When you are searching for a new job, a successful resume
is your first hurdle to employment. The way you present yourself and your skills
via your resume can open the doors to a better variety of interviews.
No matter the industry, every employer is looking for candidates with a
specific set of abilities and experiences, which are most often described in the
job listing. Listings in management, for example, usually include the words
"manage," "leadership," "teamwork" and "motivate." Writing or editing positions
might include words such as "creativity," "accuracy" and "deadline." And
anything in the technology field, such as Web or graphic design or database
management, will absolutely have the specific names of software required on the
job.
Your resume should include these same words, which can keep you on top of the
pile of applications.
To customize your resume for a particular job, examine the job listing for
key words and phrases. Then insert those words where applicable in your resume.
But don't overdo it, and never pad your resume with experience you don't have.
If you're making a major career switch or lack some of the employer's
preferred experience, insert a statement of your career objective at the top of
your resume. This statement should be a brief description of your primary career
goal. Include some key words here, and tell the employer how you want to use
your experience and skills to benefit your new career path.
