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Creating a resume tailored to the jobs you are currently applying for can be the key to standing out among other job applicants. The secret lies in presenting your skills and experiences in a way that highlights your suitability for the role.
In this article, we'll provide specific suggestions to help you craft a winning resume for hourly positions. While we recognize that not every tip may apply to all job seekers, there is likely to be a tip or two below that can help you in your journey.
For hourly positions, it's crucial to grab the attention of hiring managers right away. A compelling objective statement should succinctly convey your relevant experience, skills, and career goals.
For example, for a Starbucks barista position, you might write at the top of your resume (or cover letter, if more applicable):
"Customer-focused individual with three years of experience in the food service industry, seeking a full-time barista position to utilize my knowledge of specialty coffee drinks and commitment to exceptional service."
This clear and concise statement makes it clear that you are a) looking for a role that matches your applicable experiences, and b) that your application matches the Starbucks barista role you are applying to.
Additional tip—you can change your objective statement to match the role exactly! If you’re applying also for retail manager positions, you could explain your desire to switch to a customer-facing role that sells clothes or in the fashion industry for a brand you wear and care about.
Highlight the skills and experiences that directly relate to the hourly position you're applying for. For instance, if you're seeking a retail job, emphasize your cash-handling experience, customer service skills, and knowledge of inventory management.
Even if you don’t have as much experience, you can still use tips like the ones we previously outlined here to make sure your resume stands out.
If you have limited work experience or are changing industries, consider using a functional or hybrid resume format. This style emphasizes your skills and accomplishments rather than focusing on your work history. List your skills in categories like "Customer Service," "Technical Proficiency," or "Leadership" and provide brief examples of how you've demonstrated those skills in the past.
In case you’re wondering “What’s a Hybrid Resume,” this format combines elements of both chronological and functional resume formats. This version of a resume is especially useful for applicants with a diverse skill set or those looking to change industries. It highlights both your skills and accomplishments, as well as your work history.
Here's a basic outline and example of a hybrid resume format for an hourly job that’s full-time:
By using a hybrid resume format, you can showcase both your skills and work history, demonstrating your versatility and adaptability to potential employers. This format is particularly useful for those seeking hourly positions, as it highlights your transferable skills and relevant experiences while still providing a chronological view of your work history.
Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements and demonstrate your impact. For example, instead of writing "Managed inventory," you could say, "Managed inventory of over 2000 items, resulting in a 15% reduction in stock discrepancies." This is especially important for sales or customer-facing positions where revenue and/or customer satisfaction is paramount.
If you're new to the workforce or changing industries, emphasize transferable skills that are valuable in hourly positions. These may include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. Provide examples of how you've demonstrated these skills in past experiences, such as school projects, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities.
Include any relevant certifications or training that make you a stronger candidate for the position. For example, if you're applying for a forklift operator job, mention your forklift certification. Similarly, if you're seeking a position in food service, highlight your food handler's permit or ServSafe certification.
Incorporate action verbs and industry-specific keywords throughout your resume. This not only demonstrates your knowledge of the field but also helps your resume stand out in applicant tracking systems. Examples of action verbs include "managed," "assisted," "coordinated," and "trained."
Aim for a one-page resume, using clear headings and bullet points to present your information. This allows hiring managers to quickly scan your resume and identify relevant skills and experiences. Use a simple, easy-to-read font and avoid using distracting graphics or images.
Errors in your resume can undermine your credibility and harm your chances of securing an interview. Proofread your resume carefully, checking for spelling, grammar, and formatting inconsistencies. Consider asking a friend or family member to review your resume as well.
Crafting a winning resume for hourly positions involves showcasing your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments in a way that sets you apart from other candidates. By following these suggestions, you can create a resume that highlights your suitability for the role and increases your chances of landing an interview.
Remember, however, that these tips are only suggestions and may not apply to every applicant—you still have to determine which tips, if any, apply to you and your situation.
Once you’re ready to start applying with your resume, check out Workwise Job Search: the easiest place to find and share high-quality jobs near you. All the listings are full-time job with healthcare, paid time off (PTO), and transparent wages.
Whether you want to filter by neighborhood, hourly wage range, or even look for specific benefits for you and your family, Workwise is here to help. Create a free account to save jobs and compare to your current or past job.
Looking for career advice, job search help, interviewing tips, or more? Head over to our Workwise Career Advice page for tips from experts and people who have been in your shoes before. No one needs to find a better job alone!
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