THE DOS AND DON'TS OF RESUME FORMATTING: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

Your resume is the first impression that a potential employer has of you, so it's essential to make it stand out. However, many students make common mistakes when creating their resumes, leading to missed job opportunities. In this blog post, we'll go over the best practices for creating an effective resume and highlight some mistakes to avoid.

Mistakes Made by Students

Using an Unprofessional Email Address

Your email address is one of the first things a potential employer will see on your resume. Avoid using unprofessional email addresses such as "hotstuff87" or "partygirl123." Instead, create a professional email address using your first and last name.

Including Irrelevant Information

Only include information that is relevant to the job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a job as a graphic designer, there's no need to include your experience as a server at a restaurant.

Using a Generic Resume

Tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Avoid using a generic resume for all job applications. Instead, take the time to customise your resume to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position.

Tips for Students

Keep it Concise

Keep your resume to one page if possible. Only include the most relevant information and avoid using long paragraphs.

Use Bullet Points

Use bullet points to make your resume easy to read. This will also help to highlight your skills and experience.

Include Keywords

Many employers use applicant tracking systems to scan resumes for keywords. Make sure to include keywords from the job description in your resume to increase your chances of getting noticed.

How a Professional Career Counselor Can Help

A professional career counsellor can help you create a resume that stands out from the rest. They can provide personalised feedback and advice on how to tailor your resume to each job application. Additionally, they can help you identify your skills and experience and highlight them on your resume.

In conclusion, creating an effective resume is essential for landing your dream job. By avoiding common mistakes and following best practices, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Remember to keep it concise, use bullet points, and include relevant keywords. And if you're feeling lost, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional career counsellor for help.