How to Prepare a Resume: Everything You Need to Know

Putting together a strong resume can feel like a daunting task, but with the right preparation, you can make the process simple and effective.

When you apply for jobs, you need a resume to submit to the employer.

Whether you’re applying for your first job, moving into a new industry, or stepping up to a senior role, a well-prepared resume can make all the difference.

1. Start by Gathering Your Information

Before you start typing, take some time to collect the details you’ll need. This includes:

• Personal details – your full name, contact number, email address, and suburb or city.

• Employment history – list your previous roles, the companies you worked for, dates of employment, and key responsibilities.

• Education and qualifications – include degrees, certificates, and relevant courses.

• Skills and achievements – note both technical and transferable skills, as well as any awards or accomplishments.

Having this information at hand helps ensure your resume is accurate and complete.

2. Choose a Clear Format

Your resume should be clean, professional, and easy to read. Avoid cluttered layouts or fancy fonts. Use clear headings, consistent spacing, and bullet points to make information easy to scan.

A simple structure might include:

1. Contact details

2. Professional summary

3. Skills

4. Work experience

5. Education

6. References (or note that they’re available on request)

3. Write a Strong Professional Summary

Your professional summary is a short paragraph at the top of your resume that highlights who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for. It should be tailored to the job you’re applying for and give the reader a reason to keep reading.

For example:

Experienced marketing professional with a strong background in digital campaigns, social media strategy, and client engagement. Passionate about delivering measurable results and building brand awareness across diverse markets.

4. Tailor Your Resume to Each Job

One of the biggest mistakes people make is sending the same resume for every role. Employers want to see that you’ve taken the time to match your experience and skills to their position. Review the job description and mirror key phrases or requirements where relevant.

5. Focus on Achievements, Not Just Duties

When listing your work experience, avoid simply describing what you did — instead, focus on what you achieved. Use measurable results where possible. For example:

• Increased sales by 25% within six months through improved customer engagement.

• Streamlined reporting processes, saving 10 hours per week for the team.

6. Keep It Concise

Most hiring managers spend less than a minute scanning each resume. Aim for one to two pages and remove unnecessary details. Stick to what’s relevant for the role you’re targeting.

7. Proofread Carefully

Before sending off your resume, double-check for spelling or grammatical errors. Reading it aloud can help you catch awkward phrasing. You could also ask a friend or colleague to review it for you — a fresh set of eyes can make all the difference.

8. Include a Cover Letter

While it’s not technically part of your resume, a tailored cover letter complements your application. It allows you to explain your interest in the role and demonstrate your enthusiasm and fit for the organisation.

Final Thoughts

Preparing a resume is about more than just listing your experience — it’s about presenting your story in a clear, confident, and professional way. With the right preparation and attention to detail, you’ll be ready to make a strong impression and move one step closer to your next opportunity.