Here’s a step-by-step guide to help mentees create a strong, effective resume/CV:
1. Tailor the Content
- Identify Job Requirements: Review the job posting carefully, noting key qualifications and skills. Customize the resume to highlight relevant experiences and achievements that align with the position.
- Use Keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description to ensure the resume passes Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and appeals directly to hiring managers.
2. Structure and Format
- Use a Clean Layout: Select a clear, professional font (like Arial or Times New Roman) and use consistent font sizes (e.g., 10-12pt for body text, 14pt for headings).
- Organize by Sections:
- Header: Name, phone number, email, LinkedIn profile (optional).
- Professional Summary (optional for beginners): A brief, impactful statement that outlines key skills and career goals.
- Experience: List jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position. Include job titles, company names, locations, and employment dates.
- Education: Include degrees, certifications, and relevant courses or academic honors.
- Skills: Include a skills section with both hard and soft skills relevant to the position.
3. Highlight Achievements, Not Just Duties
- Quantify Achievements: Instead of listing job duties, emphasize achievements. For example, “Increased sales by 20%” is stronger than “Responsible for sales.”
- Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with action verbs (e.g., “Led,” “Improved,” “Developed”) to convey proactivity and impact.
4. Include Relevant Skills and Certifications
- Technical and Transferable Skills:List both hard skills (e.g., Excel, coding, financial modeling) and soft skills (e.g., teamwork, problem-solving).
- Certifications:If applicable, include certifications or training completed, especially if relevant to the job.
5. Proofread and Edit Thoroughly
- Check for Errors: Proofread to avoid any spelling or grammar errors.
- Use Consistent Tense and Tone: Use past tense for previous jobs and present tense for current ones. Ensure consistency in language, style, and bullet point
format.
6. Limit Length and Keep it Focused
- Stick to One Page (if possible): For beginners or those with under 10 years of experience, a one-page resume is ideal. Focus on the most relevant details to
keep it concise. - Managing Rejections: Teach mentees that not all networking efforts will lead to immediate success. Rejections or no-responses are common, and it’s important to stay positive and persistent.
- Cultural Adjustment: Networking styles can vary widely across cultures. Help mentees understand that cultural adaptation may be needed, and that it’s okay to observe and learn from others.
7. Share Your Own Networking Experiences and Connections
- Share Personal Insights: Describe your own networking experiences, including challenges you’ve faced and strategies that worked. This personal insight can provide valuable guidance.
By following these steps, mentees can craft resumes that effectively showcase their skills and experience, increasing their chances of moving forward in the hiring process.
Networking is a vital skill for professional success, especially in Canada, where many jobs are filled through connections rather than job postings. As a mentor, you play a key role in guiding your mentee to build effective networking skills and confidence. This guideline will help you support your mentee in navigating Canadian networking practices.