A resume is essentially a base document that introduce yourself to a potential employer. On an average, employers don’t devote more than  20-30 seconds to scan resume and hence it’s important to show them at a glance why you are the best fit. Here are some resume tips that give insight into what you should focus on:

a.     Matched to the Job Description: Clearly demonstrate how you meet the key skills, experience and attributes the employer is looking for so that it becomes easier for the employer to match your skills and the job requirement.

b.    Quantify your Achievement: A resume is a marketing document designed to sell your skills and strengths therefore include and highlight specific achievements that present a comprehensive picture of your marketability. Show how you contributed to the organisation; did you save money or time, exceed targets, solve problems, improve processes, or attract new customers?

c.     Structure: Keep the layout and design legible, consistent and easy to follow, with good clear headings and a large easy-to-read typeface. Put your contact details (Name, Email, Contact No., and Address) either at the top of the resume or at the bottom. Header and footer can also be used for contact details. After this comes your career history in reverse chronological order. Include your job title, period of service and a brief description (optional) about the Company. Next, list the relevant education & professional qualification and training that you have undertaken.

d.    Reference: You can either end your resume by naming your referees along with their Job title, contact number and Company or can also put available on request. Reference is optional.

e.     Format: Use of proper and readable font is essential. Language should be clear and concise. Generally resume should not be longer than 2 – 3 pages.

f.     Proof Reading: Carefully review your cover letter for flow and proper grammar. Ask others to proofread and critique it as well.

Cover Letter

It is generally the first thing a hiring manager sees, it serves as the primary enticement for him or her to read your resume. Therefore it becomes necessary to spend as much time perfecting your cover letter as you would do for your resume. A well written cover letter is an opportunity to show the reader your fitment, personality, experience and enthusiasm. Below are some important tips for writing a Cover Letter:

a.     Address to It should be addressed to an appropriate person along with the job title, when/where you come to know about the open position and your contact details.

b.    Repetition Format of the cover letter is very important. Avoid repeating resume in the cover letter. Cover letter and resume are separate but related documents. They should complement one another without being overly repetitive.

c.     Contents It should begin by clearly stating why you are interested in the role. Secondly, demonstrate how your key skills, qualifications and experience can help the business meet its goals. Show how your interests and personal qualities make you the best fit for the job, and close by thanking the reader for considering your application.

d.    Length It should not be longer than a page. Normally, 3 – 4 paragraphs are sufficient.

e.     Avoid Spelling Mistakes Carefully review your cover letter for flow and proper grammar. Ask others to proofread and critique it as well.