There are senior management resumes and then there are C-Level resumes. While they might seem the same, they actually are not. It’s necessary for C-Suite executives to stand out from amongst the lot. Having said that, one might wonder how to write a resume for a C-level position. What must one include or exclude in the resume itself?
Here are 5 simple tips on how to put down a well-prepared C-Level resume that creates a positive first impression:
1: Use a Relevant Email Address When You Write a Resume
Using an up-to-date email address such as Gmail matters when you write a resume as it suggests that you are in touch with the times. Email addresses such as Yahoo and AOL will draw criticism given how old they are. It will give someone the wrong impression about your competence. Also, ensure you include your LinkedIn URL or a link to a visual resume to indicate otherwise.
2: Does It Pass the 10-Second Glance Test?
Regardless of the level you are at, recruiters and hiring managers take about 10 seconds to consider whether a candidate is suitable for the position or not. If anything, make sure that when you write a resume, your profile stands out compared to others at first. Or you can be sure that they will pass you over for other candidates.
3: The All-Important Summary Section
The topmost part of your resume is vital to your success in getting noticed immediately. It gives the reader a glance telling them what you’ve done and can do for them. When you write a resume, make sure that this part of your resume that is sheer marketing which needs to clear, compelling and concise too. For this section, provide a short overview, three accomplishments, keywords related to your current position and your educational qualifications.
4: More accomplishments, less job descriptions
Job descriptions will do little or nothing for your resume. The real value of a C-level executive’s resume lies in expressing your accomplishment in numbers. This is exactly how you explain your success story to your reader, who has very little time on their hands. So, how do you do this? Explain the impact that you’ve had on your position. Ask questions as you write a resume like, have you been responsible for profit increase? Or have you achieved industry firsts or even turned an underperforming organisation around?
5: Acceptable File Formats
Think of saving your resume in a number of file formats. You’ll need them because recruiters, employers and hiring managers will accept resumes in a given format. Still, the three most common formats are plain text, Word and PDF. Another interesting way to present yourself is to write a resume that contains supplemental information as well.
In Closing…
While some of these tips might seem obvious, they are often overlooked by many as they write a resume causing unnecessary embarrassment to several professionals. In fact, just starting with these basics can help you focus on the minutiae going forward.
So, are there any other tips that you can think of that has helped you write a resume that is presentable for a C-level position? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.