A solid resume is important to finding a job while in college, and even more so when you graduate. A resume is a chance for you to show off your skills and convince the employer that you are the perfect fit for the job. Here are 11 tips to help your resume show you off:

1. Spell Check

This is an obvious step, but needs to be said. If an employer sees a spelling or grammar error in your resume, they will not take a second look at it. Even if you think that your resume is perfect, ask a friend or a classmate to double check your spelling.

2. Short and Simple

Your resume should ideally fit on one page, if not two. There is no need to elaborate on skills or employee experience, you will be doing that in person during an interview. Many people make this mistake and risk having their resumes be too long.

3. Keep It Organized

There are many templates on Microsoft Word that will help you ensure that it is aesthetically pleasing and organized. Having an organized resume helps you look professional. Employers are more likely to read your resume if you spent some time on it.

4. Dates

Including dates in your resume is essential. It’s important for future employers to know exactly when you attended school, or when you worked a certain job. 

5. Add an Objective

Your resume should have an objective at the top of the first page. This is a chance to let a future employer know exactly what you are looking for. These often will say things like, “Seeking a position in marketing and PR.”

6. Graduation Date

Always put your expected graduation date in the education section. It is better to let future employers know when you are expected to graduate, rather than saying senior, junior, sophomore, etc.

7. Show Yourself Off

The purpose of a resume is to highlight your skills and experience. It shows an employer why you specifically are the best candidate for the position. In your resume, list all accomplishments and valuable experience.

8. Take Pride in Your Resume

Even though a resume is a piece of paper that is made to show you off, take pride in the experience you have and the work you’ve put into having a great resume.

9. Cater Resume to Industry

A resume needs to be catered to a specific field and a specific job. This means changing the objective and changing your skills when applying for certain positions.

10. Network

This is the most important tip. In order to have a solid resume, networking is the key. Networking includes going to the Career Expo, meeting with family friends who are in your intended field, talking to everyone you meet and exchanging information with them. This can lead to more jobs and more opportunities.

11. Be Selective

You do not have to add your high school education, your middle name, a certificate for something irrelevant if it doesn’t fit. If it does, add it. Think about your audience and who this information would benefit.

Photography by Ayo Ogunseinde (via unsplash.com)