How to Target a Resume to the Job
Many people try to use a basic resume for a variety of jobs. A targeted resume is the best way to gather your information and present it to an employer to make you look like the strongest candidate.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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Gather Your Personal Information
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1
Review your job history. Brainstorm all of your work experience and previous jobs to create a list of skills, talents and abilities.
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2
Be creative. Without embellishing, consider how to best highlight your skills. If you occasionally helped your little brother with his homework, listing 'volunteer tutor' as a skill is a stretch. But if you helped him and his friends on a regular basis, don't have much else to list and it fits the job you're applying for, include it.
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3
Realize that you will have to create multiple resumes. Since the point of targeting is to create a specific resume for a specific job, you may find that writing and revising multiple resumes is time consuming. Give yourself 2 to 3 hours to turn out your best work.
Prepare a Targeted Resume
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1
Identify objectives. For each job title you are applying for, you should target an objective that is specific to the position. Be sure that you change your objective based on each job title and job description for which you are applying.
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2
Target your background and experience. Choose which former jobs you are going to include and which ones you are going to omit based on their relevance. In addition, revise responsibilities and duties to meet the requirements of the job to which you are applying.
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3
Include training. Targeted resumes highlight skills that you have through experience but also can include seminars and professional development that make you an attractive candidate.
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4
Write concisely. Use strong adjectives and verbs to describe your skills in the least amount of words. A targeted resume should be limited to one page and every word should be written in an attempt to obtain an interview. Be sure that the tone and appearance of your resume is as professional as possible.
Revise and Rewrite Targeted Resumes Often
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1
Update resume information frequently. As you gain more experience and sharpen your skills, change your resume to reflect that.
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2
Be aware of current terminology and trends in your field. Stay informed of buzzwords and add them to your resume to stay current.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Look for sample resumes at online job search services to see how others have handled tricky issues such as long job histories or gaps in work history.
Be aware that employers can do background checks before or after you are hired and can verify the information in your resume. Be sure your information is honest and accurate.
