How To Create A Resume On Word

Resumes are an important tool in any job search, and they can make or break you as a candidate. This may seem like a lot of pressure, but getting the right format for a resume is easier than it seems at first. Use this advice to make your resume better than it's ever been before.

Use Concrete Success Measurements

Don't just say that you did something; give some stats that show how much you succeeded. The right way to do this will vary depending on your career. If you're in sales, for example, you can say "negotiated $10.2 million in contracts" rather than just saying "negotiated numerous important contracts."

Don't use subjective statements like "great communicator." Instead, give examples of why that's true. You can say something like "counseled patients from a variety of different backgrounds" or something similar to show how you use your skills.

Keep It Short

Resumes aren't places for complete sentences. Make all your descriptions short and to the point so the reader can scan through and get a good idea of what you've done. Use the smallest number of words possible to make your point.

Format It Right

It's a good idea to structure your resume in discrete sections and use bullet points or other formatting tricks to keep it organized. The goal is, again, to make it scannable and do the hiring manager a favor by avoiding taking up too much time.

Work From the Job Description

It's essential to tailor your resume for each individual job description. You'll want to emphasize different aspects of your skill set and experience based on what each individual employer is asking for.

Include the Right Keywords

As part of working from the job description, include some of the language used in the job description. Keywords, especially those used to describe specific qualifications and job responsibilities, are often the first step in screening resumes. Whether it's a computer or a person doing the screening, they'll probably do a quick search to see if you've included the right keywords.

Put Education in Its Proper Place

How important is your education to the position you're applying for? If the employer specifically asks that applicants have a specific type of degree, you should emphasize that more than less-relevant information, like an objective statement or skills the job post didn't ask for. If education isn't mentioned in the post at all, you may want to leave it out so you can have space to include more relevant information.

Use Creativity Judiciously

Your resume can be more than just a list of what you can do; it can also show off how well you understand the industry. If you're applying for a job at a buttoned-up law firm, keep your fonts and formatting simple and clean. If you're applying for a job at a fun tech startup, you can get a little more creative with colors and graphics, but don't waste space with this formatting.

Optimize for Mobile

A one-column design can make it easier for prospective managers to read your resume on their cellphones. You never know how and when they're going to look at it, so it makes sense to make your resume as readable on different devices as possible.

Summarize

You don't need to include every single job you've ever had on your resume. Only include what's most relevant for where you are right now. If you're concerned that doing this will make it look like you have employment gaps, you can use a header like "selected experience" or "relevant experience" to clarify.