A resume is certainly one of the key elements of success in an
engineering job search.
Not having an effective resume guarantees that you will not get the
job. An effective resume must grab the attention of the reader in 25-45
seconds and thereafter arouse enough interest to cause the following, A.
Extend the reader’s attention span to over a minute B. Prompt the
reader to contact the job seeker
Background
Since no one knows your background and experience better than you, it
is entirely up to you to make the resume speak for you enough to get
you an interview. Most engineers are good at getting the basics of their
projects and experience down on paper. However, when it comes to
showcasing their talents on paper most engineers miss out on core
factors which make a resume an effective self marketing tool. Here we
provide you with 10 tips to help you make your engineering resume sell
and
get you the interview you deserve.
1.Resume format for engineers
Select the best organizational format. Most resumes are written in
chronological (reverse time order) format, but that does not mean that
the chronological choice is best for you. A combination format may be
best. The combination format is evenly balanced between skill set
description, achievements, and employment history, with the advantage
being that projects can be highlighted for greater impact.
2.Objective vs. Summary
It is not necessary that you write an objective unless the job
posting specifically calls for one. Instead of objective, provide the
reader with a brief summary which touches on the requirements of the
kind of job you are applying to and how your skills and experience meet
those requested by that position.
3.Put the most important information first
This point is valid both to the overall order of your resume, as well
as to the individual sections. In most cases, your previous work
experience will be the most important part of the resume, so put it at
the top. When describing your experience or skills, list the most
important ones first or the ones most relevant to the position you are
applying to.
4.Add a Project List
Depending on your engineering specialty and years of experience, you
may find that a dozen or more key projects might have to be included on
your resume.
5.Use Power (Buzz ) Words
Nowadays, some companies are using computers to isolate resumes from
those worthy of human contact from those that will be shredded. The
computer is fed a list of words that it should look for on any given
resume. Resumes with the necessary buzz words are passed on to a human
for additional review. Thus, a great strategy that is extremely
important is finding these power words or verbs that match the level of
position you want. To achieve this, it helps to read the job description
and tailor your resume to that position accordingly.
6.Make absolutely sure your document is error free
An error in a resume can often be the killer between two closely
matched candidates. Engineers are expected to be detail-oriented so an
error in the engineering resume reflects badly on possible future
performance.
7.Find a balance between wordiness and lack of detail
Employers need to see details about your work history and engineering
experience, but they don’t need to know everything. The fact that you
were your Fraternity’s annual beer bong party is irrelevant. Keep
information germane to the goal of attaining an interview.
8.PDF vs. Word Format
Assume that your resume will be viewed on a computer screen rather
than on a piece of paper. Most resumes are sent, received, and managed
via PC. The best way to handle this is to convert your res;ume to pdf
format since mostly everyone has adobe reader on their computer
nowadays. Word (*.doc) format is good as well. However, always be aware
that a document represented on the user’s computer screen might not be
similar to what the employer sees.
9.Think “accomplishments” rather than “job duties”
What made you stand out from the crowd? How did you come up with a
way to do things better, more efficiently, or for less cost? Information
such as this will be what makes you grab attention and put your
engineering resume on the top of the stack.
10.Sell the Benefits of Your Skills
Make sure you highlight your skills and if possible give values on how past experiences allowed your former employer to benefit.
Keep it positive
Employers look for people who can contribute, have a positive
attitude, are enthusiastic, and have successfully performed similar job
skills in the past. Concentrate on communicating these issues and avoid
any detracting information. Remember, resumes are just a way to get you
to the interview where you are in a better position to make an
impression.
