Your resume is a tool with one specific purpose -- to win an interview.
A great resume doesn't just spell out your work history to an employer but showcases specific, direct benefits of having you on their team. It presents you in the best light. It convinces the employer that you have what it takes to be successful in this new position or career.
Highlight your strengths, focus on your accomplishments, and make strategic choices about how to organize, order, and convey your skills and background.
Your resume should be concise, consistent and uniform, and well-written with no grammatical or factual errors. It should be written to stimulate interest and should not be an entire history of your past or a form of self-expression.
Make sure your resume is visually enticing and professional. Use a good quality paper in a light color with a 11- or 12-point easy-to-read typeface.
Follow these interview tips to elevate your chances of obtaining a rewarding position.
Dress for success -- a suit is your best choice, regardless of the corporate dress environment once you get the job.
Get a good night's sleep and plan your interview for the time of day when you are at your best. Avoid planning an interview before work or during lunch if you cannot be flexible with your time. Allow more time for the interview than you think you need to avoid feeling rushed.
Be conscious of your nonverbal behavior. Look the interviewer in the eye. Remain professional in posture and demeanor. Sit up straight and control nervous habits.
Speak clearly and enthusiastically about your skills, knowledge, and abilities. Answer the question that is put before you and try to relate your answers to the interviewer and his or her company. Focus on achievements relevant to the position. Set goals for the interview. It is your job to leave the meeting feeling secure that the interviewer knows as much as he or she possibly can about your skills, abilities, experience, and achievements.
Be pleasant and professional. Be your authentic self, professional, yet real.
Listen carefully. Don't interrupt the speaker. Ask for permission to take notes, and don't let long pauses make you feel uncomfortable.
Remain positive. Never present a negative experience with a past employer. Be prepared for questions like "Can you tell me about a weakness?" Review typical interview questions until you are confident with your responses.
Plan Ahead -- Do a little homework! Research the company, the position and, if possible, the people you will meet with at the interview. Review your work experiences. Be ready to support past career accomplishments with specific information targeted toward the company's needs. Have your facts ready!
Arrive early for your interview and make sure you understand the directions to the location. If you're not familiar with the area, it doesn't hurt to find the location ahead of time.
Write a thank you note immediately after the interview. Be sure to get business cards for proper spelling and addresses.
Excellent resources to help you build your resume and interview skills:
resume.monster.com
www.rockportinstitute.com
www.free-resume-tips.com/10tips.html
www.resumemaker.com/ResumeMaker/home.jsp
www.career-resumes.com/index.php