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Do I Need a Resume for a Job Interview?

Asking if you need a resume to apply for a job is like asking if you need a ticket to board a plane.

Of course you do!

Whether you’re interviewing for a CEO position, a warehouse job or an office position, a great resume helps you stand out from the crowd. It’s your calling card, your first impression, and your one big chance to shine. 

So how do you write a resume that will impress a prospective employer? Here are a few of the best ways to get noticed.

Be Clear and Concise.Resume
Depending on the size of the company, hiring managers receive hundreds—if not thousands—of resumes every year. That means your resume needs to be easy to read and quick to scan. You can accomplish this by using bullet points wherever possible, creating well-marked section headings and choosing a font that’s easy to read. While your resume needs to hit all of the highlights of your career, it should also be easily digestible and concisely written.

Add Value with Keywords.
Most companies now advertise their open positions exclusively online. As a result, it’s absolutely essential to incorporate keywords in your resume to ensure that you stay in the running. If you’re not unfamiliar with how keywords work, it’s extremely simple. Keywords are search terms that employers use to narrow down their candidate pool. Usually they are the same terms that appeared in the job posting. When an employer receives a large number of resumes from prospective candidates, keywords make it easy for them to automatically reject anyone who doesn’t include relevant terms. So, for example, if the job positing asks for “an experienced project manager” with “excellent organizational skills,” you should do your best to include these terms in your resume and/or cover letter.

Get Their Attention with an Opening Sentence.
A really great strategy for catching someone’s eye with your resume is to write a snappy opening line at the top of the page that describes who you are. Right below your name and contact information, include a quick profile sentence that models a similar format to the following example: Skilled Marketing Manager with 5+ years experience in a higher education environment. This approach gives the person reading your resume a fast, clear snapshot of the person they’re dealing with. And if they like what they see, chances are they will continue to read on.

Additional Resume Tips From PrideStaff Las Vegas Strategic Partner/Owner – Bob Daniel

  • Write it Yourself – No one knows you better than you!
  • Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!
  • Make it look good
  • Simple is best (less is more)
  • Be Honest
  • Be Positive
  • Be Specific
  • Ensure it communicates the value you will add to the organization
  • Update it as needed 

For more tips on writing an outstanding resume, Contact PrideStaff Las Vegas. We’re happy to discuss any questions you may have!

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