How to Write a Killer Resume: 5 Resume Writing Tips that Work

Having a killer resume is your ticket to finding a brand new job. Not only that, but it can also play a major role in getting you a higher salary or position. Remember that your resume is a marketing document, however there is a fine line between self-promotion and outright arrogance. In order to stand out from your competition, your resume needs to be written and formatted in such a way that it presents you as the best person for the job you’re applying for. Don’t forget that for every job position you are most likely competing against other job seekers just like yourself who share similar skills and experiences.

So how can you ensure that your resume gets noticed? What do you need to do to give yourself the best chance of landing a job interview? The answer is simple: the key to effective resume writing is to promote your significant skills, experience and past achievements so that hirers can understand the value you can bring to their organization.

Here are 5 things you can do to write a killer resume:

1. Focus on achievements – not duties and responsibilities

A hiring manager is less concerned about your daily duties and more interested in your achievements and past successes. If your resume sounds like a long list of day to day responsibilities, then it’s time to turn your resume into something that focuses on communicating the value you have brought to your current and past employers. Achievement statements can be highly effective in attracting the reader’s attention and distinguishing your resume above your competitors.

Examples of achievements you can focus on include:

• Ways you increased bottom line revenue

• How you reduced costs or maximized business efficiency

• New ideas, innovations or changes you implemented that resulted in positive outcomes

• Special awards, honors or accolades (extra-curricular training or certifications)

• Training or mentoring staff

2. Use quantitative examples

As important as it is to focus on your achievements, the best way to highlight your success is through examples. Use numbers, figures and statistics to back up your statements. For example, instead of stating you “increased sales, leading to greater revenue”, include exact numbers to present a complete picture to the hiring manager: “increased sales by 25% over a 6 month period”.

3. Include strategic keywords

Using strategic keywords throughout your resume works not only to catch the reader’s attention, but it also ensures your professional resume won’t be deleted by employers using resume software programs as a way to assist in job candidate selections. Here’s the resume writing trick to accomplish this: start by reviewing the job post and picking out the words that stand out, then use the same words in your resume. It’s a strategy that ensures you’re actually matching the vacancy’s requirements.

4. Develop a qualifications profile or executive summary

A killer resume will attract the reader’s attention within the first 10 seconds of viewing. The best resumes will create a great first impression that will keep the person to continue reading. Creating a qualifications profile or an executive summary at the start of your resume is a fantastic way to introduce yourself to the reader and immediately present your skills and qualifications.

5. Remove unnecessary information

Limit the information you put in your resume that adds value to your job application. Irrelevant details will only take up space give the reader a reason to throw your resume to the trash. Make sure to match your resume to the job’s needs. For example, if you are applying for a job as a project manager, ensure that your resume highlights your project management skills.

Writing a killer resume will help open doors and new opportunities that will ultimately lead to an increased number of job interviews. Honing your resume writing skills can help you promote your great skills that would make you a fantastic person to hire.

By: Angeli Soneja