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A MANUAL OF A WELL-DRESSED RESUME

A MANUAL OF A WELL-DRESSED RESUME

Introduction

Welcome to "A Manual of a Well-Dressed Resume" - your definitive guide to crafting a standout professional profile. In this comprehensive manual, we'll explore the art of creating a resume that not only showcases your skills and experience but also captivates recruiters at first glance. Get ready to tailor your resume to perfection and make a lasting impression in today's competitive job market. Let's dive in!

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A RESUME OR A CV?

A resume is a French word for “summary”, and a Curriculum Vitae (CV) is “the course of your life” in Latin. For years this has been a formal way to apply for a job; a CV includes education (s), qualifications, employment history, skills, awards, acknowledgements, and references, whiles a resume includes a summary of your personality, immediate education and qualification, and immediate job experiences obtained pertaining to the position you are applying for.

Before setting up a formal in-person or online interview, an employer will quickly assess the resume to see if a candidate is a good fit for the role and the business.

Since employers rarely have the time to read through CVs, they opt for concise and easy-to-understand resumes. The chronological resume structure is the most common structure used by candidates because it focuses on the candidate’s job experience and is simple to read. This structure is compatible with the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software, which most employers use to find suitable applicants for the job position without having to go through all the applications.

A CV should be thought of as brand promotion or picking out an outfit for a special occasion, so it needs to include the following:

A resume header – a part that contains your name, cell phone number, email address, a link to your LinkedIn profile, and your current job position. Most employers would like to know more about your personality; they would go through social media accounts, so it is advisable to add the social media platforms the applicant uses depending on the job applied for.

Resume summary, this entails a short introduction of the candidate and the strengths. Candidates must use simple words or less jargon, using the KISS guideline “Keep It Short and Simple”. The choice of words must be carefully considered to grab the employer’s attention and make them want to read more about the candidate.

A creative online writer and a freelance newspaper writer with five years of experience, I believe that telling stories to society is a way to connect with readers and solve issues they may face. Because of my excellent communication and problem-solving abilities, I can easily adapt to any situation and work alone or with little supervision. I can meet deadlines on time; I am goal driven and a very good team player.

Work experience is a keystone of the resume. Most employers look at this section very delicately; it must be written in chronological order, starting with the candidate’s current company if they are employed. The position must be on top, name of the company, year of employment, and list six points of the responsibilities done on the position with punchy verbs. And this work experience must be tailored to the position you are applying for.

Organizing and setting staff schedules for the day. Nurturing staff with shop products and protocols, ensuring they are equipped and ready to assist customers. Issue cash floats to the buyers and cashier for the daily trade. Managing hourly cash drop to the safe. Housekeeping and merchandising the shop floor to the standards of Cash Crusaders. Handling customer inquiries.

Education is another important element on a resume but not too important to be in chronological order if the applicant is a school leaver. So, in other words, if the applicant is a student, they can put their education information before the work experience if they have worked somewhere or volunteered in a company. A school leaver would have to write their high school education, the school’s name, the year matriculated, and subjects passed. If the candidate is a graduate or a student at a university or college, they must mention the institution, the name of the degree, and the start and end date. Diploma (Journalism), February 2020-2022 Rosebank college

Skills – Before selecting a skill to add to your resume, research the skills needed for the applied job. It is a good approach to mix soft and hard skills; it could be between 5-10 skills.

Creative: I can turn any ordinary thing into a masterpiece Leadership: Teach and mentor members

Sales: Sales are driven by making sure customers meet their needs.

Software: Microsoft Word, Excel,

Communication: Combined with my listening skills, my communication skill is high, being able to communicate with customers through social media and face-face.

Awards and Acknowledgements: In this section, a candidate may include awards and acknowledgements they have achieved within their work experience or during their studies. References: These are people that an employer can call for a reference regarding the candidate’s professional background information to learn more about a candidate’s work ethic. The reference list includes a name, position, and contact details.

Steven Cape

Regional manager

The candidate might attach documents on their resume and certificates of achievements relevant to the position applied for. It is very important to make sure that the resume contains all relevant information, grammar, and spelling free. They are websites with templates that can be used to structure proper resumes, for example, Microsoft Word and other online websites.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2024 LUNGELO NGONGOMA

A QUICK GUIDE FOR PREPARING FOR A JOB INTERVIEW

A QUICK GUIDE FOR PREPARING FOR A JOB INTERVIEW

Job interviews can be nerve-racking. There is a lot to deal with while preparing for the interview to get a hold of the prospective job you applied for. Here are important things to remember as you prepare for an interview:

Arrive early at the destination of your interview; this may be at the office or any other interview premise.

Use the official language when calling or texting. Even when the job advert says you should be fluent in a certain language, the official language should be your priority for communication. This is one mistake Interviewees make; they seem comfortable after knowing that the employers are tribe-mates or when the advert requires a certain kind of language.

