Here’s a before and after of a resume line that shows you:
It’s okay to start with a rough draft that just lists everything and starts to organize your category headings & formatting.
It’s NOT okay to send out that first draft with job applications.
Revise your first draft to:
- eliminate repetition,
- add specific details,
- use strong action verbs,
- add quantifiable information.
From that generic template, customize your resume to each and every application you submit so that it includes keywords, highlights your experiences that make you the best fit, and contains no “extra” information that you would not want to come up in an interview.
Darcy Lear is a career coach specializing in job search documents, professional school applications, and interview preparation. For one-on-one support in preparing for your job search or to set up a campus workshop, contact Darcy: darcylear@gmail.com
