A good curriculum vitae (CV) is crucial when applying for a new job. It is the first thing an employer or recruiter sees of you, and it can make the difference between being invited for a job interview or not. In this blog, we discuss how to optimize your resume.
- Start with a catchy summary
The first thing employers will read is the summary of your resume. Therefore, it is important to have a catchy, powerful and well-written summary. In it, write who you are, what your goals are and what your main qualities are. Keep it short and to the point, but make sure you grab the reader’s attention.
- List your work experience
List all your relevant work experience. Start with your most recent job and work back in time. Include the name of the company, your position, the period you worked there and your duties and responsibilities. It is important to show the employer what you have accomplished and what value you have added to the company and how you can benefit their business.
- List your education and other relevant experience
After your work experience, also list your education(s) and, for example, internships or volunteer positions that match the position you are applying for. List these in chronological order as well.
- Use action words
Use action words to describe your experience. Avoid passive sentences and instead use words such as “achieved,” “developed,” and “implemented. Action words add power to your resume and show that you have been actively involved in your work.
- Make your resume visually appealing
A visually appealing resume will attract attention and make your resume stand out among the other resumes. Use a clear and consistent layout and make sure the most important information stands out. For example, format your resume in Canva, where you can find lots of templates to format your resume in. Include a photo of yourself to make your resume extra appealing.
- Match your resume to the job posting
Make sure your resume matches the job you are applying for. This may mean adjusting your resume a bit per application. Match the order of your skills to the position and make specific adjustments in your introduction text, for example, to show that you have the right experience and skills.
- State accomplishments and results
Recruiters are interested in what you have accomplished and what results you have achieved in your previous positions. Therefore, list specific accomplishments and results in your resume. Use measurable results, for example, “increased sales by 20% in the first quarter. This shows that you are a valuable asset to the company.
- Use the right keywords
Recruiters often use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen job applicants. These systems look for specific keywords to determine if a resume is relevant to the position being applied for. Make sure your resume contains the right keywords. Read the job posting carefully and try to identify the keywords mentioned in the job description. Incorporate these keywords into your resume, but be careful to keep the text readable.
- Keep it concise
A resume should be concise and should not exceed two pages. Therefore, avoid unnecessary information and keep your resume short and to the point. Include only the information relevant to the position you are applying for.
Do you need help putting together your resume, or with applying for a job in general? Then contact ZW Werkt Door. We help you free of charge and without any obligation with all your questions about work and (re)training.