PACE, Please!

Resume-Ready!

By Holly Maglin (Christopher Newport)

Creating a resume can often feel stressful, like trying to navigate a confusing maze. Many of us approach it nervously, hoping our efforts will be enough to land us an interview or a job offer. Some people even let the daunting task of resume writing halt their job search entirely. But the truth is, your resume is more important than just a job application. It's a crucial document not only for finding a job but also for seeking a promotion or raise. Plus, it's a valuable tool for networking in professional circles. Adding to the challenge is technology, which has changed the hiring process significantly. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) now filter candidates based on keywords. So, having a well-crafted resume tailored to the job description is essential for success in today's competitive job market. Here are eight tips to make sure your resume is ready for any opportunity!

1. No Templates

Templates are great to get started and guide you on the right path, but never submit a resume that is in a template – ever! They may look appealing, and I understand the temptation, but try to steer clear. Template formatting isn't universal, and what appears great to you may appear terrible when viewed by a hiring manager. And remember ATS? It will extract the information it needs, and a template’s built-in formatting is often incompatible with online systems. If you admire how a template looks, use it as inspiration to format your own resume.

2. Write a Strong Summary Statement

Switching from outdated objective statements to succinct summary statements on your resume is crucial. While objective statements may seem standard, they often state the obvious. With limited resume space, every line must count. Enter the summary statement: a concise introduction highlighting you as the top candidate. Populate it with keywords and big achievements for maximum impact.

3. Keywords – Your Best Friends

Fill your resume with the right keywords. The keywords you scatter throughout your resume will determine whether it gets past ATS and onto a hiring manager’s desk. But ensure you’re using the correct keywords! You can locate these keywords in the job posting. It’s essentially the answer key, with the recruiter or hiring manager explicitly stating what they're seeking.

4. Be Wary of Your Skills Section

Not everyone needs a skills section. So, if you don’t need one, don't include it. For those in the medical field, a skills section highlighting tangible skills is highly recommended. However, if you lack such tangible skills, don’t force it.

5. Keep that Education a High Priority – For Now

If you’re a soon-to-be or recent college graduate, your education reigns as your most vital credential. Keep it prominently positioned, right

beneath your summary statement. Display it proudly — you've earned that degree through hard work! Conversely, if you've been in the workforce for two to three years, it's time to relocate the education section beneath your work experience. While your education was pivotal, your experience now stands as your most valuable asset.

When discussing your education, focus solely on higher ed. Omit mention of your high school diploma, as it's assumed if you possess a college degree. If you transferred without completing a program, leave it out. Only highlight what you've accomplished, avoiding potential inquiries about changing paths, even if for commendable reasons.

6. Be Specific with Your Section Titles

Just like the significance of keywords, section titles serve as excellent guides when quickly scanning a resume. Make it effortless for someone to gather all they need to advance you to the next round with just a glance.

While ‘Work Experience’ suffices as a section title, aim for a touch of creativity! Did you engage in multiple internships while in school? Consider ‘Internship Experience.’ Did you spend years working in a restaurant or clothing store? Opt for ‘Customer Service Experience.’ Were you actively involved in Gamma Phi Beta? Highlight your ‘Leadership Experience.’

7. Don’t Forget Your Achievements!

This resume is your representation on paper, so it is crucial to present yourself in the best possible light. While some may hesitate to self-promote, remember: if you don't showcase your strengths, who will? After listing the tasks for each job, take a moment to reflect on what you excelled at or improved. This is the perfect opportunity to highlight your strengths and accomplishments!

8. Keep Your Resume Fresh

Your resume is a fluid document, so it should be updated every few months.