to get lost.)
Writing Style
Is it easy to get a clear picture of your skills and experience from your resume? Don't beat around the bush with too many or fancy words, tell it like it is.
Action Orientation
Make sure that your sentences begin with key words, or action verbs, which are words that imply communication, leadership, organization, initiative, results, creativity, etc. Use a thesaurus in order to avoid repeating the same words. Example: "Supervised a staff of 40 employees." "Provided customer service."
Personal Information
Do not use personal information such as date of birth or marital status that could potentially be used as a way of discriminating against you.
Specification
Make sure to avoid being too general and focus on specific information about your experience. Provide a career objective at the top of your resume to specify what sort of work you are interested in.
Accomplishments
Make sure to include your achievements, accomplishments and your volunteer activities, especially if they pertain to the type of job you are applying for.
Relevance
Make sure to include all important information such as language and computer skills. Do not list your references. Simply state at the bottom of your resume that they will be available upon request.
Accuracy
Make sure that words are spelled correctly. Do not rely solely on spell-check. Make sure that your grammar is correct and that words are in the proper tenses. Also, do not over-punctuate your resume. This will make it look cluttered. Example: If you are no longer working at a certain place, put your sentences in the past tense. However, if you are currently working, put your sentences for that specific job in the present tense.
Abbreviations
DO NOT use them. (This includes dates.)
Layout and Appearance
Make sure that your resume is as clear and neat as possible. (Make use of bullets and proper margins.) Does your resume look professional? Have your resume well formatted and laser printed. There are many printing shops around Montreal that will do a great job at low cost. Check your local youth employment service, they may do the job free of charge (514) 878-9788.
Remember
The purpose of the resume is simply to get you an interview. Once you do, the rest is up to you. Also, do not forget to follow-up all interviews with a short thank-you letter. You should also write a cover letter which specifies in more detail your experience as well as knowledge about the company and the job. |
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