10 Resume writing tips for job seekers

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Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. A well-crafted resume not only highlights your skills and experience but also sets you apart in a competitive job market. Here are ten tips to help you create a resume that stands out:

1. Tailor your resume to each job
   Customise your resume to align with the specific requirements of the job you're applying for. Use keywords from the job description to show you're a perfect fit.
2. Start with a strong summary
   Your career summary should briefly showcase your key skills, achievements, and career goals, making it easy for employers to see your value.
3. Highlight achievements over duties
   Focus on accomplishments rather than listing routine tasks. For example, "Increased sales by 20% within six months" has more impact than "Responsible for sales."
4. Use action verbs
   Start bullet points with strong action verbs like "led," "developed," or "implemented" to convey proactivity and success.
5. Keep it concise
   Limit your resume to one or two pages. Recruiters often spend only seconds on each application, so make every word count.

6. Include relevant skills
List skills that are relevant to the role and align with industry expectations, such as proficiency in software tools or languages. Proofread carefully

7. Typos and grammatical errors can make a poor impression. Double-check your resume or have someone else review it for you.

8. Use a clean format
Choose a professional layout with clear headings, bullet points, and consistent fonts to make your resume easy to read.

9. Add relevant keywords
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes. Including keywords from the job description can help your resume pass through these systems.

10. Seek professional guidance
At Bendigo TAFE, our Employment Centre offers free resume assistance to students and recent graduates.

How Bendigo TAFE’s Employment Centre can help

Writing a standout resume is just one step in your job search journey. The Employment Centre provides a range of free tools and services to support you:

• Access to resources, including 'How To' guides and internet facilities for job applications.
• Personalised assistance with resumes, application letters, and interview tips.
• Coaching on canvassing employers and approaching job opportunities confidently.
• An exclusive Job Vacancy List for current students and recent graduates.

For further support, register with the Employment Centre. You can call 1300 484 335 or email employmentcentre@bendigotafe.edu.au to get started.

Let us help you take the next step towards your dream job!