R/resumes Guide: Write A Resume That Gets You Hired

Hey everyone! So, you're new to the r/resumes subreddit and looking to get some serious help with your resume? Awesome! You've come to the right place. This is a fantastic community full of people who are eager to offer advice, critiques, and support. But before you dive headfirst into posting your resume and asking for feedback, let's cover some essential ground rules and tips to ensure you get the most out of this subreddit. Think of this as your ultimate guide to navigating the world of r/resumes. We'll break down everything from the basic formatting principles to the more nuanced aspects of showcasing your skills and experience. Trust me; investing a little time in understanding these fundamentals will make a huge difference in the quality of the feedback you receive and, ultimately, in the strength of your resume. So, let's jump right in and get you on the path to resume success!

Understanding the Basics of Resume Formatting

First things first, let's talk about resume formatting. You might be thinking, "Ugh, formatting? Sounds boring!" But trust me, guys, a well-formatted resume is like a beautifully wrapped gift – it makes a great first impression and entices the recipient (in this case, the hiring manager) to take a closer look. A messy, disorganized resume, on the other hand, is like a crumpled gift bag – it might contain something valuable, but it's not exactly appealing. So, how do you achieve that polished, professional look? Let's break it down.

The first key element is choosing the right font. Forget about fancy, decorative fonts like Comic Sans or Papyrus. You want something clean, readable, and professional. Think classics like Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica. These fonts are easy on the eyes and won't distract the reader from the content. Font size is also crucial. Aim for a size between 10 and 12 points for the body text. For headings, you can go a bit larger, maybe 14 to 16 points, to create clear visual hierarchy. Consistency is key here. Stick to one or two fonts throughout your resume and use font sizes strategically to guide the reader's eye.

Next up, let's discuss margins and spacing. White space is your friend! Don't try to cram every single detail of your work history onto one page. Generous margins (around 1 inch on all sides) and proper spacing between sections and bullet points make your resume much easier to scan. Use single spacing within each bullet point or paragraph and double spacing between sections. This creates visual breathing room and prevents your resume from feeling cluttered. Think of it as giving the hiring manager's eyes a break!

Section headings are another essential formatting element. They act as signposts, guiding the reader through your resume and highlighting key information. Common sections include Summary or Objective (optional), Work Experience, Education, Skills, and Projects (if applicable). Make sure your headings are clear, concise, and visually distinct. You can use bolding, underlining, or a slightly larger font size to make them stand out. The order of your sections is also important. Generally, you want to lead with your strongest selling points. For example, if you have extensive work experience that's directly relevant to the job you're applying for, put that section first. If you're a recent graduate with limited work experience, you might want to highlight your education and skills sections instead.

Finally, let's talk about file format. Unless the job posting specifically requests a different format, always save your resume as a PDF. This ensures that your formatting remains intact, regardless of the device or software the hiring manager uses to view it. Word documents (.doc or .docx) can sometimes display differently depending on the version of Word, leading to unexpected formatting issues. PDF, on the other hand, is a universal format that preserves your resume's appearance.

So, to recap, a well-formatted resume is crucial for making a positive first impression. Choose a professional font and font size, use generous margins and spacing, create clear section headings, and save your resume as a PDF. By paying attention to these basic formatting principles, you'll create a resume that's not only visually appealing but also easy to read and understand. And that's a huge step towards landing that interview!

Writing Effective Bullet Points: Show, Don't Just Tell

Okay, so you've got your resume formatted like a pro. Now it's time to fill it with compelling content that showcases your skills and experience. And that's where bullet points come in. Bullet points are the workhorses of your resume. They're the concise, punchy statements that highlight your accomplishments and demonstrate your value to potential employers. But not all bullet points are created equal. A weak bullet point simply lists your responsibilities, while a strong bullet point quantifies your achievements and demonstrates the impact you made. So, how do you write bullet points that pack a punch? Let's dive in.

The key to writing effective bullet points is to show, don't just tell. What does that mean? It means avoiding vague, generic statements like "Responsible for managing projects" or "Assisted with customer service." These bullet points don't tell the reader anything specific about what you accomplished or how you contributed. Instead, you want to use action verbs and quantify your results whenever possible. Think about what you actually did and how your actions made a difference.

