1.HOW DO I START MY RESUME?

It is desirable if you start your resume with a statement of career objective. It should be relevant to the organisation and the job you are applying for. It should state clearly the type of work you desire to do and the specific strengths that make you qualify for the job and add value to the organisation.

For Example: To be a part of the business team of a professional organisation. To add value to the organisation and myself by contributing with inputs from the functional area of human resources.

2. MY RESUMES ARE VERY LENGTHY. PLEASE HELP.

Nobody wants to read long resumes, especially an employer who has very little quality time to spare. Try to be concise and to the point.

• Therefore, it is preferable to use phrases instead of full sentences wherever possible.
• You may present only relevant information in your resume.
• It is desirable to use correct words that accurately communicate what you intend to say.

3. CAN YOU SUGGEST TECHNIQUES TO MAKE THE RESUME STYLE EFFECTIVE ?

Quantify your results and experience

Avoid using generic terms to describe your work experience. Quantify your experience and results, using concrete figures. This would draw the employer's attention on what you have actually achieved.

Instead of, " Conducted training programs on teamwork. ….."You may say, " Responsible for training workmen on cross functional teamwork which in turn increased employee productivity by 12%".

Ensure good presentation

The style of presentation can help make your resume look good or bad. Never neglect the overall appearance of the resume. Focus on the basics like legibility, accuracy and completeness of information provided. The resume must reflect a professional touch.

Having the right attitude is sometimes as important as knowledge or skills.

5. HOW DO I DECIDE WHEN TO CHANGE THE RESUME STYLE?

The type of organisation - if you are applying to a creative organisation (say, an advertising firm) then it would be preferred if your resume format reflects creativity and novelty. On the other hand, if you are applying to a conservative organisation (say, a production firm) then the format of your resume may be formal and conservative.

The size of the organisation - if you are applying to an organisation smaller in size then your skills in handling multiple functions maybe of more interest, where as in a larger company, greater in-depth knowledge in one specific area might be more desirable

The work experience of the candidate - if you are a student seeking a job, with very little prior work experience, then it is desirable if you emphasize more on education and internships in your resume. You may also mention the various positions of responsibilities if any, Awards won and other individual accomplishments. On the other hand, if you are an applicant with prior work experience then emphasize on specific accomplishments in the job and not just speak in terms of experience.

6. IS A COVERING LETTER NECESSARY FOR MY RESUME?

The purpose of the covering letter is to help you introduce yourself (a brief summary of your profile) . At one glance the employer can decide if you are a potential candidate. And it also leads the employer to look into your resume for additional information. A good covering letter can add value to your resume.

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