Resume writing is an essential skill that every student in Australia needs to learn. A resume, also known as a CV, is a document that provides a summary of your education, work experience, skills, and achievements. It is the first thing that an employer sees when you apply for a job, and it can make or break your chances of getting hired. In this article, we will provide you with some valuable tips on how to write an effective resume as a student in Australia.
- Understand the Purpose of a Resume
Before you start writing your resume, it is crucial to understand its purpose. The primary purpose of a resume is to convince the employer that you are the right candidate for the job. It should highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements that are relevant to the position you are applying for.
- Tailor your Resume to the Job
One mistake that many students make is sending the same resume to every job they apply for. A good resume should be tailored to the job you are applying for. This means that you need to read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.
- Use Keywords
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for keywords. This means that you need to include relevant keywords in your resume to ensure that it gets past the ATS and into the hands of the hiring manager. You can find keywords in the job description or by researching the company and the industry.
- Highlight your Education
As a student, your education is likely to be one of your biggest assets. Be sure to highlight your academic achievements, such as your GPA and any relevant coursework. If you have completed any internships or volunteer work, be sure to include that as well.
- Emphasize your Skills
Employers are looking for candidates with specific skills that are relevant to the job. Be sure to highlight the skills that you possess that are most relevant to the position. Some common skills that employers look for include communication skills, problem-solving skills, and leadership skills.
- Include Relevant Work Experience
If you have work experience, be sure to include it in your resume. However, it is important to only include work experience that is relevant to the position you are applying for. If you have limited work experience, you can include volunteer work, internships, or part-time jobs.
- Use Action Verbs
Action verbs are powerful words that can make your resume stand out. Instead of using passive language, use action verbs to describe your accomplishments. For example, instead of saying “Responsibilities included customer service,” say “Provided exceptional customer service to ensure customer satisfaction.”
- Keep it Concise
Employers receive hundreds of resumes for every job opening. To make your resume stand out, it is important to keep it concise and easy to read. Use bullet points to highlight your achievements and keep the length to one or two pages.
- Proofread
One of the biggest mistakes you can make on your resume is to have typos or grammatical errors. Especially if your first language is not English! Before submitting your resume, be sure to proofread it carefully. Ask a friend or family member to review it as well. Feel free to ask the Student Services team at Latitude College to help with this.
- Handing Out Resumes in Person for Hospitality Positions
If you are looking for a hospitality job, one effective way to get noticed is to hand out your resume in person. In cities like Darwin, this is particularly effective as the locals appreciate a walk-up introduction. One great place to try this is on Mitchell Street in Darwin, which has a high concentration of bars and restaurants.
When handing out your resume, be sure to dress appropriately and introduce yourself politely. You may also want to prepare a brief pitch about yourself and your skills to make a good impression.
Writing a great resume can be challenging, but by following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting hired for the job you want. Good luck with your job search!
