Blog Post: Five Fast Resume Tips

While you may be anxious to get your resume out the door, it is crucial that you take a minute to look at your resume in the eyes of a recruiter. My five quick tips to be sure your resume gets looked at longer than it takes to make the changes.

1. Proofread your resume. – It is amazing how many people mention attention to detail as a qualification and then have a spelling or grammar mistake on their resume. Do not rely on spellchecker because many spelling and grammar mistakes may not show up such as know/now. If possible, have someone else look over your resume before you send it off. A great opportunity for this is the free resume review at the Jobing.com Career Expo on October 7 th , 2008 .

2. Use a generic but often checked email address. – Many companies now communicate with applicants through email, much like we do in the office. Email makes it much easier to get a hold of candidates and provides for that instant communication. However, email address like hotmamma@hotmail.com can be a red flag to a recruiter. If you don’t have one, sign up for an email address that is more professional such as one with some variation of your name like jdoe@hotmail.com.

3. Tailor your resume for each position. – If you are using an objective statement on your resume, be sure it fits the position you are applying for. If you say you are seeking an entry level career in IT, do not send that resume for a Senior Accountant.

4. Be sure your skills match the job you are applying for. – While I encourage people to apply for the job they want, if a company is looking for 5+ years of specific experience and you don’t have any; it is unlikely you will be considered. You may need to look for a more entry level position if you want to switch careers.

5. Watch the filename you use when saving your resume. – Many times recruiters can see the name you give your resume. Again, be sure the name is professional and not saved as the hotmamma@hotmail.com email address that you just changed.

Follow these quick tips and be on your way to find your next career. If you aren’t going to put time into your resume, are you going to put time into the job I am hiring you for?