Resume Tips

Many applicants are unsure as to what to include on their resumes. Some have trouble filling them in. As a university student, it is difficult to really show your ability on paper. Many students do not have applicable experience or significant applicable skills. Not to worry. I have outlined a few tips below, that will help enhance your resume and help you stand out from the rest of the pact.

1. Always use spell check – our recruiters will not want to read too much further through resumes if there are careless mistakes. Even if an applicant has great experience and education, there is no substitute for someone who takes time to perfect their resumes and cover letters as it shows that they actually care.

2. Be truthful – If you are not computer savvy, do not put that you have excellent knowledge of advanced computer programs. This looks poorly during the interview stage as recruiters are likely to ask you about what you have included on your resume. Be honest. Recruiters will know when someone is able to back what they have included on their resume with a truthful response.

3. Don’t use fillers – Many students will have a university degree education, a part time or full time job and a few skills (computer, research, written & oral communication). It is NOT imperative that you include your hobbies, likes, etc. It is important to be straight forward. Completing a university education and working part time is a daunting task in itself, recruiters will not be looking down on your resume if it doesn’t include extraneous information.

4. It’s not just about grades – Don’t feel like your being judged on grades. Yes, grades are important and recruiters will want to see that you achieve an average score in your classes (especially accounting), but there is much more to the recruiting process than grades. Recruiters will want to get to know you personally through interviews, see what experience you have (work & volunteer) and the level of your skills (computer, communication etc).

5. Be Professional – Remember that you are applying to a professional firm. Make sure your resume is formatted appropriately and use applicable fonts, styles etc. Make sure your cover letter is professionally written and to the point. There is a big different between someone who has a template resume and cover letter that they wrote in 5 minutes and those that take the time and care to make professional submission, and the recruiters will notice this.

Overall, just make sure you provide a professional, honest and error free resume and cover letter. This will put you on the short list for an interview, regardless of your grades or experience.