So you need to get your resume jazzed up and get some job applications out there? How long have you been putting it off?
No-one really likes doing their resume. It’s hard to write about ourselves at the best of times, and when we are putting ourselves on the line in a job application is not the best of times. To make it even worse, the rules keep changing: “Do I include my hobbies? What about a career objective? Shorter or longer?”
The contemporary approach to resume development uses principles that normally apply to branding: being clear about the image or perception you are trying to create, and presenting your material so that it reinforces that perception.
5 fresh tips for getting started
- Make sure your resume is targeted to the job for which you are applying – even small adaptations make it look tailored.
- Focus on your achievements: the results you got and how you got them have more impact than listing your old job responsibilities.
- Use key words to maximise your chances of being pulled up in a search – often resumes aren’t looked at until they’ve been selected by a search.
- Be concise. Show that you know what’s important by leaving out anything that’s not.
- Think about presentation. It’s all about creating an impression.
Useful Websites
If you’re looking for career resources, try these free Australian websites:
For information on labour market statistics (which occupations are in demand):
www.joboutlook.gov.au; or www.deewr.gov.au/lmip
For information about jobs and training pathways:
www.myfuture.gov.au; or www.jobguide.deewr.gov.au
For information about career development practitioners around Australia:
www.cdaa.org.au
For information about setting up your own business:
www.business.gov.au
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