Stepping Through the Resume Process

Applying for a job can be a job in itself. With resumes, selection criteria, CVs, references, contact details, the list goes on, it's no wonder it's a struggle every time you embark on the whole application process.

Therefore it is most important that we actually know how to write a resume before we put pen to paper.

So what really needs to be included and which items can you leave out?

A resume or CV is a summary document of your skills, training and work experiences paid and unpaid. Unfortunetly it seems to be expected that we naturally have the ability and know what to write in our resumes, however this is not always the case.

The modern resume needs to include information that covers the following areas:

• Personal details

• Contact details

• Education

• Certificates or qualifications

• Knowledge and skills

• Employment history

• Referee contact details

You need to be honest in the information you provide and be able to back up any qualifications with copies of certificates or licences.

Now that you know what you need to write include in your resume let’s talk about what you can you leave out.

Here's Resume Rescue’s list of items to leave out:

1.      The unprofessional email address

The email address that you thought was funny or cool as a teenager or a young adult such as legs11@hotmail.com, funkysurfchick1975@gmail.com, v8rule@yahoo.com  look ghastly when presented to an employer.

2.      Spelling mistakes

Check and double check for those errors in spelling, typing, and grammar.

3.      Personal details about your age, gender, ethnicity,  religion or marital status

This information is not required. There are laws against discriminating against those who do provide it.

4.      References to your wage or salary of previous positions

Your remuneration should be discussed in private with the employer upon being offered the position. If a position states the remuneration and you’re not happy with it, negotiate it with the employer prior to accepting the position or simply don’t apply for the position.

5.      Slang or humour

Give the employer and your resume the respect you deserve and keep your resume in a serious tone and leaving out any slang or humour.

6.      Your photo

There's no need to include a photo unless you are applying for a modelling position or if the employer specifies to include a photo with your application.

Now that you understand the foundations of writing a resume...

Would you like to know how to write the perfect Resume? Then click here