An applicant’s first tool to get the potential employer’s attention is the resume. Any job hunter knows a good resume is a key to an interview invitation. Aside from the chronological listings of experiences and achievements, resumes should contain a unique selling proposition to entice headhunters to contact you.
There are various types of resumes that you may use. There are simple and complex ones. The best resume should get the message across at a glance. The ideal thing to do is organize each item under specific categories, such as employment history, education, training, skills or other activities.
There are three types of resume: chronological, functional and combination. The chronological format is ideal for those who have experience working with other companies because it is organized by employment history. The functional format lists skills into categories and accomplishments over dates. The combination format merges the chronological and functional styles through the presentation of skills and abilities gained from work.
Your address and phone number are the most likely means of contacting you. Nowadays, email addresses and mobile phone numbers provide a much faster way of facilitating communication.
Placing an objective is optional. Some argue that objectives only provide obvious information. But those who favor the use of objectives reason that it helps the recruiters quickly identify if the applicant is fit for the company. Objectives may make a good initial impression, but being able to fit-in depends upon you, the applicant, once you’re in.
You should exercise good judgment on whatever information you place on your resume. You will want to put all relevant information to enable recruiters to judge your potential for the position you seek. Your job experience should completely reflect the jobs you had. Information such as the company name, company address, positions held, inclusive dates, responsibilities, and accomplishments should be included.
Any other information such as training, skills and organizational memberships should only be included if they relevant to the job applied. If not, you might as well omit them.
When you include anyone’s name as your reference, you should ask their permission first. We all know that you only want to put names as reference those who think highly of you. To avoid embarrassments, you should inform them so that they can prepare for it.
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