Don’t sell yourself short
Since your résumé will get a quick scan, you might wonder, “Must I limit my résumé to one page?” When it comes to page length, the question really is, “Do you have credentials and accomplishments that can fit on one page?” And if not, you’ll need a two-page résumé.
In this highly competitive workplace, your resume must demonstrate that your qualifications match the requirements of the positions you seek. But that alone won’t get your foot in the door; organizations have problems and they are most interested in job applicants that have a track record in solving the kinds of problems their organization encounters. If you showcase your successes and actual results in solving similar problems, your résumé, whether one page or two, will attract appropriate attention.
What’s the secret? Your first step is to clearly identify and list the job requirements of the positions you seek. Keep this list by your side as you chronicle each position in your work history, matching your work experience to the specific requirements.
When you have identified and detailed your relevant credentials, it’s time to prepare accomplishment statements for each position. Work one by one to determine, “What problems did I encounter, how did I solve them, and what were the results?” Another way to look at your relevant responsibilities and credentials is to ask, “What did I do differently that wasn’t done before?” “What added-value did I bring to each position?” “How did my performance make a difference to my team and organization?”
Answer the questions fully and honestly, quantifying wherever possible. Don’t sell yourself short. Take the time to evaluate your performance and write statements that clearly highlight what you have to offer. Use your pages wisely and if you can communicate your talents, potential employers will listen.
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this web site do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of AuditNet®