The
Resume

When submitting a resume, make sure that it is presented in such a way that a recruiter or hiring manager will be able to read it quickly and clearly, with the key points easily identifiable. This is a marketing document promoting you so make sure your email address is suitable and the resume highlights your best assets/favourable experience at a glance.

If possible, once you’ve updated your resume to include your most recent position, get a trusted friend or family member to have a read over it to ensure it flows and is easily understood. The process may take some time, but it could help you stand out in the long run and could be the difference between getting the job or not. If you don’t have someone who can read over it, there are resume services you can hire if you need assistance.

If you’re not sure of the best way to layout your resume, there are online resources that can show you examples of up to date resumes and provide further details on current best practice. Just make sure you keep it simple and easy to read, preferably in 11 point Calibri or Arial font.

Inexperienced job seekers should not add non-relevant details to fill up their resumes and conversely, experienced job seekers should focus on the most relevant experience within the last 15 years and condense prior experience if need be to save space.

A resume should be no longer than three pages and should include the following:

1. Current contact details – centred at the top of every page
2. A summary of your strengths and skills – bullet points in a quick snapshot (sell yourself!)
3. Career profile or overview about yourself – in a couple of sentences
4. Your professional history (reverse chronological order) including a description of each employer and your job responsibilities
5. Professional achievements and awards – relevant to the industry
6. Education and training- including computer software you’re proficient in
7. Professional memberships – i.e. Master Builders
8. Referees – either bullet points with names, job titles and numbers or ‘referees available upon request.’

Leave off your resume:

1. Date of birth
2. Marital/parenting status
3. Hobbies/Interests