The perfect resume. OK, not really. But we hear he got the job. 

So you’re getting ready to send out your resume in mass hoping to land a job or internship. Before you hit the send button, take a second and read through our tips to make sure yours will stand out from the stack.   

1. Tailor it for each job

It’s great to have a general resume to work off, but that doesn’t mean you should use your cookie cutter resume for all jobs. Every job description has a section where it includes what it’s looking for in an ideal applicant.  Be sure to take the time to read it over and then include any key words in your resume. Similarly, you can highlight different aspects of your previous work experience based on what the job your applying for needs.  

2. Keep it short, keep it relevant

Long resume? Ain’t no potential employer got time for that. 

Your resume should only be a page long.  Companies have to go through hundreds of them a day and they don’t have time to read your five page resume detailing every position you’ve held extending back to kindergarten.  Only put on recent jobs that help to show why you are qualified for the job you’re applying for now.  

3. Get creative

If you’re looking for a way to stand out, try getting creative with your resume.  This works especially well if you’re applying for a job in a creative field.  Want to be a graphic designer?  Show them your skills on your resume.  That being said, you also have to feel out the job and the industry.  If you’re applying to a company that seems more traditional, maybe stick with the basics.  

4. Give them a way to see more

Show employers you are different with a personalized website highlighting your skills.

An easy way to showcase yourself without your resume getting to long is to create an online portfolio.  Create a website where you upload samples of your work.  Then, include a link at the bottom of your resume inviting them to visit your site and see your work for themselves. 

5. Save your resume as a PDF

If you’re sending your resume by email or uploading it through an online application, be sure to save your resume as a .pdf file.  This gives it a cleaner, easier to read look that is easy to access. 

Whether you hope to be a photojournalist or a government worker, take time to perfect your resume.  It’s the first thing a company sees from you and you don’t want it to be the last.  One last tip from me– proofread, proofread, proofread! 

– Hannah F.  
 
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