Let's look at an example. Instead of writing "Responsible for managing projects," try something like "Managed cross-functional projects, delivering them on time and under budget, resulting in a 15% cost reduction." See the difference? This bullet point uses strong action verbs (managed, delivering) and quantifies the results (15% cost reduction). It tells the reader exactly what you accomplished and the impact you had. Similarly, instead of "Assisted with customer service," try "Provided exceptional customer service, resolving over 50 customer inquiries per day and maintaining a 95% customer satisfaction rating." Again, you're using specific details and quantifiable results to demonstrate your skills and achievements.

Action verbs are your best friends when writing bullet points. They add power and clarity to your statements. Start each bullet point with a strong action verb that accurately describes what you did. Some examples of effective action verbs include: achieved, implemented, developed, managed, led, trained, improved, increased, reduced, collaborated, created, and presented. Use a variety of action verbs to avoid repetition and keep your resume engaging. A thesaurus can be a helpful tool for finding different ways to express your accomplishments.

Quantifying your results is another crucial element of writing effective bullet points. Numbers speak volumes! Whenever possible, include specific data to demonstrate the impact you made. Did you increase sales by a certain percentage? Did you reduce costs by a specific amount? Did you improve customer satisfaction ratings? Include those numbers in your bullet points. This gives the hiring manager concrete evidence of your accomplishments and makes your resume much more compelling. If you don't have hard numbers, that's okay. You can still quantify your results by using descriptive language that conveys the scope and scale of your work. For example, instead of saying "Managed a team," you could say "Managed a team of 10 employees." Or instead of saying "Worked on a project," you could say "Collaborated on a multi-million dollar project."

Finally, remember to keep your bullet points concise and focused. Aim for one to two lines per bullet point and avoid lengthy sentences or paragraphs. Get straight to the point and highlight the most important information. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your bullet points. Briefly describe the situation or context, explain the task you were assigned, detail the actions you took, and highlight the results you achieved. This framework can help you create clear, compelling bullet points that effectively showcase your skills and experience.

In conclusion, writing effective bullet points is essential for creating a strong resume. Show, don't just tell. Use action verbs, quantify your results, and keep your bullet points concise and focused. By following these tips, you'll create bullet points that grab the hiring manager's attention and demonstrate your value as a potential employee.

Tailoring Your Resume: Speak the Language of the Job Description

Alright, guys, you've got the formatting down, you're writing killer bullet points – now let's talk about tailoring your resume. This is arguably one of the most important aspects of resume writing, and it's often overlooked. Think of it this way: your resume isn't a one-size-fits-all document. It's a marketing tool that needs to be customized for each specific job you're applying for. Imagine trying to sell a car to someone who's looking for a truck – you wouldn't focus on the car's fuel efficiency; you'd highlight its towing capacity and ruggedness. The same principle applies to your resume. You need to tailor your resume to match the specific requirements and keywords outlined in the job description.

Why is tailoring so important? Because hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS) are looking for candidates who have the specific skills and experience needed for the job. An ATS is a software system that many companies use to screen resumes. It scans your resume for keywords and qualifications that match the job description. If your resume doesn't contain those keywords, it's less likely to make it to the hiring manager's desk. Even if a human is reviewing your resume, they're going to be looking for evidence that you have the skills and experience they need. If your resume is too generic or doesn't align with the job requirements, they're likely to move on to the next candidate.

So, how do you tailor your resume effectively? The first step is to carefully read the job description. Identify the key skills, qualifications, and experience that the employer is seeking. Pay attention to the specific keywords and phrases they use. For example, if the job description mentions "project management experience," make sure you include that phrase (or a close variation) in your resume. If they're looking for someone with "strong communication skills," provide examples of how you've demonstrated those skills in your previous roles.

Once you've identified the key requirements, customize your resume to highlight your relevant skills and experience. This might involve rearranging sections, adding or removing bullet points, or rewording your descriptions to match the language of the job description. For example, if the job description emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, you might want to include bullet points that highlight your ability to work effectively in a team environment. If the job requires specific software skills, make sure you list those skills in your skills section.

Your summary or objective statement (if you choose to include one) is another area where you can tailor your resume. Instead of writing a generic statement about your career goals, customize it to reflect your interest in the specific job and company. Briefly mention your key skills and experience and explain why you're a good fit for the role. For example, instead of saying "Highly motivated professional seeking a challenging position," you could say "Experienced project manager with a proven track record of delivering successful projects, seeking to leverage my skills and experience to contribute to the success of [Company Name]'s project management team."

