Tips on how to prepare your resume

If you are applying for a job it is very important to prepare your resume. Your prospective employer relies on resumes in order to choose the most suitable person for the job. Quite often if the company (employer) is given the choice between two candidates of equal abilities, the one who prepared the best resume will usually be called in for an interview. So if this is the first time for you to write it, then the following points may help in sha’ Allah.

Your resume is your chance to market your skills and highlight your achievements. When writing your resume keep in mind the following don’ts:

• Do not write resume or CV at the top.

• Do not use colored paper thinking it will make it more attractive.

• Do not try to be ‘funny’ when writing your resume. It is a serious business and potential employers are looking for serious, hard-working people.

Your resume should include the following information but you can add more if it is relevant.

• Your name

• Your address

• Your phone number including mobile phone

• Your date of birth

• Your email address

• Your marital status (sometimes this is not necessary)

• Education

• Work experience-this can include part-time work, volunteer work – be sure to attach references.

• Interests-This is important because your prospective employer will get to know you through reading about your interests. Think about your personal and educational interests. It could include things like art, designing, internet, socializing, water sports, writing, painting, woodwork….

• Skills-If you are not sure what to write you could ask your parents, teachers or people you have worked with. It includes things like – team work, communication skills, writing skills, organizational skills, planning skills, negotiation skills, problem solving skills……Make a list of your top ten skills.

• At the end, write the names of two or three people who could be easily contacted to verify what you have written and who can be references for you.

Cover letter

Your resume should include a cover letter. If you send a cover letter along with your resume this gives you the chance to draw attention to specific areas of strength that are relevant to the job you are applying for.Your cover letter should be no longer than one page. Direct your letter to a specific person. If you cannot find the name of a specific contact person then write ‘to whom it may concern’.