Resume Time!

On Basics, Rules, Selling Yourself, Services, and Other Thoughts

I promised to write more on employment issues each month. This time I intend to write on resumes.

Below is a link on writing a good resume.

The key to good documents of this kind is clarity and organization. All information must be straight forward and to the point. It must be free of errors. The worst thing possible is to leave a typo or spelling error in such an important document.

Another important issue is to think of how the document will make an impression. The person reading this (most likely an HR manager) is as busy as any other professional, and will not waste any time on a resume with flaws. It will go into the trash. So keeping this in mind:

1. Keep it easy to read

That is, no strange resume paper (classic white is best) or odd fonts. The standard is Times Roman. Do not shrink the font below 12. It doesn't matter what your tastes are. You are trying to get the attention of others.

2. Keep it short

The only acceptable circumstance in which a resume is longer than a page is when it is an academic (curriculum vitae) or if you have been doing this work for a long time. Hence, experience listed should be relevant or at least demonstrate skill sets that apply to positions you are applying to.

3. Organize it with care

For example: if you are just leaving school and have very little work related experience then list your education first and then your experience. When discussing your qualities, those skill sets that make you worth interviewing, list them in bullet points, or some other logical form which is easy to read. The impression you want is that of a highly organized individual who is able to work in an autonomous and professional manner.

4. Sell yourself

The whole point of a resume is to put yourself out into a market where you will be competing with other people. Think of your resume sitting on a grocery shelf with dozens others (the grocery shelf is my clumsy symbol for a desk) who are all vying for the attention of a mother who is most likely tired or has missed lunch because she was too busy to stop and eat. You want her to see you first. She is going to read the label, so make it easy on her. Make sure she understands what a great product you are!

5. Have someone else proof read

I am a terrible proof reader. Actually many writers are. Getting a second set of eyes (usually fresh and disconnected from what they are reading) will almost always see mistakes that you have missed. Get someone who is good at it though. Normally they will do it as a favor. They enjoy doing it.

6. Be Cautious of Resume writing services

There are excellent services that can do all of these things for you. But they cost a boat load of money. If you have the money to spare, then fine. Go for it! My experience, however, is that recent grad students don't normally have a lot of money to spend. Read up on the service. Look for testimonials. How long have they been in business? Be smart. If you have any doubts, do not get that credit card out. Don't spend a lot of money on books either. If you must use them go to a library and take notes, or if you must, a Borders and sit with a nice cup of tea in the cafe.

I hope this brief discussion gets you thinking (its only a start) on what is one of the most important pieces of paper in your life. Like your birth certificate it is vital as a professional that it is smart and up to date.

Here are some links!

http://www.rogers-resume-help-center.com/sample-librarians-resume.html

http://www.lisjobs.com/advice.htm#start

http://www.questcareer.com/tips.htm

http://www.free-resume-tips.com/10tips.html

http://www.rockportinstitute.com/resumes.html

http://www.resume-help.org/resume_writing_tips.htm

http://www.careerjournal.com/jobhunting/resumes/

Some Good Services (keep in mind they charge):

http://www.resumeedge.com/

http://www.resumewriters.com/

http://www.careerperfect.com/content/professional-resume-writing-services-overview?partner=resumelines&cpsrc=resume_main

http://www.1-on-1-resumes.com/

http://www.employment911.com/resumes/resume-writing.asp?B=357&A=2373

http://www.blueprintresumes.com/#a2179l1hx

http://www.aspirationsresume.com/

Coming Soon:
Cover Letters!