Are you feeling overwhelmed at the thought of writing or updating your resume? Don’t worry – starting with research can help set you on the right track. Researching before you write your resume can help you gather the information you need to create a tailored and effective document. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of starting with research for your resume, step by step.
Step 1: Understand the Job Description
The first step in your research process is to carefully read and understand the job description for the position you’re applying for. Pay attention to the skills, qualifications, and experience that are required or preferred for the job. Make note of any keywords or phrases that are repeated throughout the job description.
Step 2: Research the Company
Next, take some time to research the company you’re applying to. Visit their website, read about their mission, values, and culture, and familiarize yourself with their products or services. Look for any recent news or developments that may be relevant to the position you’re applying for.
Step 3: Identify Your Transferable Skills
As you review the job description and learn more about the company, take note of the skills and experience you have that match the requirements of the job. These may include technical skills, soft skills, or specific experiences you’ve had in previous roles. Be sure to also identify any transferable skills – skills you’ve acquired in one context that can be applied to another – that may be relevant to the job.
Step 4: Gather Relevant Information
Once you have a clear understanding of the job requirements and your own skills and experience, gather all the relevant information you’ll need to include on your resume. This may include details about your work experience, education, certifications, awards, and accomplishments. Be sure to also gather any specific examples or metrics that demonstrate your skills and achievements.
Step 5: Make a Plan
Finally, before you start writing your resume, take some time to make a plan. Decide on the format and layout you’ll use, and create a rough outline of the sections you’ll include. Determine how you’ll organize your information and what key points you want to highlight. Having a plan in place will help you stay focused and organized as you write your resume.
Conclusion
Starting with research is an important first step in the resume writing process. By understanding the job requirements, researching the company, identifying your transferable skills, gathering relevant information, and making a plan, you’ll be well-equipped to create a tailored and effective resume that showcases your qualifications and accomplishments. So don’t skip the research – take the time to do it right, and you’ll set yourself up for success in your job search.
