Improve Your Resume

Dozens of recruiters from the world’s biggest retailers are ready to meet you at the NRF Foundation Career Fair in NYC. Are you ready to meet them? 

As the Chief Human Resources Officer at NRF, I see a lot of resumes. Here are three tips on how to get your resume real-world ready.  

Clear Contact Information

Update your email address to ensure its professional. The funny or cutesy ones from your high school days should be retired. You can even create a new email account dedicated to job related emails so you can see them and respond to them quickly.

Customize your LinkedIn URL. A jumble of letters and numbers not only shows a lack of attention to detail, but it also makes it more likely that someone wanting to see your profile makes a mistake and can’t get to it. There are tutorials on how to do this here.

And list a phone number you have frequent access to and check regularly. Avoid using a number for a Wi-Fi based app that you only check once in a blue moon, or you could miss an interview opportunity.

Customize your Skills

You may have learned a wide range of skills but not everything fits on your resume. Read over a job description or what type of applicant a company is looking for. Many times, you may have the skills they are looking for but if the recruiter can’t determine that based on your resume, you may be passed over for an interview. Update your resume based on each job you are applying for. The extra effort shows you took the time – and lets recruiters like me know you are qualified for this role.

Expand on your Education

You may only have a few part time jobs to add to your resume. This makes it important to beef up your education section. Don’t just put your school’s name and degree information but add classes you’ve taken that are relevant to the position. Mention academic achievements, scholarships you’ve earned, extra-curricular activities you’ve participated in, or any internships and volunteer positions you’ve held. Highlighting your qualifications lets the hiring manager know you have gained experience outside of just the classroom.

Make sure your resume represents you well, and your day at the NRF Foundation Career Fair in NYC will be a good one.