You have finished your resume master piece, before your prepare that email and press that send button to apply to your dream job, we have prepared a resume writing checklist to help you. Our checklist is by no means exhaustive, but if you follow these points, you will have a resume that is worth reading and maximizes your career opportunities. Each point is important and it is equally important to make sure that your resume incorporates all of them.
With Canada’s record 8% unemployment rate, our highest level in 7 years, Canadian job seekers face greater competition for limited jobs. A recent survey showed that 27% of 360 human resources managers stated that they received over 100 resumes for a single open job vacancy. The pressure is on for job seekers to stand out from the crowd. Your primary tool to remain competitive and distinctive while looking for a job, is a first-class, high impact resume.
BEFORE: SALES MANAGER
Problem – underperforming team due to lack of product knowledge
Action – coordinated research and development team to deliver bi-weekly Lunch & Learn presentations to educate sales representatives on product features.
Result – increased quarterly sales by 250 units. Gained 2% market share by end of the year.
AFTER: SALES MANAGER: Southern Ontario
Creating an effective résumé that presents your skills and markets you to employers takes time, effort and attention-to-detail. Follow these steps to boost your chances!
1.FORMAT: Ensure your format meets current résumé writing standards and HR Manager expectations!
2.TARGET: Make sure your résumé accurately positions you for the jobs you want. Create a Professional Profile that speaks directly to employers and makes an impact!
3.STRATEGY: Build a tactical writing strategy that maximizes your strengths and camouflages your weaknesses.
4.VALUE STATEMENTS: Sell it, do tell it! Make sure your résumé is full of evidence based achievements, industry terminology and action verbs to add impact.
5.PERSONAL BRANDING: Be unique, while increasing visual interest and organization with good design sense, clean white space and a hint of color & graphics.
