sterlingjobs.net

How to Write a Resume
In today’s competitive job market, our advanced technology has made it possible for companies and personnel agencies to have resume scanners that are capable of picking up certain "buzz" words from your resume and storing this information in a data base for retrieval at a later date. Because of this technology breakdown, resume writing techniques have drastically changed. First, contrary to what you may hear, a resume does not have to be limited to a single page, although, it should be no longer than two pages. A resume should always be typed on a good quality plain white bond paper to make it easier to copy and to scan. Colored paper, fancy folded resumes with cover pages do not scan or copy well. Graphic Artist’s resumes may be an exception. However, even these should be on plain white bond paper. Examples of work may be attached to show creativity and levels of achievement.

Further, scanners will recognize only plain text and key "buzz" words, which have been programmed according to job duties, job titles and education levels. It is to your advantage to keep the fonts and your language simple and concise. Use action words. Avoid italics or fancy print. Here are some specific do’s and don’ts to assure your resume is read correctly, makes a good impression and is not thrown out. First, be sure your name, address and telephone number are at the top so your prospective employer can reach you.

An OBJECTIVE should be kept as an option. If you choose to include an objective, be sure to target the specific job you are applying for. Avoid generalizations and avoid "pigeon holing" yourself unless you have several resumes for each career interest or job title you are applying for.
QUALIFICATIONS: List these at the top. They should include: Types of software, ten-key, customer service, inside or outside sales, data entry, or whatever is applicable. Some examples might be: Customer service oriented with excellent listening skills; Personable and professional manner, including heavy telephone capabilities; Excellent listening skills, using persuasion, influence and verbally inspiring customers.
Next list EXPERIENCE: List date started and ended, job title and company name. Use chronological order, the most recent first. List duties underneath each entry using action words, but keep it simple. Example: Stress achievements, give examples, show growth and progression of responsibilities. Words such as "establish", "created", "managed", "developed". Also use specific examples, such as amount of money the company saved by your developing a new form or filing system, or any other significant achievement, such as "Employee of the Year".
Don’t go back more than fifteen years covering your employment history. Ten years is more accepted. If you have earlier experience directly related to the specific job you are applying for, add this to the bottom under "Other Experience" without listing dates.
Avoid including any clubs or organizations that are non-work or career related.
Never list statistics regarding marriage, health, children, age, sex or religious affiliations.
Include college education, not high school or dates of graduation.
Include achievements in college. If you did not attend college and have a little work experience, include achievements in high school, such as editor of the school paper, debating club, honor society, student council, etc.
The most important thing to remember is to proof read each word. There must not be any typos, errors or inappropriate information listed. Your resume should look attractive, concise, typed or set in plain text and easy to read and understand and be reproduced on good quality white bond paper.
If you have your resume professionally done, use the tried and true methods---KEEP IT SIMPLE. Remember, scanners cannot "read" fancy print and fonts, fancy paper colors, prints and borders or greatly varied tones of print. Use "buzz" words and titles and dates.
Unsolicited resumes seldom get considered or even read. Make sure you are applying for a specific job opening and that you address the resume to the person who is conducting the search.

top of page