Adebola Alabi
- We all know that putting together a resume is the first step in job application process.
- It matters a lot how you prepare your resume.
What is a resume?
– Name: The recruiter needs to somehow connect with the job applicant.
– Mailing address: Part of the template, but it only come to use when you have succeeded in the interview selection process. It’s slow to mail in interview request.
– Email Address: Also a means of indicating interest for further discussion.
– Phone Number: Some recruiter will just pick up the phone and call you if they have interest in your resume.
– Education & Qualification: Your degree, in what field of study. Any certification?
– Skills & Expertise: Project management, Oracle, SAP, SEO
– Work Experience: This is where you sell yourself. Include your accomplishments.
– References: Referrals & recommendations
– There is a saying, it’s not what you know, but who you know. Imagine if you can have Bill Gate write a recommendation for you. So highlight who you know. Of course, it does not have to be Bill Gate, it can be your manager. Or for fresh graduate, your college professor will suffice.
Impression
– You are not there during the selection process, you want to make a first good impression
– For every job, there may be hundreds or sometimes thousands of applicants.
– Use the right keywords
– Proofread your resume – you don’t want a recruiter to discover mistakes that you should have seen. It makes you look sloppy.
– Make sure it is well formatted. – same font, same size, no mismatch. No where to use BOLD.
– Page requirement – Under 5 years of experience should fit into one page. 2 pages maximum. Just ensure you highlight your important accomplishments.
– Technology: Companies don’t have the time to parse through numerous resumes for every open position. So they get applicant tracking systems to do it. Here is how it works – When you upload your resume to an online career portal, the tracking system scan it for keywords applicable to the job you are applying for. The main job of these programs is to narrow down the number of candidates, so they majority of resumes are quickly eliminated. You don’t and should not be out at this stage. So know the key words.
Expression
– Activities: Relevant Information – volunteer activities, passion.
– Credibility & Track record
– Cover letter to sell yourself and how you can add value to the company.
– Demonstrate Progress – Job history should show you are making progress in your career.
– Don’t lie – It may come back to bite you. There is a part of background check
– Apply if you meet criteria: 1st you will be wasting the recruiter’s time. If you manage to get through the screening, if you get the job you may struggle to deliver. And it will result into los of trust.
Mind the gap
– Be ready to offer explanation for gaps on your resume.
Closing thoughts
– Now you are ready to publish your resume and apply for your dream job. Remember though, a good resume is just the first step to landing the job. You will also need to learn about the company, hone your skills, practice for interviews before you can get the job.
– Good luck in your search
– I hope I have been able to serve you with this presentation. Till next time. Thank you!
