Ten Top Tips for Resume Writing

1. Use a template - Microsoft Office has very user-friendly templates.

2. Ask around for samples - don't be afraid to ask family and friends for copies of their most recent resumes. Just make sure you're not all applying for the same job!

3. Don't experiment - now is NOT the time to try out that fun font you discovered recently. Stick with standard fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial. My personal favourites are Goudy Old Style and Bookman Old Style, which are classic and simple. Go for nothing smaller than size 10 font, ideally 12. The same goes for font colour - nothing too 'out there' is my strong advice.

4. Stick to the facts - there is nothing to be gained (at least, in the long term) by dishonesty. Ask yourself why you are applying for the job in the first place if you find yourself tempted to embellish the information on your resume.

5. Use the header function - state your name clearly and in a larger font as a header for the document, in addition to listing it in a 'Personal Particulars' section. Consider including the title of the job for which you are applying in your header also. It causes the employer to make an immediate subconscious link of your name to the job itself.

6. Consider the addition of a passport-sized photograph and locate it to the right of the 'Personal Particulars' section. Be sure to use a photograph which presents you looking professional, rather than in your beachwear.

7. Use bullet points under each of your headings to list the key information. This will assist you to stay focused and succinct. Headings may include, Work History, Industry Achievements, Academic History, Skills and Referees, but be sure to list from most current to least. eg. Under 'Academic History', your first bullet point would be the most recent study you have completed, followed by next recent, and the last point would be your oldest academic achievement. A tip - certificates gained in primary school are generally not valued by a potential employer in the same way you (and your mother and father) may have valued them, so best not to mention them. Similarly, under your 'Skills' heading, it is probably best not to include the rare, but quirky types, such as nostril-flaring and yodelling (unless of course the job advertisement specifically states these skills are sought!).

8. If you are not already familiar with the 'Tab' key on your keyboard, acquaint yourself with this crucial key. Use it, rather than the space bar, to tab across the page after each heading, so that your resume looks streamlined and your presentation of information doesn't distract from the information itself.

9. Don't try to fit all of your information onto one A4 page. Ideally, your resume will fit nicely into 2 x A4 pages. Remember, though, that your resume should not replace any requirement of an employment advertisement to write to selection criteria. This is an entirely separate part of your job application.

10. You know I can't resist this one - have a professional proofread your resume. An error in spelling or even a typographical error could be all it takes for a potential employer to push your resume aside. May I suggest - 'Word Write for Success'.

http://www.wordwriteforsuccess.com.au/