by Trevor Gelder, Corporate Director
Talent Acquisition and Deployment
When presenting yourself through a resume, you always need to keep asking, “What’s really important and what’s fluff?” Recruiters already know, as they see thousands of resumes. You want your resume to tell us why you are a fit and then offer evidence to back it up. I could tell you that I am a true leader and I am exceptionally productive, but that’s all fluff; it means nothing without support. Tell us what you’ve done in previous jobs to demonstrate or prove your leadership qualities, and you’ll be getting closer to what we look for. If you are seeking to advance your construction career, one good way to show what you have done is to provide your project list, listing the job titles and responsibilities you held for each of them.
Additionally, I recommend you:
- Customize your resume. Focus on the skills you have that align with the position you are applying to. Don’t assume an employer will know you have the skills just because you applied; in fact, the majority of people who apply do not have the requirements listed. Let us know if you do! Use some of that research you did on the company and target your cover letter and resume accordingly. Here’s a great article on how to write a targeted resume: http://www.bnet.com/blog/evil-hr-lady/8-simple-ways-to-customize-your-resume/1623
- Don’t overlook the obvious. Be sure to include cell phone number, email address, dates of employment history, degrees, certifications and associated dates. Spell Check!
- Additional Resources: http://career-advice.monster.com/resumes-cover-letters/resume-writing-tips/resume-critique-checklist/article.aspx