Helpful 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.
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.
Paper
- If
you wish to use better quality paper, we suggest white
bond paper, colored paper does not accurately scan
- Use
standard 8-1/2" X 11" paper.
Shortening
a Lengthy Resume
- While
text-free space is needed in a resume, there is balance
between text-free space and excessively long resumes. Hence,
here are some tips to shorten a lengthy resume:
- Use
narrower margins.
- Don't
use excessively large font sizes.
- Use
point form whenever possible. This also allows employers
to assess your qualifications faster
- Eliminate
extra spaces between lines (except between
job assignments).
- 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.
Resume "Do
Not" List
- Don't
include your Social Security Number.
- Don't
exaggerate your experience.
- Don't
use your photograph.
Cover
Letter Tips
- A
cover letters introduces you to an employer or recruiting
firm and encourages them to read your resume and schedule
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."
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