6 Tips to Create a Successful Resume

Hey there. A couple of days ago I was talking with some friends about how difficult it is to create our first resume, the odyssey we have to go through when writing down on paper our personal information, academic background and experience. We were talking about all those failed attempts and all applications sent that were never answered.

After this talk I started to analyze how frustrating this process is if we do not have the basics or knowledge for the development of your resume. And yes, although it may seem simple for many people, it is more difficult than it seems; it even becomes a big headache. That is why I have given myself the task of researching and learning some tips to help you in this process.

Analyze your trajectory

Before start writing in a document you should take a few minutes and analyze what has been the trajectory throughout your professional path.

1. Academic background: What you have studied, what courses you have taken and all those certifications you have obtained.
2. Experience: If you do not have work experience, think of all those activities that have made a difference in your life, projects that have contributed positively in your school, university or any other important field.
3. Technical skills: If you know a language, a computer package, conflict resolution or any skill that allows you to develop specific activities efficiently and effectively.
4. Soft skills: For many people it becomes challenging to identify what their soft skills are, in other words, all those characteristics that identify you as an individual and make you contribute to the performance and support in different fields.

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Create a draft

Many times we think that our resume will come out the first time, but it is not so. That is why you should take the time and start with a physical or digital document where you capture all the information you have collected, give it shape and meaning.Start discarding everything that is obsolete and irrelevant, this in order to create a light document that does not stun the reader and that allows you to identify and enhance the information that directly affects the position to which you want to apply.

Research on trends

Start researching about trends in resumes, this is where you realize that it is not just a document full of information about who I am and what I studied, I mean, your resume should become your personal cover based on current trends, create a document that enamors the reader and catches in the first instance:

1. Formats: There are different types of formats such as columns, full page or sections.
2. Colors: Each color expresses a different personality or feeling, for this reason you must select the one that fits correctly to your profile and the one of the position you want to apply.
3. Fonts: Use a legible, clear font that does not detract from the credibility of the information you provide.
4. Structures: Identify which structure you want to use: functional, chronological or mixed.

Look for examples of other people's resumes, identify those that catch your eye and make a good impression on you to inspire you in the creation of your own profile. In addition to this you can use pre-existing templates as a support.

Be honest with yourself

After analyzing your life and your trajectory, it is important to be honest with yourself, to recognize what you have really achieved and how willing you are to learn and grow both personally and professionally.

Final design

After a process of analysis, internal and external recognition, I proceed to the final elaboration of my resume. This document must contain each of the results obtained in the previous points, in order to hook the manager of the recruitment process.

1. Select the position which you are going to apply: It is important to keep in mind that each position you apply for has a different profile, therefore your resume needs to adapt to it and follow a common thread that links its characteristics with the position to which you aspire.
2. Select your template or design your own style: After knowing your profile and what you want to express, select your colors and the type of structure with which you identify yourself.
3. Introduce yourself: Start your resume by adding the title that defines you as a professional and a brief description of who you are and what your job objective is.
4. Add current information: Start by adding your work or academic experience (that matches the job profile) in descending order, from the current to the oldest, trying to cover a timeline of no more than ten years.
5. Tell the truth: Check that all the information you added is sincere and does not exaggerate, but also do not detract from your value, that is, just tell the truth and be real.
6. Key words: Use words that hook and make the reader want to go further, and use simple vocabulary that is understandable but not informal.
7. Add your personal touch: Add specific details such as bullet points, social media links and scales to make the document attractive and inspire effort and dedication.
8. Ask for feedback: Show your resume to people close to you so they can give you their opinion and advice for improvement. Besides, they can help you identify any errors that we overlooked.

Persevere and work hard.

Finally, remember that everything may not work out the first time, the important thing is not to give up, knock on doors and keep looking for feedback.

Keep growing and you will see that soon the opportunity you want so much will come.

Milena G.

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