Did you know that the average hiring manager only spends about six seconds looking at an individual resume?  This means that, if you want a prospective employer to pay attention to your qualifications, you need to grab their attention quickly. The key is to build a resume that makes it immediately clear that you have the experience the employer is looking for.  Putting together an effective resume like this can be tricky. Luckily, we have the advice you need to craft an administrative and clerical resume.

#1 Know How to Highlight Your Entry Level Skills

One mistake that job seekers often make is assuming that their skills don't matter if they don't have formal work experience. The truth, however, is that skills are skills, no matter how you get them. The key is making your skills clear.  If you have certifications in any relevant computer applications, such as Microsoft Office or Adobe, make sure to include these. Also, make sure to include any administrative work you've done on a volunteer basis, or for clubs or organizations you've belonged to.

#2 Use Keywords

As we mentioned already, managers spend an average of only six seconds reading a resume. In most cases, however, job seekers are lucky to even get those six seconds.  This is because most employers use keyword software to analyze resumes and find the most relevant ones. For this reason, it's essential to use relevant keywords if you want your resume to be read by a human.

#3 Identify Transferable Skills

Even if you have non-administrative work experience, that doesn't mean that these jobs can't be highlighted on your resume. Effective administrators must have a wide variety of skills and competencies that they'll need to bring to the job.  The key is to make sure that you highlight the relevant skills from each position. Rather than focusing on every aspect of every job, focus on the responsibilities that translate to administrative work.

#4 Show Initiative

For administrative professionals, it's often important to think a few steps ahead of the game. This helps keep the office on track.  To show employers that you're able to do this, highlight important projects on your resume. Dedicate specific bullet points to accomplishments you've made and ways you have gone over and above the call of duty. 

#5 Improve Your Skills

If you lack direct administrative skills and experience, view this as an opportunity, rather than a detriment. There are many ways that prospective administrators can bolster their resumes.  For instance, consider taking classes to become certified in different administrative computer applications. You can also look for professional organizations for administrators in your area. In addition to being a good source of training, this can be an effective way to network and learn about new opportunities.

Put Your Clerical Resume to Work Today!

With these tips in hand, you will soon be on your way to creating a clerical resume that catches employers' attention.  Ready to put your resume to the test? Contact us to learn about our recruitment opportunities today.

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