When you’re applying for any job, the first thing you need to do is write a resume. Studies show employers spend on average just 7 seconds reading each resume they receive – so how can you make sure yours is noticed above the others? Let’s go through some resume basics so you can craft the perfect application and secure that all-important interview.
What is a resume?
Your resume is a document that details your work and study history, and highlights all of your achievements and skills so far.
Its purpose is to allow potential employers and recruiters to get a sense of who you are. It’s your opportunity to show that you recognise the skills and attributes that they’re looking for in order to do the job, and confirms that you have them.
A great resume could make sure your application ends up in the “interview” pile, bringing you one step closer to securing a job.
Things to include on your resume
You’ll want to keep your resume brief – 1 page is ideal, 2 maximum. Of course, this will all depend on how long you’ve been working and what you have to include. As a general rule, here are some basic details your resume should always show:
- Your name and contact details
- Your education history, including any relevant subjects you’ve studied
- Any other jobs you’ve had (including volunteer work and work experience)
- A list of your skills – don’t be shy, but don’t exaggerate either
- Any awards or achievements
- A few hobbies and interests (if relevant to the job)
In addition to those key details, there are some other important things to keep in mind when putting your resume together:
- Make sure you provide all the essential details
- Keep it up to date
- Highlight your skills without waffling
- Stay honest
- Proof-read it or ask someone to help you out
Remember, you need it to impress the person reading it and make them see you’re the best fit for the job they’re advertising.
Give it some polish
Spending some time ensuring your resume is formatted right is important. Unless you’re applying for a job in design or arts, you don’t need to make your resume look super fancy. The most important things to consider are:
- It’s neat, professional, and presentable
- It’s easy to read
- Key information is identifiable at a glance
So don’t go overboard with colours and fonts – in most cases, keeping it simple is best.
Applicant tracking systems
Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are automated software used by some employers to automatically filter and sort resumes. The ATS can scan each application much faster than a person, picking up key descriptors and skills, then forwarding the best resumes on to a real person to review.
They’re often used by employers when they expect to receive a high volume of applications for a particular job. It saves them time by filtering out any unsuitable candidates and lets them focus on the most relevant applications.
Not all employers will use an ATS, but you probably won’t be able to tell whether they do or not, so it’s best to assume they will and prepare accordingly. Here are some things you can do to make sure your application isn’t pushed to the bottom of the pile:
- Incorporate key words and skills from the job advertisement into your resume
- Include any “must haves” from the job ad in your resume
- Make sure your resume is in the correct file format
- Stay away from using images and complex formatting, as this can often confuse the filter
Don’t forget a cover letter
Including a brief cover letter with your application is often a good idea. These are written in a formal letter style, as opposed to the short bullet points in your resume. It should include:
- Your name and contact details
- An introduction about you
- Why you’re interested in this particular job
- How your skills and experience match what the employer’s looking for
- A call to action (reading the attached resume or asking for an interview)
- A thank you to the employer for their time and consideration
Keep it brief and to the point. Don’t forget to include any focus words you spotted in the job ad.
A little extra effort goes a long way
Customising your resume and cover letter for each job you apply for shows you’ve put in effort and could boost your chances of securing the job. Sure, it might take you a bit more time, but it’s definitely worth it – just a few small tweaks could make all the difference.
Still want to learn more? We have heaps of other blogs on resume basics, preparing for work, and finding your dream career on our website here.