Resume writing
Looking for work? You’ll need a resume! We’ve got some tips to help you create a great resume.
What is a resume?
A resume is a written summary of your qualifications, skills and work-related experience.
- It's an important tool in your job search efforts
- Employers will require a copy of your resume when you apply for a job
- Your resume is your first chance to impress an employer and show them that you’re the right person for the job
What do I put in my resume?
You might like to include:
Full name
Contact details – phone and email
Education and training
Work history and experience
Skills, abilities and interests
Referees
Availability
How can I make my resume work well for me?
Here are some tips for writing a good resume:
- Keep your format simple and easy to read
- Make sure your contact details are up-to-date
- Tailor your resume to suit the job you’re applying for
- Focus on the positives – your strengths, abilities and achievements
- Include licence and transport if you have these
- Proofread – check your spelling and grammar
What should I avoid?
Here are some things to avoid when writing your resume:
- Personal information - date of birth, relationship status
- Qualifications which are out of date or not completed
- Reasons you left your previous job
- An unprofessional email address
- Exaggerating or making stuff up
- Jargon, slang or negative language
Building a resume using your strengths and achievements
You might worry you fall short of the job criteria, but don't let that stop you! Try turning a weakness into a strength.
Here's some examples:
“I'm only young!”
I'm keen to work, willing to learn and looking for an entry-level position.
“I just finished school and don’t have any experience”
I did woodwork at school and I know how to use power tools safely.
I did a work experience placement at school and really enjoyed it.
“I've never had a proper job”
I did babysitting for friends and family to earn pocket money while I was still at school.
“I don’t have any skills”
I've played a lot of sport and have great teamwork skills.
“I don’t have qualifications”
I'm really good with computers and I'd like to do a traineeship in IT.
“I didn’t do well at some of the theory-based subjects at school”
I'm a “hands on” learner who loves practical jobs.
“I don’t know what I have to offer”
I'm a reliable young person with a positive attitude and I'm available to start work immediately.
"Combine your strengths and achievements with a willingness to learn and a positive attitude!"
If you would like individual online support to help you reach your work and study goals headspace Work and Study Online can help.
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