Resume TIPS

What is a resume?

A resume is just one necessary marketing tool in an active or passive job search. Essentially, you must sell your talents and what you have to offer. The appearance of your resume can differentiate you from the 'possibly being hired' and the 'not having a chance to be hired at all' groups.

A resume may be your best chance at convincing a prospective employer that you are the one for the vacant position.

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Writing Strategies and Tips

 

  1. Use postal abbreviations so the writer will not have to 'translate' when responding.
  2. Something as simple as your phone number, should be written sensibly and consistently.
    (222) 551-1290 is best for resumes circulated in different area codes.
  3. There are differing opinions to whether or not objective statement should be made. Yes, make it and keep it focused as to grip the reader?s attention. This is your first opportunity to sell yourself after a cover letter.
  4. If you cannot make a concise objective, omit one entirely. If not done succinctly, it can be more harmful than helpful.
  5. When stating duties and responsibilities under the experiences category, include personal achievements. Make the duties you performed special or unusual.
  6. Employers are not impressed with 'gimmicks'. They want a solid presentation that brings attention to achievements related to professionalism.
  7. Rather than simply listing achievements, present as brief, story-like re-enactments.
  8. Group work experience, which is varied, in entries according to recognizable categories.
  9. Make promotions stand out chronologically.
  10. Summarize experiences and qualifications to prevent repetition in job descriptions.
  11. To set yourself apart from the average student, boost up experiences related to the job and play down typical education information.
  12. Be specific and concrete when giving examples of future contributions you may offer the new employer.
  13. Be sure not to leave unexplainable gaps of unemployment in your resume.

 

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Resume Layout Tips

  1. Use quality paper and use it correctly, the right side up.
  2. Create a resume that reflects your personality.
  3. Use paper that matches the profession or your personality.
  4. Make margins uniform in width.
  5. Be consistent in use of all spacing.
  6. Think twice before underlining, using all uppercase letters, or monospaced type.
  7. Use bolding and italics only for necessary emphasis.
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