There’s a tool you may overlook, but if you make use of it right, it can bring you the next significant job opportunity. It’s your resume. Many people believe that making an effective resume is simply making a list of contact information and a few pages of work experience. However, modern HR and hiring managers aren’t able to find the time to go through every detail of the resumes they receive. They may be overwhelmed by hundreds, or even thousands, of resumes to fill one job. They won’t find time to look through your first job in high school or any other job that doesn’t match the position they’re looking to fill. When you sit down to compose your resume, keep in mind that the document is your initial impression. You must grab the attention of employers and explain your reasons for being the best candidate to be hired. You can do this by highlighting relevant information and cutting irrelevant details out.

Here are some guidelines to remember while writing your resume

Select the Correct Format

Resumes are available in many different styles. The three primary types are functional, chronological and chrono-functional, which is a blend of both. If you have a chronological resume, you’ll list your experience in reverse chronological order, with the most recent position first. This is an excellent option when you are looking to show your career progression within the same industry. Functional resumes are designed to categorize your talents through function and focus on the skills you have. This format is excellent for those who want to switch career paths and demonstrate what skills they have that can be used for a new job. Chrono-functional resumes showcasing your professional experiences in chronological order as well as the skills you have in the functional section of your resume. This type of resume is ideal for those with a strong career track record and who are looking to switch careers.

Make sure to use Keywords.

A lot of companies are using digital databases to look up potential candidates for jobs. They can find candidates using specific keywords. If you do not have the keywords listed in your profile, then you may not have any chance of being invited for an interview. Enhance your chances by using the requirements mentioned in the job announcement in your resume. For instance, when they are seeking a copywriter who has at least three years of professional experience setting, you should include it on your resume if you have this requirement.

Maintain a positive tone

Including negative or insignificant information on your resume can reduce your chances of making it to an interview. Employers may conclude that you’re challenging to collaborate with. Therefore, be positive. There is a chance that you weren’t happy with the manner in which things got handled at the last place you worked. However, you don’t need to mention it on your resume. You’ll want to put the best effort in and demonstrate to employers that you are an active participant in the team.

Jaime Cooper Consulting offers professional resume editing and writing services for various industries. The team responsible for writing resumes for Jaime Cooper Consulting is comprised of experienced writers who have worked for a time in human resources, as well as the sector of job placement. Every writer has at least three years of experience working in professional staffing. They have read and edited more than 100 resumes in the period. Our resumes are highly customized and targeted toward specific groups. With Jaime Cooper Consulting, your satisfaction is assured. If you don’t notice an improvement to your resume, we’ll review it at no cost. Contact us today for more about our resume consultation services.