Writing a Resumé
Your chances of getting the job you want often begin with an impressive resumé. In keeping with our commitment to helping you achieve your career objectives, Kelly IT Resources presents some important tips for developing an effective resumé.
DO:
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Use active verbs like: managed, designed, sold, saved and developed. These words draw attention to what you have accomplished.
Tap into the power of the search engines. Use several key words that are strongly related to your field throughout your resumé.
Keep it short and concise with paragraphs no more than six or seven lines. Make it easy for the hiring manager to quickly scan to see your accomplishments.
Spell check. Spell check. And spell check. Then, have a friend proof it for you just to be safe!
Choose a clean, easy-to-read design and typeface so your information can be easily scanned into a company’s database. Keep in mind that certain types of software can’t read special designs or bold typefaces, which means the resumé won’t make it into the database.
Tailor the document by highlighting your unique capabilities, awards, experience and other information specifically relevant to the position. Remove any other information that is not relevant to the position for which you are interested in.
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DON’T:
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Provide vague information; facts and measurable results strike a highly professional tone (e.g., "Helped the company realize a 30% savings through newly developed employee accountability policy.")
Use the words "I" or "me." (e.g., simply state, "Received an Employee of the Month award.")
Cover up gaps in employment history; you can explain them during the interview.
Provide information unrelated to the job you are seeking.
Give reasons for leaving a prior job.
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DESIGNING YOUR RESUMÉ
Personal Information:
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Include your full name, address and telephone number.
List your work number or email address only if you’re certain you want a prospective employer to contact you at work. (Check your voicemail often if you’re not easily accessible by phone).
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Objective:
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The stated career objective is the focal point of your resumé.
Make sure it not only relates directly to your experience and accomplishments, but to the job for which you are applying.
Have a few versions of your resumé on hand, with different objectives that support the various types of position you’re seeking.
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Work Experience:
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Include your title or position, followed by the company name/location and dates of employment.
Use strong action verbs to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments.
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Education:
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List your most recent educational experience first.
Include the name of the institution you attended, the degree you earned, your major and date of graduation.
Special commendations or awards should also be listed here.
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Additional Information:
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Ideal for information—only if relevant—that doesn’t fit elsewhere (e.g., professional certifications, special interests or multilingual skills)
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References:
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Indicate that references are available upon request.
Develop a list of three references (make sure that your references agree to be included) and provide their name, title, employer, business and home telephone numbers.
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