The Importance of Having a Resume
What is a resume?
A resume is undoubtedly one of the most important documents required in work. This document summarizes your objectives, skills, experiences, and educational background. Essentially, it informs employers of whether you are fit for the role that is being advertised. Your resume should be well-written and organized because this is your “first impression”; remember, first impressions are crucial! Your resume enters a room before you do, so that is your opportunity to highlight all the things about you that make you a perfect fit for the job.
Let’s break down five (5) main reasons why having a resume is extremely important.
1. It introduces you to the employer.
As stated previously, your resume enters the door before you do. This is your opportunity to sell yourself ultimately; show off your top skills, experiences, internships, and qualifications. This makes a significant impact on whether an employer will take an interest in your overall application or not. Your resume should begin with your name, phone number, email address, LinkedIn link (if you have one), and sometimes, your home address. This will allow employers to do primary research of who you are and try to learn about you to determine if you fit the role.

You should then summarize your experiences and success or add an objective. Your objective should be tailored specifically to the job you are applying to. This will show the employer that you have read the job description and fully understand what skills and expertise you require. As small as these things may sound, they play a crucial role in your success as a prospective employee. Both summary and objective offer the employer an idea of what you bring to the table.

2. It shows employers what you have to offer.
The various elements of your resume show the employer what you have to offer. Hence, you will find that you must add your experiences, educational background, and acquired skills to show employers that you are a perfect fit for the job. Likewise, this will help them determine if you are an asset to the organization. It also shows how enriched and knowledgeable you are about the job and what you can bring to the table. Employers may decide not to move forward with your application if they feel like there is nothing you can offer to the organization. Therefore, use your resume to your advantage! Market yourself and explain how the company will benefit if they hire you.
3. It ensures that you get a job in line with your capabilities and educational background.
The educational background, experiences, and skills outlined on your resume show employers what you can handle. Your resume reflects you; therefore, employers will try to match the content of your resume with the required skills and qualifications listed in the job description. Employers might decide not to contact you if your educational background, skills, and experiences do not match the job! This is a good thing (I guess) because it protects you from being thrown into the lion’s den. Imagine being accepted to complete a job that you simply cannot! This will brew frustration. It might lead you to quit the job, or the employer might decide to fire you and give you a poor recommendation. None of the actions mentioned will help you to land your dream job.
4. It helps you to get an interview.
The goal of your resume is to land you an interview! You will be invited for an interview if the employers believe that you are a good fit for the post. So, always remember that you need to put time and effort into creating a solid resume. If employers deem your resume weak or lacking, they may decide not to move forward with your application. Furthermore, most companies require you to have a resume. You might not be considered for a job if your application does not include a resume.
5. A resume makes or breaks you!
Having a resume can make or break you! It can either ensure that you are hired for the job or that your application goes to the bottom of the pile. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of a resume, a well-written resume! If your resume is not well-written, you might face the possibility of constant rejection by employers. Ultimately, this affects your morale.
Key Takeaways:
  • A resume is crucial to any job application.
  • Your resume should be well-written to avoid the possibility of not being selected.
  • Your resume introduces you to the employer, reflects what you can bring to the table, matches you to a job that fits your experiences and capabilities, and helps you get an interview.
  • Ultimately, your resume can make or break you.