Introduction

Finding the right employment can be a struggle, but it can be made easier by taking steps in advance to ensure that you are as employable as possible. This guide is designed to help you write a winning resume and get your foot in the door.

Benefits of Writing a Resume

There are many reasons why you would want to write a good resume, even if you are not actively seeking employment. By understanding the different benefits, you can provide the motivation to get started and get more out of the resume than simply submitting it.

Understanding Different Resume Formats

There are different formats of resumes and each one is submitted for different purposes. This guide will take a look at the 3 different formats available for resumes, including some of the differences and why you would want to choose one over the other. Choosing the right resume format for your needs can make a big difference in finding suitable employment.

Putting Your Resume Together

The first step in putting together a resume is getting started. But, what makes your resume stand out from the rest and catch the attention of prospective employers? This guide will discuss some of the factors that make a resume stand out, including the objective statement, qualifications, experience, and achievements.

Using Resume Templates

Many people struggle with writing a resume because they have never done it before. If you are in this situation, you may have considered using a template to form the basis for your own resume. This guide will discuss the use of resume templates and how you can use them with success.

Online Resumes

In addition to printing out a resume, there are also options for using the Internet to post a resume. This guide will discuss why it is important to include an Internet resume and how it can make a difference in your ability to find work.

Timing and Other Factors in Landing a Job

Having a resume is important, but timing and other factors also play a role in landing a job. This guide will talk about the different factors that will allow you to successfully land a job, including those associated with your resume and proper etiquette.

Making Yourself Employable

It is important to ensure that you are as employable as possible. This guide will talk about how to make yourself as employable as possible and put you ahead of the competition.

Leaving Your Job with Dignity

Leaving a job can be a difficult situation, but it is important to leave with dignity and not burn your bridges. This guide will discuss how to leave your current job with dignity and avoid burning your bridges.

There are many factors involved in finding a job, but writing a strong resume is one of the first steps you should take. This publication will help you create a resume that will increase your chances of finding the employment you need, even in a challenging job market.

The Benefits of Writing a Killer Resume

Most people write a resume with the goal of landing a job, but there are many additional benefits to creating a strong resume. This section will explore some of the reasons why writing a great resume is important.

Getting Hired

One of the key benefits of writing a strong resume is that it increases your chances of getting hired. A well-written resume will increase your odds of landing a job, which is the primary purpose of the document.

Making a Great First Impression

A well-written resume can also leave a positive first impression on potential employers. Starting your resume properly and capturing the attention of those reading it is the key to making a great first impression.

Highlighting Your Skills

In an interview, it can be challenging to outline all of your skills, especially if you’re nervous. Writing a strong resume gives you the opportunity to highlight your skills in the best possible way.

Demonstrating Proper Etiquette

A great resume can also show potential employers that you are familiar with proper business etiquette, which is especially important if you’re applying for a job in a field where etiquette is a crucial component.

Effective Communication

In an interview, it can be difficult to communicate effectively due to nervousness. Writing a strong resume allows you to communicate your qualifications and skills clearly and effectively, even before you step into the interview.

Outlining Your Value

Finally, a resume gives you the opportunity to outline your value to a potential employer, including any training or qualifications you have. This can make you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your worth to a company.

These are just a few of the many benefits associated with writing a strong resume. By following the guidelines outlined in this publication, you can create a resume that will stand out from the crowd and help you achieve your employment goals.

Three Resume Formats and What They Mean for You

When it comes to writing a resume, there are a few different formats to consider. While there are unlimited ways to write a resume, there are three basic formats that are considered proper etiquette. It’s important to choose the format that is right for your needs and circumstances.

Chronological Format

The chronological format is the most common way of writing a resume. In this format, the information on the resume is listed in reverse order with the most recent information at the top. This format works well if you have been in the same field for a while and are not planning on making a career change. The chronological format is also appropriate if you’re applying for a similar position at another company. However, it’s important to ensure that there are no major gaps in your employment history.

