Writing a resume might seem tough, but it’s SUPER important if you want to get a great job. Think of your resume as a first impression. It shows who you are and why you’d be good for the job. Here are some simple dos and don’ts to help you write a fantastic resume.
Do’s
**1. Do Keep It Short and Simple – Your resume should be easy to read. Use clear headings and bullet points instead of long paragraphs. Stick to one or two pages.
**2. Do Include CURRENTContact Information – At the top of your resume, put your name, phone number, and email address. Make sure it’s a professional email address, like yourname@example.com. If you change your phone number, make sure to update your resume.
**3. Do Tailor Your Resume – Make a new resume for each job you apply for. Highlight the skills and experiences that match the job description.
**4. Do Use Action Words – Start each bullet point with a strong action word like “managed,” “created,” or “designed.” This makes your resume more dynamic.
**5. Do Highlight Your Achievements -Instead of just listing job duties, show what you achieved. For example, say “increased sales by 20%” instead of “responsible for sales.”
**6. Do Proofread – Check your resume for spelling and grammar mistakes. Ask a friend or family member to read it too. A mistake-free resume looks more professional.
Don’ts
**1. Don’t Include Too Much Personal Information or Pictures – You don’t need to share your age, gender, marital status, or social security number. Just stick to contact information and job-related details. Pictures or personal information could lead to bias.
**2. Don’t Use Unprofessional Email Addresses – Avoid using email addresses like cooldude123@example.com or partygirl1990@email.com. It doesn’t look professional. Use a simple, professional email with your name.
**3. Don’t Include Irrelevant Jobs – Only include jobs and experiences that relate to the job you’re applying for. If you worked as a babysitter but are applying for a tech job, leave the babysitting job off your resume. Don’t include jobs that are short term unless you explain why the position was temporary.
**4. Don’t Lie or Exaggerate – Be honest about your skills and experiences. If you lie, you might get caught, and it could ruin your chances of getting the job.
**5. Don’t Use Fancy Fonts or Colors – Stick to simple fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. Use black text on white paper. Fancy fonts and colors can make your resume hard to read.
**6. Don’t Forget to Update Your Resume – Make sure your resume is current. If you get a new job or learn a new skill, add it to your resume. An up-to-date resume shows you’re active and improving. Employers may look at an old resume and disregard you for the position.
Conclusion
Writing a resume doesn’t have to be hard. Keep it simple, honest, and tailored to the job you want. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll create a resume that stands out and helps you get the job you’re aiming for. Good luck!