Picture this, you're on the job hunt and hoping to get into the mining industry, one that is completely new to you. You've been looking for a while and just can't see to find the right opportunity and now you're stuck wondering why?
Whilst you may hold all the qualifications needed to be a Heavy Diesel Mechanic or Boilermaker, it could very well be your resume that's holding you back.
Your resume is the first point of contact with a recruiter and possible employer. It's the document that is going to set the tone for the rest of the recruitment process and is quite possibly the make or break when it comes to securing a new role.
We've sat down with our Schlam Recruiters to pinpoint the 6 most important areas to focus on when constructing your resume.
1. The initial Introduction
This may seem simple but to start off any resume you'll need 3 important things, your name, phone number and email address. The whole point of sending a resume is to get a call-back and how is the recruiter to do that if these crucial components are either missing or incorrect.
2. Qualifications
If you are applying to be a Heavy Diesel Mechanic or Boilermaker, it's likely that you already have those key attributes and skills needed to successfully complete the role. Make sure to do your research and determine which qualifications are relevant to the role, list all of those qualifications and include "willing to obtain" if needed.
Whilst having your boating license is pretty cool, it's not really that important compared to a forklift license for example. In addition to all of the crucial tickets, don't forget to mention your type of driver's license - it may seem like a no brainer, but it will save you a lot of back and forth down the line.
3. Work Experience
The number one rule when listing your work experience, make sure you stick to the 10-year max! You may have been a Heavy Diesel Mechanic for over 10 years, but we would recommend only going into detail on your most recent roles, with any additional roles being listed together at the end. Include the company name, your title, how long you worked there and then the specific duties within that role that would link to the one you are applying for now - a crucial component would be what equipment you have worked on in previous roles.
If you have done a range of contracting or agency work, list all of those together rather than individually to avoid making it seem like you've been jumping around.
4. References
Who you put down as your references will make a big impact when it comes to securing a new role so make sure to think carefully about who you include. "Available upon request" isn't going to cut it, with recruiters wanting to see at least two references from recent employers - we suggest no more than 5 years old. Personal references are less desirable and may show that you lack professional references. Before sending in a resume, make sure to advise your references that they may be contacted to avoid any surprises.
5. Overall Resume Check
Once you have included all the recommended details, make sure to do a complete overview of your resume. This would include spelling and grammar, ensuring the information provided is current and that the document is no more than 2 pages long.
6. It's time to send
If you want to make sure you really stand out of the pack, jump onto the company website and track down the recruitment contact details so you can email your resume directly, rather than through a third-party platform. This will show that you thought outside the box and that you are committed to the role.
Want to apply for a job at Schlam? Send an email to recruitment@schlam.com with your current resume or visit our careers page for more information.
Good luck!
