Writing a killer resume can keep you ahead of the game, no matter what line of business you are in.
It is the document that sells you as a professional and helps you get your foot in the door in order to get an interview. However, you need to know the right tips that will make your resume stand out.
Make your resume stand out visually by putting these points to use.
Tips to Make Your Resume Stand Out Visually
Having a solid resume is as much a life skill as it is a business tool.
We also are visual creatures, so the more you can make your resume eye-catching, the better. Let these tips guide you:
1. Create a Header For Your Resume
One of the best things you can do is create a header for your resume.
This header could include your name or any bit of information that sells the recipient on who you are. This is a great way to really grab people’s attention and make sure that your resume is standing out from a visual standpoint.
The header should be an interesting font with a size that is slightly bigger than the rest of your resume font. Be sure that the header is centered in the resume so that you can get the desired visual result you were looking for.
2. Get Rid of Errors and Make Sure That You Regularly Proofread It
Staying away from mistakes is the best thing that you can do when you are trying to put together a winning resume.
The reason for this is clear. If you are trying to make an eye-catching resume, glaring typographical errors and grammatical mistakes will make your resume stand out for all the wrong reasons.
Firstly, a well-written is enough for someone to want to learn more about what it is you are offering. You should take every opportunity to proofread your resume to be sure that it is speaking for you exactly how you would like it to, and that you are not overlooking careless mistakes.
3. Sell the “Bragging” Points
The substance of your resume is going to stand out more than anything. As such, make sure that you are highlighting the important factors that really speak for you.
For example, if you have won some sort of award or accomplishment, or receive some sort of recognition, this needs to be highlighted on your resume in a way that is easy to find. This way, you are selling the bragging point and making it clear that you deserve the interview.
For instance, if you are a full-service motorcycle technician, be sure that you talk about your work on Sena 20s, and experience installing Bluetooth 4.1 technology.
When they see that you are very capable, you are more likely to find success with your resume.
4. Use Actionable Language
Having a resume that is well written is one thing, but you also want to choose vocabulary that really speaks for you.
Stay away from cliches and passive language, and instead focus on word choices that are full and impactful.
This will really jump off of the page and make people want to learn more about you. In that regard, this step is where having a proofreader can come into play.
Instead of only working on fixing mistakes, run through the resume multiple times until you find the language choices that you know really wow people.
5. Incorporate Stats and Facts
Deal in facts when at all possible with your resume and it will stand out from the rest.
People that read resumes see cliche after cliche every single day, so the more specific you get, the better. For example, stating that you led a team of 100 people on a 6-month project is more exciting than statements like “great leader” and “hard worker”.
Find the facts that will jump off the page and use them to make your resume stronger.
6. Make Sure That it Tells a Story
Telling a story is integral to your business and branding. You can do that with a solid resume.
Find a way to weave a narrative and through line with your resume.
Doing this sells people on who you are as a person and what makes you tick. These sorts of matters are every bit as important as your professional credentials, so never leave them out.
7. Tailor Your Resume For the Position You Are Applying For
Finally, make sure that your resume is a clear indicator that you belong with the company that you are applying for, doing the work that the position dictates.
This requires you to read over the resume every time that you send it out and make sure that you add specific verbiage or information that will be engaging.
8. Don’t Get Cute With the Fonts and Colors
Finally, it’s great to get creative, but don’t turn your resume into an art project.
Many people use different fonts and colors to get some “extra credit”, but it actually accomplishes the opposite. Instead, recruiters are typically put off by this more often than not.
Understated is better, so keep it simple and professional.
Get the Help You Need With Your Resume
With these tips in mind, you can make your resume stand out visually. This is important to master no matter what line of work you are in.
For more tips on creating a resume and writing a business letter, keep up with our content
