Resumes

Write your own resume but have it tweaked by a professional because most sophisticated firms today do “key word” searches to screen out the masses from the few they will review.  You will certainly want some opinions on the format, language and grammar but you know best what you have accomplished.  It will assist in self-awareness and give you more confidence to sell yourself.  Above all, it must be easy to read.  There are numerous books, Internet sites, and resume services to polish up your written words.  But the document will be more accurate if you pen the first draft.  Plus you’re the one who is going to have to explain each word and phrase in interviews – so it’s wise to be well versed on exactly what is written.  Also to note, you only have to go back 10 years for employment experience on your resume.  During an interview, I’m sure they will want to know about your experience before that time, but the close-in relevant employment experience to the important piece to get you in front of the interviewer.

Many people will argue that three or four pages are fine for a resume but I go back to the example of the executive summary.  Present only the pertinent information on two pages, if at all possible.  Unless it's the greatest story ever told, it won't be read!

Your resume should be in a neat, block format, with headings highlighted for ease of reading.  Even though most of your distribution will be via Internet, you will want the quality printed version for in person interviews and for mailings.  Use bullets and bold type to focus attention on key points, but on a resume to be sent over the Internet, make sure it’s in the format specified by the site you’re sending it to.

A "combination type" of resume is probably the best to use in today's business climate:  Listing skills acquired, significant accomplishments, and chronological employment and educational experience.  But the most important thing to remember is that you must customize and highlight your experience that matches a particular job you are applying for – to get noticed.  Ask for a complete job description, if possible, to assist you in this regard.  My experience suggests that if you avoid wordiness and follow an easy-to-read, visually appealing format your resume will be read.  There is one catch.  You must peak the reader's interest with a striking cover letter -- first.