Lecture Notes on Resume Writing by Ms. Shweta Raizada

Introduction

• Speaker: Ms. Shweta Raizada
• Experience: Over a decade in executive resume writing for CEOs and executives
• Current role: Primary Advisor for South Asian region, Blue Steps Executive Career Services
• Focus: Resume writing strategies for freshers

Importance of a Resume

• First document prospective employers see
• Should encapsulate education and experiences (internships, projects)
• Recruiters spend only a few seconds per resume
• Importance of strategic drafting: concise and focused

Key Resume Sections

1. Professional Title

   • Must be relevant and clear (not just an objective)

2. Summary Section

   • Short, compelling paragraph discussing strengths
   • Should stand out to show unique qualifications
   • Avoid bullet points to break monotony; use full sentences
   • Reflects the candidate's value to potential employers

3. Education Section

   • Should come right after the summary for freshers
   • Include significant qualifications (e.g., high GPA)
   • Limit to current education; avoid detailing school education for most

4. Projects

   • Highlight relevant projects completed during studies
   • Should be clear, concise; limit to 2-4 important projects
   • Use bullet points for key details without excessive information

5. Certifications and Trainings

   • Important to showcase continuous learning
   • Encourages a proactive approach to career development

LinkedIn Profile Tips

• Essential for modern job searching
• Acts as an extension of the resume
• Should showcase additional personal branding
• Avoid simply copying the resume to LinkedIn; tailor the content for the platform
• Use first-person narrative; highlight unique qualities

Cover Letter Significance

• Must complement the resume but not repeat it
• Should encapsulate introduction, educational background, and key skills
• Tailor each cover letter to specific jobs and companies
• Use keywords from the job description effectively

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

• Simplistic resumes are better than complex infographic versions
• ATS may not read graphics and complex formats
• Keep the resume text-focused for better chances of passing ATS filters

Additional Considerations

• Avoid including hobbies unless they are unique or relevant
• Font sizes: 14 pt for name, 12 pt for headings, 11 pt for content
• Mention date of birth only if necessary; clarity in vague sections is crucial

Conclusion and Q&A

• Importance of well-crafted resumes and professional online presence
• Engage students for questions about resume writing, LinkedIn, and cover letters
• Addressed specific queries on infographic resumes, sports certificates, etc.