People think it’s hard to write a resume, for most people the process of writing a resume is like a trip to the dentist, but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need to write that much to write, you have only one page to deal with.
First of all, a resume is a sales tool, not a job application. Facts are important, but the way you tell is even more important. If you want a job, you are going to have to get over that. You must learn to present yourself with confidence. Before you start writing, do some research on current market needs, your long term career strategy, and the skills you have to offer (or need to develop).
Then you can tell a story that ties this all together in a very clear presentation.
Browse sites like www.kaar.af to see what companies are hiring for what type of people.
Notice keywords and common terms on job listings, and use them in your resume. It’s called “mirroring”, and it’s extremely effective in getting an interview.
A thoughtful career strategy will guide your writing and actually make it easier. People who are uncertain about their career often have overly broad, generalized, or overly long resume.
In term of framework: the very first item at the top of your resume should be your full name, which acts as the “header”, do not list degrees or titles after your name. Below your name, in a much smaller font (but not smaller than 10 or 11 points) insert your contact information: postal address, phone numbers, and e-mail address.
Use a reverse chronology to describe your education and experience, and use bullet points, not paragraphs. Generally speaking, put your education at the bottom unless you are recent graduate.
Stay on topic – eliminate any bullet points that don’t really add any value and don’t support your career strategy or market demands.
Write your summary last, not first. It’s the first thing people read, but the last thing you write.
When your resume tells the story that the market wants to hear, you’ll get the interviews you want.
We’ve seen your future, and it’s bright!
