Looking at a Resume From a Human Resources
Point of View
A resume should begin by telling the employer what he wants to know. Each
word should have meaning and allow the employer to get a glimpse of who
you are and how capable you are of fulfilling the position. Many employers
get tired of seeing the same old thing in every resume. That is why it is
important to customize the resume to meet the requirements of the position
you are applying for. Market “yourself” so the employer sees what a
valuable employee you are.
It is important for your resume to not just
tell about past experiences but to market your skills and abilities. The
structure and consistency of a resume is essential in letting the employer
know what is important to him/her. Using key words is a great way to
structure the resume.
Describe any special projects, skills,
leadership activities, or other important information with specific
“buzz” or key words. Employers get stacks of resumes and they are
looking for something that stands out from the others.
The resume needs to tell the employer what you can do for them. What are
your abilities? What experience have you had? Be persuasive in your
resume. Often the resume is the invitation for employers to invite a
person for an interview. A resume that persuades the employer that you are
the right person for the company will have a better chance of getting an
interview. Did the applicant customize her/her resume for the specific
position?
The employer wants to know whether the
applicant has the experience and education needed. An employer does not
want to waste valuable time interviewing someone who does not have the
education or experience.
The employer looks at a resume that has spelling mistakes or grammar
mistakes with the opinion that the individual does not pay close attention
to details. Why would he choose someone that does not care enough to
correct simple mistakes?
Often the employer recognizes red flags
about a resume. Often this is based on the way the information is
presented or in some cases not presented. Employers do not like to see a
resume that is padded with fluffy words or a resume that is cluttered.
Employers are irritated with resumes that pad the person’s abilities or
experience.
Employers often see resumes that have too many generalities and not enough
specific information. It is important to describe the experience with key
words or “buzz” words that show the employer that you know what the
position and have experience with the different types of duties.
Looking at resumes from the employer’s
perspective shows that they want resumes designed to show the specific
skills an employee may have. The employer wants a resume that tells
him/her what the applicant can do for him/her. It answers the question,
“Why should I hire you?” The answers to this question should be
answered using specific key words that outline the abilities of the
applicant. The employer wants the applicant to explain why he/she should
be given a chance to work for his company. After all, a resume is actually
a tool to get an interview with the company.
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