Developing Your Resume
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So, you’re ready to write a resume? Or are you? Writing a resume requires careful thought, research and preparation
* Be accurate and honest * Print on quality paper using a quality printer; use matching paper for your resume, letter and reference page * Carefully proofread to avoid any mistakes * Consider overall page design * Be consistent in format and style: readability, eye appeal and total positive impression should be your goals * Will likely be one, or at most, two pages regardless of amount of work experience * Omit all personal pronouns and use phrases beginning with an active verb * Omit high school information unless it relates to your objective * Update your resume every six months to reflect your desired focus or goal
What Is a Resume? * A brief summary of your work and/or experiences, educational background and skills. * A document that highlights your qualifications and experience as they relate to the job you are seeking. * A way for you to market yourself effectively on paper to a specific audience. * Use it to gain attention, arouse interest and generate action (an interview) so you can sell your strengths in person. And remember, there are no “set rules” to writing a resume—only guidelines.
Resume Guidelines
Resume Formats While there is no one right way to structure a resume, most resumes fall into one of three basic formats:
Chronological: Your education, employment and other experience are presented in reverse chronological order the most current first. Most common style particularly among college students and recent graduates.
Functional: Resume vs. Curriculum Vitae
A curriculum vitae (CV) is a comprehensive biographical statement, usually three or more
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pages in length. A CV is used in the field of higher education and concentrates on academic pursuits, research, teaching or presentation skills and published work. A resume is a summary of an individual’s educational, and work experiences as it relates to careers in a particular area, it is typically one or two pages in length
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Emphasizes qualifications, skills, and related accomplishments, rather than chronological listings. Skills are organized into categories that identify your functional skills. This style can be effective for re-entry candidates and career changers.
Combination: Information may be arranged to highlight functional skills within the basic chronological format. Relevant experience may be organized into skill areas in a chronological way.