Bonus Resume Tips

While I'm at it, a few bonus resume tips that may be of service to you, no matter the job you're applying for.

1. Don't waste space on an objective. The interviewer doesn't really care what you want, and everyone writes the same thing anyway. Instead, give me a one- or two-sentence description about why I want you.


2. Pre-seed Google. Your potential employer is going to Google you. Make sure there is something there that you want him to find. Being a non-entity on the net is not a good sign.


3. Do not tell me that you're a team player, a fast learner, have great attention to detail or have excellent written and oral communication skills. It may be true, but everyone says that and, consequently, no one believes it.


4. One page.


5. No, seriously, one page. It's fine if you can't fit your entire work history on there. Especially in technology, I only care about the last five years anyway. I will greatly appreciate the brevity.*

* I once read the resume of a gentleman applying for a developer position that went on for more than twelve pages. His work history went back to 1973. When he was a shoe salesman.

Comments

[Jens Schumacher]

Not sure if I agree with your 3rd point. Surely it is important to point out that you do have good communication skills or great attention to detail. The important part is to proof it and give an example.

If you don't mention it at all, some people might think you are lacking those skills.