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Your resume is one of the most important tools you have when job hunting, which is why that it is very important that you know how to write a resume – and not just any resume, but a good resume. Remember, even before you step into the office of what could be your next job, your employer will be judging you according your resume. Here are some tips to help you with how to write a resume effectively.

1. Start with a template

Knowing how to write a resume shouldn’t be a real problem since there are many resume templates that are readily available. You can use a resume template as a reference when making your own resume. What you do is enter your information into the template and then customize it so your skills and abilities are highlighted.

2. Keep it simple

Flowery words or overly-designed resumes might seem like an attractive idea. But before you go and design the layout of your resume, remember that what gets you hired are relevant experience and your qualifications, and not colourful and an outlandish font type.

3. Keep it short

Keep your resume short. Unless you have five or more years of relevant work experience, then your resume should not exceed two pages.

4. Focus on the employer’s needs

Having one resume for all job openings isn’t going to work. Remember to check the work needs, and – if you’re qualified – adjust your resume so that it focuses on the employer’s needs.

5. Prioritise relevant skills and experience

Again, you should tailor your resume so that skills and experience that are relevant for the job opening are highlighted and the ones that the employer sees first.

6. Be conscious of your grammar

It’s also very important that you show a decent command of the English language. Check for grammatical errors. Check again. Knowing all the tips on how to write a resume isn’t going to help you at all if your resume and cover letter are infested with bad grammar and horrendous spelling.

7. Be truthful

Yes, you can exaggerate a little. Yet with technology today, it can be very easy for employers to do a background check (even on social networks) or ask your references for information.

8. Use professional looking contact information

Nothing speaks, “Don’t hire me!” more than an email address like i_love_yo_mama78@mailprovider.com. Remember to project a professional air, even with your contact information.

9. Indicate achievements

Don’t just show your work experience indicate your achievements as well. Don’t just say that you were a Sales Agent. Indicate that you were a Sales Agent who sold 40% more units in the first quarter and who received the Sales Agent of the Year Award four times in a row.