How to Write an Outstanding Resume: 5 Golden Rules!

A resume is a crucial document that showcases your skills, achievements, and experiences to potential employers. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your resume is well-written and outstanding to increase your chances of getting the job. In this article, we will discuss the five golden rules of writing an outstanding resume.

• Tailor your resume to the job

When applying for a job, ensure that you tailor your resume to the job description. This means that you should highlight the skills and experiences that match the requirements of the job. Review the job description and identify the keywords and skills that the employer is looking for. Then, ensure that your resume includes those skills and experiences. This will show the employer that you are a perfect fit for the job.

• Use an appropriate format

The format of your resume can have a significant impact on how the employer perceives you. Therefore, it is crucial to use an appropriate format that is easy to read and understand. The three most common formats are chronological, functional, and combination.

1. Chronological: This format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. It is ideal for individuals with a consistent work history and no significant gaps in employment.
2. Functional: This format focuses on your skills and achievements rather than your work history. It is ideal for individuals with significant gaps in employment or those who are changing careers.
3. Combination: This format combines both chronological and functional formats. It lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, but also highlights your skills and achievements.

Choose a format that best highlights your skills and experiences and is appropriate for the job you are applying for.

• Use bullet points and action verbs

Employers spend an average of six seconds scanning a resume. Therefore, it is essential to use bullet points and action verbs to make your resume easy to read and understand. Bullet points help to break up your resume into easy-to-read sections, while action verbs showcase your accomplishments and experiences.

Start each bullet point with an action verb such as “managed,” “created,” “organized,” or “implemented.” This will show the employer that you are proactive and capable of taking action. Additionally, use quantifiable results whenever possible to showcase your achievements.

For example, instead of saying “responsible for increasing sales,” say “increased sales by 20% in six months.”

• Include relevant information

Your resume should only include relevant information that is essential to the job you are applying for. This means that you should leave out any irrelevant information such as your hobbies, personal details, or references. Instead, focus on the skills and experiences that make you a perfect fit for the job.

Additionally, ensure that your contact information is up-to-date and easily accessible. Include your name, email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile. This will make it easy for the employer to contact you.

• Proofread and edit your resume

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is submitting a resume that is full of errors and typos. Therefore, it is crucial to proofread and edit your resume before submitting it. Read your resume aloud and use spell-check to identify any errors.

Additionally, ensure that your resume is easy to read and understand. Use a font size of 10-12 and leave enough white space to make it easy on the eyes. Finally, ask a friend or mentor to review your resume to ensure that it is well-written and error-free.

Conclusion

In conclusion, writing an outstanding resume requires tailoring it to the job, using an appropriate format, using bullet points and action verbs, including relevant information, and proofreading and editing it. By following these five golden rules, you can increase your chances of getting the job you want. Remember, your resume is your first impression, so make it count!

Sample 1: Resume for a Sales Manager

John Smith 123 Main Street Anytown, USA 12345 (123) 456-7890 johnsmith@email.com linkedin.com/in/johnsmith

Objective: Sales Manager position in a dynamic and fast-paced organization that will allow me to utilize my skills and experience to achieve exceptional results.

Summary: Experienced sales manager with over 10 years of experience in driving revenue growth, building high-performance sales teams, and developing successful sales strategies. Proven track record of exceeding sales targets and delivering exceptional customer service. Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.

Professional Experience:

Sales Manager, ABC Company, Anytown, USA (2015-present)

• Develop and implement sales strategies to achieve revenue growth and exceed sales targets
• Build and manage a high-performing sales team of 15 sales representatives
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide coaching and training to improve sales skills
• Identify new business opportunities and develop relationships with key accounts
• Collaborate with marketing team to develop effective marketing campaigns and materials

Sales Representative, XYZ Company, Anytown, USA (2010-2015)

• Achieved top sales performer status for 3 consecutive years, exceeding sales targets by 20%
• Developed and maintained strong relationships with key accounts
• Provided exceptional customer service to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business
• Collaborated with marketing team to develop effective sales materials
• Participated in trade shows and events to generate leads and increase brand awareness

Education: Bachelor of Business Administration, Anytown University, USA (2009) Major: Marketing

Skills:

• Sales strategy development and implementation
• Team management and leadership
• Customer relationship management
• Sales forecasting and budgeting
• Communication and negotiation skills
• CRM software proficiency

Sample 2: Resume for a Graphic Designer

Emily Johnson 456 Oak Street Cityville, USA 67890 (456) 789-0123 emilyjohnson@email.com linkedin.com/in/emilyjohnson

Objective: Graphic Designer position in a creative and innovative organization that will allow me to utilize my design skills and experience to create visually compelling and effective designs.

Summary: Experienced graphic designer with over 8 years of experience in creating engaging and visually appealing designs for print and digital media. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Strong conceptual thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently or in a team environment.

Professional Experience:

Graphic Designer, XYZ Design Studio, Cityville, USA (2015-present)

• Collaborate with clients to understand their design needs and develop creative solutions
• Create visually compelling designs for print and digital media, including logos, brochures, websites, and social media graphics
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Use feedback from clients and team members to refine designs and achieve optimal results
• Maintain organized files and documentation to ensure project efficiency and accuracy

Freelance Graphic Designer (2010-2015)

• Worked with a variety of clients to develop branding, marketing, and advertising materials
• Created custom designs for print and digital media, including business cards, flyers, websites, and social media graphics
• Managed project timelines and budgets to ensure client satisfaction
• Collaborated with printers and web developers to ensure accurate production and implementation of designs

Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, City University, USA (2009)

Skills:

• Adobe Creative Suite proficiency
• Conceptual thinking and problem-solving skills
• Design software proficiency, including Sketch and Figma
• Print and digital media design expertise
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Communication and collaboration skills

How to Write an Amazing Cover Letter -5 Golden Rules