Early and Associates - Resume Tools

The format below is an effective method for developing a professional resume, but it isn’t the only way! Be creative and consult reference books on resume writing if necessary. Remember, a two-page resume is appropriate, so do not eliminate relevant information or try to cram your resume with text. Leave some white space, which makes the resume more appealing to read through.

RESUME TOOLS

Good news! Your resume no longer needs to be one page!

Consider it your personal marketing tool. In an era where extravagant media is the norm, a dull resume is a sure-fire way not to get the interview. However, it is important to remember that interesting does not mean flashy (photos are best left in your photo albums!) Make sure that your resume really represents the best of what you have to offer – this is a prospective company’s first impression of you! Remember, all content in your resume must be able to be verified.

u Heading Our recommended format for a heading includes your name, address, phone number(s), and email address. Align this information justified left at the top of the paper. Stick to a basic font like Arial or Times New Roman in 10, 11, or 12 point size. Keeping things simple is especially important in our electronic age.

u Career Profile It is more effective to use a Career Profile than a Career Objective. A Career Objective tells the prospective company what you want, but a Career Profile tells the company what you have done and what you can do! Your Career Profile should recap and summarize your career highlights and key skills. Keep it short - 3 to 4 sentences. The goal is to create a desire to read more! Use the Profile to customize your resume for different job targets.

u Career Experience Each of the points in the body of your resume should be looked at in the "feature/benefit" mode. In other words, what was done (the task) and what difference it made (the results). Use action verbs throughout. See the list of action verbs below!

If you prefer, highlight your accomplishments in a separate section under your job responsibilities. You may want to call this section "Selected Accomplishments." Let the prospective company see what a valuable employee you are, but keep in mind that you will be asked to elaborate on these things in an interview. You must be able to back up your accomplishments with facts.

u Education You can list the education section either before or after the career experience section of your resume. Present your highest degree first, followed by the school and the year. On the next line you may add your GPA and other pertinent information. Repeat this format for all other degrees.

u Activities and Affiliations This section should only contain appropriate career related organizations and activities. It is not appropriate to include hobbies, personal information, or political and religious affiliations. The goal of this section is to show your dedication to your career field and your leadership abilities.

u References It is unnecessary to offer "references upon request”. Companies assume if they require references, you will supply them. As you progress through the interviewing process, the prospective company will request references if necessary.

Important In an interview, be prepared to expand on specific information about each accomplishment on your resume. These should include the steps taken, your role, problems you encountered, as well as successes and results.

Action Verbs for Resumes