1. Use as many active verbs throughout your resume
When writing your resume, you want to make sure to list your day-to-day responsibilities and accomplishments at your past/current jobs. This can be done by starting these experiences with a strong active verb. Something like “Streamlined a newsletter system to provide job opportunities for over 150+ students” or “Catalogued the revenue stream for our annual bake sale by creating spreadsheets on Google Sheets”, can really make a difference. I was told by counselors and advisers that using active verbs in your resume shows the recruiter or hiring manager how much initiative and self-determination you have to follow through on something from start to finish!
2. Don’t underestimate the value of relevant skills and extracurricular activities
Regardless of your major or concentration, listing activities you take part in outside of class on your resume (or cover letter) shows recruiters that you have a proactive mentality and have what it takes to perform the duties that your ideal role requires. Also, in the case you do join a nationally recognized organization like ALPFA or NABA, chances are high that your recruiter may be part of the same org or may potentially know someone else who is, this can pay off as well! Also, be sure to highlight any related skills you might have. One of the highlights on my resume was having proficient experience in WordPress.
3. Always, always, always provide a link to either your LinkedIn, a portfolio site, or any relevant projects
As we move towards becoming more and more digitally dependent, it’s in your best interest to showcase how unique you are. A link to your LinkedIn, your portfolio, or a brief list of projects can make all the difference. A link or a list of work/projects you have done while in college is a great way to show your creativity and extracurricular activities. A few semesters ago, I was studying computer science and now I’m studying film. One of the main points employers harp on that still follows me today, is asking if I have a portfolio or reel of past work I’ve done. It doesn’t have to be a fine-tuned, fully polished product. A simple school project made at a hackathon, or a skit you made with some friends is a keen way to show them you are passionate about your major and have the drive to make something within a certain timeframe. I’ve had fun making both!
Until next time, #REMAINAMBITIOUS!
Author:
Michael Omoruan
Media & Communications Contributor,
Young Ambitious One, LLC
Media/Film, Career Advice, and Professional Development
I am passionate about visual storytelling and aligning with brands that promote community outreach and social change. I am also a published writer in the Meridian, The Student Voice of Lehman College Newspaper. I write about media, film, career advice, and professional development.
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