Resume Services

A resume is a marketing tool for you to make use of during your job hunt. When you consider the thousands of resumes employers must read annually, it is not surprising that many good candidates are passed over simply because their resumes are poorly written, too long, or not directed towards the position and company for which they are applying.

A good resume should summarize your career accomplishments, skills, education, experience, goals, and objectives within a visually attractive yet quick-to-read document. It will be succinct, appropriate to the position for which you are applying, no longer than two pages in length, and easy to read.

Putting a resume together is not difficult--the following tips will help you create a successful resume:

Use quality stock paper in a neutral color, such as white or parchment; avoid the use of intense colors, graphics, and photographs; do not include personal information about your age, sex, race, religion, marital status, health or appearance; and, NEVER handwrite your resume or cover letter.

The OBJECTIVE is a key element of the successful resume. With an objective on your resume, an employer will know the type of position you are seeking, and whether or not there is a position available for you. When you state your objective, be brief and specific. Sample objectives include: "Seeking a position as an Accounting Clerk with a major financial corporation which will allow me to utilize my 4 years experience in computerized accounting skills." "To obtain a position with a well-respected, dynamic marketing firm where I can apply my strong administrative abilities."

EXPERIENCE is another important element. Whether you have six months experience or six years experience, what you have been doing in your career, and where, is of great interest to an employer. You should include the title of each relevant position you have held, your duties, and the date(s) you were in the position. If you do not have a great deal of experience, use school activities, participation in social and professional organizations, or volunteer work.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS should be included as well in your resume. If you saved your company hundreds of dollars from an idea of yours, or if you were selected employee of the month, let the world know!

EDUCATION usually implies post high school work, including colleges, universities and trade and technical schools; You may include certifications, seminars, or any specialized training relevant to the job for which you are applying. If you are a recent student, with little experience in the working world, you may want to emphasize particular subjects you have studied or any honors/scholarships you may have received.

QUALIFICATIONS and SKILLS should include any special credentials, training or office skills. In today's workforce, not having computer skills can be a disadvantage for many job seekers. Be sure to list computer languages, software and applications. If you have ever served in a leadership capacity, it should be mentioned here.

AWARDS and HONORS should be on your resume if they are relevant to the job for which you are applying. Employers will be interested in honors that reflect a desire for excellence and achievement on your part. Avoid lengthy explanations of why you left your previous position; however, it would be appropriate to discuss this during an interview.

ASSOCIATIONS to which you belong should be included. These can be professional, volunteer, community, alumni, or any other organization that is relevant to either your occupation or the position you are seeking.

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