Why Write One at All?
Writing a custom resume can be difficult and time consuming but it can be the best way to get an interview. With unemployment at a record high, there are often hundreds of applicants for every position available. As a result, employers have less time to read resumes. Generic resumes are unlikely to be given much notice.
A custom resume that adheres to the job specification, however, is likely to fare much better. Indeed, a strong custom resume gives you a competitive edge over other candidates. The following should help provide a number of tips for creating a custom resume that really stands out from the rest.
Start with a Short Personal Profile
Ideally, you want the first thing an employer reads to stand out and impress them. Rather than listing your education or job experience, start with a short personal profile. Make this no more than two lines, but ensure it focuses on the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a job in finance, mention a key qualification, skill or past role that is directly relevant. The employer will keep this in mind and is likely to continue to read the rest of your resume.
Work Experience over Education
Whilst qualifications are important, employers want to know what skills you have obtained in the working world. It is therefore best to continue your resume with a job history. Concentrate on your most recent position and link it to the position you are applying for as much as possible.
Look at the job description and try to include any relevant skills or experience that is required here. For older jobs, simply bullet point your main responsibilities unless the position is directly linked to the new post. In this case, give as much detail as possible but keep it succinct. List jobs in chronological order and explain any gaps that may exist. Any time away from work is often brought up at the interview stage.
Education and Professional Qualifications
Next, list any professional qualifications you have in chronological order. Education is important but do not waste too much space on listing every GCSE or O level you have. It is best to simply list the highest level of education you have achieved; degree, GCSE or A level. The employer will recognise that you will have older qualifications as well. Of course, if the job requires you to have lesser qualifications, make sure they are listed in this section.
Keep it Brief
Perhaps the hardest part of a custom resume is keeping it short. At the end of the day, you are selling yourself and of course will want to go into as much detail as possible to do so. However, nothing puts an employer off more than a lengthy resume. Try to make it fit onto one side of A4 - if not, at least print on both sides of the paper. Employers want to see key skills, qualifications and experience which makes you suitable for the post and this is what a good custom resume does.
About The Author: Amy Harris is a writer for FinancialTraining.co.uk - which helps British and international students find the right financial courses in London and the UK. Amy is an American expat herself, and enjoys helping people with their careers and financial advice.
Writing a custom resume can be difficult and time consuming but it can be the best way to get an interview. With unemployment at a record high, there are often hundreds of applicants for every position available. As a result, employers have less time to read resumes. Generic resumes are unlikely to be given much notice.
A custom resume that adheres to the job specification, however, is likely to fare much better. Indeed, a strong custom resume gives you a competitive edge over other candidates. The following should help provide a number of tips for creating a custom resume that really stands out from the rest.
Start with a Short Personal Profile
Ideally, you want the first thing an employer reads to stand out and impress them. Rather than listing your education or job experience, start with a short personal profile. Make this no more than two lines, but ensure it focuses on the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a job in finance, mention a key qualification, skill or past role that is directly relevant. The employer will keep this in mind and is likely to continue to read the rest of your resume.
Work Experience over Education
Whilst qualifications are important, employers want to know what skills you have obtained in the working world. It is therefore best to continue your resume with a job history. Concentrate on your most recent position and link it to the position you are applying for as much as possible.
Look at the job description and try to include any relevant skills or experience that is required here. For older jobs, simply bullet point your main responsibilities unless the position is directly linked to the new post. In this case, give as much detail as possible but keep it succinct. List jobs in chronological order and explain any gaps that may exist. Any time away from work is often brought up at the interview stage.
Education and Professional Qualifications
Next, list any professional qualifications you have in chronological order. Education is important but do not waste too much space on listing every GCSE or O level you have. It is best to simply list the highest level of education you have achieved; degree, GCSE or A level. The employer will recognise that you will have older qualifications as well. Of course, if the job requires you to have lesser qualifications, make sure they are listed in this section.
Keep it Brief
Perhaps the hardest part of a custom resume is keeping it short. At the end of the day, you are selling yourself and of course will want to go into as much detail as possible to do so. However, nothing puts an employer off more than a lengthy resume. Try to make it fit onto one side of A4 - if not, at least print on both sides of the paper. Employers want to see key skills, qualifications and experience which makes you suitable for the post and this is what a good custom resume does.
About The Author: Amy Harris is a writer for FinancialTraining.co.uk - which helps British and international students find the right financial courses in London and the UK. Amy is an American expat herself, and enjoys helping people with their careers and financial advice.
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