Graduation is upon us. Now more than ever, it is important to make sure that our resumes are polished, but also able to be updated as needed. All of your necessary information needs to be typed neatly. The format needs to be professional. No funny business. All correct and truthful information should be on there.
At the end of you building your resume, it probably still looks a bit blank. How can we fill this out? How can you boost your resume? Here are some ideas:
1. Volunteer your skills to your professors.
Impressed professors = references. An impressed professor is also a good contact that could help you get your foot in the door of a company you dream of working for. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to get to know your professors better.
2. Watch and participate in web seminars.
Seriously. Showing an honest interest in learning about the nitty-gritty details of the industry you're going to potentially be entering will look impressive to a potential employer. Plus, they're honestly really informative, if nothing else. Not only does it look good on a resume that you take interest in learning about your industry outside of the classroom, but you're actually learning something in the process.
3. Take advantage of work study opportunities.
Work studies count as jobs and will help boost your "Work Experience" section. It also has the opportunity to lend you more references, depending on who you work for/with. Plus, you can earn some cash as well. It's a win/win situation.
4. Volunteer for charitable organizations.
Or even churches, outreach programs, etc. Volunteering looks great on a resume and will show that you're willing to go above and beyond what would normally be expected of you as a college-aged student. If you choose to become more involved with volunteering, make sure you're also doing it because you want to help, not just because it will look good on your resume.
5. Get involved in a student organization.
Because you lack experience, among other things, employers will want to see some sort of student organizational involvement. Involvement in an organization that is related to the field you wish to enter is a bonus. At the very least, it's a conversation starter.
6. Find a way to network with others in your chosen industry.
Great ways to network are electronically through social media sites, like LinkedIn and even Facebook, and in person at networking events. Even attending public meetings can help you network, which can increase your contacts who can help you get the job of your dreams.
7. Add a head shot.
This should be a professional-looking head shot. Head shots are a great way to personalize a resume and your potential employer will remember you if for no other reason but the fact that you included a head shot.
When it comes to a resume, it doesn't have to be cookie-cutter and dry. You're in college and you're going to be graduating pretty soon. Make your resume look like you've done something with yourself besides school because it will be the difference between getting the job and not getting it.