Functional Format

The functional format focuses more on your skills and what you can bring to the company, rather than your work and education history. This format is often used if you have worked in a variety of careers or if you have large gaps in your employment history. It’s also a good choice for individuals who are entering the workforce directly out of school or returning to the workforce after a long absence.

Hybrid Format

A hybrid format combines elements of both the chronological and functional formats. This is a good option for individuals who are making a significant career change or entering a new field. The hybrid format allows you to highlight both your skills and experience and make yourself a more attractive candidate to a potential employer.

Regardless of which format you choose, it’s important to present yourself in the best light possible and make sure that the information on your resume is relevant to the position you’re applying for.

4. Getting Things Started on the Right Foot

When you first meet someone, you typically exchange greetings and introduce yourself. In the same way, a resume is an introduction to an employer, which is why it’s crucial to pay close attention to the heading of the resume, as it sets the tone for the rest of the document. Proper formatting of the heading can show that you’re serious about employment and make things easier for the employer.

The Heading of the Resume

The heading should go at the very top of the first page of your resume. Unless you’re applying for a specific job, it’s not necessary to include a title page. Keeping a resume short and to the point is the best way to get noticed, and if you can fit all the information on one page, the employer will appreciate the effort.

If you’re using Microsoft Word to create your resume, the heading should go on the top of the main page, not in the header feature. The following information should be included in the heading:

Name

Put your name at the top of the heading and make it bold to make it stand out. No need to change the font, italicize or underline it.

Address

Include your street address so you can be contacted if there are any questions. Using a PO box may suggest that you’re transient or a temporary prospect, so it’s best to use your street address to show stability. Use a PO box only if you’re moving to a new address.

Phone Number

Include your primary phone number, and make sure to check your voicemail message to ensure it’s professional and provides the necessary information. Avoid amusing messages and make sure it’s not just the standard message that only states your number, as the employer may not leave a message.

Internet

Include your primary email address, website (if you have one), and LinkedIn account so the employer can contact you through the internet.

Additional Headings on Other Pages

Include a short heading at the top of any additional pages, including your name, phone number, and email address. This will make it easier for the employer to keep track of your resume.

First impressions count, and the heading is the first thing the employer will see. Taking the time to format the heading properly can make a lasting impression.

5. Do You Need a Job Objective Statement?

In most cases, including information in the resume about the job you are applying for is essential. A traditional way to do this is by using a job objective statement, which can still be used today if done properly. This chapter will examine the use of a job objective statement and the reasons for using or not using it.

Placement of Job Objective Statement

If you choose to use a job objective statement, it is typically placed close to the top of your resume, below the heading. However, this may not always be necessary if it’s already clear what job you are applying for.

When to Use a Job Objective Statement

If you’re applying for a job that is significantly different from your current job or if you’re applying for a specific job within a company, using a job objective statement can be the best choice. It helps to avoid confusion and streamlines the process.

Proper Formatting of Job Objective Statement

If you use a job objective statement, it’s important to format it correctly. This makes it easier for employers to find your information and saves them time. The statement should include the specific job you’re applying for, responsibilities associated with the job, and information that guides the reader through your resume and shows that the information is related to the job.

The wording of Job Objective Statement

The wording of the job objective statement should be concise and not too wordy. It’s best to keep it to one or two lines, if necessary.

Alternative to Job Objective Statement

If you don’t want to use a job objective statement, you can still be specific about the job you’re applying for by using a professional title. This allows the employer to see who you are and what you bring to the table.

6. What Are Your Qualifications?

When writing your resume, keep in mind that the reader may have a stack of resumes on their desk. To stand out, it’s a good idea to have a summary that outlines your qualifications and any additional information that would be beneficial to the interviewer.

Placement of Summary of Qualifications

The summary of qualifications can be in its own section, near the top of the first page, either under your heading or job objective statement. Make the heading stand out, for example, by making it bold. Keep the summary short and only include essential information that makes it easy for the interviewer to see your qualifications and why they should take a closer look at your resume.

Length of Summary of Qualifications

There’s no specific length for the summary, but keeping it short is advisable. A brief paragraph or two about your qualifications is usually enough, and it should be written in a format that speaks to the reader, not just listing facts.