Quantifying your accomplishments is especially important when tailoring your resume. Use specific numbers and data to demonstrate how your skills and experience align with the job requirements. For example, if the job description mentions the need to increase sales, include bullet points that highlight your sales achievements. If the job requires experience in managing budgets, include examples of how you've successfully managed budgets in the past.

Finally, remember to proofread your tailored resume carefully before submitting it. Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors, and that the formatting is consistent. It's also a good idea to ask a friend or colleague to review your resume to get a fresh perspective.

In short, tailoring your resume is crucial for landing interviews. By carefully reading the job description, identifying the key requirements, and customizing your resume to match, you'll significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers and ATS systems. So, don't be lazy – take the time to tailor your resume for each job you apply for. It's an investment that will pay off in the long run.

Giving and Receiving Feedback on r/resumes: Be Constructive and Open-Minded

Okay, you've crafted your resume, tailored it to the job description, and now you're ready to get some feedback on r/resumes. Awesome! This community is a fantastic resource for getting honest and constructive criticism. But remember, giving and receiving feedback is a two-way street. To make the most of this platform, it's important to approach both giving and receiving feedback with the right mindset. So, let's talk about how to give helpful feedback and how to be receptive to the feedback you receive.

When giving feedback, the most important thing is to be constructive. Avoid vague or negative comments that don't provide specific guidance. Instead of saying "This resume is terrible," try saying "I think the formatting could be improved. The font is a bit small, and the bullet points are a bit dense. You might want to consider increasing the font size and adding more white space to make it easier to read." See the difference? The second comment is much more helpful because it provides specific suggestions for improvement.

Focus on the content and structure of the resume, not just the grammar and spelling. While it's important to point out any typos or grammatical errors, don't let that be the only feedback you provide. Look at the overall flow of the resume. Is it easy to read and understand? Does it effectively highlight the candidate's skills and experience? Are the bullet points strong and impactful? Provide feedback on these aspects as well.

Be specific and provide examples. If you see a weak bullet point, explain why it's weak and suggest how it could be improved. For example, instead of saying "This bullet point is too vague," try saying "This bullet point could be stronger if you quantified your results. Can you include any specific numbers or data to demonstrate the impact you made?" If you think a section is out of order, explain why and suggest a better placement.

Be respectful and empathetic. Remember that the person who posted the resume is putting themselves out there and asking for help. Be kind and considerate in your feedback. Avoid personal attacks or harsh language. Try to put yourself in their shoes and understand their perspective. A little empathy can go a long way in making your feedback more effective.

When receiving feedback, the most important thing is to be open-minded. It can be tough to hear criticism about your work, especially something as personal as your resume. But remember, the people on r/resumes are trying to help you. They're sharing their expertise and insights to help you create a better resume and land a job. Try to approach their feedback with a growth mindset – see it as an opportunity to learn and improve.

Don't take feedback personally. It's easy to get defensive when someone criticizes your resume. But remember, they're not criticizing you as a person; they're criticizing your resume. Try to separate your work from your self-worth. The feedback is about the document, not about you. If you disagree with a particular piece of feedback, it's okay to ask for clarification or explain your reasoning. But avoid getting into arguments or dismissing feedback out of hand.

Ask clarifying questions. If you're not sure why someone is suggesting a particular change, ask them to explain their reasoning. This will help you understand their perspective and make an informed decision about whether or not to implement the feedback. For example, if someone suggests removing a section from your resume, you might ask them why they think it's not relevant or how it's detracting from your overall message.

Thank the person for their feedback. It takes time and effort to provide helpful feedback, so show your appreciation by thanking the person who helped you. Even if you don't agree with all of the feedback, acknowledge their contribution and let them know that you appreciate their input.

In conclusion, giving and receiving feedback on r/resumes is a valuable part of the resume-writing process. By being constructive and open-minded, you can both give and receive feedback that will help you create a stronger resume and land your dream job. So, embrace the community, be kind, and learn from each other!

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Steer Clear of These Resume Pitfalls

Alright, guys, we've covered a lot of ground – formatting, bullet points, tailoring, feedback. Now, let's talk about some common mistakes that people make on their resumes. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. These pitfalls can sink your chances of landing an interview, even if you have the skills and experience for the job. So, let's shine a light on these common errors and make sure you steer clear of them.

One of the biggest mistakes is generic resumes. We've already talked about the importance of tailoring your resume to each job you apply for, but it's worth repeating. A generic resume that doesn't highlight your relevant skills and experience is a surefire way to get your application tossed in the trash. Remember, hiring managers are looking for candidates who have the specific qualifications they need. If your resume doesn't demonstrate that you have those qualifications, they're not going to waste their time.

