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Resume writing
Looking for work? You’ll need a resume! We’ve got some tips to help you create a great resume.
What is a resume?
A resume is a written summary of your qualifications, skills and work-related experience.
It's an important tool in your job search efforts
Employers will require a copy of your resume when you apply for a job
Your resume is your first chance to impress an employer and show them that you’re the right person for the job
What do I put in my resume?
You might like to include:
Contact details – phone and email
Education and training
Work history and experience
Skills, abilities and interests
Referees
Availability
How can I make my resume work well for me?
Here are some tips for writing a good resume:
Keep your format simple and easy to read
Make sure your contact details are up-to-date
Tailor your resume to suit the job you’re applying for
Focus on the positives – your strengths, abilities and achievements
Include licence and transport if you have these
Proofread – check your spelling and grammar
What should I avoid?
Here are some things to avoid when writing your resume:
Personal information - date of birth, relationship status
Qualifications which are out of date or not completed
Reasons you left your previous job
An unprofessional email address
Exaggerating or making stuff up
Jargon, slang or negative language
Building a resume using your strengths and achievements
You might worry you fall short of the job criteria, but don't let that stop you! Try turning a weakness into a strength.
Here's some examples:
“I'm only young!”
I'm keen to work, willing to learn and looking for an entry-level position.
“I just finished school and don’t have any experience”
I did woodwork at school and I know how to use power tools safely.
I did a work experience placement at school and really enjoyed it.
“I've never had a proper job”
I did babysitting for friends and family to earn pocket money while I was still at school.
“I don’t have any skills”
I've played a lot of sport and have great teamwork skills.
“I don’t have qualifications”
I'm really good with computers and I'd like to do a traineeship in IT.
“I didn’t do well at some of the theory-based subjects at school”
I'm a “hands on” learner who loves practical jobs.
“I don’t know what I have to offer”
I'm a reliable young person with a positive attitude and I'm available to start work immediately.
"Combine your strengths and achievements with a willingness to learn and a positive attitude!"
This content was last reviewed 15/02/2018
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