5 tips to improve your resume
Want to make sure you don't make common mistakes? We've created a simple guide for you to improve your resume.
Let's be honest, no one likes to update their resume. It takes a lot of work to get to that final version that you're proud of and happy with.
When we coach our students during the job search phase at Hyrise Academy, we've identified the 5 most common mistakes and key tips we share with our students to ensure they create effective resumes.
Check them out 👇
- Make your contact details prominent and clear
Your contact details are your call to action (CTA). They should be at the top of your resume, stand out, and be easy to read. Make sure to include your phone number, email address, and LinkedIn/XING profile. Always double check that the contact details are up to date and correct and that all links are working.
- Tailor your resume to every role
That's probably the most important tip we can give you.
You should adjust your resume every time you apply for a job. Read the job description carefully and make sure your resume accurately reflects the keywords and skills they're specifically looking for.
Make sure you have an about yourself section that outlines your background, goal, and competencies, and adapt it to each role. He should tell the potential employer succinctly what type of person you are, as well as the attributes and qualities you have and how they are relevant to the role.
- Assessment of languages, not skills
Make sure you rate your language skills on a scale. Ideally an international one such as CEFR. When it comes to skills, do the opposite! It is not necessary to evaluate them, as it can be completely subjective. There's no clear way to rate yourself over others, and you could over- or underestimate yourself. It's better to simply indicate your abilities.
- Everything should fit on one page — really? A page? - Yes, a page!
The recruiter will spend an average of 30 to 60 seconds skimming through your resume. So it's important to make sure that your resume is easy to read and presents the information clearly. Anything longer than a page is a no-go.
Use bullet points to list your experience and quantify your accomplishments and responsibilities, and make sure your resume is easy to read and pleasing to the eye.
- Have someone proofread
It sounds simple but it can make a big difference. After working so much on your resume, it's easy to overlook spelling mistakes and important details. Make sure you use the four-eyes principle and ask a friend or colleague to review it before you submit it.
Simple mistakes can have a decisive impact on your application. Make sure that your links work, that there are no spelling mistakes, and remember: The file should be sent as a PDF.
Want to see an example of what a great resume looks like? Here's one for one of our favorite characters... Kung Fu Panda! 🐼👇