Maintain eye contact; Emotional intelligence is a great tool in any field which requires communication, so eye contact in an interview speaks volumes to the interviewer and the interviewee.

Dress appropriately for the culture of the company you are interviewing with; the most cherished dress code for most interviews is office wear; it is preferably that a man puts on a plain coloured suit with dull colours like blue, black, khaki, and other non-shouting colours, a gentle shirt and a tie is a great catalyst to any male, well as a woman, should also preferably put on decent office wear without shouting colours.

Be professional with your interactions. You are evaluated from the minute you walk in, not just during the interview. Be courteous to everyone you meet, and stay off your phone, even in the waiting room; you must be alert, respectful and humble.

Prepare anecdotes and stories related to the job and your problem-solving ability; your stories should blend up with your skills and accomplishments and be related to the job field you are applying to.

Get comfortable talking about your accomplishments. Sell yourself without bragging; being open and confident while speaking builds confidence and attracts the attention of the employers or the interviewee; no employer would hire someone who doesn’t have any accomplishments in his career life. You should know the content of your resume or Curriculum Vitae well.

Resonate well with your resume; be well versed with your resume and be willing to re-share the details of your resume in conjunction with your stories and abilities.

Do your homework about the company before an interview. Demonstrate that you understand the company’s vision and articulate how you can help it achieve its mission. This can be done by practically expressing relevant ideas which could build the company.

If you are being interviewed virtually, consider in advance how best to deal with the noise, light, and internet connection in your environment.

You can take some time to consider your response before answering questions. If you are unsure how to answer a question, do as politicians do and answer the question you wish you had been asked. Both strategies can help prevent you from being unsure or flustered.

These are but a few ways to prepare for a job interview; they may not have been exhausted. However, they are the immediate preparations that can be considered a day before the interview. You must be well acquainted with those life-long things to be relevant in the Job field; perfection is the limit in any working area.

Subscribe unto REdy resume, and get your professional resume in few seconds, without any struggle.

APRIL 19, 2024 DERICK NANDABI

SIX APPROACHES FOR EXCEPTIONAL COVER LETTER

SIX APPROACHES FOR EXCEPTIONAL COVER LETTER

A cover letter, also known as an application letter, is a three to four-paragraph message directed to an employer by an applicant. It details the interest in the position, the company, and how the applicant would tailor the applied position. In this modern error, a cover letter is a substitute for a cover page, which employers ignore.

Like salt and pepper, a CV must be accompanied by a cover letter; it shows professionalism and determination for the position. The significant fixtures that an applicant needs to outline are the qualifications for the job by outlining the applicant’s experience, accomplishments, and skills.

Contrary to a resume, a cover letter allows you to go into further detail about your professional experience and discuss why you’d be a good fit for the position and business. Writing a cover letter after constructing your resume is advisable because it gives you an idea of what to write on a cover letter.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF A COVER LETTER

A cover letter aims to acquaint applicants and prove themselves to a potential employer that they are more than simply a CV or resume. A cover letter gives the candidate a chance to review career objectives and how the position the applicant is applying for will assist in advancing their career.

Susan Adams, a Forbes Magazine writer, implores applicants to connect with the recruiter on the first line of the cover letter. The applicants must review their letters thoroughly to avoid abbreviations and acronyms and apply more formal writing (Chicago style).

The header – As a standard formality, the cover letter will have to start with personal details, which makes it easy for the employer to content the applicant. The following must be included: Name, resident address, cell number, email, date, name of the recipient, their title, company name, and the address if available.

Open with greeting – While still researching the company, seek the name of the employer or the recruiter. Use formal greetings such as “Dear [first and last name] or “Dear [position title], and avoid using “To whom it may concern” as it is unprofessional.

In the opening paragraph– “first impression last”, the choice of words used must impress the employer, using punch verbs to enforce fascination with the applicant. The applicant must mention the position they are applying for, elaborate more about the position and the company to show interest, and that the applicant has done their homework.

The body – The body paragraph focuses more on the concise description of the applicant’s experience concerning the job. Outlining the significant accomplishments, skills, and specialities that make them outstanding candidates for the position. It is vital to give evidence of the achievements of the position the applicant is currently in if still employed and the impacts they had.

Closing paragraph – Give more detailed skills that set the candidate apart from other applicants that are relevant to the position. Indicate other awards and acknowledgements and give an anecdote for the employer to remember the application letter; if the implicant is changing careers, positions, and environment, this is the right paragraph to discuss.

Then professionally sign off your cover letter – These are the last impression and the stamp of a cover letter. The applicant must highlight again how positively they would impact the company and show confidence in how the implicant achievements and skills had shaped them to cling to new possibilities and adapt to new environments. Link all skills and accomplishments, and set archivable goals and expectations. Do not forget to thank them and add your name.

