How To Write A Resume In 2016

 

With billions of people searching for jobs in the present day, how do you make sure that your resume captures the attention of employers and doesn’t end up in Deleted Items folder?

With hiring managers spending less than 5 seconds to judge your CV, what will you hold on to, in order to out-beat the tough competition. If you simply google the word “Resume“, you will witness plethora of information on tips and secrets to a powerful CV. But how do you make sense of it all?

Lets make it easy for you. Whether you already have your resume drafted or you are writing the very first one. Whichever is the case, the essence is your resume should cut above the rest.

 

1) In the year 2016, you cannot expect to win by following “one size fits all” approach.

Hence, you have to develop different styles of resume for different jobs you intend to apply for. You have to do your own research on the organization and draft your resume with appropriate keywords at par with the needs of organization. Lets say, you can add on how you can contribute towards reaching new clients.

2) Avoid all distracting fonts and design elements.

While many may think that resume font choice is a trivial affair, but it is actually pretty important. Many companies are using Applicant Tracking System (ATS), wherein the candidate is asked to upload his/her resume. As a matter of the fact, these systems are unable to decipher intricate fonts and designs. Hence, it is suggested to be modern but not too extravagant.

3) Do away with the objective statement.

Most of the objective statements are too vague and full of fluff, with extensive usage of filler words such as “Motivated”, “Quick Learner”, “Passionate” and many more. Years back objective statement was not only commonly accepted but was also expected in a resume. But today’s economy is different. Hiring managers are looking for result driven descriptions such as your experience and skills, so let the same speak for you with a professional summary that targets the needs of the employer.

4) Size of the resume actually matters.

A resume should be long enough to lure the manager to call you for interview. This may sound indefinite. But the truth is that there is no well established rule on resume size, which works alike for all. Resume size depends on host of factors such as industry, experience, accomplishments and more.

5) You can also quantify your accomplishments in your resume.

It is no longer sufficient to mention that you increased sales, it is necessary to attach metrics to your achievements. Metrics are perhaps the most effectual means to highlight the success and grab the attention of the hiring managers.

6) Your social media profile may be equally important as your resume.

More than 80% of the companies intend to use or are already using social media to fill various positions. If you have neglected your presence in social media and particularly, LinkedIn, you could possibly miss out on great options. When you describe your social media in your resume, you have to ensure that it is done in the most professional way and has a positive reflection of you. Hence, it is advisable to clean up your profiles before adding it to your resume, or else the same can even backfire you.

7) Space equates to significance.

Craft your resume in such a way that more time and space is allotted to the most critical information such as your proof of expertise, relevant experience, educational highlights and more.

8) It is always advisable to limit personal information in resume.

Be careful of what you add as your personal information, because certainly no body is interested in knowing whether you are a chocolate lover or a pet enthusiast. Add such activities that will showcase your strength. Lets say, if you are an ardent athlete, it demonstrates your perseverance and determination. It is also recommended to omit any potentially controversial information such as political affiliations or sexual orientation. It is illicit on the part of the employer to seek information on these, and is also not pertinent to your strong candidature.

9) Last, but certainly not the least, double check your resume for any errors of fact or omissions. Remember, one spelling error can cost you heavy depending on who is reading the resume.

 

Get started with your resume today and hit the best job!!