There is no shortage of resume advice out there, but most of it boils down to some key facts. Resumes are like an advertising document for job seekers. They are intended to showcase relevant professional skills and experience that will convince potential employers the candidate is right for the job. Here are four basic but important tips for creating a resume that effectively showcases your skill set.

Make a List of Your Skills

The first and most important step to creating a resume that showcases your skill set is to determine what your skills are. Consider what you can do and your realistic ability at each one. Remember that you should not include every single skill on your resume. Keep the list for reference so you can use it on any future version of your resume.

Know What Skills Are Needed for Each Job

Your resume should always be tailored to each individual job you’re applying for. This means taking that list of skills you have just made and deciding which ones are most relevant. To learn what skills are needed for each job, carefully read job descriptions as well as know what skills are needed in your industry. Include words and phrasing from the job listing so your resume will get past keyword scanners.

Consider Transferable Skills

Many job seekers don’t take transferable skills into account when thinking of what to put on their resume. This is a mistake, as skills gained from unrelated jobs can be very relevant to the job you are now trying to get. Think about the kinds of skills you cultivated and mastered during different jobs. For example, you will have customer service skills if you worked at a fast food restaurant or tech skills from office jobs.

Consider Professional Help

There are countless resources out there that can help you write a great resume that directly leads to a job offer. These services are especially helpful for people who have been job hunting for a long time without success or are not strong writers. If you go through a staffing firm, such as warehouse staffing services, the representative you work with will likely offer you some pointers on your resume.

 

Creating the right resume is a balancing act that requires some trial and error. Never be afraid to change up your resume to draw attention to other areas of your professional career and to improve wording. By striving to continuously improve, you will be sure to land a job soon enough.