For many, the idea of finding a new position is daunting. Job hunting is rarely easy, though it’s something that every professional has to handle at least a few times during their career. Luckily, by understanding the basics of job hunting, you can navigate the process with greater ease.
Typically, having a standout resume is a critical part of the equation. By getting this vital document squared away correctly, you can showcase what you have to offer and catch the hiring manager’s attention. If you don’t know where to begin, here’s a look at how to build a resume.
Put Your Contact Information Front and Center
First and foremost, you need to make sure your contact information is in a prominent place on your resume. You want to make sure that the hiring manager has no issue figuring out how they can reach you, so it’s best to get this step handled at the beginning.
Generally, you want to list your full name, address, email, and phone number. With your address, you can go with complete mailing or just your city and state.
You can also include links to professional social media profiles in this section. That way, if the hiring manager wants to reach out on LinkedIn or Facebook, they could easily do so.
Lead with a Winning Professional Summary
In most cases, hiring managers only spend a few seconds when they first review your resume. With a professional summary, you can highlight the best of what you have to offer in a concise fashion. At a minimum, this ensures they understand what you bring to the table. However, in the best-case scenario, it entices them to read more, ensuring you get more than a quick glance.
Ideally, you want to tailor your professional summary to the exact job you’re applying to, ensuring it speaks directly to that hiring manager’s needs and preferences. Showcase relevant achievements and skills while keeping the entire statement to just a few sentences.
Add a Short List of Your Relevant Skills
Under your professional summary, a short, bulleted skills list is a wise addition. Again, this brings attention to your relevant qualifications, drawing the eye to those details.
Separate your list into two or three columns. Then, include two to three skills per column, focusing on any you possess that are included in the job ad as must-haves.
Focus on Achievements, Not Duties, in Your Work History
Once you get into your work history, include an overview of the role by listing your job title, employer name, and employment dates. However, instead of diving into your duties, instead include details about relevant accomplishments and examples of how you put your skills to work. This approach is more meaningful than just rehashing your responsibilities, as it provides the hiring manager with valuable context.
Additionally, quantify the details whenever possible. Numbers speak louder than words, while also standing out visually.
Cover Your Education, Training, and Certifications
Listing your education on your resume can be a smart move. If you’re a college graduate, include the name of your school and the degree obtained. Additionally, if you have any certifications or licenses, or you have specialty training that didn’t result in a degree, you can add that, as well.
You don’t necessarily need to list your GPA, unless it is specifically requested. Similarly, if you’re a college graduate, you don’t have to include your high school on your resume, as the fact that you graduated from high school is implied.
Looking for a Job? We Can Help!
Ultimately, by following the process above, you can build a standout resume. If you’d like to learn more about the basics of job hunting, the team at GSG Talent Solutions can help. Contact us today.