Tips for a Thin Resume

Whether you are a young professional or a mature worker, you can strengthen your resume and get a job on the career path you desire. Don’t let a skeletal resume ruin your chances at employment when you can improve it. Consider some ways that you can amp up a thin resume.

Consider the Format

Avoid packing your resume into a few paragraphs of text hard-to-read text, as this can make your resume look much shorter. Cleverly using white space is essential for fortifying a thin resume. Avoid using a font that is too small, and consider using a resume template as a guideline for building a thin resume to give it a more professional look.

Include Your Volunteer Work

If you are a fresh high school or a recent college graduate, improve your resume by including detailed information on volunteer work or similar professional experiences. Keep in mind that many employers hire individuals who don't have an actual work history but have had many work-related experiences.

Tout Your Education

It never hurts to share more detailed information about your educational experiences on a resume. Include background information about previous training you've received, workshops you've attended and certifications you've earned. Including industry-specific knowledge in the education section can also be helpful.

Promote Your Skills

Possessing an abundance of work skills is an asset, even if you don't have a lot of experience. Examine the job qualification section of the employment listing thoroughly to determine which specific skills the employer is looking for in the most compatible job candidates. Make a list of all your current skills, and provide details about each skill on your list. Include detailed information about the job-related skills you possess on your resume, and also include information about any industry-related skills you possess. Avoid speaking in excess about having skills and talents that cannot directly benefit the company.

Gather Great References

If you have a thin resume, one of the best things you can do to grab the attention of potential employers is to create a list of great professional references. Ask former professors, bosses and other notable colleagues to provide a positive word about your services or testament to your performance and abilities. Provide the references to your potential employer in paragraph form, and be sure to ask the person who typed the reference letter to sign the bottom.

While it's important to present yourself in the best possible light, never lie about having skills, degrees or other achievements that you do not. If this falsification is discovered, you could tarnish your career path and ruin your chances at getting a job with a reputable company. Expounding on the unique skills and experiences you possess is the best way to spruce up a thin resume.

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