In today's uncertain economy, the job market is more
competitive than ever. So it's hard to believe that there are
still people who downplay the importance of resumes. They say,
"I'll talk about myself at the interview." But here's the catch:
you may not get the interview if your resume doesn't market your
abilities with precision and impact. Here are some tips on how to
make yours do just that.
1. Put yourself in the employer's
position.
Always remember the basic question that runs through the mind of
every employer who picks up your resume: What can you do for me?
They don't just want to know what you've done for someone else!
Hit the employers over the head with your applicable skills and
abilities that you've extracted from your work history and
education.
2. Do the thinking for the
employer.
Reading stacks of resumes can be tedious — never trust an
employer to read your entire resume. Write your resume on the
premise that employers are lazy and don't want to think! Market
the skills and abilities you wish to use most and which you think
employers want to see. Determine this through research of the
company, a job listing, advertisement, and so on. Write about
your tangible skills and forget the fluff about being a "hands-on
professional with a strong desire to excel in a challenging
environment."
3. Keep in mind that people get
jobs, not resumes.
It's up to you to get the job through research, effective written
and verbal correspondence, and professional interviewing.
However, a perfect resume is essential for those competing for a
dearth of decent jobs in a tough economy. Use yours to market
yourself as the best person for the position.
