The right way to use sample resumes

If you have no idea how to create a resume or CV, your best option is to go through a few resume samples on the internet to understand the process. Whatever level you are at in your career, you need to create a resume that wows employers to get called back for an interview.

A resume is a lot more than a list of past jobs you’ve had. A well-written resume narrates your career story to compel recruiters to hire you. There are several techniques you can use to write a winning resume. One popular example is the STAR method resume which describes achievements concisely while giving out all the right information. Sample resumes can give a lot of insight into the information that you must include on your own resume. When you are collaborating with recruiters, your resume will be your calling card.

Use sample resumes the right way

Never copy a sample resume on the internet word for word because you feel too lazy to create a new one. You shouldn’t also slap your name on someone else’s resume. You must always create a new resume for yourself when applying for a new job. Or, you can refer to a sample resume on the internet and create your very own master resume template. That way, you only have to omit the unrelated qualifications when you are applying for a new job. A sample resume should only be used as a basic building block for your resume. Never let your personality and uniqueness be overshadowed by a sample resume that you are trying to copy.

Let’s see what you must do when using a sample resume to maximize the wow factor of your own resume.

1. Search for resumes in your field

When looking at sample resumes, it is always best to first look for those written by professionals in your field. This way, you will get to notice the patterns of industry-specific activities, keywords, and accomplishments on resumes that get the attention of employers.

2. Use resumes in other industries for inspiration

While you keep the design and content of your resume abiding by the industry standards for your profession, you can use sample resumes from other sectors to get an idea of how to frame the information. The varied use of action verbs, use of strong adjectives, and the use of resume styling elements in those resumes will inspire you to create a stunning resume of your own.

3. Consider the resume elements you notice

Did you spot how some candidates added a separate languages section to their resumes? Or how some resumes featured a brief but strong hobbies and interests section? Consider incorporating such additional resume sections to your resume to make it more relevant to your field.

4. Review your revamped resume

It is important to go through your rewritten resume and check for any proofing errors. Give yourself a resume review using Resume Mansion’s resume review checklist to guide you. Also, hop on to our website and submit your resume for a free resume review any time you want.