Resumes

Resumes We have all done them over our working careers, but sometimes a quick reminder of what they are and what they are used for can be helpful. My advice is to not use a resume unless you have to, rely on contacts and meetings to further your job search. Using a resume means, the employer has information that if misread or misinterpreted can leading to screening you out of the race. Remember that. A resume is a tool that the employer uses to screen prospective Employees. If you have to use a resume, here are some points to help you.

1.      A resume is a tool that you can use to focus on some important facts about yourself.

2.      There are two rules when writing a resume:

3.      Have mercy on yourself!

4.      Have mercy on the person reading your resume!

5.    Don't make these types of mistakes on your resume

a.    Typo's This one seems obvious, but it happens again and again. A 2013 CareerBuilder survey found that 58% of resumes have typos.

b.    Length A good rule of thumb is one page of resume for every 10 years of work experience. 

c.    Formatting Unless you’re applying for a job such as a designer or artist, your focus should be on making your resume clean and legible.

                                                  i.    Use at least 10-point font. At least half-inch margins. White paper, black ink. Consistent spacing between lines, columns aligned, your name and contact information on every page.

d.    Do not give out confidential information at least 5-10% of resumes reveal confidential information. 

e.     Lies Putting a lie on your resume is never, ever, ever, worth it. People lie about how long they were at companies, how big their teams were, and their sales results, always goofing in their favor.

The style of the individual resume may vary according to the personality of the person writing; just remember it should be neat with no spelling or grammar mistakes.

1. There are three standard ways of doing resumes:
1. Chronological order **
2. Narrative/Biographical ***
3. Descriptive/Functional ****

**  If you have had many jobs, you list the jobs in reverse order of holding them.

***  If you have not held any jobs, you list skills you have and how they can help The employer.

**** If you have held a few jobs that lasted a short time each, then describe the duties of the job.

There are THREE IMPORTANT PRINCIPLES, which you must keep in mind as you being drafting your own resume:

1. Put your strongest qualifications first! You will have to grab the employer in your first few statements or sentences.
2. Present your important achievements and skills in an honest and direct manner! If you do not let the employer know exactly what you can do, no one else will! Don't cheat the employer by exaggerating your abilities, but don't cheat yourself by underrating them!
3. Include your strengths and exclude your weaknesses! No one is perfect. Like everyone else, you probably have weak and strong areas. The resume, however, is not the place to mention weaknesses or problems. To get that interview - KEEP YOUR RESUME STRONG

Keep these three principles in mind as you work on your resume! Remember that the resume is a sales tool. The employer's first impression will be based on your resume.