At Scotiabank, we believe that when we invest in people, it not only drives individual success but also fuels our collective growth. Whether you’re aiming to sharpen your interview skills, advance your career, or foster leadership qualities, our Talent Tips are designed to support you at every step of your professional journey.
Crafting the Perfect Resume
In today’s competitive job market, a standout resume is crucial for securing a new role. Your resume serves as a first impression for potential employers, so it needs to stand out while clearly showcasing your skills and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, these Talent Tips will help you craft a resume that sets you apart and leaves a lasting impression.
- Keep it brief: Include information tailored to the skills outlined in the job you're applying for, but don't go into too much detail. Ensure the top section has the most important information that makes you stand out, since you only have about 15 seconds to attract the attention of the reader. Consider the last 5-10 years of your career and prioritize the roles that align with the job description. This keeps your resume concise, making it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to see your fit for the role.
- Choose a Clean Layout: Application Tracking Systems (ATS) are often used for processing applications. Avoid using icons, images and pictures that tend to cause an error in these systems. Instead, use a professional, clean, and straight forward layout. Don't include a photo or biographical data, such as your age or gender and avoid excessive colours or graphics that can also be distracting to the reader. A clean layout and easy to follow timeline on the right margin ensures that your resume is visually appealing and easy to navigate.
- Use Bullet Points: Present your experiences and achievements in bullet points instead of lengthy paragraphs. This will enhance readability and allows recruiters and hiring managers to quickly scan your resume for key information.
- Highlight Accomplishments: Focus on your accomplishments rather than your responsibilities. Use quantifiable metrics to illustrate your impact, such as “Increased sales by 15% within six months” and follow it up with a brief explanation of how these results were achieved. This not only showcases your accomplishments but also illustrates your ability to drive results.
- Proofread: Ensure there are no spelling, grammar mistakes or repeated verbs. Errors can create a negative impression and suggest a lack of attention. It can be helpful to have someone else read through your resume to catch any errors.
Crafting an eye-catching resume is a vital step in your job search journey. With these Talent Tips in mind, you’re well on the way to creating a resume that not only reflects your qualifications but also opens the door to new and exciting opportunities.
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