Another common mistake is lack of quantifiable results. We've also touched on this, but it's so important that it bears repeating. Simply listing your responsibilities is not enough. You need to demonstrate the impact you made in your previous roles. Use numbers and data to quantify your accomplishments. How did you improve sales? How did you reduce costs? How did you increase efficiency? These are the kinds of details that hiring managers want to see.

Typos and grammatical errors are a major red flag. They make you look unprofessional and careless. Always proofread your resume carefully before submitting it, and ask a friend or colleague to review it as well. Even small errors can make a big difference in how your resume is perceived.

Poor formatting is another common pitfall. A cluttered, disorganized resume is difficult to read and makes it hard for the hiring manager to find the information they need. Use clear section headings, plenty of white space, and a professional font to make your resume visually appealing and easy to scan.

Including irrelevant information can also hurt your chances. Don't include personal details like your age, marital status, or religious affiliation. These things are irrelevant to your qualifications and can even lead to discrimination. Similarly, don't include hobbies or interests unless they're directly relevant to the job.

Using an objective statement instead of a summary is a dated practice. Objective statements focus on what you want from the job, while summary statements focus on what you can offer the employer. In today's job market, employers are more interested in what you can do for them, so a summary statement is generally a better choice.

Exaggerating or lying on your resume is a big no-no. It's unethical and can have serious consequences. If you're caught lying, you could lose your job or face legal action. Be honest and accurate in your descriptions of your skills and experience.

Using clichés and buzzwords can make your resume sound generic and unoriginal. Avoid phrases like "team player," "results-oriented," and "hard worker." Instead, use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and qualities.

Finally, not including a cover letter (when required or recommended) is a missed opportunity. A cover letter allows you to personalize your application and explain why you're a good fit for the job. It's also a chance to showcase your writing skills and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll significantly increase your chances of creating a resume that stands out from the crowd and lands you an interview. So, take the time to review your resume carefully and make sure you're not falling into any of these traps. Your efforts will pay off!

Next Steps: Level Up Your Resume Game

So, guys, you've made it to the end of this comprehensive guide! You've learned about formatting, bullet points, tailoring, feedback, and common mistakes to avoid. You're well on your way to creating a killer resume that will impress hiring managers and land you interviews. But the journey doesn't end here. There's always room for improvement, and the job market is constantly evolving. So, what are the next steps you can take to level up your resume game?

First, stay up-to-date on the latest resume trends and best practices. The world of resume writing is constantly changing. What worked five years ago might not work today. Follow industry blogs, read articles, and attend webinars to stay informed about the latest trends and best practices. Pay attention to the advice that career experts are giving and adapt your resume accordingly.

Continue to seek feedback. Don't stop getting feedback on your resume once you've made some initial improvements. Ask friends, family, colleagues, and career counselors to review your resume and provide suggestions. The more feedback you get, the better your resume will become. r/resumes is a great resource for ongoing feedback and support.

Network with professionals in your field. Networking is a crucial part of the job search process. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn. Networking can help you learn about job opportunities, get your resume in front of hiring managers, and gain valuable insights into your industry.

Practice your interviewing skills. Your resume is just the first step in the job search process. Once you land an interview, you need to be able to effectively communicate your skills and experience. Practice your interviewing skills by doing mock interviews with friends or family members. Research common interview questions and prepare thoughtful answers.

Build your online presence. In today's digital age, your online presence is just as important as your resume. Create a professional LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills and experience. Consider creating a personal website or blog to showcase your work. Make sure your online profiles are consistent with your resume and present a professional image.

Be patient and persistent. The job search process can be challenging and time-consuming. Don't get discouraged if you don't land a job right away. Keep applying, keep networking, and keep improving your resume and interviewing skills. With patience and persistence, you'll eventually find the right opportunity.

Consider professional help. If you're struggling to create a resume that gets results, consider working with a professional resume writer or career coach. These professionals can provide expert guidance and help you create a resume that showcases your strengths and achievements. They can also help you with other aspects of the job search process, such as networking and interviewing.

In conclusion, levelling up your resume game is an ongoing process. By staying informed, seeking feedback, networking, practicing your interviewing skills, building your online presence, and being patient and persistent, you'll increase your chances of landing your dream job. So, keep learning, keep growing, and never give up on your career goals! You've got this!