Tips for Writing Your Resume

The resume is an important marketing tool for a successful job search. The content, format, accurateness and overall appearance will open doors and generate interest for employers to interview you. In less than 45 seconds you have the opportunity to make a lasting impression. Your challenge is to ask the question “Does this resume represent me well? Below are tips that will assist you in adding value to your resume.

• Present yourself accurately and positively. Never exaggerate or lie.
• Keep the type size 11 or 12 point. Below 11 point is small and difficult to read.
• Use a one- or two-page resume depending on the number of years worked, positions held, accomplishments and educational background.
• Don’t include references on your resume or the statement “References Furnished Upon Request.”
• Have your resume proofread by others for spelling and grammatical errors. The resume must be perfect.
• Use an objective statement to tell the reader the position and industry you’re seeking or to identify the position for which you are applying. An objective statement is optional.
• Use a summary statement to provide the reader with key information about you. It describes what you do, years of experience, industry experience, skills and abilities, areas of expertise, business characteristics and any other information about you feel will capture the reader’s attention and encourage them to read further.
• Locate education after your work history unless you are a recent college graduate and your work history is limited, you are applying for a job in an academic environment, your degree is specialized or you earned an MBA or masters degree that separates you from the rest of your competitors.
• Use accomplishment statements to tell the reader what you did, how you did it and the result of your effort. Always start with an action verb. For example: Saved $50,000 annually for packaging material by obtaining competitive bids from other suppliers.
• Don’t include salary requirements.
• Select a resume that represents you the best. Below are three types to choose from. They are:
  • Chronological Resume
    A chronological resume focuses on past company names, positions held, employment dates, responsibilities and accomplishments. These items are all listed in chronological order.
  • Functional Resume
    A functional resume focuses on providing information on skills and accomplishments rather than work experience. The highlights of this resume are built around those skills you’ve developed at previous jobs. Your employment history is noted in a separate section.
  • Combination
    This type uses elements from the functional and the chronological. Written in chronological order, experiences are coupled with skill areas to relay both work history and function.

• Don't be afraid to let your personality show through.
• Use your networks to find information about the company and use that information in your cover letter.
• Don't put too much information in your cover letter. You will be able to provide more detailed information in your resume.
• Make sure you use the same type of paper for your cover letter that you use for your resume. This will keep up your professional image.
• Check and recheck your spelling and grammar. If the employer finds a mistake or a typo, he or she will stop considering you for the position.
•   In a typical cover letter, the following topics are normally present:  
• •  Introduction - This will tell the employer who you are and how you found out about the job opening.
  • Why You Are Interested - Describe why this position and company interest you. Research the company and look for any related news articles to use in your cover letter. This will set you apart from the crowd.
  • Summarize - State your skills and any information that might not be in your resume.
  • Address Problems - The cover letter gives you a chance to explain any problems in your resume. This could include employment gaps and inexperience.
  • Conclusion - Finish your letter by letting the employer know you would like to further discuss this opportunity and you will contact them next week.