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How to make your resume SMART

You might know how to sound smart in your resume, but do you know how to make your resume SMART?

Most people in business are familiar with SMART goals but this simple acronym can also be applied to resumes and CVs whether they are your own or those of candidates you are considering for a job.

SMART becomes an easy checklist that will save you a lot of time.

Ask yourself if a CV does these 5 things:

Specific

A SMART resume should detail the achievements of the individual not just their team or department. Vague and generalised CVs that don’t provide specific details should be avoided.

Measurable

There should be facts and figures in the CV to back up the achievements. For example, ‘increased client base by 20% in 2 years’.

Accurate

The information provided should be substantiated by evidence. For example, academic transcripts and references.

Relevant

The information supplied should link directly to the role.

Timeframed

The dates should be given for different jobs, study, career breaks and all time periods should be taken into account.

About Susan Rochester

BSc MHRM FIML
Susan Rochester has been managing director of Balance at Work since 2006. Susan has a natural tendency to balance analytical thinking with an optimistic outlook to set direction and solve problems. She is an effective facilitator and constantly creates new and more effective ways of doing things, motivated by helping others to achieve their goals.

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