How to Write a Good Resume

In these recession hit times, when an employer places an advertisement for a job opening, he/she is likely to receive hundreds of replies. Of all the resumes that are reviewed, only a handful are called in for interviews. Most job seekers wonder why did the employer select that specific set of resumes. The obvious answer would be that those candidates were most suitable for the job. However, this is not always the case. A well-framed resume can portray one as a superior candidate for a job, even over other better qualified candidates. How to write a good resume is something that even experienced job holders often have a problem with. A few resume writing tips, can however, solve this problem effectively.

The objective of your resume is to get you that interview call. A good resume should convince the prospective employer that you will deliver. The first thing to take into consideration is what the employer is looking for, which you should assess by placing yourself in the employer's shoes. If you are applying for a job in your field, you will know what would make anyone a perfect candidate. However, if you are venturing into a new field, pick up pointers from the help wanted ads or ask friends. Use this information, and frame your resume to convince the prospective employer that you are a truly exceptional candidate.

Resume Formats

There are four different resume styles in which all your information may be structured. The chronological resumes present information according to a timeline. Functional resumes contain categories of work experience and skills according to skill area or job function. Combination resumes combine the first two while highlighting one's skills and experiences. The most detailed is a Curricula Vitae (CV), which provides a lengthy descriptive statement of qualifications and experience. Choose the format that suits your industry best.

A popular resume format is to split all your information into two sections. The first section allows the employer to get to know you personally by illustrating your abilities and attributes. The second section contains proof of all that you have stated in the first section, and contains your educational qualifications and work experience. The best place to include details of your name, address, phone number, and your email address are at the top of the first page.

Tips for Effective Resume Writing

Objective: Professional resumes always start by stating your objective. The reason it is important to include an objective is because it demonstrates that you have clarity of career direction. In a resume tailored for a certain opening, your objective could name the position you are applying for. Another effective way to write an objective is to include qualities that the employer is seeking. For example, 'Objective - a reporters position in an organization seeking an extraordinary record of uncovering new stories and delivering high quality writing'. This will convey that as you want to do exactly what they desire, and are thus likely to succeed at it.

Work Experience and Education: When you write down all the jobs you have held, start with your most recent and/or relevant job, and follow with earlier jobs, i.e., list them in reverse. Do the same with your educational qualifications. When you write about college, only include your major and distinctions or awards you have won, unless you are still in college or just recently graduated. If your grade-point average is not impressive, leave it out.

Personal Interests and References: This section, containing your hobbies and interests, should appear towards the end of your resume. Through this section, you should convey well-roundedness, good physical health, or knowledge of a subject related to your goal. It also helps get a conversation started during an interview. Your references should be the very last section of your resume. It is best to just say, 'references available upon request'.

Presentation: Presentation tips on resume writing include symmetry, balance and sufficient white space. There should be consistent use of italics, capital letters, bullets, boldface, and underlining. Ensure there are no errors, factual, typographical or otherwise. An important ingredient in how to write a good resume is simple and direct language. Use good quality paper and printing for your resume.

Researching for resume examples will give you inputs on how to write a professional resume. Most people underestimate the power of a well-written resume. Use these tips on how to write a good resume to give your job search a shot in the arm and your career a boost.