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The Resume: Your Life On A Postcard
Originally By Yana Parker (http://www.damngood.com)
Resume Contents: What Goes In The Resume
Statement of your objective
Some resume experts think an objective is key because if focuses the
entire document that follows. Others find it entirely dispensable because you will be stating your
objective in your cover letter that accompanies the resume. Space shortage may make the decision for
you. But even if you don't include an objective, you've got to have one at least in your own mind.
Skills
Many resume pros recommend starting with a summary of your skills
and experience. It might be in the form of a sentence or two, or it might be a bulleted list.
This is where you need to grab the attention of the resume screener, who probably has a stack of
other resumes to read that day.
"An executive secretary with 12 years experience working in challenging environments
with top management at fast-growing software design and technology manufacturing companies" is
likely to be of interest. If you are responding to an advertisement, pick up key words from there.
Don't forget to highlight your computer skills, particularly if you are an older worker. If you
don't have any, get some.
Accomplishments
No matter what format you use, a dry listing of your job responsibilities
is a sure way to bore the person who screens your resume. Instead, take a hard look at specific things
you have done and turn them into advertisements that show a potential employer how you can be of service.
Your resume is not the place to be modest or shy. Promote yourself
-- for examples, "Manage a stable of 20 freelancers and two staffers to turn out a publication that
was twice honored by the Looking Good Foundation" or "Researched long-distance telephone calling
plans, saving 10% per month" or "Organized trade-show appearance that attracted two new clients."
If you lack experience, try listing some of your unpaid accomplishments.
You don't have to mention that you did it for free.
Education
Put this information at the bottom if it's ancient history, perhaps
leaving out the year of graduation if it is really prehistoric. Don't forget ongoing training programs
that your current and previous employers have provided.
Other Stuff
At the end of your resume, you might list the associations to which
you belong if they are relevant to the job. Also tout awards or publication that apply. Keep the
personal information (of course you are in good health!) to yourself. Hobbies that are relevant
to the job might be included, if you have room.
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