Resume Writing Advice

Wherever you are in your job search, utilising a professional resume for your application can be beneficial. If your resume isn't maintained and up to date, it can be a largely unwelcomed hurdle if and when an opportunity arises.

Your resume isn't just a document you hand out to employers and recruiters without batting an eye - it is a professional branding tool to set you apart from the masses. The job market is becoming increasingly more competitive, especially with the unemployment rate officially rising this month. Having your resume ready to go will ensure your job application results are optimal.

With studies showing that recruiters spend less than 10 seconds reviewing the core information on the first page, it is critical that you showcase your expertise in the best possible way to be selected for an interview. This includes Applicant Tracking System (ATS) compatibility, keyword optimisation, formatting and industry relevance. Here is a quick guide to writing your resume to the highest standards:

1. Simplify Your Formatting Applicant Tracking Systems are smart, yet they continuosly struggle to analyse overly designed and formatted templates. Does your template have an excess of graphics, images or complex designs? Do you use an odd font or multiple tables? All of these aspects can impact whether or not your resume passes through AI systems and lands in front of a hiring manager. It is crucial to remember that this is a professional document, and a tool for career branding. Keep the formatting minimalistic, straightforward and to the point.
   

2. Set Your Objective Improving your content is all good and well, but if you do not have a clear objective, a new resume will not improve your application outcomes. ATS factors in a great deal of keywords that need to be met in your application, so targeting your resume to a specific career or job advertisement will make an incredible difference. Incorporating keywords and phrases from the job advertisement will mean that commonly used Appliacnt Tracking Systems will pick you up in the initial selection process.
   

3. Country Relevancy and Standards Meeting the application requirements for your country is incredibly important. For example, North American resume standards require a one page CV that is incredibly succinct and metrics driven. Australian resume standards are fairly different, with recruiters recommending two pages of content focusing on your achievements and strengths relevant to the job application. Spelling, grammar and punctuation pursuant to the country you are seeking a job in is also a factor.
   

4. Application Requirements Don't keep a cookie cutter resume and/or cover letter that you use for a multitude of job applications. Each job advertisement on Seek or Indeed often has a set list of requirements to be considered for the role. Include or address these requirements within your resume and cover letter. Application requirements often also specify whether you need to upload your resume in PDF or Word format - follow these instructions to the tee or you may not be considered.

Amlode Employment Services offers a professional resume writing service that also includes cover letters, key selection criteria writing, LinkedIn profile writing and a range of templates you can purchase for a DIY approach to your resume. We are based on the Central Coast of NSW in Terrigal, and service the local community as well as clients across Australia and North America. If you woud like more information on our service offerings, or how we can help you write a successful resume, please contact us at amy@amlode.com.au for a personalised quote. We also offer free resume reviews if you would like a more personalised overview into what we would change for your resume specifically. #resume #resumewriting #resumewritingguide #centralcoastresumewriters #professionalresumewriters #resumewriters #resumeadvice

amy@amlode.com.au | 0478 180 821 | Terrigal, NSW