10 Tips for Creating a Resume

• In today's tough job market, having an effective resume can be the difference between getting a good job and simply having your resume put in the recycling bin. Because of the importance of a resume in a job search, many resume writers may feel a little intimidated; however, keeping several tips in mind can help produce a very effective job resume.
  
  

Tip #1

• Resumes should always be printed on high quality resume paper, and the color should be neutral (white, off-white or beige).
  
  

Tip #2

• The font used in a resume should be a standard size and style, such as 10 point Times New Roman, Arial or Verdana.
  
  

Tip #3

• The resume heading should include the applicant's name, address, phone number and email address.
  
  

Tip #4

• The content of the resume should begin with a "Career Overview" or "Career Objectives" section. This section should be three to four sentences that highlight the applicant's previous experience and states the career goals as they relate to the job.
  
  

Tip #5

• The first category in the resume should be "Professional Experience," listing all jobs held for at least five years. Each item should give the job title, the name of the company/employer, dates of employment and a brief statement of job duties.
  
  

Tip #6

• A good resume always includes an education or special training section. Depending on the job being applied for, this section may include formal education at a college, or it could be mentor training as an apprentice, or even a specific kind of licensing offered through private or public means. The important thing to remember is that any training that demonstrates the applicant's interest in the current position should be emphasized.
  
  

Tip #7

• Including a "Special Skills" section in a resume is a good idea as it allows the applicant to list various skills that might not be mentioned in the other parts of the resume. These skills, such as knowing a foreign language or specific computer languages, can demonstrate one's abilities and should be included in the resume.
  
  

Tip #8

• Typically, there is not enough room on a standard resume for a full list of references. Therefore, applicants should include a statement at the bottom of the resume noting that "references are available upon request." A prepared list of full reference information, including names, addresses and contact information, should be prepared in advance and ready to distribute if requested.
  
  

Tip #9

• Most resumes should be limited to a single page.
  
  

Tip #10

• A resume should be proofread thoroughly before submitting. Even the slightest error can suggest to a potential employer that the applicant is careless and does not check his own work.