(upbeat music)
-: Should you use a resume template?
If you have the time, we think the best approach
would be to build your resume from the ground up.
Search online for actual resumes of professionals
in your desired field that have made their resumes public.
Pick your favorites and use those as inspiration
to build your own.
If you don't have the time or perhaps you're not finding
what you hope for online,
a resume template can work as well.
Just make sure you customize it to your own personal needs.
That could include rearranging some of the sections
or altering the appearance by changing font or removing
any unnecessary graphics.
Whether you choose to build your resume from the ground up
or use a template, your resume should be clean,
professional, and easily readable
by Applicant Tracking Systems.
Types of resume formats.
Chronological, this is the most common format
with a strong focus on work experience.
This format works best if you have a long work history.
Functional, this format is similar to chronological
but it allows you to put a little more emphasis
on your skills.
This format is best for new grads and career changers.
Targeted, the purpose of this format is to tailor
all aspects of your resume to a specific job.
Use the appropriate key words so that your resume mirrors
the job posting.
Objective statement, resume summary, or nothing?
There are mixed opinions on which type of summary
to include on your resume or whether to include one at all.
Many people feel that the objective statement
is going out of style and the inclusion of one
might hurt your chances.
Meanwhile, the resume summary is more current
and could be a powerful statement to include.
Here's a detailed comparison of each.
Objective statement.
This is a statement that expresses where you are
in your career and what you want the next step to be.
The objective statement
highlights your goals and objectives.
It's good for new hires and career changers
who might not have much past work experience.
Or what they do have,
might not be relevant to a new position.
It's also good if you're targeting
a specific job or position.
Here's an example of a good objective statement.
Business management graduate with proven organizational
and sales skill looking to apply my work ethic and dynamic
skill set to the position of Junior Broker at E.F. Raymond
with the intention of contributing to the continued growth
of the commercial accounts department.
Resume summary.
This is a statement summarizing your skills and experiences.
It's best for individuals with prior work experience
that can be quantified and emphasized
in a brief overview statement.
Here's an example of a good summary statement.
Marketing specialist with five years experience.
Proven success in running email marketing campaigns
and implementing marketing strategies resulting
in a 75% increase in subscription sales.
Proficient in content, social media,
and inbound marketing strategies.
Skilled, creative, and innovative.
You'll have to decide whether or not to include
a statement or summary on your resume.
If you feel like you can write a strong one,
it might help tell your story and provide an opportunity
for even more key words on your resume.
Ultimately, we recommend that you speak with a professional
in your desired field who can help tell you
the best practice of today.