Resume Tips

A resume is the key to selling yourself to a potential employer. Consequently, you should take the time to prepare a resume that will be a professional presentation of your qualifications. This guide summarizes the basic points to consider when you write your resume and includes some resume examples that you can download. Most people think that the first thing they need to do in any search for a new job is to prepare their resume. Actually, it is the fourth thing that they need to do. The first three are:- Developing an understanding of personal values and career goals Identifying and describing significant achievements that demonstrate key skills Determining key strengths that they prefer to use in a new job This section presumes that you have already gone through a process to accomplish the first three objectives and are now ready to prepare your resume. While you will need a resume for your job search, do not think of your resume as the document that will get you the job. Excellent resumes do not get people jobs any more than poor resumes will keep people from getting jobs. Content Write job descriptions as completely as space allows. Include the total number of years experience. Because position titles do not always reflect job duties, describe your responsibilities and achievements. Include only necessary personal information. Try to ensure that dates are correct and account for any gaps in time. If you have been employed in a contract setting, state "under contract to" in your resume. Include your name and page number on each page of a multiple page resume. Because your resume reflects yourself and its effectiveness has long-lasting implications, get someone to proof read the document. Keep job descriptions to 3-5 sentences (especially for older positions) Resume Do List Include a Professional Profile or summary paragraph near the top of your resume. Be brief but be complete. Include pertinent education and/or training. List jobs in reverse chronological order. Don't include your Social Security Number. Don't exaggerate your experience. Don't use your photograph. A cover letters will introduce you to an employer or recruiting firm and encourage them to read your resume and call you for an interview. Ideally, the cover letter should be addressed to the individual responsible for receiving and screening applications. If it is not possible to obtain the individual's name, address your cover letter to "Sir or Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern."