Your dream job is in sight. It’s the absolutely perfect role for you. You can’t wait to send in your application and…
What is this barrier you see before you? Ah yes, one of the many hoops one must jump through before acquiring a new job. One of the biggest and most notorious challenges… writing the dreaded resume.
Also known as a ‘CV’ (curriculum vitae), a resume can feel like an extremely daunting task to complete. It is your elevator sales pitch for your professional life, and it can be hard to know where to start. What should you include? How should you lay it out? What is going to make you stand out against other applicants?
Never fear, My Learning Online is here! We know how tricky it can be to put all of your accomplishments together neatly into one document, so we have made an easy-to-follow guide with a few resume writing tips and tricks to help you write the best CV possible and shine a spotlight on your biggest strengths.
Why is a resume important?
A resume is a way for potential employers to see a condensed form of applicants’ experience and achievements, helping them make the decision of who to invite for an interview when they are overloaded with applications.
Keeping a clearly laid out, up-to-date resume is vital. You always want to have your resume ready to hand should it be required, as it’ll help you to sell yourself in an efficient and assertive way, highlighting your level of experience and skills whilst giving you the best chance at nabbing your dream job.
The last thing you want is for your resume to become a novel. Employers want a quick, snappy and eye-catching applicant pitch that will make their job easier when deciding who to invite for an interview.
A resume should consist of around 2 pages and contain all of your professional experience and skills, and ideally should be simple to scan. Knowing how to write a simple resume will benefit both yourself and a potential employer, removing the fluff and getting to the bare bones of why you would be an excellent candidate for the job.
A good general structure to follow is:
- Contact Information – starting your resume with your contact information is a must – how else will they tell you you got the job? Be sure to add relevant phone numbers, emails, and your current address.
- Professional Statement – your first impression. This short paragraph is your sales pitch – we want it to be snappy, inviting and bold. This is your chance to really sell yourself! No time for modesty – who are you, what do you do, and why do you think you could offer if you were employed in this position?
- Skills – your skills are your most valuable asset when applying to a job, as they will carry you through and make you a vital part of a professional industry. Really go to town in this section of your resume; don’t hold back. Be sure to note down all your skills and experience which you feel would benefit the company or specific job you are applying for.
- Achievements – similarly to the skills section of your resume, don’t be afraid to highlight all your amazing experiences! You have worked hard for these achievements, and it is important that potential employers know what levels of professional work you have reached in order for them to make an informed decision about who they choose to employ. Achievements never fail to impress, so don’t be stingy with noting them down!
- Work Experience – your previous work experience is one of the most important things to include in your resume. Potential employers will be able to see what sort of work you have done, how long you did it, and how much of it you have done. A solid list of previous employment shows dedication and commitment to working your way up to the job of your dreams.
- Qualifications – your educational qualifications are also important to include when writing a resume. Levels of training are often highly considered by potential employers, and they will want to know that you have experience and a solid foundation of learning in your chosen industry.
- References – this word can strike fear into the hearts of many, but you needn’t worry. References are just an easy way for employers to learn about how you handle different working environments. Previous employers will express their professional opinion about your professional work ethic, punctuality, workplace manner and so on, and while this can make you feel as though you are under a microscope, it is simply a routine part of any employment process. You will often have the chance to speak to your chosen referees beforehand so that they are prepared for any enquiries from new employers.
Still feeling a little unsure on structure? No worries!
Downloading a resume template is a sure-fire way to keep your CV in check, and they are in plentiful supply online. A resume writing template will give you that added support as you get to grips with how you want to sell yourself in the best possible light. Perhaps try searching ‘how to write a resume New Zealand’ to ensure you are using the most up-to-date format for your region’s professional industries.
Looking to add to your resume?
Want to add to your resume and make it even more impressive than it already is? Look no further than My Learning Online.
We have a variety of professionally tailored courses in multiple business sectors. Further study is an impressive asset to any resume, showing a commitment to your work as well as an openness and curiosity to keep learning. Not only will you learn new skills on one of our online courses, but you will also have opportunities to network with like-minded people, opening doors for different job opportunities and business ventures.
We are an online learning environment where all of our courses are completely self-paced, giving you the flexibility to work your learning around your schedule and lifestyle. For courses that require it, we will send you your very own kit straight to your front door, with everything you will need to get started on your skill-collecting journey.
Each of our courses comes with a downloadable brochure with more information on course content, accessing your learning online, tutor support and more. We also have course fee payment plans available to make the financial side of things that little bit easier.
Speak to one of our course consultants today to find out about the courses which spark your interest.
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