Create a Job-Winning Resume with These Simple Steps

Most people skip the most important step in creating a resume — tailoring it to the specific job they're applying for — and pay for it later. This mistake can lead to a resume that is not effective in showcasing their qualifications and experiences. A resume is a concise, informative summary of your abilities, education, and experience, and it should be tailored to the type of position you're seeking.

Step 1: Determine the Sections to Include
When creating a resume, it's essential to include the right sections to make it effective. According to the Texas State University Career Services, a resume should at least include the following sections: Objective or Summary of Qualifications, Education, Experience, and Activities. The Education section highlights the knowledge you have acquired, and can include training, certifications, or licensure. The Experience section highlights your (paid or unpaid) work-related accomplishments. Skills and competencies can be included in your Summary of Qualifications or a dedicated Skills section.

Step 2: Tailor Your Resume to the Job
Tailoring your resume to the specific job you're applying for is crucial. The Harvard College Guide to Creating a Strong Resume suggests that you should highlight your skills or experiences that are most applicable to the job or industry. Use the T-Chart exercise to help you match the job requirements to your list of accomplishments. This exercise will help you identify the most important qualifications and experiences to include in your resume.

Step 3: Use the Right Format and Style
The format and style of your resume are also important. The UC Santa Barbara Career Services recommend that you use a format that makes information easy to find, engaging to read, and trustworthy to believe. Use a clear and concise writing style, and focus on the things you accomplished in your previous experiences. The OhioMeansJobs website suggests that you should be clear and highlight your specific accomplishments.

Step 4: Use Keywords and Action Verbs
Using keywords and action verbs in your resume can help it pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catch the eye of the hiring manager. The UC Santa Barbara Career Services recommend that you use keywords from the job description in your resume, especially in your Summary of Qualifications and Skills section. Use action verbs like "managed," "created," and "developed" to describe your experiences and accomplishments.

Before you start creating your resume, make sure you have all the necessary information, including your education, work experience, skills, and accomplishments. Use the T-Chart exercise to help you match the job requirements to your list of accomplishments.

Step 5: Review and Edit Your Resume
Finally, review and edit your resume to make sure it's error-free and effective. According to the University Career Services, a resume is a summary of your education, skills, and relevant experience, and it should be presented in a format that makes information easy to find, engaging to read, and trustworthy to believe. Use the Limited Experience Resume Template or the T-Chart exercise to help you create a customized resume for a specific position.

What to do right now: Open a new document and start creating your resume, using the T-Chart exercise to help you match the job requirements to your list of accomplishments. Start by including the necessary sections, such as Education, Experience, and Skills, and tailor your resume to the specific job you're applying for.