Notes
Slide Show
Outline
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Writing an Effective

RESUME
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Purpose of the Resume …
Employer’s Perspective
  • The resume is a screening tool to rule out  applicants who do not meet the qualifications or present themselves professionally in writing


  • Resumes which clearly articulate the candidate’s experience, skills and accomplishments may be considered further


  • Appearance of the resume and content are equally important in today’s job market
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Purpose of the Resume … Candidate’s Perspective
  • The resume is used as a marketing tool to sell your experience and qualifications to potential employers


  • The resume is a creative, personal statement of your education and experience, as well as your future career direction


  • The resume should summarize and highlight relevant accomplishments and skills which match the employer’s current hiring needs
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Resume Do’s
  • Make it brief, using short phrases
  • Use action verbs such as… created, initiated, developed, organized, managed
  • Include internships, practicum, summer, full-time and part-time employment
  • Organize education and employment in reverse chronological order
  • Use the language/jargon of your chosen field
  • Have your resume critiqued for style, impact and spelling


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Resume Don’ts
  • Do not make the resume longer than 1-2 pages
  • Do not use resume wizard or templates
  • Do not use negative language
  • Do not use abbreviations
  • Avoid the use of common phrases such as “My duties included” or “I was responsible for”
  • Do not mention high school degrees and activities
  • Do not include personal information
  • Do not include present salary or salary desired


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Resume Formats
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Resume Headings
  • COMMON HEADINGS
  • Objective
  • Education
  • Summary of Skills
  • Honors
  • Certification
  • Experience
    • Internship Experience
    • Related Experience
    • Employment
  • Related Coursework
  • Computer Skills
  • ADDITIONAL HEADINGS
  • Leadership
  • Volunteer
  • Licenses
  • Languages
  • Collegiate Activities
  • Professional Associations
  • Memberships
  • Workshops
  • Presentations
  • Community Activities
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Sample Resumes
  • Resume Sample #1
  • Resume Sample #2
  • Resume Sample #3


  • Resume Resources
  • resume.monster.com
  • rileyguide.com
  • myjobsearch.com


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Using Action Verbs
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Resume Production
  • Word process your resume & use a laser printer
  • Effectively use margins & white space
  • Use conservative fonts such as Times Roman or Arial
  • Use 11 or 12 point font for text, headings should be between 12 - 14 font size
  • Use Bold, Italics, underlining or ALL CAPS for emphasis with headings and position titles
  • Use quality bond resume paper
  • Use white, off white, creams or light pastels
  • Match cover letter &  reference page with your resume
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Cyber Resumes
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Cyber Resumes
  • HTML Resume Tips
  • Skip the picture
  • Do not overuse links
  • Use color with care
  • Choose appropriate graphics
  • Insert a counter
  • Convert resume to a PDF file
  • Scannable Resume Tips
  • Keep layout simple
  • Use simple fonts
  • Keywords are essential
  • List accomplishments & results
  • Use high quality paper
  • Send originals by mail


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A Step by Step Approach to Preparing a Resume
  •  Determine resume focus
  •  List experiences
  •  Decide on format
  •  Plan your layout
  •  Prepare your first draft
  •  Select key words and phrases
  •  Use action verbs and statements
  •  Edit and proofread
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Writing an Effective

 COVER LETTER
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Purpose & Strategies
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Guidelines
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Guidelines
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Cover Letter Tips
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Resume Writing  &
Cover Letter Critiques
  • Call or stop by to set an appointment for your resume critique…


  • Career Services
  • Rondileau Campus Center -Room 8
  • Phone No. 508 531-1328 www.bridgew.edu/careerservices
  • Email – careersrv@bridgew.edu