Information to Include in Summary of Qualifications

• Experience: Brief overview of experience related to the job you’re applying for.
• Background: Information about you or your work history specific to the job.
• Ethics: The interviewer wants to know about your business practices, so include information about your ethics.
• Values: Include information about your personal values related to the job.

Promoting Yourself

Think of your resume as an advertisement for yourself. You want to speak to the reader in a way that shows you’re the perfect candidate for the job. The summary of qualifications is often the only thing read on the resume, so it’s important to shine in that section. However, make sure that you can substantiate any of the claims that you make!

Outlining Your Experience

Your resume is a summary of your abilities and experience, but the section outlining your experience deserves special attention. This chapter will discuss what to include in this section and how to overcome potential difficulties.

Formatting Your Resume

When creating your resume, consider the format: chronological, functional, or hybrid.

• Chronological: This format includes your employment history, starting with your most recent employer and working backwards for at least 10 years, or more if necessary.
• Functional: This format prioritizes work experience directly related to the job you are applying for and lists your employment history in order of experience level.
• Hybrid: This format allows you to use either a chronological or functional format, depending on your needs.

Including Relevant Information

Include basic information about your employment, such as your job title, employer name, and employer address. You can also provide brief bullet points about your achievements at each place of employment, but avoid excessive detail. Concerning dates of employment, simply listing the years is sufficient unless you changed jobs frequently within a year.

Overcoming Difficulties

Not everyone has a perfect work history, but there are ways to overcome common difficulties.

• Age discrimination: If you have been in the workforce for many years, limit your work history to 10-15 years to avoid discrimination. You may include older jobs if using a functional format.
• Employment gaps or undesirable circumstances: Assign a title to the work you did during unemployment and be honest about your experience. You don’t need to have been employed by an outside employer during those times.

Outlining your experience is an important part of your resume. Consider the format, include relevant information, and overcome any difficulties in your work history to create a strong resume that showcases your abilities and experience.

Blowing Your Own Horn – Achievements”

Introduction

In this chapter, we will discuss how to effectively showcase your achievements in your resume. Including your personal and professional achievements will make you a more employable candidate and give the interviewer a clear understanding of what you bring to the table.

Separating Personal and Professional Achievements

It may be beneficial to separate your personal and professional achievements into separate sections. This allows the interviewer to look through either one or both, depending on the relevance to the position you are applying for. If the information has a direct bearing on the position, it should be written in a functional format and included in the same section.

Listing Your Achievements

Here are some of the different items that can be included in an achievements section to make you a more desirable candidate:

• Unpaid Services: List any community service or other unpaid services that you take part in, especially if they are directly related to the job. This reflects your moral character and can give the interviewer a better understanding of your values.
• Awards: Include any awards that you have received, either in your personal or professional life. Relevance to the job is preferred, but awards that show your moral character or business ethics will be highly valued.
• Affiliations: If you are associated with any organizations related to your profession, list them in order of importance or alphabetically. Include any relevant information, such as offices held during your time with the organization.
• Skills: Include any specific skills that you have that would be of interest to the employer. This could include technical abilities, creative interests, language proficiency, or anything else that gives you an advantage in the workforce.
• Publications: List any publications, including research papers, books, or articles that you have personally written or have been a part of.
• Personal Interests: Although typically included near the end of your achievements, listing your personal interests can give the interviewer a better understanding of you as a person. Try to include any interests that improve your qualifications for employment at the top.

Include anything in the achievements section that shows you are a qualified candidate for the job or provides information about your morals or ethics. Try not to be overly personal, but provide enough information to give the interviewer an overview of you and what you have to offer.

Outlining Your Education

In this chapter, we will discuss how to effectively showcase your education in your resume. Depending on the job you are applying for, your education may be the first thing the prospective employer looks for. We will talk about how to format the education section and make it stand out.

Placement of Education Section

In most cases, the education section is found at the end of the resume, but there may be circumstances that make it beneficial to place it earlier in the resume.

