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Resume Tips

A good résumé is an important job search tool and “sells” your employment skills to a prospective employer.
Tips for an Effective Résumé

  • 1. Try to Use a Computer – There are computer programs that make it much easier to prepare your résumé.  Your local library, work force center, or “quick print” shop can help. Practice on the computer in the library.
  • 2. Be Specific – Don’t waste valuable space with overused, general statements.  An example of a general or “flowery” statement is:  “A challenging position enabling me to contribute to organizational goals while offering an opportunity for growth and advancement.”  Be direct and to the point in identifying your accomplishments.
  • 3. One or Two Pages – If your career justifies a two-page résumé, go ahead and create a document that explains the full range of your experiences and accomplishments.  On the other hand, don’t ramble on about unrelated experiences.  Ask yourself, “Will this statement help me land an interview?”  Every word should sell you.
  • 4. Avoid Use of Personal Pronouns – There should be no mention of “I” or  “me” and only limited use of articles such as, “a,” “an,” and “the.”  Also, do not use abbreviations.
  • 5. List Only Necessary Information – Do not include your interests unless they are related to the job.  For example, if applying for a position as a ski instructor, list cross-country skiing as a hobby.  Personal information such as date of birth, marital status, height and weight, and salary or wages should not be on the résumé.
  • 6. Center or Align Headings – All headings should be easy to locate and consistent in layout.
  • 7. Avoid Making Excuses – Don’t include the reasons you are no longer working at each job listed on your résumé.  The phrases, “company sold,” “boss was an idiot,” and “left to make more money” have no place on your résumé.  Be positive.
  • 8. Check for Typos – Check for typos, grammatical errors, and coffee stains.  Use the spell check feature on the computer and ask one or two friends to review the résumé to find mistakes you might have missed.
  • 9. Use Quality Copy Paper – Don’t try to save money by printing your résumé on cheap copy paper instead of good quality stock.  A résumé should be printed on paper with a high percentage of cotton fiber; it should also be mailed in an envelope with a high percentage of cotton fiber.  You can find résumé paper and envelopes at any store that sells office supplies.   Inspect copies for smudges and marks before distributing.

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