Is Your Resume the Right Length

A resume is one of the most important tools you have to use during your job search, since a resume gives you the chance to let potential employers check out your job skills. It is imperative that your resume paints you in the best possible light and gives a hiring manager enough insight to decide to call you in for an interview.

You want to ensure your resume is comprehensive enough to highlight the most important skills potential employers are looking for and to show the depth and breadth of your experience. At the same time, however, you don’t want your resume to be too long because employers may not want to read through a lengthy missive. So, how long should your resume be?

• Your resume should be about a page long. One-page resumes are generally considered the industry standard. An employer can quickly glance at a one-page resume without taking a lot of time out of their busy day – which means they are more likely to read it. A one-page resume also gives you enough space to show what you can do, without inviting room for rambling.

• Your resume should highlight the experience specific to the job. You should not just send out a generic resume when applying for work. You want to make sure that the resume is customized to the opportunity that you are hoping to be considered for. Look for the skills and experience the employer wants based on the job description, and make sure your resume clearly illustrate you meet their desired criteria.

• Your resume should emphasize your most important capabilities. You should focus on the core competencies in your field and provide tangible evidence you have what most employers are looking for.

Get your resume in front of the right people during your job search so you can “wow” top employers in your area with your job skills. SmartTalent can help you to get in contact with companies that are hiring people with your skills and experience. If you’re looking for a job in Kirkland, Fife, Renton, Lynnwood, Lacey or surrounding areas and you want help getting your resume out there, contact us today.