You're about to graduate and need a standout resume. How can you make employers take notice?
As the capstone of your higher education journey nears, you're faced with the daunting task of crafting a resume that stands out in a sea of graduates. Employers are inundated with applications, so your resume needs to shine brighter than the rest. But how can you achieve this? It's not just about listing your qualifications; it's about telling a compelling story of who you are as a professional. Your resume should be a testament to your unique abilities, experiences, and the value you can bring to a potential employer. It's time to put your education into action and create a resume that not only lists your achievements but also captures your individuality and potential.
Customizing your resume for each job application shows employers that you're serious about the role. Start by carefully reading the job description and noting the skills and experiences they prioritize. Then, reflect on your coursework, projects, and extracurricular activities that align with these requirements. Highlight these relevant experiences prominently on your resume. Use the same language and keywords from the job description, as many companies use software to pre-screen applications for these terms. Tailoring your resume in this way can make it more likely to catch the eye of hiring managers and pass automated screening processes.
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Rebekah Paré
Helping higher ed leaders elevate and transform career services to improve their institution's value proposition
It is important to remember that your resume will be scanned in a matter of seconds in the first go around. So your formatting should lend to easy, quick reading. White space is imperative and make sure you're prioritize the most relevant experiences.
The visual layout of your resume can have a significant impact on its readability and professionalism. Choose a clean, modern format that allows your most impressive qualifications to stand out. Make sure there's a balance between white space and text to avoid overwhelming the reader. Use bullet points to break up information and make it easily digestible. Select a professional font and stick to it throughout the document. For headings and section titles, you may use a slightly larger size or boldface to create a clear hierarchy. A well-organized and visually appealing resume will encourage employers to read on and discover more about your potential as a candidate.
Your skill set is a critical component of your resume. Start by listing both hard skills, like specific technical abilities or languages, and soft skills, such as teamwork or communication. Consider the skills you've honed through your education—research, critical thinking, and problem-solving are all highly valued by employers. Be specific about your proficiency level, especially with technical skills. For example, instead of simply stating "proficient in data analysis," you could say "experienced in data analysis with Excel and SPSS." This section is your chance to showcase how your educational background has equipped you with the skills necessary for success in the workplace.
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Rebekah Paré
Helping higher ed leaders elevate and transform career services to improve their institution's value proposition
Evaluate the skills in the job description (you can use ChatGPT to help!). Identify which are the most important (usually more frequently occurring). List your skills using the EXACT wording of the job description and prioritize them by importance to the employer.
Even if you haven't held a full-time job in your field, you likely have valuable experience. Internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, and class projects can all demonstrate your abilities. When detailing these experiences, focus on achievements and responsibilities that relate to the job you're applying for. Use action verbs to describe your contributions and quantify results when possible. For instance, "Managed social media campaigns for a non-profit, increasing engagement by 30% over six months," provides a clear picture of your capabilities and impact. Remember, relevance is key—highlight the experiences that best illustrate your suitability for the role.
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Rebekah Paré
Helping higher ed leaders elevate and transform career services to improve their institution's value proposition
One way I double-check relevance for myself is to ask for each contribution - "so what?" If I don't have a good answer, I may drop that experience/achievement.
Your educational background is more than just a degree; it's a collection of experiences that have prepared you for the workforce. In addition to listing your degree, major, and institution, include relevant coursework, honors, and extracurricular activities. If you've completed a thesis or capstone project, briefly describe it to showcase your expertise in a subject area. If you've held leadership positions in student organizations, mention these to demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills. Tailoring this section to reflect the qualifications sought by employers can make a strong impression.
Finally, adding a personal touch can make your resume memorable. Include a brief personal statement or summary at the top that encapsulates your professional identity and aspirations. This is your elevator pitch—concise, impactful, and reflective of your unique value proposition as a candidate. You might also consider adding interests or volunteer work that aligns with the company's culture or mission. This shows that you're not just qualified for the job but also a potential cultural fit for the organization. However, keep it professional and relevant; this isn't the place for personal anecdotes unrelated to your career goals.
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Ben Scherr
Higher Education professional specializing in the outside of the classroom experience. Generative AI certified and current AI explorer
The hope is for a hiring mananger/recruiter to view your resume. If they are receiving 100's or 1000's for a role, then your name has to be known to them ahead of time. Follow companies, recruiters, professionals, ect. Attend their webinars, ask quetions, comment on their posts, and when you apply, send a message to everyone you know at that company, as well as the hiring manager/recruiter to let them know you've applied, and would love to connect more about this role. Just like politics, you name needs to been seen at least 10 times before it stays with a person.
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