Making Your Light Industrial Resume Sing

Sep 5, 2017


Marketing professionals spend a lot of time and charge their clients substantial fees to put together the right packaging, slogans, etc. to sell the product. They know that if the outside doesn’t capture a consumer’s attention, even the best of all products on the inside won’t sell.  The same philosophy can apply to your job search.  If you don’t “package” yourself attractively via your resume, then all your skills and experience may very well never get a glance. Follow these tips for putting together a light industrial resume that sings.  

1. Put your name at the top
If a staffing recruiter or the company’s HR guy wants to contact you, make it easy. Keep it simple. Add your LinkedIn account if you have one.

Bob Smith
000.111.2222
Bsmith@email.com

2. Education 
Stick to education that is pertinent to the position for which you are applying. If education isn’t a factor, skip it and focus on experience.

3. Work History/Experience.   
Be clear, concise, and specific. Don’t just tell the reader what you do – show them. Give specific examples of the impact your skills/experience made in previous positions. 

Customize your presentation to align with the requirements listed in the job description for which you are applying. Sometimes this means “renaming” your skills. We are NOT suggesting lying – or even misleading; anything less than the truth will come back to bite you.

Stick to current and recent experience. If you’re talking about job responsibilities, achievements, etc. that are more than ten years old, they’ll wonder why you have to go back so far.

4. Skills
Skills are crucial – market them correctly. Highlight any skills that pertain directly to the position.

Essential skills in light industrial may include:

  • Physical strength: Although this is always a requirement, many positions rely on candidates who are physically fit and able to lift/maneuver weight.
  • Manual dexterity: Many positions require candidates with good hand-eye coordination who work well with their hands.
  • Technical skills: Many positions require an understanding of technology, including some specific certifications. 

Soft skills are also key, including:

  • Team attitude – willingness to be a component of a whole rather than a one-person show.
  • Decision-making skills – as well as the willingness and ability to follow directions from others.
  • Detail oriented.
  • Problem-solver – able to pinpoint the cause, research options, and choose a solution wisely.
  • Communication skills – verbal and written, as well as being a good listener.
  • Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize.

5. Skip the buzzwords 
Yes, you want your resume customized to the position and containing words that will catch the attention of an applicant tracking system, but be wary of buzzwords. They become so redundant that at best are overlooked and at worst a trigger for rejection.    

6. Don’t hesitate to get help  
If you can’t afford the services of a resume specialist, there are many templates online. Don’t be afraid to ask a friend who is already in the field – they may be able to help you as well.

Finally, bring your polished resume to Lofton Staffing. A family-owned business, we’ve been connecting candidates and clients in the Southern region for 38 years. As a regional leader in the staffing industry, light industrial positions are one of our specialties. Whether you are looking for a temporary or full-time position, Lofton can find you the right assignment based on your skills and experience. Contact us today and secure a best-fit position.
 


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