What's in a Resume?
The following information should assist you in preparing a resume. Remember that a resume is not designed to get a job- it is designed to get an interview. It should always be accompanied by a cover letter. Do not use the same resume for every job. Make the resume fit the job you are applying for. Use experience and education accomplishments that are pertinent to the position you are applying for.
HELPFUL LINKS FOR RESUME CREATION
Resume Prep Worksheet
Resume Writing Guide 1
Resume Writing Guide 2
Cover Letter Examples
Resume Samples by Field
Resume Checklist
Layout & Appearance
Answer each question Yes or No.
- Is my name at the top of the page and in bold?
- Are my address, phone number and email easy to read?
- Is my resume an appropriate length? (1 page preferred)
- Is formatting (e.g. bold, font, bullet sizes, heading styles) consistent throughout the resume?
- Are the headings and statements evenly spaced?
- Are verb tenses in the present tense for current jobs?
- Are verb tenses in the past tense for previous jobs?
- Do I have approximately 2-6 statements per job? (Bullet form is recommended.)
Content
Answer each question Yes or No.
- Does my objective statement clearly state what I am seeking and what I will bring to the position?
- Did I include the following headings: Objectives, Education, Experience, and Skills?
- Does my education section state my official degree and expected graduation date? Did I include my cumulative GPA (if a 3.0 or above)? Is my GPA accurate?
- Do my statements demonstrate major accomplishments rather than routine tasks/duties? Check the statements that demonstrate your accomplishments.
- Do my accomplishment statements start with action verbs?
- Do my accomplishment statements demonstrate the use of key skills?
- Do my statements demonstrate the results of my accomplishments? Did I quantify my results (e.g. use numbers when possible)?
- Does my resume end with strength? (e.g. Skills, Activities section)
- Is my resume completely free from spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors?
Sample Resume: The first resume is for business and the second is for teacher positions.
Sample Cover Letter: Always attach your resume to a cover letter.
Download a useable Resume Sample