How to Write a Resume More Effectively

What Is a Resume?

A resume is a document that job seekers submit as a part of a job application. Resumes are meant to give hiring managers a snapshot of the skills, experiences and qualifications that make a job seeker ideal for the job they have applied for. Unlike a curriculum vitae, or CV, a resume is not a comprehensive list of experience and achievements. A resume should include only the information that is most relevant to the job ad. Likewise, while a CV focuses on academic accomplishments, a resume should be focused on your skills and work history. If you want to know more about the differences between a CV and a resume, ResumeNerd has all the information you need.

The Information You Should Put On Your Resume

Whether you want to update an old resume or you are about to begin resume writing for the first time, there are certain sections that should always be present in a good resume. These components are:

• Contact information

  Your full name, phone number, email address and any professional portfolio links you may have (for example, your LinkedIn profile) should go at the top of your resume. This placement ensures that a recruiter knows how to contact you for an interview if needed.

• Relevant skills

  Whether you have a large or small skills section, you should focus on those skills which closely match the skills listed in the job posting. Once you have addressed all of the main requirements of the job description, you can list supplementary skills. For example, if the job posting is for a programmer position and lists Python or CSS as a prerequisite, you’ll want to highlight these skills, along with supplementary skills such as design skills (if the role is front-end) and project management.

• Work experience/history

  When you list your work history, you should start with your current or most recent job title and work backward in reverse chronological order. Do not include more than 10 years of past work experience unless it is specifically requested that you do so.

• Professional certifications

  While this can be an optional section, if you work in a specialized role, or in a field that relies on specific technical skills or knowledge, professional certifications can be crucial. If you have certifications that are relevant to the job that you intend to apply for, then you should absolutely list them.

• Education and achievements

  As you gain professional work experience, your education will become less important. Nonetheless, there are certain professions that require specific education qualifications and related notable achievements (for example academic awards or specific coursework). Note your most recent or most advanced relevant academic qualifications on your resume.

If you include all of this information you will stand a good chance of creating a great resume that offers a concise professional summary. This should make a good first impression on recruiters.

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