TIPS AND TRICKS FOR A GOOD RESUME FT CAREN SHIUNDU

Hello, I'm Caren Shiundu, a seasoned resume writer dedicated to empowering individuals through expertly crafted resumes. With over three years in the field, I have meticulously crafted over 200 tailored CVs. My success rate speaks volumes: a 60% hiring rate for my clients, showcasing my commitment to delivering standout resumes that secure interviews and propel career success. I'm thrilled to share my insights and expertise on effective resume writing to help professionals stand out in today's competitive job market.

Here are some of the resume tips I can share to job seekers looking to secure a job opportunity:

• Tailor the resume to the job description: Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting relevant skills and experiences that match the job description.

Before I get to work on any resume, my first requirement from the client is to share the Job Description for the job they want to apply. Whilst many people use a generic resume to apply all jobs, this is a recipe for your resume not getting the recruiter’s eye. The job description acts as a guide to customize the resume to the exact profile the recruiter is looking for. From the JD shared, I can narrow down to the relevant skills and experience needed by the recruiter.

?

• Keep it concise: Stick to a one-page resume, if possible, and use concise language. Focus on the most important information and avoid unnecessary details.

I always recommend keeping the resume as short as possible, too many stories make resumes boring and one thing the recruiters want is to go through as many resumes as possible to save on time and still get the most preferred candidate. It is essential to highlight the most relevant information and going straight to the point. For example, I don’t see why an entry level applicant with less than two years work experience should have more than a two paged resume. Focus on quality over quantity and make it short and sweet by focusing on your more recent job experience that matches the skill set and experience needed.

?

• Use a professional format: Ensure your resume has a clean layout, uses a legible font, and maintains consistency in formatting (e.g., bullet points, headings, bold text).

Layout is everything for a good resume. For work experience, use bullet points to highlight your roles, this makes your resume appear organized and neat. Remember your resume should be able to speak for you. Maintain a consistent font style and size that is readable on screen and in print, I highly encourage using the following formats: Arial, Calibri and Times New Roman.

For headings or section titles, consider using a slightly larger font size or bolding to create visual hierarchy and make key sections stand out.

?

• Highlight achievements: Instead of listing job duties, emphasize accomplishments and quantifiable results to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

Remember the recruiter wants to see the impact you created in your past work experience. The better way to highlight your achievements is by showing quantifiable results. For example, to highlight this role: “Preparing financial reports on daily cash forecast and monthly cash”, it will sound better if it goes like: “Successfully prepared financial reports on daily cash forecast and monthly cash position, utilizing analytical skills and attention to detail to ensure accuracy and completeness of financial data. Successfully reduced the average turnaround time for financial reports by 50% enabling more timely decision making by management.”

?

• Include relevant keywords: Use industry-specific keywords related to the job you're applying for. This can help your resume get noticed by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and hiring managers.

I get asked a lot what an ATS Compliant resume is, it is basically a resume formatted and structured in a way that allows Applicant Tracking Systems used by recruiters to manage job applications to accurately parse and read the content. Such resumes are optimized with specific formatting, relevant keywords and clean layouts to ensure the ATS machine can effectively scan and interpret the information. This increase the chances of your resume getting through the initial screening process and being seen by human recruiters for consideration.

I highly recommend ATS resumes for job applications sent via websites and links and Modern resumes for applications sent via mails and print form.

?

• Showcase transferable skills: Highlighting transferable skills on your resume involves spotlighting a diverse set of competencies that are adaptable and applicable across different industries such as problem-solving, communication, leadership, and adaptability, critical thinking and teamwork. Putting emphasis on these transferable skills demonstrates your versatility and values beyond job specific job titles making you the most preferred candidate to potential employers seeking dynamic and versatile professionals.

?

• Include a professional summary: Many resumes I get to write, and review lack this important part.

A professional summary is the first section a recruiter reads, providing a quick snapshot of your qualifications and what you bring to the table. It sets a tone and creates an initial impression that can encourage further interest to read the rest of your resume. It allows you to tailor your pitch specifically to the job you are applying highlighting he most relevant skills and experiences and your professional background aligning with the job requirements. It also articulates your unique value proposition and acts a s a guide to the recruiter in providing a clear understanding of your career trajectory, expertise and what sets you apart from other candidates.

?

• Order information strategically: Place the most relevant and impressive details at the beginning of sections, as this is where the reader's attention is typically focused. Here is a systematic format for your resume:

Begin with a strong and tailored professional summary, follow this with your work experience, placing the most relevant or recent roles at the top, emphasizing achievements and responsibilities that directly align with the job you're pursuing. Education, certifications, and additional relevant sections: (Depending on the industry, adding elements like a Leadership experience, Community service and Affiliation, Projects and relevant professional training, portfolio link, relevant certifications can strengthen your resume). By organizing your resume strategically, you guide the reader's focus toward the most critical aspects of your background, making it easier for them to see your suitability for the role and compelling them to delve further into your qualifications.

• Proofread and edit: Before submitting your resume to that email, ensure you proofread to eliminate typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies. Consider asking someone else to review your resume for a fresh perspective.

?

• Update contact information: At the top of your resume, your contact information MUST be included. Contents should be:

Full Name: Ensure your name stands out prominently at the top of the resume, preferably in a slightly larger font size or bolded.

Email Address: Provide a professional email address that you check regularly. Avoid using overly casual or outdated email addresses.

Phone Number: Include a phone number where employers can reach you. Double-check the number for accuracy.

LinkedIn Profile (Optional): If you have a professional LinkedIn profile relevant to your career, consider including the URL. Ensure your profile is up-to-date and complements your resume.

Location (Optional): Including your city, state, or region is often helpful, especially if you're open to relocation or applying for local positions.

PS: Happy new year! It is long overdue, but I had to say it, this being the first edition of the year. 2024 feels like the year we have all been waiting for. The chosen year. The one ladden with fulfilled promises and lessons learnt from the previous year. Who else feels the same way?

Do you know anyone who is living their purpose and would not mind telling a story about it? Are you that someone? Reach out to me on [email protected].

Still reading? Can you imagine we are almost at 1000 subscribers after only 5 publications? It would make me glad if we surpassed the 1000 mark before January comes to an end. Share this edition on resume writing for wider reach.

Thanks.

?