How to Hit the "Bull's Eye" with Your Resume By: Debra Wheatman

How many resumes do you send without a single response? Where did you go wrong? You have so many skills, as well as extensive knowledge. Is it possible that your resume is missing the target because it was not written with a target in mind? When written properly, a resume positions a candidate as a match for a target job for which the candidate is qualified. One resume will not be effective for all opportunities. You'll increase your chances for interview invitations by customizing your resume for each job opportunity.

That may sound like a lot of work. Who has hours of time to write dozens of new resumes every month? Don't worry; the crafting of a resume to hit the "bull's eye" is easier than you might imagine. Follow these simple steps and watch while your resume hits the target.

Research the target job and employer. In most cases, you can obtain this information on the employer's website or a job posting. Highlight the requirements and major duties in the job posting. Create a list of the job duties and requirements.

Review your resume and identify the skills and experiences that are consistent with the needs of a particular hiring employer. Note your accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to perform the job. Try your best to backup your accomplishments with measured results. As you find these skills and accomplishments on your resume, check them off the list of duties and requirements that you created in step one.

Identify gaps. In other words, are there skills that you possess that are needed for this job, that are not on your current resume? If so, update your resume to include those skills; examples of the work will go a very long way in demonstrating your background. Perhaps you have similar skills that support your ability to learn the required skills quickly. In some cases, gaps can't be resolved. Don't include skills that you do not have. You cannot make it up.

Ensure your resume is focused on the target. For example, the required skills for the target job may be listed on your resume, but not given enough emphasis. That may involve changing the order of items in the core competencies section or editing the profile. In most cases, the majority of fine-tuning to tailor your resume for a target job will be in the areas of your resume profile and core competencies sections.

You can't expect to hit the target every single time. However, creating a customized resume will increase your chance of success significantly. Take a few minutes to customize your resume. It is definitely time well spent.

Author: careersdonewrite.com/blog/how-to-hit-the-bulls-eye-with-your-resume.html