Resume Tips
A resume, or curriculum vitae/ CV, is a summary of your (professional) life, listing your work experience and diplomas, along with your personal information. To make sure your CV gets picked out, here are a few tips:
-
STAND OUT! Make sure you stand out by using a unique layout, for example. Recruiters like to read CVs with some colour, but keep it businesslike.
-
Make sure your CV looks well-organized. Use recognizable headings, such as work experience, education, skills, etc.
-
Keep it short. Try to keep it to one page.
-
Place the most important information at the top. So start with your most recent work experience and work your way down.
-
Don't be afraid to include extracurricular activities on your CV, such as having been in a study or student (sports) club. It is also very interesting to put a (backpacking) trip on your CV, because during such a trip you develop many competences that you do not develop in the work field.
What should you include in your CV? If you have had twenty side jobs, but most of them are not related to the position you are applying for, you do not need to mention them on your CV. Or create a separate heading for various jobs. Adapt your CV to the job you are applying for. Here is an example and short list of what you need to include.
Profile
Show the employer who you are in the profile. Choose the three most important keywords that you can find in the vacancy and that apply to you. Put these in your own words in your profile.
Work experience
In the section 'work experience' you do not only state the company you worked for, but also the position you held, your responsibilities and how long you worked there. Make sure you keep it clear and do not add too much text. Keep it concise!
Education
Put your most recent education at the top, together with the period in which you were enrolled in the course. Also mention the minor you followed, your internships, any extra activities within your study program and the title of your graduation project with a short summary.
Activities
Have you done any other activities outside of your studies, such as committee work at your association or voluntary work? Name these functions and briefly state what your responsibilities were.
Skills
If you have certain specific skills that are relevant to the vacancy, you can also mention them. Examples are speaking other languages or having Excel or InDesign skills.
Meanwhile LinkedIn has become almost as important as your CV. So make sure your profile is up to date! Don't know how? Check out our LinkedIn tips here!