Everything You Need To Know About Writing an Interior Design Resume For the Canadian Market

Writing an interior design resume for the Canadian market is one step in the right direction if you are looking for a job in this profession. However, it is not okay to just write a resume. You need to write one that is up to standard and presents you as the best man for the job. The interior design space is increasingly competitive and more so in Canada. Hence, you need a resume that will help you stand out from the crowd.

A resume for an interior designer who wishes to work in Canada is similar to any other resume out there. However, there are a few differences to keep in mind. First, it should be tailored to the profession. Secondly, it should meet the Canadian resume standard. In this article, we will discuss the important details you need to know about writing a resume for an interior design job in Canada, including the difference it has from that of other countries.

Why Is it Called a Resume and Not a CV?

Most times, job seekers are unsure whether to refer to their document as a CV or a resume. Here’s what you need to know as a job seeker in the Canadian market. In Canada, the terms “CV” and “resume” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they can have different meanings depending on the province and the context.

In Quebec, the terms are often used interchangeably, but in other provinces, a CV is typically longer and more detailed than a resume. Also, it is used primarily for academic roles or programs, grants, fellowships, and research or teaching positions.

A resume, on the other hand, is a brief document that highlights why you are suitable for a particular job. It is used when applying for jobs in the private or public sectors, which are often referred to as “industry positions.” Hence, you should be writing an interior design resume, not a CV.

Which Resume Format is Best For Writing an Interior Design Resume In Canada?

The chronological resume format is well-suited for an interior design resume for the Canadian job market because it allows you to effectively highlight your work experience, career progression, and project achievements. However, remember to customize your resume for each job application to emphasize the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific role you’re targeting.

Aside from the chronological resume format, there are several types of resume formats, each with its own advantages and best use cases. The choice of format largely depends on your specific circumstances, career goals, and the industry or job you are applying for. Below are some of the common formats:

Chronological Resume

This is the most traditional and widely used resume format. It is also best for writing an interior design resume in Canada. It presents your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. Ideal for those with a stable work history and clear career progression. It also highlights your employment timeline, making it easy for employers to see your career growth.

Functional Resume

Focuses on your skills and qualifications rather than your work history. It is suitable for individuals with employment gaps, career changers, or those with a diverse set of skills. Also, it emphasizes your abilities and achievements rather than the order of your work experiences. You may include a brief summary of your work history at the end of the resume.

Combination/Hybrid Resume

Combines elements of both chronological and functional formats. It highlights skills and qualifications at the beginning, followed by a detailed employment history. It also allows you to showcase your skills while providing a chronological work history.

Targeted/Customized Resume

Customized for a specific job or company. This resume emphasizes the qualifications, skills, and experiences most relevant to the job you are applying for. It requires tailoring your resume for each application to match the job requirements.

Sections to Include When Writing an Interior Design Resume

Contact Information

Start writing an interior design resume with your full name, and contact information, including your phone number, email address, city, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). Ensure that the email address you use appears professional.

Resume Summary/ Objective

Here, provide a brief overview of your career goals and what you can bring to a potential employer. Include your experience, skills and achievements.

Professional Experience

In this section, list your work experience in reverse chronological order (most recent job first). Include the name of the company, and location (city and province or country if outside Canada). Also, mention your job title and employment dates. Then describe your key responsibilities, accomplishments, and projects using action verbs.

Make sure you emphasize your experience in interior design, including design projects, client interactions, and any specialized skills (e.g., CAD software proficiency). Do not fail to quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., “Designed and managed 20+ residential projects in Toronto”).

Education

This part requires you to list your educational background, starting with the most recent degree or certification. Include the name of the institution, degree earned, graduation date, and location. Also, mention any relevant coursework, honours, or awards.

Certifications and Training

This is an advantage if you have them. Highlight any relevant certifications (e.g., NCIDQ, ARIDO) and specialized training or workshops. Also, include the issuing organization and dates of certification/training.

Skills

The skill section allows you to further emphasize what you bring to the table for the organization. Make sure to include skills that are relevant to interior design and the specific job role. Showcase your technical skills (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite). Also, mention relevant soft skills such as creativity, communication, and problem-solving abilities. In the case of soft skills, also include those that show your ability to work and relate well within the organization.

Portfolio

Consider providing a link to your online portfolio, if available, to showcase your design work. Mention it in your contact information section.

Professional Memberships

If you have them, mention memberships in relevant industry organizations like ARIDO (Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario) or IDC (Interior Designers of Canada).

Is an Interior Design Resume for Canada Different From that of Other Countries?

Writing an interior design resume for the Canadian job market may have some differences compared to resumes in other countries, such as the United States or Europe. Here are some key factors that can make a resume for the Canadian market unique:

• Personal Information: Canadian resumes typically do not include personal information such as date of birth, marital status, or nationality
• Photo: It is generally not recommended to include a photo on your Canadian resume unless the employer specifically requests one. This is in contrast to some European countries where including a photo is common practice.
• Length: Canadian resumes are usually one to two pages long, depending on the level of experience and the job requirements. It is important to keep the resume concise and focused on the most relevant information.
• References: Canadian resumes do not typically include references, while American resumes may include a separate reference page. It is common practice in Canada to provide references upon request during the interview process.

Extra Tips for Writing an Interior Design Resume

1. Proofread Thoroughly: Ensure your resume is error-free, both in terms of grammar and spelling, and double-check that all contact information is accurate.
2. Keep your resume honest and accurate.
3. Use a professional font (e.g., Arial, Calibri) and a legible font size (11-12 points).
4. Save your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting.

Finally

Writing an interior design resume for the Canadian market requires attention to detail, cultural awareness, and a keen understanding of industry-specific expectations. In the competitive landscape of Canada’s interior design industry, your resume serves as your first introduction to potential employers, making it essential to get it right.

Remember, your interior design resume is not just a static document but a dynamic tool that you can adapt and customize for each job application. Take the time to tailor it to the specific requirements of the position you’re pursuing.