A common sense guide to writing a resume – Part 1

ONE OF THE MOST basic tools in your job search is a résumé. Although some companies only require a completed application, many others expect you to have a resume to get a job. A résumé is important. It is a professional representation of your work experience and can help employers get to know your skills and abilities.{{more}}

There are many ways to design a résumé. Visit your local library or log onto the Internet to see examples. Let’s answer a few questions that will get you started.

What information goes into a résumé?

Always start with your current or most recent job listed first, then work backwards. Make sure to include the company name, the position you held, the length of time you held the position and describe your responsibilities. You must list your level of education achieved, dates graduated and any distinctions that were obtained. A résumé also includes community service work, special skills (e.g. foreign language, computer etc)

I never had a job, what do I put on my résumé?

If you never had a job, you can still include all the other information listed above such as education and community service. If you are a recent graduate also include any related school assignments, extracurricular activities, certificates and awards.

How long is a résumé?

It’s best to keep your the top of the résumé. This basically tells to one page especially for younger workers. Workers with more experience will need two-three pages. Try different fonts or adjust the size of the font. Use bullets instead of sentences. Be sure the spelling, grammar, and punctuation are correct.

What is an objective statement?

Some résumés include an objective statement at the top of the résumé. This basically tells the employer about your goals as a job seeker. Here is an example of a very simple objective.

Objective: To obtain a position as a customer service representative with the ability to advance into managerial responsibilities.

Next week, I will answer more résumé writing questions.

Karen Hinds is “The Workplace Success Expert.” For a FREE SPECIAL REPORT on Avoiding Career Killers in the Workplace, send an email to info@workplacesuccess.com
Visit online at www.workplacesuccess.com