Resume Tips: The Do's and Don'ts You Need to Know
Your resume isn’t just a list of jobs; it’s a marketing tool that showcases your professional brand. Whether you’re actively job hunting or simply keeping options open, keeping your resume updated, error-free, and tailored to the role at hand can open doors to new opportunities. Let’s dive into the do’s and don’ts of resume writing and why investing time in yours now is one of the best career moves you can make.
The Do’s: What You Should Always Include
1. Keep It Current
Always keep your resume updated, even if you're not looking for a job. Life moves fast — new projects, promotions, or skills can pop up, and it’s much easier to add them right away than to remember them later. Updating your resume also gives you a chance to reflect on your career. It helps you see your progress, spot areas for growth, and stay prepared for whatever comes next. Even if you’re not actively searching, it’s a smart move for your professional journey.
2. Tailor for Each Role
Every job is different, and so are the skills and experiences that employers are looking for. While having a general resume is useful, always tailor it for each specific role you’re applying for. Focus on highlighting the most relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments.
For example, if you're applying for a marketing role, make sure your resume emphasizes any campaigns you’ve run, digital tools you’ve mastered, and measurable results you’ve achieved. This tailored approach shows potential employers that you understand the role and how you can contribute to their success.
3. Focus on Achievements, Not Just Responsibilities
Employers want to see what you’ve achieved, not just what you were responsible for. A job description is more compelling when you highlight concrete results. Did you increase sales by a certain percentage? Improve team productivity? Save the company money? Use specific numbers and metrics to show the impact you’ve had.
4. Keep It Professional and Concise
Resumes should be clear, clean, and professional. Use a simple, easy-to-read font and a traditional format with consistent headings. The content should be focused, concise, and free of fluff. While one-page resumes are often recommended, they’re typically only suitable for those with little experience. For candidates with over five years of experience, two pages is the ideal standard. Three pages are acceptable, but anything longer may be seen as excessive.
5. Proofread!
It seems simple, but you’d be amazed at how many resumes I see with typos, grammatical errors, or awkward phrasing. As a recruiter, I’m looking for candidates who pay attention to detail, and errors on a resume can be a red flag. Always proofread your resume before sending it out — and if possible, have someone else review it as well.
The Don’ts: What to Avoid
1. Don’t Use an Overly Complex Layout
While it’s tempting to add design elements to make your resume “pop,” remember that recruiters and applicant tracking systems (ATS) prefer simplicity. Avoid graphics, excessive colors, or fonts that are hard to read. Stick with a clean, professional layout that highlights your achievements without distraction.
2. Don’t Include Irrelevant Information
It’s tempting to list every job you’ve ever had, but less is more. Don’t include jobs that are irrelevant to the position you’re applying for, or outdated experiences that don’t reflect your current skill set. For instance, unless you’re applying for a role that directly requires it, there’s no need to mention that you worked as a lifeguard during your teenage years.
3. Don’t Use an Objective Statement
Objective statements, such as "Seeking a challenging position where I can grow," have fallen out of favor. Instead, replace this with a professional summary or value proposition at the top of your resume. This should briefly highlight your key qualifications and what you can offer the employer. Focus on how you can help them achieve their goals rather than what you want to get from the job.
4. Don’t Lie or Exaggerate
I’ve seen resumes where candidates exaggerate their skills or experience. Don’t do it! Honesty is crucial in every aspect of your career. Not only is it unethical, but it can also come back to haunt you if you’re caught. Recruiters and hiring managers value authenticity, and if you don’t have a particular skill or experience, it’s better to acknowledge it and focus on what you do bring to the table.
At R3cruit, we’re dedicated to simplifying and elevating the recruitment process, connecting companies with top-tier talent to drive success and growth, ensuring quality hires for all.