When to Place Education Earlier in the Resume

Here are a few circumstances that may make it advantageous to place the education section earlier in the resume:

• Recently Graduated: If you have recently received your degree or diploma, it is better to include this information earlier in the resume. This is particularly relevant if you have the education necessary for the job but are lacking in experience.
• Relevancy: If your education is directly relevant to the position, it is a good idea to include the information earlier in the resume. This makes you a more qualified candidate for the position.
• Degree with No Experience: If you have a degree specific to the position but no experience in the field, include the information early in your resume.

College Education

It is important to be detailed when listing your college education on your resume. Include the name of the college you attended, along with the classes you took and the number of credits earned. Even if you did not receive a degree, but took classes at a college, it is still valuable information to include. If you are currently enrolled in college courses, specify that information on your resume and include the expected date of graduation.

Professional Certifications

Including any professional certificates you have earned on your resume can be just as impactful as having a college degree. You can either list your certificates under the college education section or create a separate section for them, depending on the specific circumstances of the job interview.

With attention to detail and a clear presentation of your educational background, you can showcase the value you bring to the table and give your potential employer a comprehensive understanding of your qualifications.

10. Should You Use a Template?

Introduction

Writing a resume from scratch can be very overwhelming and many people struggle to put down the information, even if they are using a general guide, such as this publication. It is at that point that they may consider the possibility of using a template to design their resume and to come up with one quickly and easily.

Benefits of Using a Template

The fact of the matter is that there are benefits to using a template, and we will discuss those benefits in this chapter. There are, however, some potential problems that are involved, and you need to understand those problems so that you can avoid them.

First of all, templates can be beneficial because they can help you to get a proper start when it comes to formatting the resume. Although it is not going to put down any information that is specific to your educational work experience, it will help to give you an overview of what information needs to be included and where it needs to be included.

Overwhelming Choice of Templates

Unfortunately, there are hundreds, if not thousands of resume templates to choose from. Many of them do not provide you with the information that you need in a format that is acceptable. For example, you may use a standard resume template that is provided through Microsoft Word or another word document program. Those templates are going to be somewhat beneficial in that they can give you some general guidance, but you really need to be cautious about the specifics that they offer.

Importance of Customizing the Template

For example, they may put your name at the very top of the resume in large, bold letters. It is a good idea for you to get your name recognized, but it is what comes after your name that is of vital importance. That would include your contact information, such as your email address and your telephone number. Unfortunately, many resume templates will provide this information in fine print, so it is difficult to read, especially for those who are looking through one resume after another. For that reason, it may be necessary for you to edit the template to a certain extent and to make sure that you are perfecting it, rather than just using it as the authority.

Limitations of Templates

You also need to be cautious about the limited amount of information that may be included in the template. As we discussed earlier, resumes are a way for you to market yourself, so you want to ensure that you are putting down enough information in a way that would do the marketing effectively. The template may include information in general, such as a place to put your work history or perhaps your educational achievements. It will not, however, provide you with the information that you need for your personal achievements and a summary, which would be used to catch the eye of the interviewer.

Appearance of Laziness

One of the reasons why you should exercise caution when using a template is because it is often quite obvious that you took a shortcut. You don’t want to make yourself appear lazy or non-committed when it comes to applying for a job. Taking a shortcut, including using a standard resume template, may make it difficult for you to get your seat in front of the interviewer.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that templates can be beneficial, but only in a general sense. Even if you use a template, it is still good for you to format everything rather than going with the standard formatting and to include additional information that would market you properly. Use the template if necessary, but make sure that you modify it to the point where you present a professional appearance.

Don’t Ignore the Online Resume Services

Although the majority of the publication has discussed writing a traditional, printed resume, having an online resume is also important. Many companies use the internet exclusively and may require an electronic document instead of a printed one. In this chapter, we will discuss the ways to format your resume for electronic distribution.