In conclusion, always ensure your cover letter is concise, free from spelling errors, and proofread as often as possible to get the best write-up.

Interested in working with an International Company?

REdy Talent which is an affiliate of Right for Education Africa is offering various career opportunities on the global market to African prospects.

There is a plethora of career opportunities in:

1. Teaching

2. Hospitality

3. Engineering (Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical)

4. Renewable Energy

5. Health sector (nurses, doctors, pharmacists etc)

6. Marketers

7. IT professionals

8. Administrators and others

Subscribe unto REdy resume, and get your professional resume in few seconds, without any struggle.

JANUARY 10, 2024 LUNGELO NGONGOMA

TOP TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL JOB INTERVIEW

TOP TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL JOB INTERVIEW

Interviews can be stressful, but preparation and practice can make them easier. The purpose of an interview is to show the employer your personality and potential. It also allows you to see if the job is what you expect. Here are a few things to think about before you go.

THINK ABOUT WHAT THE QUESTIONS WILL BE

Of course, you can’t guess what all of the questions will be. Each interview is different depending on the specific role and company. Think about the skills that your employer might be looking for, and be prepared to discuss them. Many people find it useful to practise out loud to gain confidence. To get you started, here are seven common questions you might get asked:

Why do you want this role?

Why do you want to leave your current company?

What are your strengths?

What are your weaknesses?

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Tell me about a time you handled a tough situation.

Tell me about a time you made a mistake

PREPARE YOUR ANSWERS USING THE STAR METHOD

It’s easy to claim that you’re a ‘good team player’, or that you ‘act well under pressure’, but you should prove it with examples.To help you do this, you can remember “STAR”:

Situation: Describe the situation you were in and why you were there

Task: Describe what your task or problem was

Action: Describe the actions you took to solve the problem, or complete the task

Results: Describe what happened in the end, and anything you learned from the situation

Short, clear answers are always better to help ‘sell yourself’. Interviewers want you to convince them that you are right for the job.

RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH

It is important to research your company. This will help you think about possible interview questions, and appropriate answers. Try to find out what the company’s goals are, and how you can help them achieve those goals. You can start by searching the internet, or finding company leaflets and articles. This will help you tailor your responses to what the employer is looking for. It is also useful to reread the job description to pick out any skills they may have listed.

CONCLUSION

Hopefully, you now know how to prepare yourself for the interview. Remember that not all interviews are the same, so think about how to tailor your research. Also remember that interviews are both about the employer finding out if you’re right for the job, and also if you think you would like to work there. Use this as an opportunity to find out more. Stay calm, and be positive – congratulations on making it this far!

Subscribe unto REdy resume, and get your professional resume in few seconds, without any struggle.

February, 2024 SAFIER LEWIS

BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH WORKING FOR AN INTERNATIONAL COMPANY

BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH WORKING FOR AN INTERNATIONAL COMPANY

Introduction

Although it may be daunting to work in an environment different from what you know and may be comfortable with, we all learn a lot from stepping outside of our comfort zones.

Benefits of working for an international company

Working for an international company allows employees to be trained within a diversity and inclusion framework. Working with people of various nationalities requires understanding different cultures, customs, and stereotypes and identifying our biases. As we become aware of the importance of diversity and inclusion, we become more accepting and critically assess laws that are not.

Working for an international company requires efficient communication skills. You will often need to communicate with people from different time zones who speak a different mother tongue. This requires us to be patient and understanding and be willing to communicate better, and be more accommodating with our communication to confront aspects such as language barriers.

Working for an international company exposes you to various areas within a business. This essentially allows you to identify and expand certain skills and gain the knowledge you initially did not intend to focus on. Expanding various skills can gain more job opportunities within the company. As your goals continue to become measurable and precise, you can grow as an employee in the company and as an individual in society.

Each country adapts to a particular workplace culture; each employee represents a different work culture. Most international companies will therefore find it to be their reasonability to celebrate the differences among their employees. Although an international company will embrace different work cultures, employees are united by the company’s brand values. The brand values of a company often resonate with each employee. Brand values are imperative as it demonstrates to customers what the company stands for. The brand values within an international company essentially resemble a diversified unity.

Conclusion

It’s imperative to see that diversity is not something that should be avoided in any area but rather celebrated. Although working with people from various backgrounds, one must remember their purpose for being there and stay true to their ethics and morals, regardless of the environment. Working for an international company pushes you out of your comfort zone to learn new skills, become more accepting of one another, improve your communication skills, and acknowledge the importance of unity within a diversified environment.

