Featured article by Nino Vanstein
Whether you are applying for jobs online or trying to secure an internal position, you will need a professional resume. In the IT sector, your resume should clearly state who you are, what you have done so far, and what you can offer for your potential employer. This post is a step-by-step guide that will help you write a perfect IT resume.
1.   Choose a format
When it comes to choosing a format for your resume, you have three options: chronological functional and hybrid. A hybrid format is the best option for most job seekers. In this format, you put emphasis on both your work experience and skills.
However, depending on a host of factors, you may find a different format more convenient. In order to make an informed decision, learn about resume formats.
2.   Provide your contact information
At the top of your resume, add your name, location, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile URL. The goal is to allow your potential employer to get in touch with you. Do not include a work phone number. Rather, provide a personal phone number.
It is not important to write your full address. But don’t forget to mention your city, state and zip code. Many recruiters prioritize local candidates. Use a professional looking email address, not one that sounds funny.
Include the URL of your LinkedIn profile, and make sure that the LinkedIn profile offers further information about your work experience in the IT sector.
3.   Write a standout headline
Write a concise headline describing your candidacy, and make sure it does not exceed one line. Writing a great headline is a way to grab the recruiter’s attention. Remember, a recruiter read the headline first.
Consider the headline an opportunity to make a good first impression. Also, try to use keywords in the headline to comply with the ATS. Read the job posting carefully and you will find relevant keywords.
The procedure requires some technical know-how, and can be time-consuming. For this and many other reasons, many job seekers now use professional resume writing services. It’s easy to get in touch with IT resume writers. If you provide sufficient information about your qualifications and aspirations, you can expect a well-written resume.
4.   Write a summary statement
 
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The summary statement can be a section with bullet points, or a short paragraph. In this statement highlight your experience and professional skills. The point is to let the hiring manager know why you should be appointed to the post.
However, if you are looking for your first job, writing a summary statement may not be ideal for you. Consider using the space to expand on your skills section and work history section. Incorporate keywords in this section too. The skills you add should be relevant to Information Technology.
5.   Provide a detailed description of your work experience
The presentation of your work experience greatly determines whether you will find your ideal job in IT. This section says a lot about you as a candidate. Focus on your job responsibilities and show how they are related to your prior roles. The goal is to show the hiring manager that you can really offer value.
Here is a simple resume writing strategy that works: stick to a familiar format. It will make your information easy to scan. List your prior roles in other companies in reverse chronological order. Add a subheading for each job, and provide information regarding the company, your job title, job location, and start and end date.
6.   List relevant skills and incorporate keywords
Almost all Fortune 500 companies are now using application tracking systems. To make sure that your resume is not tossed out in the initial phase, incorporate appropriate keywords in the resume.
Additional in-demand skills can make you more competitive. Mention skills related to your post but do not expand on them. If you are using the hybrid format, you can make a dedicated section for listing your skills. If the complexity of the task overwhelms you, consider getting in touch with a resume writing service.
Final thoughts
Writing a resume requires both technical know-how and writing skills. There is stiff competition in the IT sector and that’s part of the reason you have to write a resume that stands out from the crowd. We hope now you have a better understanding of what a well-written IT resume should look like.
