Before we seek to find out the real aim of a resume, we need to define exactly what a resume is. Many definitions exist but the commonality seen is that “a resume is a document used by individuals to present their background and skill set, and can be used for a variety of reasons but most often to secure new employment.” This is true to an extent as a resume is typically used to find a new job. However, is preparing a resume as simple as presenting an individual’s background and skill set? Is this enough for a candidate to stand out from potentially hundreds of job seekers and get THE job?

There are so many aspects of a resume and while a job seeker does need to present their background and skills, there are many other aspects that make up the perfect resume. As a professional resume writer, I have broken down the three most important elements of preparing a professional resume. Whether you’re an entry level job seeker or a high flying executive, the same rules apply.

Targeting the Reader:

It does not matter how much you like your resume and how great you think it looks. The most important thing is that the reader likes your resume. After all, the reader is the only person that you need to impress. Knowing your audience is imperative when writing your resume. If you are applying for a corporate role, your resume needs to give off a corporate feel. Fancy fonts and colours should be changed to bullet points and headings. Alternatively, a graphic designer can be more creative with his or her resume as the target audience is a creative audience.

Before you apply for any job you need to take a step back and imagine that you are the hiring manager. Ask yourself this question: “Is this resume targeted towards the role that I am applying for?”

Presenting a Professional Image:

First impressions are everything when it comes to hiring. Think about meeting someone for the very first time and before you’ve shaken hands or even exchanged words, you notice that their shirt does not appear to be ironed and has several food stains on it. You’ve already started forming a first impression and it may not be a good one. The same goes for your resume.

If a hiring manager opens your resume and sees a something that doesn’t meet certain standards before they even get into the detail they will have created a first impression that will take its toll on your application. In the world of job seeking, creating a professional image and positive first impression is the first hurdle you need to pass on your way to a new job.

Highlighting Achievements and Value-Add Skills:

There is a huge difference between an average resume, a good resume and a great resume. Typically, what makes a great resume is being able to identify your key achievements and the value added skills (tangible and intangible) that you can bring to your next job. Where most people fail with their resume writing is that they concentrate too much on their daily duties and responsibilities (For example “I took orders at the cafe register”) as opposed to creating more achievement statements which focus on how you have added value to the organisation (For example “I recalled repeat customer orders adding value to the customer interaction). Providing examples to back your statements up will give you an automatic edge over your competitors.

This article has been contributed by © RedStarResume Publications - The #1 student and graduate Professional Resume Service

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