Writing a Resume - 10 Rules to Resume Writing and Getting the Job and Salary You Want

Rule No 1

There are two different types of resumes. You should have both.

The Job Fisherman Resume - Like a fisherman you cast your net into Job boards and hope for a bite. All the experiences and qualifications you have ever had are normally included, just in case you are qualified for something.

The Job Hunter Resume- Like a hunter, you stalk your prey. You are fully aware of the job you are looking for. So your Resume is tailored to that job and that job alone.

Rule No 2

Rule No 2 is based on Rule No 1

If you are writing a Job fisher resume, write for recruiters. Recruiters look for key terms and qualifications that match a position that they might have available.

If you are writing a Job Hunter Resume, write for the Hiring managers and those that might interview you. You know what they are looking for but they might not. More on this in a later rule.

Rule No 3

Please include these often forgotten elements, at the top of your Resume:
Name (Mandatory)
Address (Not mandatory)
A reachable Phone Number (absolutely mandatory)
Email Address (mandatory)

Rule No 4
Always include an Executive Summary. An Executive summary is different from an objective. Objectives are often included in the Job Fisherman Resumes but also states you are unimportant.

Objectives are usually in the form -
• "Looking for a rewarding career in marketing" or
• "Accomplished project manager known for teamwork, leadership, and delivering strong customer service is seeking to bring those skills to a company looking for an entry level programmer with solid work place experience.
• Dynamic and smart salesman looking to work for a successful company

An Executive summary comes in various forms but shows that you are interesting and important and that the company hiring is getting an asset

An executive summary might come in various forms

1. Core Competence - This is a summary of your strengths
2. Value Statement - This includes not only your strengths but how your experience has made you an accomplished person
3. Synopsis - This includes your strengths, skills, expertise, experience and accomplishments

Rule No 5

If your education, training and certifications are important to getting the job you want, include it at the top. If you have any high level education e.g. Bachelor, Masters, PHD etc, always include it at the top.

Rule No 6

When Writing a Job Fisherman Resume, focus your resume on the job you will like to have. If you are seeking a sale job, focus the resume on your sales experience, skills and expertise. Do not mix marketing with programming or sales with clerical duties.

Rule No 7

When writing a Job Hunter Resume, tailor your resume to the description and qualification of the job you have hunter down. Include all your skills, experiences, strengths and expertise as it relates to that job and that job alone. Remove anything that does not relate to the Job you have tracked down.

Now a question would come up as it relates to job history. If you have a total of 16 years working experience but only 3 years experience in the job you want, include your 16 years experience as it relates to the job you want. No experience is should ever be lost.

Rule No 8

Always use action words. You want your prospective employers to see you as an indispensable asset. Your resume should state what you have accomplished. You want to create a vivid impression in the minds of your prospective employers.

Rule No 9

Your prospective employers need you to solve a problem for them. It is important that you identify and anticipate the full range of needs each employer faces and is likely to face and show how you can solve those needs. Your employer needs to view you as the savior.

Rule No 10

This is almost the most important rule. Aim for the job and salary you want. Understand that employers have ranges of salary that are given for different job titles, years of experience and nature of job. Within those ranges there are other ranges. When you write your resume, aim for the range you are looking for. The words you use in your resume will create an image in the prospective employers mind as to which range you belong.

Follow these rules to get your Resume to the top of the Resume Pile. Having your resume read is 80% of the battle. The rest is up to you.