Writing a resume seems like a straightforward endeavor--until you actually sit down to create one. For example, what's the right length? Do you need an objective statement? And what changes should you make, if any, if you want to reapply for a certain position?
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Following are some guidelines for navigating these and other common resume quandaries:
Does the rule about one-page resumes still apply? Will I turn off employers if mine is longer?
Let your experience dictate the length of your resume. More than half of the senior executives recently polled by Robert Half International believe that a single page is the ideal length for a staff-level resume; 44 percent said they prefer two pages. People with limited professional experience, such as recent college graduates, will probably want to keep their resumes to one page, but someone who has been in the workforce for many years may need two pages to fully outline his or her qualifications. The key is to neither include filler--details that don't relate to the position you're applying for--nor leave out important information in an attempt to meet a certain page length.
Should I include an objective statement on my resume?
No, an objective statement is not necessary. In fact, most objective statements are redundant: If you've submitted a resume to a software firm, the hiring manager already knows you're "seeking a challenging position in the high-tech industry," for instance. Instead, consider including a short summary statement of your relevant professional skills at the top of your resume, so employers can quickly get a sense of your qualifications.
I'd like to make a career switch. How can I modify my resume to target a job in a completely different industry?
Focus on your transferable skills, and consider changing your resume format to better highlight them. For example, consider a functional resume or a combination resume to explain your strengths in relevant areas, such as communication or leadership, and downplay previous roles and irrelevant job duties.
Also, conduct a little research into the new industry. Every field has its own language. Use keywords and phrases from the job description throughout your cover letter and resume, as appropriate, to boost your chances of grabbing a hiring manager's attention.