Question

In 500 words, what are the best practices when it comes to resume preparation? Explain your rationale.

Answer 1

Resume serves as the most important document when a person is in search of a suitable job. There is a need to pay considerable attention while preparing  it so that it comes into the notice of the employer & grab the attention & make it easy for you to get the job. Some of the important things that should be kept in mind while preparing resume includes formatting, consistency, proper explanation of work history, careful planning, all these things will make it appear valuable to potential employers. Firstly, it is important that it is error free. There should be no spelling mistakes or grammatical errors in the resume. It should be properly edited. If you are applying for an entry level job then keep the resume within one page only. Include all the relevant information in that one page. You should start your resume with a statement. This statement should be a reflection of your career objectives. One should follow the functional format while preparing resume, it helps you to grab the attention of the employer. Such kind of format includes a header followed by career objective statement then skills & abilities are mentioned, after which there is a work experience mentioned in detail, then the educational qualification & lastly the interests. Educational qualification should definitely include the certifications that are relevant for the job. also, the skills & abilities must be highlighted properly.

Another important thing to be kept in mind while preparing resume is that it should be properly formatted. Also, it should be easy to read. Proper font style & size should be used. Font styles like Times New Roman or Calibri can be used. Font size should be kept between 12 to 14. There should be appropriate spacing between the words. It should be left aligned & justified. While giving details about skills, education or work experience, bullets can be used. Things should be logically structured in the resume. Consistency throughout resume is very important. If one of the title is in bold then it is important to keep all other titles in bold, likewise follow the same font style & size, etc. to keep it consistent. Also, keeping in mind the kind of job for which you are applying is also very important. Highlighting your skills & work history in accordance with the job for which you have applied will definitely help you to get the attention of the employer. Every single word that is included in your resume should serve a purpose. You can also use numbers while mentioning your accomplishments. Accomplishments can be accompanied by facts & figures. They provide more credibility. For example, if because of you sales during certain quarter increased, then you should mention the percentage by which it increased. Lastly, you should always save your resume in PDF format rather than word document. There are no formatting issues when it is saved in PDF format.

A well planned, properly organized, accurate, reader friendly & relevant resume will always look good & helps you to get noticed & shortlisted by the employer.