How to Improve Your Resume

Level Up Your Resume: Get That Dream Job!

Landing your dream job is tough. A killer resume is your secret weapon. A bad one? Game over before it even begins. This guide shows you how to make a resume that actually works.

1. What's the Point of a Resume, Anyway?

It's not your life story. It's a targeted ad for you. It's all about getting that interview. Each resume needs to be perfect for the specific job you're applying for.

2. Robot-Proof Your Resume (ATS!)

Many companies use robots to screen resumes. These robots look for keywords. So, sprinkle those keywords from the job description throughout your resume. Don't cram them in, though! Just weave them naturally into your descriptions.

3. Make a Great First Impression

Your summary or objective is the first thing they see. Make it count! A strong summary shows you're a perfect fit. An objective statement is good for new grads or career changers.

Example Summary: "Results-driven marketing pro with 5+ years experience in digital marketing, specializing in SEO and social media. Proven track record of boosting brand awareness and website traffic."

4. Show, Don't Just Tell

Don't just list your responsibilities. Show what you accomplished. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result):

STAR Method Example: "I created a new social media strategy (Action) that boosted engagement by 25% and website traffic by 15% in six months (Result). This involved creating awesome content (Task) and managing multiple platforms (Situation)."

5. Skills That Sell

List your skills! Separate them into hard skills (technical stuff) and soft skills (people skills).

• Hard Skills: Microsoft Office, Data Analysis, Project Management, Python, Java…
• Soft Skills: Teamwork, Communication, Problem-solving, Leadership…

6. Your Work History: The Main Event

This is the meat of your resume. Use action verbs, quantify your accomplishments, and use bullet points. Focus on what's relevant to the job.

7. Education and Certifications: The Credentials

List your degrees, GPA (if it's good!), relevant coursework, and any certifications.

8. Show Your Work (Portfolio)

If you're in design, writing, or programming, show them your work! Include links to your best projects.

9. Looks Matter

Use a clean font (like Arial or Calibri). Make it easy to read. Use a nice template, but don't go overboard.

10. Proofread!

Typos are embarrassing. Get a friend to check it over.

11. Tailor It!

Don't use the same resume for every job! Read the job description carefully and tweak your resume to fit.

12. Action Verbs Are Your Friends

Use strong verbs! Instead of "Managed social media," try "Spearheaded social media campaigns."

13. Get Feedback

Ask a career counselor, mentor, or friend to look it over.

14. Keep It Fresh

Update your resume regularly as you gain new skills and experience.

15. Use a Resume Builder (Maybe)

Resume builders can help with formatting. But always personalize it.

Following these steps will make your resume amazing. Get that dream job!