By Hey, new graduates or students! Are you ready to enter the corporate world? Well, you’ll need a resume.
Now the question is how to create one.
If that’s what you are thinking, then this blog is for you.
Writing a resume is the first step in impressing the hiring managers and getting your dream job or internship.
However, it can be difficult for new graduates just fresh out of school, as I am sure you won’t have relevant experience.
But that’s okay!
Today I will walk you through the tips that can help you craft a solid resume, whether you are still a student or a new graduate.
Tips for Writing a Resume as a New Graduate
1. Choose the Right Format
When writing a resume, the key step is to pick the correct format.
Why?
It helps make your CV look visually pleasing. Furthermore, it shows the effort you have put into creating the resume.
Now the question is how to choose the correct format.
Well, for this, first of all, remember that there are three basic format options for you:
- Functional
- Reverse Chronological
99% of the hiring managers prefer the resume in the reverse chronological format. So I would recommend you choose that. Using this format allows you to list your recent experiences and achievements at the top, and then you move to the previous ones.
2. Focus on Your Layout
Before the hiring managers can read your resume, they have the chance to view it. Remember, I would not like to have a messy CV. It will only make a bad impression on them.
Therefore, once you have chosen the format, it is time to focus on the layout.
- If you want the hiring managers to even consider your resume, here is what you need to do:
- Always keep your resume to one page. The managers already have hundreds of resumes to go through. Therefore, you don’t want to make them disinterested. Remember, the main purpose of writing a resume is to tell only the important details that make you the perfect candidate.
- Ensure that there is a line spacing between your paragraphs and sentences. It helps make the resume visually appealing.
Additionally, pick the correct format for your CV. Ensure that it is professional and looks clean. I would suggest using Times New Roman or Roboto.
A Pro Tip: Choosing the right format and layout can be tricky. So if you face any problem, consider opting for the premade template. Furthermore, you can even seek help from resume writers. They have access to premium CVs and can help you enhance the overall look of your resume.
3. Add Your Information
The next step for you is to add your personal and contact information. When writing it, make sure to put it in the right header so that the hiring managers can look at it in one glance.
Here are some things that you must add to your CV:
- Start with your full name.
- Provide the job or professional title.
- Add your email address and phone number.
- Don’t forget to add any location or other relevant social links you have.
Ensure there are no typos or errors so the hiring manager can easily reach out to you.
4. Start with a Professional Summary
With hiring managers receiving numerous applications daily, you have only six seconds to grab their attention.
Therefore, make sure to write a solid profile summary. From who you are to your experience, skills, and education, make sure to include everything. Also, keep it only 2-3 lines long.
5. List Your Education
Since you are writing a resume as a new graduate or student, list your education at the top of your resume.
Remember, if your work experience is short, consider stretching the education part, especially if you are applying within your field.
Here is what the section must look like:
- Degree Name
- University Name
- Location
- Years Attended
Disclaimer: Always list your education in a reverse chronological manner with the newest degree on the top.
6. Show Your Relevant Experience
The next thing you need to do while writing a CV is to show your relevant experience. Here is what you need to include:
- List your jobs in chronological order with the newest one at the top.
- Furthermore, provide the job details and your role.
- Also, write about the employment date.
- You also have to include the company details, like name and location.
Now the question is, what do you do if you don’t have any experience?
Well, don’t worry! You can talk about the long-term projects you have done while studying. Furthermore, you can even write about your internships and volunteer programs. Just make sure to give details about them.
7. Highlight Your Relevant Skills
Now you must tell the hiring manager about the skills that make you stand out. Furthermore, while writing, focus on soft and hard skills. Here is what you can write:
- Focus on your characteristics like critical thinking, good communication, problem-solving, leadership, etc.
- While your hard skills can be coding, copywriting, etc. Also, if you have any prior experience in this, consider using measurable results.
Remember this section must be the combination of these skills, as it can help make a good impact on the hiring managers.
8. Add Optional Sections
Don’t hesitate to add optional sections in the resume, as they can help better impact the readers. Here are some of them that you can mention:
- Languages: If you have experience in one or more languages, consider adding them.
- Awards: You can discuss any awards or diplomas you got while studying
- Hobbies: Are you good at cooking or even reading? Well, talk about as many hobbies as you can.
9. Edit and Proofread
Once you are done writing your resume, take time and edit it. Make sure that your format is to the point. Furthermore, look for grammatical, punctuation, and structure problems. You can even seek feedback from your peers, professionals, mentors, or family members to ensure your resume is ready to be submitted.
Wrapping Up!
So that’s a wrap! Whether you are a student or a new graduate, writing a professional resume is essential if you want to find your desired job. You can follow tips like choosing the right format, adding information, listing education, and showing experience. Furthermore, talk about your skills, and don’t forget to add optional sections. You can even get feedback on this. So what are you waiting for? Follow this guide and get your dream job.
