Top 10 Resume Writing Tips

By JobTonic

When you go to create a resume, you’ll be undertaking a task that is outside of your specialization (in most cases): writing. You need to create a resume that resonates with the hiring manager, and a free online resume builder can only help so much.

Here are a few resume writing tips to ensure that your resume doesn’t stand out for all of the wrong reasons:

1. Choose a Standard Font

A standard font is recommended to create a resume. You can alter header sizes or bold sections, but you want to stay with a neutral font that is easy to read and widely available. Fonts include:

• Arial
• Calibri
• Times New Roman

2. Include Contact Information

It seems trivial, but you want to include contact information. The information you should include is:

• Full name (no nicknames)
• Address
• City
• State
• Zip code
• Home and mobile number
• Email address

3. Avoid Slang

Slang should be avoided at all costs. You never want to talk in “street” talk or use abbreviated words. A potential employer will not appreciate you writing “u” instead of “you,” or anything of the sort.

The key most important thing is to be professional.

4. Include Keywords

Resumes are sent through systems that then alert the manager of potential candidates to interview. Look through the job posting for keywords that you can add to your resume. A good example of a potential listing is:

“We’re looking for a Spanish speaker that can help our SaaS company excel as a developer. Proficiency in PHP, MySQL, Python and JAVA required.”

You would want to add the keywords:

• Spanish
• PHP
• Java
• MySQL

And you can add other keywords that may bolster your chance of getting an interview.

5. One-Size Doesn’t Fit All

Create a basic resume template and alter it for each resume you send. You want to add in achievements and experience that matches the job vacancy that you’re applying for. In other words, a one-size-fits-all resume is not going to work well.

6. Don’t Go Overboard

Resumes should not exceed two pages in length. While the rule of thumb used to be never exceed a one-page resume, it’s best to include pertinent information if necessary. Since most resumes go through a pre screening process on an automated system, two page resumes, when necessary, are now acceptable.

With that said, don’t go overboard and send a 10-page resume – hiring managers don’t have time to read your novel.

7. Avoid Personal Information

No matter how beautiful or handsome you may be, hiring managers do not want you to attach a photo – unless requested – and they don’t need to know you like to paint in your free time. Keep your resume succinct by avoiding unnecessary information.

8. Include Awards

Hiring managers love awards and prestige. If a former employer presented you with awards for excellence, or any reward for that matter, always include it in your resume.

9. Proofread Your Resume

You’ve written a resume that would knock Shakespeare off of his feet, and you know that everyone will love it. But you forgot to proofread the document. The hiring manager now sees that you’re proficient in “riting” and “vomputers.”

These small but dire mistakes can be avoided by proofreading your resume, and having someone else proofread it as well.

10. Define Project Roles and Scopes

Project roles and scopes are very important, and this is an area you want to pay special attention to when you're writing. Ensure that when you read your roles and scope that they’re descriptive and thorough.

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