The job market in 2017 demanded resumes that effectively highlighted relevant skills, showcased unique experiences, and aligned with current industry standards. Candidates needed to emphasize their digital proficiency as companies increasingly sought tech-savvy employees. Personal branding became essential for standing out in a competitive landscape, as did tailoring resumes for specific job applications to demonstrate fit. With the rise of applicant tracking systems (ATS), job seekers were required to format their resumes meticulously to ensure visibility and avoid automated rejections.
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The Best Structure for Creating a Resume in 2017
Creating a killer resume can make a huge difference, especially in a competitive job market. In 2017, job seekers were finding new ways to stand out, and the structure of your resume plays a big role in that. Let’s break down the best structure to use, with easy-to-follow tips that’ll help you get noticed.
1. Contact Information
Your contact info is the first thing recruiters should see. Make it easy for them to reach out to you! Here’s what you should include:
- Full Name
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- LinkedIn Profile (if applicable)
- Location (City and State)
2. Professional Summary or Objective Statement
This section is your sales pitch! It’s where you briefly explain who you are and what you bring to the table. Here’s how to craft it:
- Keep it concise – 2-4 sentences is plenty.
- Highlight key skills and experiences.
- Tailor it to the job you’re applying for.
3. Work Experience
Your work history is critical in showing what you’ve done and where you’ve been. Use this structure:
| Job Title | Company Name | Location | Dates Employed | Key Responsibilities/Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marketing Coordinator | ABC Corp | City, State | Jan 2015 – Dec 2017 |
|
Make sure to list your jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent role. Use bullet points for your responsibilities and accomplishments to make it easier to read.
4. Education
Your education is important, especially early in your career. Here’s how to list it:
- Degree (e.g., Bachelor’s in Business)
- School Name
- Location
- Graduation Date
For example:
Bachelor of Science in Business Management, University of XYZ, City, State, Graduated May 2015
5. Skills
List skills relevant to the job. Employers want to know what tools you have in your toolbox!
- Technical Skills (e.g., software programs)
- Soft Skills (e.g., communication, team player)
- Languages (if relevant)
6. Additional Sections (if applicable)
Depending on your background, you might want to add a few extra sections to really round out your resume. Here are some examples:
- Certifications (e.g., PMP, Google Analytics)
- Volunteer Work
- Awards and Honors
- Professional Affiliations
Formatting Tips
Lastly, let’s talk about how to format everything so it looks polished:
- Keep your resume to one page (two if you have extensive experience).
- Use a clean, professional font (like Arial or Calibri) and a font size between 10-12 pt.
- Use consistent spacing and margins.
- Don’t go overboard with colors – stick to a simple color palette.
With all these elements clearly laid out, you’ll have a resume that not only highlights your skills and experiences but also gets you noticed by recruiters. Make sure to customize your resume for each job application, and you’ll be well on your way to landing that dream job!
Creating A Resume In 2017: Unique Examples for Different Situations
Recent Graduate Seeking First Job
After graduating from college, breaking into the job market can be challenging. A resume for a recent graduate should highlight education, relevant coursework, internships, and any volunteer work. Here’s an example:
- Objective: Motivated marketing graduate eager to contribute skills and learn in a dynamic team environment.
- Education: Bachelor of Arts in Marketing, University XYZ, 2017
- Internships: Marketing Intern, Company ABC (6 months)
- Skills: Social Media Management, Data Analysis, Communication
Professional Changing Careers
When transitioning into a new career, it’s essential to showcase transferable skills. This resume example highlights relevant experiences rather than job titles:
- Summary: Experienced sales manager transitioning to project management with strong communication and organization skills.
- Relevant Experience:
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously to meet client needs.
- Led a team of 10, fostering collaboration and efficiency.
- Education: Project Management Certification, 2017
Returning to Workforce After a Break
For those re-entering the job market after a career break, it’s important to address the gap while emphasizing skills and qualifications:
- Objective: Detail-oriented professional returning to the workforce, eager to leverage previous experience in administrative support.
- Work History:
- Administrative Assistant, Company DEF (2012-2015)
- Volunteer Coordinator, Local Nonprofit (2015-Present)
- Skills: Multitasking, Office Management, Nonprofit Work
Experienced Professional Seeking Advancement
For professionals looking to advance in their careers, a resume should highlight accomplishments and leadership skills:
- Summary: Accomplished team leader with over 10 years in the IT sector, seeking to leverage expertise in a senior management role.
- Achievements:
- Increased team productivity by 25% through strategic project planning.
- Successfully managed a budget of $1M.
Freelancer Creating a Portfolio Resume
Freelancers should create a resume that showcases diverse projects and skills. This format highlights client work along with technical and creative abilities:
- Introduction: Versatile freelance graphic designer with a strong portfolio, specializing in branding and digital media.
- Projects:
- Branding for Company XYZ (Completed 2017)
- Website Redesign for Company ABC (Completed 2016)
- Skills: Adobe Creative Suite, Responsive Design, Client Relationship Management
Applicant for an Internship
For an internship application, your resume should focus on academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any prior related experiences:
- Objective: Enthusiastic student seeking an internship to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting.
- Education: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, University ABC, Expected Graduation: 2018
- Projects:
- Developed an app that helps users track fitness goals.
- Participated in coding bootcamp and hackathons.
Executive-Level Resume
For seasoned executives, a resume should have a powerful summary, show strategic achievements, and emphasize leadership skills:
- Profile: Strategic executive with over 15 years of experience in international business development.
- Key Achievements:
- Led a team to achieve a 50% increase in market share.
- Designed and implemented a corporate strategy resulting in $10M savings.
- Education: MBA, Prestigious University, 2005
What Are the Essential Components of a Resume in 2017?
A resume in 2017 consists of several essential components. A professional summary provides an overview of the candidate’s skills and experience. Contact information, including name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile, allows employers to reach out. The work experience section lists previous employment history and relevant responsibilities. Education credentials highlight academic qualifications, including degrees and certifications. Skills, including both hard and soft skills, demonstrate the candidate’s capabilities. Each section should be tailored to align with the specific job description to increase visibility among applicant tracking systems (ATS).
How Has Technology Influenced Resume Formatting in 2017?
Technology has significantly influenced resume formatting in 2017. Digital resumes often utilize ATS-friendly formats to enhance visibility during the hiring process. Common file formats include PDF and Word documents, which ensure compatibility across various platforms. Use of clear headings and bullet points makes resumes easier to read for both ATS and human recruiters. The inclusion of hyperlinks to online portfolios or LinkedIn profiles allows candidates to showcase additional work. Mobile-friendly designs have emerged due to the prevalence of recruitment on smartphones and tablets, necessitating a clean layout that maintains readability.
What Skills Should Candidates Highlight on Their Resumes in 2017?
Candidates should highlight both soft and hard skills on their resumes in 2017. Hard skills, such as proficiency in programming languages or familiarity with software applications, demonstrate technical expertise. Soft skills, like communication and teamwork, showcase a candidate’s ability to work effectively in a team environment. Problem-solving and adaptability are also critical skills that employers seek in potential hires. Tailoring skills to match the job description is essential to grabbing the attention of recruiters. Additionally, providing quantified achievements related to those skills can enhance the impact on potential employers.
So there you have it! Crafting a standout resume in 2017 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Just remember to keep it clear, concise, and tailored to the job you’re after. With a few thoughtful tweaks and a bit of personality, you’ll be well on your way to catching a recruiter’s eye. Thanks for hanging out with me while we tackled this topic! I hope you found some useful tips to help you on your job hunt. Don’t be a stranger—swing by again soon for more insights and guidance. Happy job searching!
