Here are 5 crucial tips that will help you write a successful resume and win the interview:

1. Keep your resume simple.

Your resume must be as simple as possible. Anything too complicated or detailed will lose the reader’s attention. The order should be: your name, location, email, and resume summary; then a list of work experience/accomplishments, skills and education. Your work experience should include a description, but it should be short — no more than a few lines. Don’t include common or irrelevant skills to try to impress the reader or bulk up your resume.

Ideally, your resume should be a single page PDF and no more than 2 pages. Keep it simple, short and precise.

2. Have multiple versions of your resume.

Create relevant resumes per each job description. Keep in mind that recruiters are looking for resumes with content relevant to the job description they have posted. You might have accomplished quite a lot in your previous position, but if it’s not relevant to the job you’re applying to, they will stop reading your resume and move on to the next applicant.

So, create multiple versions, and outline your past accomplishments related to the job for which you’re applying. In some cases, you should also change your job title based on the job description.

3. Don’t use @gmail.com, @yahoo.com or @hotmail.com email addresses.

Avoid using email addresses such as yourname.1983@gmail.com. This makes you look unprofessional and amateur.

Instead, use a service like EmailKit to get a personalized email address with your own domain.

For example, if your name is John Doe, you can purchase an email address like john@doe.com. This makes you look professional and also more technical, which is always a plus. I’ve seen people who received interviews (and ultimately job offers) just because of their email address. It’s a great conversation starter with the hiring manager!

4. Start your resume with a good summary at the top.

Hiring managers first look for a quick summary of your resume. Include no more than a 2–3 line summary at the top of your resume that highlights your skills, work experience, and education. It’s also a good idea to include your location, availability & email address above this section. It’s ok to not include a phone number — good recruiters will always reach out via email first to schedule a phone call.

5. Don’t include references or personal interests.

References can be important but including them at this stage will clutter your resume. A request for references will come up later at the interview/offer stage. Also keep out your personal interests. These should be things that you hold back as conversation starters for the interview. Keep your resume precise — focused on your work experience and relevant skills.

Keep these 5 tips in mind when building your resume and you will stand out among the other applicants. Remember, a resume is your foot in the door. The goal is to make a great first impression so you’re invited in.

Looking for resume templates or professional coaching? Please comment below and I’ll be in touch.