The Online Resume

The Digital Difference

Follow these tips to when writing an Online Resume

The rules for writing Resume to post Online differ from those used for hard-copy Resume. An Online Resume format needs to open on any and every computer. The following Resume tips will help get you started: For Online use, make a Resume that is sharp and short—about 1½ pages. If recruiters or potential employers are interested in knowing more, they will contact you.

Your Online Resume needs to work across multiple computer platforms, operating systems, software packages and so on. Your Resume might even be opened on a smart phone. So, save your Online Resume in an older version of Microsoft Word®, or even better, in plain text format. Eliminate italics, underlining, and bold text when using a digital Resume format. Use appropriate keywords and phrases.

Using Keywords

These days, companies and recruitment agencies use keyword tracking software to screen Resume received via email, or uploaded to databases. Therefore, it is essential to include the right keywords when writing Resume. Use words you find in the job description or position posting. Include common industry terms as well.

Name and Contact Information

Lead off with your name, contact address, phone, and email address. If you have a professional looking website, include the URL. For Resume written in plain text format, put your name and contact details in the top left corner of the page, with one bit of information per line.

Career Objective

This section simply states the job you are seeking. Use a maximum of eight words or give the job title.

Summary Paragraph or Profile

More senior people may choose to write a career summary or profile instead of a career objective. This is the second or third element of an Online Resume, and is a keyword-rich paragraph highlighting career expertise.

Work experience

You can list jobs in reverse order, or describe work experience by function. When describing past positions, include words found in the description of the job you want. Keep achievements specific and use metrics whenever possible. Use more detail for your most recent position.

Education

List your latest and highest academic degrees and include professional qualifications and training.

Where to Send Your Professional Resume

• Register with Online employment sites that have Resume builders and databases.
• Register on websites of targeted companies.
• If responding to a job advertisement or lead, email your Resume to the employer, if possible. A little research can often uncover the right person’s email address. If you go this route, make sure you are an excellent fit for the job.