Town of Banff

Resume Tips

Can you pass the 10 second test?
In about 10 seconds the employer will quickly scan your resume. If your resume makes a positive first impression, he/she will read the rest of your resume.

You must:
1) Answer the question, "Why should I hire you?"
2) Communicate who you are and which position you are seeking.
3) Give the employer a desire to meet you.

Think of the resume as an advertisement to sell you. Keep in mind that there is no one right way to write a resume; keep it original, and let it express everything original about you.


Tips On Content - Including the Right Information
Employers need to have skills summarized in a uniform fashion so resumes can be read very easily. To make your resume stand out remember these points:

Carefully examine the job posting to get an idea of what the company is looking for in a candidate. Find background research on the company by using the company's web pages, library databases, and contacting people in the organization.

Arrange the resume so information most applicable to job is highlighted and given priority. For example the experience in within the industry may be more important for management positions than education.

Rather than simply listing your duties or responsibilities, focus on listing accomplishments and ways that you made a difference when working. Show how you have gone over and above the requirements for the position itself.

There may be special programs that you have completed or skills that you have that do not fit neatly into one of the typical categories of a resume (e.g. military service). It is a good idea to keep a record of these skills. Often they are included under a separate section entitled "Special Skills."

The best way to overcome weaknesses is not by hiding them, but to identify a corresponding strength to make up for the weakness. For example, if you were applying for a position requiring a Master’s degree while you have a Bachelor's degree, then you should highlight areas of experience to demonstrate you are highly qualified.
 
If you have been on the job market for less than 5 years, then the details of your education are a critical component.

If you are in school and also working part-time or involved with sports, include this information on your resume. It will demonstrate that you have time management skills and the ability to multi-task.