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JANUARY 17, 2024 CAITLYN VASI

THE FUTURE STATE OF WORK: WORKING FROM ANYWHERE AT ANY TIME

THE FUTURE STATE OF WORK: WORKING FROM ANYWHERE AT ANY TIME

Introduction

Having the flexibility to work from any location at any time is known as remote work. The coronavirus epidemic compelled many individuals to work from home, although it was already a widespread trend. Many people believed that the largest change in life was the move from office employment to remote work, as nearly every aspect of life shifted to an online format. Some individuals and businesses quickly adapted to a remote working schedule. Others needed some time to build the necessary systems to make remote work possible. Here are several advantages to working from home.

Five benefits of working remotely

Improved work-life balance

A lot of people struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Working lengthy hours each day, notably when sleep and commuting time are taken into account, leaves little time for family. Long commutes are eliminated when working from home, allowing for more time with loved ones.

Enhanced productivity

One way to increase productivity is for businesses to trust their workers, even when they work outside the office. Productivity is at its peak when workers can avoid excessive breaks, commutes, and other distractions to concentrate on their tasks.

It saves the business money

Less staff working in the office means lower expenses for the business. Companies can reduce their real estate profile and use workspace more effectively when fewer people are working there.

Employees enjoy greater freedom

The benefit of remote work is that it keeps workers content, motivated, and fulfilled. Firms may operate outside a traditional business workday if asynchronous work is feasible. Flexible work schedules can be a blessing for workers who are night owls or have young children. This freedom is priceless for businesses wishing to extend their working hours with a small team. Additionally, it is a desirable perk that enables businesses to access a wider pool of candidates throughout the recruiting process.

Minimize absences

Implementing remote work can aid businesses in retaining staff and reducing absences. Remote employees tend to acquire optimistic views toward the company’s management when they do not feel hounded and sense their employer values them. As a result, employees will feel more devoted and committed to their jobs and be less likely to request time off.

Conclusion

Working from anywhere at any time is more than just a workplace phenomenon; it represents how work will be done in the future. The advancement of technology will bring humanity virtually even closer together. It will keep bridging time zones and nations to link workers and organisations. It’s time for businesses and employees to accept the new workplace and consider the advantages of working remotely.

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JANUARY 25, 2024 JUSTIN WILLIAMS

REMOTE WORK: A SHIFT IN MODERN WORKFORCE

REMOTE WORK: A SHIFT IN MODERN WORKFORCE

Introduction

The rise of remote work has been one of the most significant trends in contemporary employment. Because of the advancements in communication technologies and the growth of the internet, people can now work from anywhere in the globe. The Covid-19 pandemic has compelled many companies to use remote work as a tactic to continue operating while retaining social distance, which has intensified this trend and made it into the standard.

The ability of an employee to work remotely outside of a typical office environment is referred to as remote work. This may entail working from home, in a coworking space, or even in a coffee shop. The fundamental advantage of remote employment for both the business and the employee is flexibility. For the company, this translates into greater access to a talent pool and perhaps even cost savings due to decreased overhead. As a result, the employee has more control over their schedule and working environment. Businesses that prioritize remote work are referred to as “remote-first” organizations. Some examples are Automatic, Buffer, GitLab, InVision, Zapier, Zoho, Zoom, and REdy Talent many more.

Barriers to remote work

Two of the biggest barriers to remote employment are constant communication and collaboration. In a conventional office setting, employees can easily converse with one another face-to-face or in person during meetings. Remotely performing this is more difficult and necessitates the use of digital platforms and technology. A few of these include video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management tools.

Benefits of remote employment

One of the key benefits of remote employment is its flexibility. This may be especially appealing to people who live in expensive areas or wish to work and travel simultaneously. It might be useful for people with special needs or impairments who would find it difficult to function in a typical office environment.

Another advantage of working remotely is maybe increased productivity. In a traditional office atmosphere, coworkers, meetings, and other activities could divert and disrupt workers. Remote workers typically have more control over their environment and can create a workstation that encourages focus and productivity.

Challenges of remote work

Working remotely has perks, but there are also challenges and drawbacks. One of the biggest challenges is the possibility of isolation and loneliness. In a conventional office setting, employees have the opportunity to socialize and develop relationships with their coworkers. In a rural area, this is more difficult and might make you feel lonely.

Another challenge is that working remotely may mean less job security. In a typical office situation, employees often have a written employment contract and are protected by labour regulations. This might not be the case in a faraway location, and employees might be more prone to being fired without cause or obtaining fair pay.

CONCLUSION

Due to the rise in remote working, the modern workforce has undergone a significant transformation. It has many features, including adaptability, mobility, and the prospect of higher productivity. Yet it also has certain drawbacks, like loneliness and decreased work security. To make remote work useful for everyone as the trend toward it increases, employers and employees must collaborate to develop answers to these problems.

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FEBRUARY 12, 2024 PETER NYIBANGS SULISUMEN
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