How to Write a Resume Properly

Writing a good resume could mean the difference between getting the job or having your resume passed over by the employer. The format of your resume and selling yourself in your resume will make you an automatic choice for the next job application you submit.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Select a functional format for your resume if your education and work experience are inconsistent or sporadic. Utilize topic headings such as Qualifications, Skills, Computer Skills or others to emphasize your particular experiences that qualify you for the job.

2. Pick the reverse chronological format if there are no major gaps in employment or titles that are job specific. Use this format if there is professional experience relating to the job for which you're applying.

3. Decide on the combination format if there is not enough job experience to provide a realistic description of your abilities. This format is commonly used for those who have recently graduated or are new to the workforce.

4. Write an objective according to your career plan and what the company needs. Use this to deliver the message to the employer that you are the perfect person for the job. For example, state the type of job for which you are hoping to be considered.

5. Compose an experiences section. Include job titles and any work-related experience that is pertinent.

6. List education information including the schools you attended. Include licenses and degrees, followed by trainings and certifications. Mention major courses and awards, but don't include smaller items unless you are a recent graduate.

7. Include any computer knowledge such as Microsoft Office experience or any other knowledge that may relate to the job being sought.

8. Proofread the resume for spelling or grammatical errors before sending it in to an employer.

Tips & Warnings

• Use bulleted statements that begin with action verbs.
• Make a section for any other items that may relate to the job, such as languages spoken and other skills.
• Be consistent. If you use full sentences with periods in one part of the resume, follow through with this style throughout. If you've only used sentence fragments in part of it, continue with this style throughout.