Resume Development

Why use a resume?

• Inventory of your experience, education and job-related skills
• Used for a business-like approach to finding employment
• Tells the employer what you have to offer and why they should consider interviewing you

Types of resumes

The following are the 3 most common types of resumes. The best format to use depends on your background, the job that you are looking for and what the employer prefers.

Essential Elements

• Header – Include the phone number and an appropriate email address where you can be reached, and applicable online profiles (LinkedIn, portfolio, professional website)
• Highlights of Qualifications Summary Statement Profile – Gives a snapshot of your background by summarizing the information you have included in the resume
• Employment History Work Experience – Highlights where and when you worked, your positions at these companies and what you did (skill statements)
• Volunteer Experience Community Involvement – If relevant to the position you are applying for, unpaid work experience can be included in the resume
• Additional Information – awards, scholarships, extracurricular activities, community involvement, publications, memberships, interests, reference statements

Skill Statement

Describe responsibilities and accomplishments by:

• Using action words
• Expanding on job responsibilities
• Focusing on results

Example:

Before – Reported on monthly activities and provided recommendations
After – Analyzed monthly statistics on registration trends, recommended system changes to the manager and implemented improved protocols, increasing registration by 25%

Reference Sheet

A reference sheet is separate from your resume. References can be a deciding factor on who gets the job as they provide testimony as to one’s strengths, work style, personality, and abilities. You must obtain permission first before listing someone as a reference. Keep them informed!

Nailing Down Your Draft

Do

• Expect to do several revisions
• Have a clear objective in mind
• Customize according to job requirements
• Pick a format that suits your background
• Organize information using a logical layout
• Use action words to enhance statements
• Watch your verb tenses
• Include numbers
• Use easy-to-read, professional & consistent font
• Proofread

Don’t

• Minimize qualifications
• Overuse abbreviations
• Assume the reader knows what you can do
• List references
• Include information that does not affect your ability to perform the job