How to get your résumé right when applying for jobs

Crafting a standout résumé

 Crafting a standout résumé is crucial for landing your dream job. Professional résumé writer Rakhee Mansukhani shares her dos and don'ts to help you get it right.

 The Dos

Tailoring Your Résumé: Customize your résumé for each job application by emphasizing relevant skills and experiences.

Choosing a Professional Format: Opt for a clean, easy-to-read layout with consistent formatting and clear section headings.

Including a Summary or Objective: Provide a brief overview of your skills, experiences, and career goals at the beginning of your résumé.

Quantifying Achievements: Utilize numbers, percentages, or other quantifiable metrics to showcase your accomplishments.

Using Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs to effectively convey your responsibilities and achievements.

Highlighting Relevant Skills: Showcase key competencies, especially those directly relevant to the job you're applying for.

Incorporating Keywords: Use industry-specific keywords from the job description to enhance your résumé's visibility.

Proofreading Carefully: Review your résumé for spelling and grammar errors, and consider seeking feedback from others.

 The Don'ts

Avoiding Irrelevant Information: Focus on relevant experiences and skills that demonstrate your qualifications for the job.

Steering Clear of Generic Templates: Refrain from using generic résumé templates that fail to highlight your unique qualifications.

Omitting Personal Information: Exclude details like age, marital status, or religious affiliations, as they are not pertinent to your professional qualifications.

Using Professional Email Addresses: Opt for an email address that includes your name or a variation thereof.

Excluding Outdated Details: Remove outdated skills, experiences, or certifications that are no longer relevant to your career goals.

Simplifying Text Blocks: Use bullet points and concise sentences to enhance readability and scanability.

Maintaining Honesty: Be truthful about your skills, experiences, and achievements—fabrication or exaggeration can harm your credibility.

Limiting Personal Information Sharing: Avoid sharing résumés via unofficial channels to protect against scams and phishing attempts.

Crafting an effective résumé requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices. By following these expert tips, you can increase your chances of standing out to potential employers and securing your desired position.