Differences between Online and Printed Resumes

There are some key differences between online and printed resumes. A printed resume is typically written in a word processor like Microsoft Word and is formatted to fit on a printed page. An electronic resume, on the other hand, must be in a different format for easy online distribution. Here are some common formats to consider:

PDF

Converting your resume to PDF format is a good idea. Most word processors have the ability to do so, but you can also download a program that prints to PDF. The primary benefit of PDF is that it is a universal document that can be viewed on any operating system. Additionally, a PDF document can be compressed for easier email transmission.

Microsoft Word

You may need to have a Microsoft Word version of your resume, as some employers require it. If you wrote your resume in a word processor, it should not be difficult to send it in this format. Pay attention to the formatting, as the employer should be able to open Microsoft Word documents, even in newer formats (.docx). If you don’t have Microsoft Office, you can download OpenOffice for free and save the document in Microsoft Word format.

Plain Text

Having a plain text version of your resume may also be necessary. You may not send this version to your employer, but it may be useful for copy and pasting into online forums or resume services.

Email

If you plan to email your resume regularly, you can send it in PDF format or format the email so that most email clients will read it properly. If sending through the body of an email, you will need to do a soft return at approximately 72 characters.

HTML

Finally, you may need to produce an HTML file and upload it to an online service. The benefit of HTML is that you can format the document as desired, including changing fonts, colors, and spacing. While formatting may take some time, many online services offer free HTML tools to help you achieve the desired result.

Subject Lines and Keywords

It is important to consider the subject line and keywords associated with your online resume, especially if you are emailing it frequently or posting it online.

For email subject lines, be short and concise so that the recipient knows what they are getting. Don’t try to be too creative with the subject line, as it may annoy the potential interviewer and reduce your chances of getting an interview.

When doing passive job searching, include industry keywords in your online resume to increase the chances of it being found. Don’t overdo the keywords, but include some for this purpose.

“Beyond Resumes: How to Land the Perfect Job”

I. Introduction A. Importance of the resume B. Focus on the entire package

II. Dress and Grooming A. Dress appropriately B. Dress one level above the standard for the company

III. Prepare in Advance A. Research the company and interviewer B. Familiarity with the company and interviewer

IV. Be on Time A. Arrive early for the interview B. Make contact first if unable to be early

V. Bring Extra Copies A. Have extra copies of your resume B. Impression on the interviewer

VI. Body Language A. Avoid potential problems B. Initiate eye contact, hold head up high, keep feet on the floor

VII. Relax A. Be relaxed and speak naturally B. Avoid inappropriate familiarity

VIII. Bring a List A. Ask questions during the interview B. Bring a list of questions

IX. Follow-Up A. Send an immediate follow-up B. Keep it short and to the point C. Follow up again if no response D. Brief overview of qualifications and why you are the perfect candidate

“How to Make Yourself More Employable”

I. Introduction A. Importance of being employable B. Cleaning up your online reputation

II. Clean Up Social Media Accounts A. Remove any posts that may put you in a bad light B. Clean up as soon as possible C. Request removal of posts from friends

III. Research Your Name on Google A. Surprise information available online B. Clean up any negative information

IV. Conclusion A. Keeping your online reputation clean B. Write a winning resume and interview well C. Finding a job by connecting the dots.

 

A Word on Burning Bridges

You’ve reached the end of this guide, equipped with all the information you need to write a winning resume and secure your next job opportunity. But when it comes time to leave your current workplace, it’s crucial to keep one thing in mind: how you choose to exit can make all the difference.

Dignity in Departure

It’s only natural to feel frustrated and mistreated at times in your current job. You may feel the urge to voice your complaints and let everyone know how you really feel. But before you act on these emotions, consider the consequences. Burning bridges by lashing out at your coworkers or employer can have lasting effects on your professional reputation.

Even if you’re confident you’ll never return to that workplace, it’s important to maintain your bridges. You never know when you might need a reference or find yourself in need of emergency employment. By avoiding a fiery exit, you preserve your opportunities for the future.

Moving On

Take pride in the fact that you landed your new job through your own hard work and perseverance. With time and distance, your prior workplace will fade into the background, and you can fully focus on your exciting new opportunity. So leave with grace, and look ahead to all the possibilities that lie ahead.