Just like Portfolios, Resumes/CVs are your first impressions and are an important part of an application since you get to choose what experiences you would like to highlight. Think about it! A resume or cv is essentially a breakdown of your experience and abilities, and give the employer an idea of how you might fit in at the firm. The skills section is a key space for an architect or designer to show how top-notch their computer software skills are, and other skills that you find relevant to the firm and position you are applying for.
1. Using graphic charts to show software knowledge
Sometimes it can be difficult to format and portray information in a new way that is not boring, yet is still able to be functional. More and more young professionals are using graphics to measure and show the proficiency one has in specific softwares. Do not do this! It does not look clean and more often than not, it makes understanding your proficiency more difficult, rather than easier.
Just list the software you know without the measurement indicators, and remember that you can talk to them during the interview, and highlight specific skills or projects that helped you improve in that skill.
2. Listing generic software
Do not list Microsoft Office as a software that you know how to use. You are expected to already have a handle on these generic softwares. Excel may be listed if you have a deep understanding of how to use it. Do an exercise in cutting out the generic software, and make sure you have a reason to list each software you put on your CV/Resume. Remember, you are trying to show the hiring firm that you will help them improve the skills and quality of work of the firm overall.
3. Do NOT Lie and List Skills You Do Not Have!
Many times you will find that people make their skills seem better than they are in reality or put skills on their resume that they don’t have. If you don’t have any of the skills the employer is seeking, please do not apply for the job. Make sure you are using your time efficiently. Don’t fabricate skills or experience just to get hired.
Try to keep irrelevant skills off of your Resume, so that when you are in the interview, they truly understand how you can help the firm. You must also consider how in the future, you will have to respond for these changes.
4. Avoid Overused Skill Words
Consider avoiding the use of the following words, or at least minimize their use: specialized, experienced, skilled, leadership, creative, strategic, passionate, expert, and focused. These words are used very often and you should try to use a thesaurus to find different options.
5. Avoid Adding Skills That Everyone Already Has!
Some of the overused buzzwords listed above are skills or traits that employers already expect job applicants to have as a minimum requirement. Employers expect that you’ll be focused, have some experience (unless you’re applying for an entry-level position), and will do an excellent job if they hire you. You don’t need to spell out these basic assumptions on your resume for the employer.
When considering your next career move, plan proactively and create Portfolios that include your best work. Consider looking into finding a mentor with Architect-US, and improving your Portfolios with our Portfolio Plans and Career Advice Program. We provide coaching and personalized mentorship, so you can have a professional and experienced take on your next steps in your career, as well as a great team to confide in.
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