Be the one in a million
Generally, you make first contact with a query letter and an attached resume. The key to getting noticed is not to overtell your story. This may seem counterintuitive, but it works, as I'll explain below.
To highlight your skills in an enticing way, follow these resume-writing guidelines:
- Keep it short. One well-laid-out page is ideal. Save references for your first interview.
- Start the resume with a summary similar to your query letter that really sells your positive traits.
- Do NOT include a list of technologies you have experience with. If you do, that will be the first thing the hiring company looks at, and they may find it easier to dismiss your resume.
- Use bold type to draw attention to important phrases in your resume (for instance, -experience with application development" or -used a database to track users"). Doing so keeps you from having to summarise in a skills section.
- Don't use technology names, unless that technology is in high demand or fits the position.
- Do mention former client names where appropriate or impressive.
- Rather than listing duties in a job position, list accomplishments.
- If you have taken classes in a desired technology, mention these in the education section (i.e., -Coursework in C, Java, and Visual Basic while studying at XYZ University"). Also mention any relevant certifications.
Your resume should leave them wanting more. A hiring company that wants more information will call you in for an interview. Landing an interviewâ€"and a jobâ€"is all about marketing yourself. Providing interesting and appropriate content is everything.
Be forward-thinking
Just as your resume is designed solely to generate interest, your cover or query letter should be a brief marketing blurb about everything you have to offer a company. In three or four sentences, list traits (-excellent communication skills"), skills (-four years in application development"), and aspirations (-looking for a team-oriented organization"). After reading your brief summary, a hiring manager should want to learn more and read your resume.
Target your resume content to the company and position you're applying for. You should have three or four versions of your resume, each highlighting different skills and experience. Likewise, have a few versions of your cover letter ready to go, each targeting a different type of organization or industry.
Try to take an objective look at your experience and figure out where you are marketable. Again, that means expanding the way you think of yourself. Think beyond past job duties and certifications. If you're currently unemployed, quit worrying about that hole in your resume. Instead, find ways to fill it: Participate in developer communities and local groups. Donate your time and development efforts to schools, companies, or open source projects. Teach at a technical college or write articles. If you can afford it, take classes. Hold seminars and offer training. Don't overlook any hobby-related skills you've developed. These are all great, legitimate ways to pad your resume and fill gaps in your employment history with impressive experience and education.
Your goal is to inform potential employers about what you have to offer them. Using your resume and cover letter, you must convince any company you contact that they need your experience.
First, however, you have to convince yourself.
