So Do You Want A Job or Not? Crafting a Compelling Resume, A Guide to Capturing Attention

If you’re thinking about writing a resume, you’re probably in one of two mindsets. You’ve had it with the jerks at your current job and are ready to see what else there is to fit your particular talents, or you’ve just got laid off or canned, and you realize that you haven’t had an updated resume in years. In either case, I’m here to offer you an easy way to quickly develop a killer resume without paying someone to do it for you.

These are the rules/tips for developing what I call an “Entrepreneur” resume. This is the method I use and the one I teach. I haven’t needed one in over 40 years, but I keep one ready and fresh, just in case. You never know.

1. DO NOT, and I repeat, DO NOT download a resume template. A potential employer can tell that you did, and some will question how much thought you actually put into it.
2. OPEN STRONG: First impressions matter; your resume’s opening section is where you can make it count. Begin with a concise, impactful professional summary highlighting your key strengths and career objectives. This section should give a snapshot of who you are and what you bring to the table. Write it as you talk rather than a typical resume blather.
3. TAILOR YOUR RESUME FOR THE JOB: Make your resume look like you have researched this job and it is for you rather than a one-size-fits-all resume. And if you haven’t figured it out yet, one size does not fit all regarding resumes. Customize it for each job application. Align your qualifications and experiences with the position’s specific requirements. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you are THE perfect fit for the role.
4. HIGHLIGHT ACHIEVEMENTS, NOT JUST DUTIES: Rather than listing job responsibilities, focus on your accomplishments in each role. Use quantifiable metrics to showcase the impact you’ve had on previous employers. Numbers grab attention and provide concrete evidence of your contributions.
5. CREATE A VISUALLY APPEALING LAYOUT: A well-organized and visually appealing resume will likely be read thoroughly. Use a clean, professional layout with consistent formatting. Choose a readable font and maintain a balance between text and white space. Use bolding, bullet points, and headings to make essential information scannable.
6. BRAG A BIT, SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS: Create a dedicated skills section highlighting your key competencies. Include both hard and soft skills, ensuring they align with the job requirements. Consider using technical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and transferable skills that demonstrate your versatility.
7. USE ACTION VERBS: Use powerful action verbs to bring your experiences to life. Instead of simply listing tasks, use dynamic verbs that convey your proactiveness and initiative. For example, “led,” “implemented,” or “achieved” add strength to your accomplishments.
8. INCLUDE LINKS: If applicable, include links to your professional portfolio, LinkedIn profile, or any relevant online work. This gives employers additional context and allows them to explore your achievements further. One note of caution: Clean up your social media. Today, many employers will check your social media, and you don’t want them to see a bunch of pictures of you in a drunken frenzy with your underwear on your head. Just understand that people will be looking at you and creating a perception of you.
9. PROOF PAYS: Numbers speak volumes. Quantify your achievements to provide a tangible sense of your impact whenever possible. Whether it’s increasing sales by a certain percentage, reducing project completion time, or managing a team of a specific size, numerical data adds credibility to your resume.
10. PROOFREAD and EDIT: Before submitting your resume, thoroughly proofread it for errors in grammar, spelling, and formatting. Consider asking a friend or colleague to review it as well. A polished and error-free resume demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism and shows that you didn’t just throw it together.
11. BE HONEST: While showcasing your best self is important, honesty is paramount. Avoid exaggerations or false claims. Be authentic in presenting your experiences and qualifications. Authenticity builds trust, and employers appreciate genuine candidates.

Look, a resume is all about capturing a potential employer’s or partner’s attention and making it to the top of the pile of other resumes. By focusing on a solid opening, customization, achievement-oriented content, visual appeal, and authenticity, you can create a resume that stands out and compels hiring managers to look closer. Remember, your resume is your personal marketing document—make it count!