Dianne Said:

How can I make a good resume?

We Answered:

Hi,

You are selling yourself to employers so you need to focus the resume on the things that would make you an attractive prospect for the specific jobs you are applying for. So refocus the resume on those things.

The big mistake most people make is not with the CV but with the covering letter. Make sure you send one! Also make sure it is not generic otherwise you will be weeded out quickly. Specifically target it at the things listed in the job advert.

This does not mean you should start from scratch each time - have a template which you tailor with each application. Eg the first line could state the job and where you saw it and then a few lines about why you are interested in that role.

Also consider where you look for jobs in different places. Jobs websites are great but lots of people use them so there is a lot of competition for each job and it does not really matter how good you are its hard to stand out among hundreds of applications. Places like newspapers have less applications and so it is easier to stand out, the extra work in applying means less competition so it is worth it.

Phyllis Said:

How do I make a good resume with little experience?

We Answered:

When you begin to think about how to write your resume, think about how you can sell the most important product, YOU. The goal is to identify how to make a powerful impression in approximately 1 page. When you write your resume, you want to stand out from all the other pieces of papers, resumes the company has received. You want the company to find a way to visualize you and your qualifications, educations and experience through a piece of paper. In some ways less is more, but more accurately stated, a resume must be CONCISE and POWERFUL.

First, you will clearly state who you are. Your name, address, phone and email should be included at the top of your resume. Remember that your name is more important than your other identifiers at this stage. Make your name lager in font or change color from address. You will want your name to stand out over your address, etc. If the company does not know your name, you will not be getting a call, letter or email.

Next, when you write your resume, you will want a summary of your qualifications or a list of core competencies. This list should have 4 or 5 key competencies. Examples would be: excellent communication skills, supervisory skills, accomplished resource for others, etc. This is the place where you will make it or break it with the company you are seeking employment. Make this section fantastic.

Next is your education. Be concise about school name, year and degree obtained. If you had any special academic awards, add them here.

The section on credentials is important if the position you are applying for requires certification or licenses.

The next section is also very important. When you write your resume, focus on how to best describe your experience history. Your potential employer will want to be able to understand your responsibilities quickly. Use of bullet points is necessary to draw attention to an articulate description of your responsibilities. Identify how to write your experience in powerful words. List responsibilities you have experienced in words that demonstrate your knowledge and competency in these areas.

Other accomplishments: If you have any other information, jobs, publications, honors, affiliations with career groups, etc. Place them in this section.

References: This is highly debatable. Many resume companies state that this does not have to be included. Prepare your reference page to include current supervisor and professional references. Include their title and phone number. It does not hurt to include it, even if it is not required at the beginning stages. Companies can not contact your references without your permission. You can rest that your resume had been complete.

Remember to check that your bullet points are included and that your wording is powerful and accurate. You are sending everything you worked for in a piece of paper. Your goal on your resume is to allow the employer to develop a picture of you on that resume.

Spell check and edit your resume several times. Have friends and family review your resume. Take their feedback. You can also submit to a professional site for review. There are a few that will do it for free, others have a charge.