Job Interview and Resume Writing Tips
Preparing a resume is a daunting task, and if it is successful, you'll find yourself facing the exciting but intimidating prospect of a job interview. Like writing a resume, preparing for a job interview takes time and organization. While your resume is your professional showcase in document form, you must be equally prepared to present yourself as the ideal job candidate in person at your interview.
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Presentation
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A writer on the Rockport Institute website points out that your resume is an advertisement, a marketing tool used to win an interview. The resume not only states your skills and credentials, but explains them in such a way that the employer is convinced you are a prime candidate. This is typically accomplished by focusing on what the company needs in the future, rather than what you have accomplished in the past. Your resume should focus on those achievements of yours that are most applicable to the job in question, which you can determine through prior research into the company and employer. Likewise, in the interview, you should focus most on those experiences of yours that will help you move the company forward in your new position.
Keywords
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Resumes may be sent via hard copy, attachment, email or through an online database. Because employers frequently receive hundreds of resumes, they may use software to filter through applications by matching keywords from the job description to the resume. To increase your chances of landing a job interview, look through the job description and incorporate any phrases or words that are industry-related or that explain something specific that the employer is looking for. This may include both nouns, such as job titles, and verbs. The best place to incorporate keywords in your resume is the "Summary of Qualifications" section, the description of duties in your "Experience" section and your "Skills" section.
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Action Verbs
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According to Boston College, action verbs "give your resume power and direction." In both your "Skills" and "Experience" sections, it's best to use incomplete, succinct sentences that begin with action verbs rather than lengthy sentences written in first person. Examples of action verbs include "negotiated," "supervised," "repaired" and "developed."
Expert Insight
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics recommends you prepare to answer broad questions in your interview, such as "why are you interested in this job?" or "name your strengths and weaknesses." It is important to arrive early and well dressed. Use proper English free of slang. Consider your body language throughout the interview; slouching or fidgeting may be taken as signs of nervousness. Come prepared with an extra copy of your resume, transcripts, a list of references and two forms of identification, such as a driver's license and social security card.
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References
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