8 resume writing rules to keep in mind in 2023

Are you writing a resume for your 2023 job search? Then, these are some resume writing rules that you must be aware of.

Creating the perfect resume is not a simple task. It will take you hours of researching and reading sample resumes, analyzing job descriptions, and wording things right. You will also need to avoid certain resume-writing pitfalls that will jeopardize your chance of winning a good job. Here are some resume writing rules you should never forget in your career:

1. Analyze job ads before you start writing

You should definitely review the job description of the job you are applying for, before writing your resume. Not only that, but you should also find several other job adverts for the same job title from your industry and notice the patterns. Once you review these documents, you will be able to spot certain keywords, phrases, and skills you must highlight in your resume to be considered a worthy candidate by an employer.

2. Keep the salary in mind when you create the resume

You should also do a bit of research about the salary range for the position for which you are applying, before creating a resume. Once you understand the average salary for the position and the range of responsibilities that come with it, you should tailor your resume to match that level. Employers will expect different qualities from a candidate applying for a high-level position than from a candidate applying for an entry-level position.

3. Drop the Mr. or Ms. From your resume

Remove those prefixes from your name on the resume to avoid getting discriminated against by your gender. Keep in mind that employers don’t really need to know personal details about you to make a hiring decision.

4. Keep irrelevant information off of your resume

Things like your sexual orientation, political affiliation, and religion don’t belong on your resume. Not only do they not add any value to the resume but also they will create reasons for a potential employee to discriminate against you.

5. Don’t mention your age on the resume

Employers won’t really ask you to mention your age on the resume, so don’t. In cases where the employer requires it, you can add your age. Also, age-proof your resume by removing experiences older than 10–15 years from it. Some candidates even take their graduation dates off of the resume when the qualifications are older, to avoid age discrimination.

6. Sell yourself, but don’t go over the edge

Your resume is your biggest marketing document. This is where you get to brag about your professional achievements and show an employer how you are the perfect match for their company. But be careful not to come off as arrogant to an interested recruiter.

7. Don’t add a picture

Avoid attaching a headshot to a resume unless requested by the employer. Some jobs, such as acting, modeling, and performance arts, require you to send a picture along with your resume. If you are not applying for such a job, a picture would just be a waste of valuable resume space. Also, ATSs can’t read pictures on resumes, so you will have no advantage over a candidate who doesn’t add a headshot.

8. Include whatever qualifications you have

We don’t mean that you should include irrelevant qualifications. In cases where you don’t have sufficient paid working experience, you should always include details of any volunteer work, internships, or freelance gigs that you have done related to the job scope. Whatever experiences can vouch for your skills regarding the job will be valuable for your resume.