Crafting the Perfect Resume - Dos and Don’ts of Resume Writing

Crafting a compelling resume is essential for standing out in the competitive job market, especially in the field of sales and marketing. Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, so it's crucial to get it right. Here’s a reference guide to help you navigate the dos and don’ts of resume writing.

The Dos of Resume Writing

1. Do Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description

Customize your resume for each job application to highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your resume passes through applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Example: If the job description emphasizes "lead generation" and "customer relationship management," make sure these terms appear prominently in your resume.

2. Do Use a Clean and Professional Format

A clean, professional format enhances readability and ensures your resume makes a positive visual impression. Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points.

Example: Use consistent formatting for headings and bullet points. Ensure there’s enough white space to avoid clutter, making it easy for hiring managers to scan your resume quickly.

3. Do Highlight Your Achievements

Focus on your accomplishments rather than just listing job duties. Quantify your achievements with numbers to give a clear picture of your impact.

Example: "Increased sales by 20% within the first quarter by implementing a new customer engagement strategy."

4. Do Include a Summary Statement

Start with a compelling summary statement that highlights your key qualifications and career goals. This section should capture the attention of recruiters and provide a snapshot of your professional profile.

Example: "Results-driven Sales Manager with over 10 years of experience in driving revenue growth and leading high-performing sales teams. Proven track record of exceeding sales targets and developing strategic client relationships."

5. Do Proofread Thoroughly

Errors in your resume can make you seem careless and unprofessional. Proofread your resume multiple times and consider having a friend or mentor review it as well.

Example: Check for typos, grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies. Use tools like Grammarly for additional assistance.

The Don’ts of Resume Writing

1. Don’t Use Unnecessary Graphics or Colors

Avoid using columns, lines, grids, templates, colorful fonts, or backgrounds. These elements can be distracting and may not be compatible with ATS.

Example: Stick to a simple black-and-white color scheme and a single-column format to ensure your resume is both professional and ATS-friendly.

2. Don’t Include Irrelevant Information

Keep your resume focused on information relevant to the job you’re applying for. Exclude personal details like age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies.

Example: Instead of listing every job you’ve had, focus on the most recent and relevant positions that highlight your qualifications for the job.

3. Don’t Make It Too Long

Aim for a resume length of one to two pages. Recruiters often skim resumes, so it’s important to be concise and only include the most pertinent information.

Example: Use bullet points to summarize your responsibilities and achievements and avoid lengthy paragraphs.

4. Don’t Use Vague Language

Be specific and avoid using vague or generic statements. Provide concrete examples to illustrate your skills and accomplishments.

Example: Instead of saying "Responsible for sales," say "Managed a team of 10 sales representatives, achieving a 30% increase in annual sales revenue."

5. Don’t Neglect to Include Keywords

Neglecting to include industry-specific keywords can prevent your resume from passing through ATS and reaching human eyes.

Example: If applying for a marketing position, include terms like "SEO," "content marketing," "lead generation," and "campaign management."

?

A well-crafted resume is a powerful tool in your job search arsenal. By following these dos and don’ts, you can create a resume that not only highlights your qualifications but also makes a lasting impression on potential employers. Remember, your resume is often the first step in your journey to a new career opportunity, so take the time to make it as impactful as possible.

If you’re looking for more personalized advice, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn. I would be happy to send you my latest eBook, “Crafting Your Winning Resume: A Guide for Sales & Marketing Professionals” or set up a meeting to discuss current or future career opportunities at Comcast . Let’s work together to achieve your career goals!