Writing a Resumé

Tips for Producing an Effective Resumé:

1. To the extent possible, provide a resume that is specific to the advertised position. Put the most important information first.
2. Keep your resume short, concise and current. Mould the information to fit the advertised position.
3. Resumes are usually sent to the Director of Human Resources who may fax it to the appropriate person(s). Use paper that will provide a clear fax.
4. The life expectancy of a large number of resumes may be 60 seconds. Have a friend scan your resume and tell you what jumps off the page. Does this relate to the desired position?
5. Usually there is no need to include a portfolio in your resume. Bring this with you to the interview. You may or may not have an opportunity to share the contents. You may use an item to strengthen your response to a question.
6. Make sure the names and addresses on your reference list are current and that you have been given permission to use these names. Proofread your resume again and again and again...
7. Develop a master resume: In order to organize and track your resume information, Victor Gaudet and Ron Robichaud (1998) in their book, "Job Ready, Career Ready, Future Ready," suggest developing a master resume. This master resume would include a bank of information from which to draw as you individualize a resume for a particular position. Sections in the master resume could include topics such as: career objectives, education/training, work experience, volunteer experience, special skills, awards, hobbies, sports and references. Gaudet and Robichaud's book offers many examples of different types of resumes.
8. Cover letters are an important part of your resume and allow you to highlight the important aspects of your background. A reference book for cover letters is "Cover Letters That Will Get You the Job You Want," by Stanley Wynett published by Better Way Books in 1993.
9. If at first you are not successful, don't get discouraged! Keep trying and you will succeed in finding a job!