For each job opening, companies see hundreds of resumes. Your resume is your opportunity to sell yourself to a potential employer and set yourself apart from the crowd. To make a lasting impression, your resume needs to be clear and concise. When you explain your skills and experiences effectively, companies will want to hire you.
Writing a resume can be daunting and difficult if you don’t know where to start. There are a few main components you should include in your resume:
Provide your name, physical address, email address, and phone number(s).
A resume can include an objective section, a profile section, or both. In the objective section clearly state the type of position you are seeking. In the profile section, summarize the skills and experiences you offer that make you the right person for that role. Both portions should be less than a few sentences in length.
Clearly indicate the university name and degree attained. This is typically placed at the bottom of the resume unless you have limited professional experience.
Detail your relevant professional experience in reverse chronological order:
- Use consistency in company name/title/date format for each position.
- Recap job responsibilities in bullet point format.
- Note Categories/Walmart Department Numbers/Brands worked on.
- Quantify success in meeting job requirements/quotas.
- Highlight how you went above & beyond job requirements.
Depending on the position you are applying for, it may be appropriate to highlight your knowledge of specific software packages. For analyst positions in particular, expertise in Retail Link, IRI, Nielsen, ProSpace, CPFR, etc. can be listed here. This can be placed at the end of your resume, or within a profile section at the beginning of the resume.
Have family, friends, or colleagues you trust look over your resume and give feedback. Some key things to look for:
- All formatting should be consistent and the overall document should be easy to read.
- Make sure all statements express the benefits you offer prospective employers.
- Each statement should be concise, action-oriented, and credible.
- Ensure there are no spelling or grammar errors.
Remember, your resume is your first chance to impress potential employers and get your foot in the door. Take your time to do it right.