- Choose a fuss-free layout that provides enough white space so the resume is easy to read. Ensure the design suits the industry and job function you are targeting (for example, a graphic designer’s resume will need a more creative look than a finance professional’s resume)
- Keep the text size no smaller than 10 point font and provide enough white space so it’s easy to read
- Aim for 2-3 pages to include the information that is relevant for the role – there is no need to include everything that you’ve done over your career
- Ensure your name and contact details (mobile phone and email address are requirements) are clearly visible at the top of the resume.
- Include a career summary or professional profile at the beginning that highlights your relevant experience, core competencies and technical skills. This should capture the attention of the reader instantly and place you in the ‘yes’ or ‘maybe’ rather than the ‘no’ pile when being screened.
- For each role you’ve held, include the company name, job title and the dates. Start with your most recent role and then add your previous roles in reverse chronological order.
- Describe briefly the scope, responsibilities and important aspects of each role, to whom you reported, the number of people you managed, size and type of projects you handled and size of budget if relevant.
- Include bullet points of your accomplishments for each role. These should include the tangible results of your efforts. These accomplishments may be profit improvements, streamlining of processes, time savings, cost savings, improved morale within the department, completion of projects under budget or ahead of schedule, etc.
How to write a cover letter that stands out
So you’re applying for a job that asks for a cover letter, or you’ve decided it’s a good idea to include one anyway. What should
