Need help writing a resume? In this segment of Ask Mama J, we’ll look at the essential tips you need to know to write a resume that will land you your dream job. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right format to highlighting your skills and accomplishments. So whether you’re a teen or young adult just starting out in your career, or you’re looking to make a change, this post is for you!
Dear Mama J,
How do I write a resume? They look scary.
Bette K.
Ask Mama J
Dear Bette,
Thanks for reaching out! Writing your first resume can be a daunting task. After all, it’s your chance to make a good first impression on potential employers and demonstrate why you’re the best candidate for the job. But don’t worry, I’m here to help!
Here are a few more tips on how to write a resume that will help you land your dream job:
- Highlight your most relevant skills and accomplishments. When listing your skills and accomplishments, focus on the ones that are most relevant to the specific job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job as a customer service representative, you might want to highlight your skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
- Quantify your results whenever possible. This will help potential employers see the impact of your work. For example, instead of saying “Increased sales,” say “Increased sales by 15% in the first quarter.”
- Use strong action verbs. This will help your resume sound more dynamic and engaging. For example, instead of saying “Responsible for managing social media accounts,” say “Managed social media accounts for a Fortune 500 company, increasing followers by 20%.”
- Tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Take the time to read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and accomplishments that are most relevant to the position. You can also use keywords from the job description throughout your resume.
- Proofread carefully. Typos and grammatical errors can make you look unprofessional. Be sure to proofread your resume carefully before submitting it to any potential employers.
Why is it important to have a good resume?
Your resume is your first chance to make a good impression on potential employers. It’s your chance to highlight your skills and accomplishments, and show them why you’re the best candidate for the job. A well-written resume can help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of landing an interview.
Here are a few additional tips to help you write a successful resume:
- Use a clear and concise format. Your resume should be easy to read and scannable. Use clear headings and subheadings, and avoid using too much jargon.
- Use a professional font. Avoid using too many different fonts or font sizes on your resume. A good rule of thumb is to use one professional font, such as Arial or Times New Roman, throughout your resume.
- Use white space. White space can make your resume look more organized and professional. Avoid overcrowding your resume with too much text.
- Get feedback. Once you’ve written your resume, ask a trusted friend, family member, or teacher to review it and give you feedback. This will help you catch any errors or make any necessary improvements.
Here is a basic outline for a solid resume:
- Contact information: This should include your name, email address, phone number, and mailing address.
- Professional summary or objective: This is a brief overview of your skills and experience, and what you’re looking for in your next role.
- Work experience: List your previous jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. Include the company name, your job title, and your dates of employment. For each job, list your key responsibilities and accomplishments.
- Education: List your educational background, including the name of the school, your degree, and your dates of attendance.
- Skills: List your skills and abilities, including both hard skills (such as proficiency in specific software programs) and soft skills (such as communication and teamwork).
You may also want to include additional sections on your resume, such as:
- Awards and honors: List any awards or honors you have received.
- Volunteer experience: List any volunteer experience you have, including the name of the organization, your role, and your dates of involvement.
- Projects: List any relevant projects you have worked on, either in school, at work, or in your personal life.
- Publications: List any publications you have authored or co-authored.
Remember, your resume is a living marketing document. It should be tailored to each job you apply for, and it should highlight your most relevant skills and accomplishments.
Good luck with your job search!
Mama J
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