6 Resume Tips For Construction Workers

Once upon a time, a glowing recommendation was enough to land a construction labour job in Calgary.  But with the increase in competition, many employers now want to see a resume to find out exactly what your credentials are and what experience you have.  

Having a well-written, strong resume that leaves a positive impression is important given that:

  • On average, employers receive 250 applications for every construction job posted
  • More than 50% of applicants are well-qualified for the posted job
  • The first application for any skilled trades job is received only 3 minutes after the advertisement has been posted.

This means that standing out from other prospective construction job applicants can be a significant challenge and it is crucial to carefully construct your resume to accurately reflect the value that you have to offer as a candidate.

Resume Tips For Construction Job Applicants

1. Write to your job strengths

Given that employers spend approximately 6 seconds looking at an application, the initial sentences of your resume are crucial. Let the first paragraph reflect your expertise in the industry so that the employer knows right away that you have the qualifications needed for the construction job.

See More: What Qualifications Are Needed For Top Construction Jobs

2. Continuing education

One way to impress a potential employer is to show that you are keeping up with current construction techniques. By taking continuing education or training classes to add to your qualifications, you show a potential employer that you understand the importance of keeping up with the latest changes.

To help you build your experience for that next construction labour job, Matrix offers a variety of on-site safety training courses as well a partial tuition reimbursement program through the Merit Contractors Association.

3. Gear your resume towards the construction job

While you may know that you have excellent credentials for a particular construction labour job, your current resume might not reflect that. Take the time and effort to aim your resume toward a specific job opening as this will help your potential employer see that you have the skills he/she is seeking.

4. Know what details to include

When writing your resume for a construction job, it is important to understand what employers are looking for. Make sure to include:

  • Your job history
  • Education history including college, trade schools or any other continuing education courses
  • References that a potential employer can call

4. Keep your resume updated

Keeping your resume updated and current is very important when applying for a construction job. Read it over periodically to see where it may need updating when it comes time to apply for a new job.

MATRIX TIP: Always double check contact information since this can be overlooked if you have changed your phone number or address.


6. Appearances matter

Potential employers will be on the lookout for someone they can depend on to represent the quality of their services. To show that you are professional and able to communicate effectively, always double check these aspects of your resume:

  • Spelling
  • Grammar
  • Punctuation
  • Format (ensure your resume layout is simple and easy to understand)

 

Want to learn more?

Want to keep updated on the latest construction job opportunities? Contact our Calgary temp agency at 1-866-666-9520 or join Labor Connect today.

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