Experts Talk: Tips for Writing a Great Resume

Written by Hannah Scarbro on July 7th 2021.

Trying to land a job but need some guidelines on updating or writing your resume?

Spartanburg Young Professionals has worked together with local recruiters and hiring professionals to present you with valuable guidelines on writing your resume and landing your next position in the upstate.

According to the experts, the number one thing they are looking for is a resume that shows your VALUE. Employers are looking for someone that can help them solve a problem, that can bring value to their company. Your resume is your opportunity to showcase what you have to offer.    

So, what exactly should I do or not do when writing a resume? 

DO:

• • Format should be easily readable.
    • Use free resume templates.
      • Microsoft Word has free templates available.
      • Canva has some free templates available as well.
    • Substance over flash.
       
• • Pay attention to the details. Errors in detail can automatically get your resume declined by a hiring manager.
    • Use consistent font and font size.
    • Pay attention to grammar.
    • Check your spelling.
       
• • Highlight your accomplishment.
    • Certifications, specific skills needed for the job should be in the top 1/3 of the resume.
       
• • Have a skills section.
    • Highlight technical skills.
      • Use your experience/employment section to showcase how you used those skills on the job.
    • Highlight soft skills.
      • Communication, leadership, problem solving, etc.
      • For many jobs, these can be as important as technical skills.
         
• • Organize your resume with your most recent experience at the top and work back.
    • Provide quantitative experience (something measurable)
      • Ex. Implemented processes to increase report utilization by 85%.
    • Showcase your skills listed in the skills section.
      • Give examples of how you utilized the skills in your job.
  • Align your resume with the job listing.
    • Look at the job listing, have they requested specific skills you have?
      • Make sure these skills are listed on your resume!
      • Be sure to showcase how you utilized these skills in your experience that show the value you can bring.
         
• • Use LinkedIn to your advantage.
    • Use, update and connect with others.
      • Extend greetings to those you connect with, ask a question about what they do or their company. Make sure you make an actual connection!
      • Do not message everyone that works for the company you’re applying with.
        • Limit to one or two connections with Hiring Managers or HR for the company, this shows interest without coming across desperate.
    • Research LinkedIn Recruiter.
      • There are certain words and settings that will make you stand out from other candidates when recruiters utilize this system.

DO NOT:

• • Include excessive information in your resume.
    • The longer the resume, the less likely that it will all be read.
    • Stick to what needs to be said. Include relevant information and technical skills used on the job.
    • Don’t list every task you were assigned for each job.
       
• • Do not provide a Cover Letter unless there are extenuating circumstances.
    • Submit a cover letter if it is required by the employer.
      • Do not regurgitate what is on your resume already if you are required to complete one.
    • Submit a cover letter if you need to explain something further not listed on your resume.
      • Ex. You have a gap in employment because you took off to care for a sick family member.
         
• • Do not include a Summary or Introduction section
    • A well-built resume needs no introduction.
       
• • Do not put "References available upon request”.
    • Have a list of 4 references ready to go, 3 business and 1 personal.
    • Always get permission to use someone as a reference!
       
• • Do not apply for roles with that advertise something that you are not comfortable with.
    • Example: If a role indicates that it requires heavy travel and you know you can’t travel; please don’t apply.
       
• • Do not put all your eggs in one basket! Apply for lots of jobs that fit your interests.

 

So, you’ve submitted your resume…Now what?

Be sure you check your email you use for applications often. If you do not respond quickly, the recruiter may move on to another applicant.

And remember, if you do not get the position, keep in contact with those you interviewed or connected with. Recruiters remember those that make an impression and may keep you in mind for other positions.

Before signing off I want to give a huge shoutout to those Recruiters and Hiring experts who supported SYP by answering endless questions and providing advice for this blog post.

• Abby Blackwell, HR Specialist at ScanSource
• Jessica Brown, Sr. Human Resources Manager, Dennys
• Jasmine Herbert, The Employee Handbook (@theemployeehandbook)
• Judy Horton, Horton Consulting LLC (@discoveryouraha)
• Chelsey Roulier, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Enterprise Holdings

CLICK HERE FOR AN EXAMPLE RESUME >

Thank you, and best wishes as you prepare your resume and look for work!

Hannah Scarbro
Programs Chair, Spartanburg Young Professionals
AFL Telecommunications
Project Administrator for Global Project Management Office
CAPM®

Posted in SYP Blog - Social