Your resume is more than just a document; it is often the very first impression an employer gets of you.
Think about it: a well-written resume gives them a quick overview of who you are and what you can do.
Because of this, it simply must be formatted in a way that is easy for the reader to absorb. You want to make it as smooth as possible for them to see your value as a professional!
In Australia, it is important that your resume includes the following key sections:
– Contact Details: Your first name and last name, current suburb, State and postcode, mobile number, email address, and LinkedIn profile are essential.
– Personal Statement: This is your chance to make a strong opening statement which has been written to the job you are applying for.
– Achievements & Awards: Highlight your successes and recognitions.
– Qualifications: List your educational background and certifications.
– Work Experiences: Detail your professional history.
– Volunteering: Any volunteer work shows initiative and valuable skills.
– Skills: This section should cover both your technical abilities and your transferable, or human, skills.
– References: More on this later.
Crafting a Personal Statement
Your personal statement is crucial. It needs to clearly explain why you are interested in this specific job and how your skills align with the requirements listed in the advertisement. You also need to show genuine interest in the company itself. Why do you want to work for them? How can you genuinely add value to their team?
It is not enough to say vague things like:
– I need a job.
– I am interested in this industry.
You need to be specific. Really specific!
Why do you want to work in this particular industry?
This is where you will highlight the research you have done about the company and the industry it operates within. The great thing is that most people will not do this research, which means you increase your chances of getting an interview!
Tailoring Your Content
Always tailor the order of your resume for a specific job. You won’t alter the content, just which categories you will showcase on the first page, as that is where the most competitive information should be. Think about what most important for that specific role and move your resume around to present the most impressive parts first. For instance, if you are seeking an accounting role, ensure all your relevant accounting work experience and internships are easily visible to the hiring manager. This will immediately attract their attention as they scan your resume.
Also, make sure to use power verbs in your resume. These action-oriented words give a much better understanding of what you did and what you are capable of doing. They make your achievements sound specific and real.
The Importance of Proofreading
Once you have written your resume, read it over and over again. Seriously, go through it multiple times. You must avoid spelling and grammar mistakes (this includes US spelling instead of Australian English). If possible, ask a friend to proofread your resume for you, and provide feedback on anything that is not clear. A fresh pair of eyes can catch things you might miss.
What to Leave Out: Australian Resume No-No’s
Due to Australian workplace legislation, there are certain things you must avoid including in your resume:
- Do not include your marital status, age, race, country of origin, or health information.
- Do not include a photo of yourself or your signature.
Finally, remember that you should not include your referees’ contact details on your resume. You do not want anyone contacting them before you have had an interview yourself. You want to control when and if your referees are contacted.
