Crafting a Standout Resume: A Personal Touch
Preet Sohi
Founder & CEO at employHER | DEI & Talent Acquisition Leader | Building Inclusive, High-Performing Teams
In today's competitive job market, where opportunities are abundant but so is the talent pool, crafting a standout resume has become more crucial than ever. A personalized touch is the secret ingredient that can set you apart and make your resume shine. I've journeyed through the process of resume crafting and have come to understand the significance of adding a personal touch. In this article, I'll share my insights on how to create a resume that not only showcases your qualifications but also reflects your unique personality and skills.
Your resume is more than just a document; it's a reflection of your personal brand. Take the time to understand your unique value proposition. What sets you apart from other candidates? What are your strengths and skills that make you a valuable asset to any employer? Define your personal brand and ensure that it shines through in your resume.
One-size-fits-all resumes no longer cut it. Tailor your resume for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific role you're applying for. This not only shows that you've done your homework but also demonstrates how your qualifications align with the job's requirements.
Your resume's summary or objective statement is the first thing hiring managers see. Make it count. Create a compelling, concise, and engaging summary that encapsulates your career goals and what you bring to the table. This is your chance to make a strong first impression.
Instead of merely listing your job duties, focus on your accomplishments. Use quantifiable achievements to illustrate how you added value to your previous employers. Numbers and results speak volumes and make your resume more compelling.
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Don't be afraid to infuse your personality into your resume. This doesn't mean including irrelevant personal information; rather, it's about using a unique voice and style that reflects who you are. For instance, if you're in a creative field, your resume design can reflect your creativity. If you're in a more traditional profession, the language and format can still reflect your personality in a professional manner.
In addition to your technical skills, soft skills are equally important. Highlight your communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability skills. These qualities can be differentiators in a competitive job market and can give your resume a personal touch.
Craft your resume as a narrative that tells your career story. Use bullet points to provide a concise overview of your experience, but consider including a brief paragraph or section that elaborates on your career journey, challenges you've overcome, and your aspirations. This can humanize your resume and connect with potential employers on a personal level.
A resume filled with typos and errors won't leave a positive impression. Thoroughly proofread your resume and have others review it as well. Ensure it's error-free and professionally presented.
In conclusion, a standout resume goes beyond the standard qualifications and experiences. It's a personal representation of who you are and what you bring to the table. By understanding your brand, tailoring content, creating a captivating summary, showcasing achievements, adding a personal touch, emphasizing soft skills, telling your story, and proofreading meticulously, you can craft a resume that not only stands out but also leaves a lasting impression. Your resume is your introduction to potential employers, so make it a personal one.