How to Write a Winning Resume
Resume writing is probably the least enjoyable part of the job hunting process. But whether you’re looking for a job in Fresno or outside of Fresno, a resume is an absolute must. Without this essential document, your job hunt is going to be a major challenge. The following article offers some brief tips for writing a resume that will help increase your chances of getting an interview.
Two Types of Resumes
The two most common resume styles are the chronological and the functional resume. The chronological resume is easily the most popular resume. Your current resume is likely put together in this format whether you’re aware of it or not.
The chronological resume presents your work history in, well, chronological order of course. But more importantly, this resume type emphasizes your work experience above all else. It is the section of your resume that stands out most because you want readers to focus their attention there. This is the best resume type if you are looking for work in a field you already have experience in and is therefore not usually a good choice for entry-level job seekers.
The functional resume, on the other hand, emphasizes your skills, talents, education, and abilities. Instead of focusing on what you have done, it shows off your strengths and downplays your history. Naturally, this is a great resume choice for a newbie entering a field in which he or she has basically no work experience. College graduates are a good example.
Most resumes are actually a comfortable blend of both the chronological resume and the functional resume. The key to a winning resume is knowing exactly what to emphasize – your previous experience or your untapped talents. Regardless of your situation, you will definitely want to include a work history section in any resume. Virtually every employer will want to know that you are capable of holding down a job and showing up to work.
One interesting study on resume writing and job hunting found that employers give interviews more often to applicants who submit a two-page resume rather than a one-page resume. This is a tricky issue because some applicants are simply not capable of writing a two-page resume. If you do write a two-page resume, you need to be sure you have enough material to fill out both pages. You definitely do not want to submit a 1.5 page resume.
These are just some basic tips for resume writing that should help make it easier for you. Writing a good resume is a great way to stand out in a competitive job market - especially but not just the Fresno job market. You might even consider hiring a professional resume service to put one together for you.
