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Tips for writing a Winning Resume |
First Impressions Count
When you conduct a job search, your resume is usually a potential
employer's first impression of you. Your resume should be an
accurate reflection of your work history, educational background and
job-related accomplishments and skills. A professional resume often
means the difference between getting an interview or getting lost in
the shuffle.
Guidelines for Creating a Professional Resume
Be clear and concise in communicating your thoughts while
including the relevant details.
Limit the length of the resume to one or two pages.
Use a traditional format...chronological and functional are the
most common formats (see Resume Formats below).
Stay away from colors and graphics! Use high-quality white,
cream or gray paper.
Keep your resume easy to read.
- Use a ten-point typeface in a simple, traditional font.
- Use bold, underline, and larger headings for emphasis (but
don't go overboard).
- Use bullet points. Information is much easier to read in this
format.
Use plain, concise English to communicate your thoughts, and
make certain your grammar is correct.
Be descriptive in the wording you use and avoid using the first
person (I, We, etc.)
After you have carefully proofed for spelling errors and correct
grammar, have someone else read your resume for clarity of content
and errors.
Resume Formats
Chronological - This is the most commonly used resume
style. It is a listing of each position you have held, beginning
with the most recent, followed by a description of your
responsibilities.
Functional - The structure of this format highlights your
skills and achievements. The employers and positions held are listed
at the bottom of the resume. If you do not have a stable work
history or if you are making a career change, you might use this
style.
Resume Content
Whether you choose the chronological format or the functional
format, the basic information that should be included in your resume
remains the same...just in a different order.
Heading - This will include your name, address, and
contact information (phone numbers, e-mail, etc.)
Objective - This is optional, but if you do include an
objective, make certain that it's specific and relevant to the
position you are seeking.
Work History - This is an overview of your career
history. Include the company name, dates of employment and your job
title for each employer. The location of the employer may also be
included. A bulleted list of your responsibilities and
accomplishments follows this segment. When describing your
accomplishments, use action words, i.e., created, originated,
initiated, developed, implemented, demonstrated, formulated,
reduced, achieved, provided for, increased, evaluated. Distinguish
yourself from the other applicants.
Education - The school(s) attended, degree(s) received,
and field of study should be included. If you choose, your GPA, any
graduation distinctions and date(s) may also be included. These
additional details can be emphasized if you are a recent graduate.
If you have more than a few years of work experience, the
educational information should be secondary to your work history.
Note: If you are a recent graduate with little or no work history,
the Education and Work History segments can be reversed.
Other Information - These are sections that are usually
seen on resumes, although they are not critical. However, they may
help distinguish you from other candidates.
Computer Skills - If you are technically savvy, this is
great information to include, because it's so important in today's
job market. Include any systems and software with which you are
fairly proficient.
Awards - This is the area to list academic honors or
community awards you have received. The academic honors are
particularly important if you are a recent graduate.
Community Involvement - This is the place to list the
professional associations you are involved in and the charity work
that you do.
References - "References available upon request" is an
option to state at the bottom of the page.
A Few Final Do's and Don'ts for Your Resume
Do use buzzwords when describing your skills, i.e.,
project management, database development, systems implementation,
etc. Resumes are often scanned into company databases and accessed
by key word searches for important skills.
Don't list hobbies and personal information such as family
status, health and age. This information is not relevant to your
ability or suitability for the position.
Don't try to be clever or humorous in your
presentation.
Don't brag. Sell yourself and your skills, but don't come
across as overly boastful.
Don't lie, be vague or misrepresent yourself. Employers
can easily verify the facts on your resume. Being caught in a
compromising situation can prevent you from being selected for the
position.
Do keep your resume updated. You never know when a good
job opportunity may present itself. There are many available
publications which can help you with your resume, your cover letter,
and your interviewing skills.
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