How to Write a Resume

A resume is a written summary of your qualifications, skills and work-related experience. 

It's an important tool in your job search efforts.

Employers will require a copy of your resume when you apply for a job.

Your resume is your first chance to impress an employer and show them that you’re the right person for the job.

Resume Do's

Details to include in your resume

  • Full Name
  • Phone and email address
  • Work history experience
  • Education and training
  • Skills and abilities
  • Referees

Resume Don'ts

Details to avoid in your resume

  • Personal info - date of birth, marital status, home address
  • Qualifications which are out of date or not completed
  • Reasons you left your previous job
  • An unprofessional email address
  • Exaggerations or mistruths
  • Jargon, slang or negative language

How to write a resume that works for you

Here are some qualities of a good resume:

  • A simple format that is easy to read and not too long
  • Tailored to the job you’re applying for
  • Your strengths, abilities and achievements are described
  • The spelling, grammar and punctuation are correct
  • Your contact details are up-to-date
  • The format is appropriate e.g. Word Document or PDF

Use your resume to showcase your strengths and achievements, while displaying a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn the stuff you don't know.

Check out these resume templates to get started!

Building a resume using your strengths and achievements

You might worry you fall short of the job criteria, but don't let that stop you! Try turning a weakness into a strength.

Here are some examples:

“I'm only young!”

I'm keen to work, willing to learn and looking for an entry-level position.

 

“I don’t have any skills.”

I've played a lot of sport and have great teamwork skills.

 

“I don’t have qualifications.”

I'm great with computers and I'd like to do a traineeship in IT.

 

“I don’t know what I have to offer.”

I'm a reliable young person with a positive attitude and I'm available to start work immediately.

“I've never had a proper job.”

I did babysitting for friends and family to earn pocket money while I was still at school.

 

“I didn’t do well at some of the theory-based subjects at school.”

I'm a “hands on” learner who loves practical jobs.

 

“I just finished school and don’t have any experience.”

I did woodwork at school and I know how to use power tools safely.

I did a work experience placement at school and really enjoyed it. 

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