A Resume Guide

A resume guide wouldn't be very good without a bit of advice about how to use it.

Much preparation goes into creating an excellent resume. You don't simply begin by writing. First you have to establish clear goals for your job search. What kind of job are you seeking? Then you must identify the skills you possess which match your job goals. The last preparation step is to summarize your past employment-related experiences and accomplishments. Finally, you will prepare a rough draft and rewrite it several times until it clearly and concisely presents your qualifications.

Here are the key elements that you need to include in your resume. Use this resume guide to identify where your information and qualifications best fit.

The Resume Guide

THE HEADING: This section contains your name, address, phone number(s) and an email address. Whether you choose a chronological, functional or combination resume format - the heading always appears first. When submitting a paper version of your résumé, it is visually appealing to use a large font for your name. Include both a local and permanent address and a phone number so that an employer can easily reach you. This is especially important for graduating students.

THE OBJECTIVE: Write your objective from the employer's point of view. Focus on how your skills and experience will benefit the company. Although optional, a job objective statement shows employers the direction you want to go, your work preferences, and serves as a focal point for employers to review and analyze your résumé. It allows employers to immediately identify the kind of position you want.

EDUCATION: In this section, list your educational experience in reverse chronological order. If your grade point average is good, list it. If you haven't completed your degree, indicate your chosen field and your expected completion date.

If you have not completed a college degree, then list the name of your high school, its location and the year you graduated. Indicate your favorite courses as long as they are relevant to the position you are seeking. If you have a college degree, then leave out your high school details.

EXPERIENCE/EMPLOYMENT HISTORY: This section is likely the most important part of your resume. Employers are looking for experience that will indicate that you have the skills to do the job. Match your skills to those of the job you are seeking.

Describe your skills, abilities and accomplishments in such a way that they create interest in the mind of the employer. Try to describe your experience in the most interesting and brief way possible. However, don't sacrifice clarifying details about important accomplishments for the sake of brevity. Remember to use active verbs to describe your work experience.

List your most recent employment first. A general standard is to ist the last three jobs, or the last 10 years, whichever comes first. You may not need to include everything if you have extensive experience. You will want to demonstrate a continuous work history. Employment gaps are not looked upon highly.

You can include volunteer work in this section if you have limited or no other work experience. Be sure to indicate how you helped the organization through your work.

OTHER: Relate your other achievements that relate to the position you seek. You may list things like: publications, special skills, honors, awards and relevant hobbies, etc. If you have any other notable skills, such as foreign languages, musical talents, or writing skills include these here.

REFERENCES: If references are required in the application process, include them on a separate sheet. This is no longer something that needs to be mentioned on the resume.

Remember: The purpose of your resume is to illustrate your skills and qualifications in such a way that a prospective employer wants to get to know you better. Do not overwhelm employers by providing more information than necessary. Do not try to be everything to everyone. Simply express yourself and let your qualities shine through to the employer. It may be your only chance to get your foot in the door. Hopefully, this resume guide has provided you with some helpful information.

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