Helpful recap: resume FAQs

• Should I use a resume writing professional? If your writing ability is not crucial to your role, and its impacting your applications, then consider it. But, generally speaking, as a marketer or business developer, you are likely already a natural communicator. And my view is that using a resume writer can dilute your voice. It is important to have your authenticity and style in your resume. After all, that’s how you will naturally write in your new role, and employers like to see this.

• I’ve heard a resume shouldn’t be longer than one page. There are no hard and fast rules about length. But, remember whoever is reading your resume for the first time is likely skimming it, and one page is easier than three pages. (And this is where the executive summary comes into great use for the busy resume readers.)

• I’ve asked 5 different people for feedback on my resume, and I’ve got 5 different answers… Resumes are highly personalized, subjective documents and everyone will have a different opinion as a result. Simply ask 1-2 people that you know and trust their judgment. And, make sure at least one of them is someone who challenges you, not just someone who will agree with what you’ve written.

• Do I put hobbies or personals interests in my resume? Not mandatory, but recommended. You are a unique person with hobbies or interests that may provide an interesting talking point during an interview. At work, people see your professional and personal self, so begin early by showing both of these sides. And sometimes there are hobbies which show particular determination or an initiative that can impress the reader more than you might think.

• I’ve used different colors, fonts and images to stand out. What do you think? I think professional services firms – particularly law and accounting – like a very conservative resume. They don’t like a lot of different things going on in the document. Even if you’re a creative type, if you’re applying for a role in a law or accounting firm, keep it simple, plain and factual.

• I got laid off and don’t know how to deal with this gap in my resume. Many people have at least one gap in their working life. Acknowledge it and move on. If you don’t acknowledge it, it creates a negative perception as to why you didn’t. And don’t fudge the dates to try to cover this up; honestly is always the best policy.

• I worked in a different sector and have left that off this version of my resume because it just doesn’t relate to the role I’m now applying for. In most situations, my advice here is to keep all of your professional experience in your resume. Sub-headings are really useful when differentiating different careers or sectors. Acknowledge your prior work and highlight transferable skills. I can always tell when someone has had a ‘life before their current role’. And often there’s something they have learned that is relevant to their new career. It all adds up, and it all makes you into the professional you are today.