Resume Writing Tips: Build a Document That Gets You Noticed

Your resume is often your first impression—think of it as a personal marketing tool. It’s not just a timeline of where you’ve worked, but a way to showcase your strengths, achievements, and value to potential employers.

Here’s how to create a resume that helps you stand out:

✅ 1. Suggested Resume Format

Organize your resume in a way that highlights your strengths clearly and efficiently:

• Career Summary – A snapshot of your key strengths, skills, and professional goals
• Education & Training – List relevant education and certifications
• Work Experience – Reverse chronological order (most recent first)
• Skills, Certifications & Volunteer Work – Include anything that adds depth to your profile
• References – Optional on the page, but good to have available

🧠 2. Career Summary Tips

• Tailor this section to the job you’re applying for
• Use numbers to demonstrate impact (e.g., “Exceeded quarterly sales targets by 20%”)
• Highlight unique skills or experiences that set you apart
• Keep it honest, focused, and compelling—this is your elevator pitch on paper

🎓 3. Education & Training

Include:

• Name of the institution
• City, province
• Start and end dates
• Program name and any areas of focus or specialization
• Additional certifications, ongoing education, or relevant training

💼 4. Work Experience Section

List each role with:

• Company name
• Location
• Dates of employment (month and year)
• Job title
• Key accomplishments and metrics (not just tasks)

Focus on:

• Results and outcomes
• Promotions or leadership experience
• Projects you led or contributed to
• Specifics relevant to the job you’re applying for

Avoid generic duties. Instead, use action words and measurable achievements.

🚫 5. Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Listing hobbies or unrelated personal interests (e.g., hunting, knitting)
• Sharing sensitive information (unless truly relevant)
• Including outdated or irrelevant roles without context
• Forgetting to update dates, titles, or formatting for consistency

📞 6. References

It’s helpful to prepare a list of 3–4 references, including:

1. Most recent manager (if aware you’re job hunting)
2. A manager from a previous employer
3. A team member or colleague
4. A personal reference who can speak to your character

Note: You don’t need to include all references on the resume itself—just have them ready.

Final Thought

Your resume should tell a clear, confident story of your professional journey. Take the time to make it accurate, tailored, and easy to read—and you’ll make a stronger impression before you even walk in the door.

Want a second set of eyes? Grasslands Recruitment Specialists is happy to help.