As a college student, you’re on the pathway to a career adventure, which means your resume is one of the most important tools you have for securing a job. Writing an effective resume may seem daunting, especially if you’re new to the professional world and don’t have a lot of work experience, but we’ve got you covered!
A solid resume is one that engages your potential employer and opens the door for an interview. One key to remember: Your resume needs to be impressive enough to stand out among other resumes submitted for the same job — a concise document that explains who you are and what you can bring to the table.
Read on to learn about some resume-building tips that will inspire what you should include and how to make it stand out.
See Yourself as an Employer Would
This is the most important tip on how to make an effective resume. Think about what an employer is looking for before you write your resume. Make it as concise as possible without any unnecessary information. Think of your resume as an advertisement for the person you are and the skills you have to offer a potential employer.
Opt for a Proper and Professional Format
Keep the information in a professional manner. You should use a conservative format; this means avoiding any creative fonts or pictures. Be sure to use proper spacing and margins so it’s easier for the employer to quickly find out what they need while scanning it.
Brief but Concise Is Best
Your resume needs to be as impressive as possible, but at the same time, do not exaggerate information. Make sure you’re listing only those facts about yourself that may help an employer assess you and your skills more effectively.
Highlight Notable Attainment
When you list any notable achievement, make sure it is properly emphasized. Map out your resume in a way that what needs to stand out does stand out. This will help an employer quickly know what you have done and why you are a great fit for a job opening.
Proof Your Resume
Before sending off your resume, review it thoroughly. Take the time to ensure there are no grammatical errors or misspellings, and that all the information provided is accurate. Review those points that you feel may lack necessary information or clarity, and refine as much as you can.
Engage Your Academic Writing Center
As a college student, check to see if your university has a writing center or a specific department that helps students with perfecting their resumes. They can offer advice, tips, proofreading, and help make the job hunting path easier with a resume that shines.