Top 20 Things To Know About Résumés & Interviews + My Number 1 Rule

by Larry Goldsmith on September 20, 2009

By Larry Goldsmith, CWDP, P.E.T.

1)The purpose of a résumé is to secure an interview.

2)Use a profile summary to highlight your strengths at the very beginning of the résumé.

3)Brevity is a desirable trait in a résumé. One to two page résumés are preferable.

4)Sell yourself. Create a good first impression by highlighting skills and abilities appropriate to the position.

5)Use “active” language. Articu­late marketable skills acquired through your previous positions.

6)Be consistent. Choose a pattern of spacing, format of high­lighting and an order of information presented.

7)Present information in reverse chronological order.

8)You are not texting your friends. Use proper grammar & spelling.

9)Make sure your résumé is neat and visually appealing.

10)Make your résumé unique. High­light special relevant accomplishments, exper­iences and skills.

11)If you have more education than work experience, list your education first.

12)Under skill categories, des­cribe your responsibilities emphasizing your achievements.

13) Focus on nouns for electronically submitted résumés. Use appropriate current industry buzz words.

14)A strong handshake is essential.

15)Watch your posture and maintain direct eye contact.

16) Dress for the job you want.

17) Focus on what you bring to the table. Demonstrate that you are a team contributor.

18) Practice your responses to expected questions. Give precise, quantified answers and examples.

19) Get information about a com­pany before the interview. Ask intelligent ques­tions.

20)Do not ask about salary informa­tion or benefits until you are offered the job.

My top interviewing rule: If you do not arrive 15 minutes early, you are already late.

What is your favorite tip?

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