Winning Resume - what do you have to do differently?

A winning resume must create a lasting impression in a very short space of time.

There are 5 key elements to preparing a winning resume:

Choose the correct resume format to suit your work experience (combination is the most popular and suits most people) learn more >>

Logical structure (information is logically presented and easy to find in a hurry)

Not too much information cramped on one page - don't reduce font size just to fit everything on one page learn more about recommended font size >>

Use bullet points - they are essential as they are easy to skim read and ensure you present your key experiences in a concise manner (max of two lines per point)

Use an eye-catching resume design to ensure you standout. It's all about creating a competitive advantage, doing something different to your competitors. Unless you're a designer, you're safest to purchase a template from a reputable Resume Template Specialist such as ourselves, look for an assurance that the templates are ‘Recruiter Approved'.

Analyze the advertised job in detail to determine exactly what it is they require in terms of experience and skills - make a list if necessary, it will help you target your resume exactly to their needs.

When it comes to writing a winning resume, use the same key words, headings, skills and qualifications referred to in the advert (this helps HR consultants to quickly match your skill set to advertised job - it makes the time spent reviewing your resume 'satisfying' (as opposed to frustrating) and ensures your resume is glaringly obvious contender).

 "Find out exactly what the customer needs,

then clearly demonstrate in a concise and compelling manner

how you completely satisfy that need"

TARGET every single MAIN POINT outlined in the advert with your very best examples of experiences and skills.

NB: You DON'T need to use ALL your experiences - use only the most convincing and relevant for each key point you are demonstrating. It is all about delivering the strongest possible message. Don't dilute the message by brining in weak examples or additional information if it is irrelevant to the job or position you are applying for, it will only dilute your main message.

Quantify as many experiences as possible (in terms of %, or $ dollar values, such as the effect your contribution had on: revenue, company growth, margins, membership numbers, customer satisfaction, customer complaints, response times, conversion rates (web related), hits (web related) etc, customer loyalty etc.

Use relevant industry language (but know who your target audience is - if you are applying directly to the company it's ok to use acronyms, otherwise write out the full word).

Be concise - a highly targeted resume is much more effective than a longer diluted one. Remember don't dilute the message and "target, target, target".

"Those who submit a winning resume

are the absolute minority - which means,

do it right and you're in a very

favorable position!"

See more examples of our winning resume templates >>

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