Resume Writing tips for 2021

A Resume is the most important part of any job search. Today in 2021, considering the job crisis which has taken birth as an effect of Covid 19 pandemic, here are a few tips to write an effective resume and help you stand out in a talent pool.

1. Structure

For Freshers/ Recent Graduates :

- Name, contact info, location

- Education (Recent qualifications first)

- Position of Responsibility undertaken (if any)

- Projects completed

- Certifications/Achievements/Awards

- Extra curricular activities

- Volunteering (if any)

- Personal information (DOB, Languages known, permanent address, Father's name, Preference for relocation)

- References

For Work Experienced candidates :

All the points from 'Freshers' list' and the following points...

- Profile Summary

- Technical & Behavioural skills

- Past work profile ( Mention your work in 2-3 lines and targets achieved in 1 line)

2. Length

Recent graduates or freshers should prepare 1 page Resume. Most of the times, freshers are keen on showcasing all of their talent to the recruiters. Hence, they mention all the achievements and event participations in their resumes. Recruiters on the other hand, find this information irrelevant to the job role and filter out the candidate. Candidates with work experience are expected to have a 2 page Resume. They can skip extra curricular activities to an extent, as the main focus for recuiters is on their past experiences, skills acquired and domain knowledge.

3. Keep it Simple

Resumes in MNCs are scanned by ATS or the Applicant Tracking System before making its way to recruiters' mail system. This is the first step in filtering the candidates and hence needs maximum attention. The font style should be same throughout the resume. Font Size can change from 10-12 depending on title and bullet points. Tables should be strictly avoided as the ATS either does not recognise the format or considers it as a border and neglects the content in it. Small icons are also not to be included in resume.

4. Role based Content

A candidate can be applying to different job roles having different titles and even specific job descriptions. Hence, it is very important to note that every role needs customised job application. A few points from projects undertaken and roles carried out in the past can be customised as per current job description as provided by the recruiter.  

Hint : Check the job description of the job you are applying to and mention those keywords in your related project work.

These were the 4 important things to remember while building your resume. I have gained this knowledge from my mentors, HR heads and professors. And have been successful in cracking interviews with these tips !

Let me know how you feel about the same in the comments section. Also mention if you would like more information and tips on Resume Writing/ CV Building.