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How to write a graduate resume
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How to write a graduate resume

Want to know how to pitch your graduate skills in a resume? Your resume is your key to success, so here’s how you can make sure it stands proud at the top of the shortlist for any graduate job:

What is a resume?

Simply, a resume (or CV) is a record of your skills, education, employment history and experience. Each industry and position requires different information on your resume. For example, if you are applying to a media company, your communication skills should be highlighted.

Top tip – search online for sample resumes in your field, such as “graduate accountant resume.” These samples will give you a guide on what employers will be looking for in your resume (and what not to do!).

What to write:

Be sure to include these details in your resume…

  • Contact details
  • Career objective or professional statement about your skills
  • Qualifications, education and training
  • Employment history in reverse chronological order, with your most recent job first
  • Key duties and achievements for recent jobs
  • Extracurricular activities, such as volunteering or your interests to show skills like problem solving, critical thinking or leadership
  • Two or more referees

What not to write:

  • Personal details – date of birth, family details, cultural background, disability or political affiliation
  • Irrelevant skills, experiences or achievements
  • Fancy fonts, colours or large headings
  • Images, unless this is accepted practice for your industry

Resume hacks:

  1. Make sure your sentences are concise and straight-to-the-point – there is no need for unnecessary words and stories, unless you want to bore your reader!
  2. Always proof-read your resume. Spelling and punctuation mistakes are seriously frowned upon and when you’re applying for a job, you want to make a good first impression
  3. Get your resume reviewed for free by CSU’s Careers Services. They can support your through the whole job application process, offer advice and answer any questions.

 

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