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1. Choose the Right Format
Begin by choosing the ideal resume format for your career stage. The three most commonly used formats are chronological, functional, and combination (hybrid). Opt for the one that emphasizes your strengths.2. Contact Information
Include your full name, phone number, professional email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). Make sure your contact details are current and professional.3. Write a Compelling Resume Objective or Summary
Begin your resume with a strong objective or summary statement. This should be a concise overview of your career goals and what you bring to the table.4. Highlight Your Education
List your educational background in reverse chronological order. Include the name of the institution, degree earned, major, graduation date, and any relevant honours or achievements.5. Detail Your Work Experience
List your work experiences starting from your most recent job and include the following details for each position:-
- Job title
- Company name
- Dates of employment (month and year)
- Responsibilities and achievements (use bullet points)
6. Showcase Your Skills
Create a dedicated skills section highlighting both hard and soft skills relevant to the job you’re applying for. Include technical skills, languages, certifications, and any other skills that set you apart.7. Include Relevant Awards and Achievements
If you’ve received awards, honours, or recognition in your field, include them in a separate section. This can help you stand out.Sign up for the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
8. Tailor Your Resume
Customize your resume for each job application. Align your qualifications and experiences with the specific job requirements mentioned in the job posting.9. Use Action Verbs
Start each bullet point in your work experience section with a strong action verb. This adds impact to your accomplishments.10. Quantify Your Achievements
Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements. For example, “Increased sales by 20% in the first quarter.”11. Proofread and Edit
Carefully proofread your resume for typos, grammatical errors, and clarity. Consider asking a friend or professional for feedback.12. Keep It Concise
Aim for a resume length of one page for less experienced candidates (0-5 years of experience) and up to two pages for more experienced candidates. Be concise and focus on the most relevant information.13. Include Additional Sections (Optional)
Depending on your background, you may want to add sections such as volunteer work, publications, or professional associations.14. Use a Professional Resume Template
If you’re not sure about the design, consider using a professionally designed resume template. This ensures a clean and polished appearance.Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
15. Save and Send in the Right Format
Save your resume as a PDF to ensure it maintains its formatting when viewed on different devices. When emailing your resume, use a professional file name (e.g., FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf). Remember that your resume should evolve as your career progresses. Regularly update it to reflect new skills and experiences. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a compelling resume that grabs the attention of potential employers. Featured Image Source: CourseraGot a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
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