How to Create a Resume that Will Get You a Job

Creating a resume that will get noticed by employers can be a simple process. You may need to return to the drawing board in regard to what you currently have, though. The main objective in the preparation of creating a resume is to sell yourself to the company by summarizing your skills and abilities and how they will contribute to their company. Follow these tips to create the best resume for you.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pen
• Word processor
• Printer
• Resume paper

Instructions

1. The first step in creating an effective resume is to target a specific job or field. Most people make the mistake by creating one resume for every position they apply for. For your resume to be effective you have to have a target.

2. Once you determine the target for your resume, do some research on what qualifications and credentials are needed for that particular job or field. Search job sites and related associations for skills and requirements needed. Look up the field of employment with the U.S. Department of Labor.

3. Choose the format and style of your resume. The formats are chronological, functional, combination and targeted. Chronological resumes show your skills and responsibility and best used if you have a steady work history. Functional resumes place an emphasis on your skills rather than employment. Combination resumes highlight your skills and places less emphasis on employment history. Targeted resumes are personalized to specific job or skill.

4. Complete a rough draft by writing your resume on paper or on your computer. Type your document into a word processor and make sure there is enough white space for ease of readability. Make sure it is no longer than two pages and uses only the following font styles: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana or Times New Roman.

5. Proofread and spell check. Print it and use only white, ivory or light gray paper.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the chronological resume when you have a steady work history. Use functional when you have little or no employment, gaps in employment or change jobs frequently. Use combination if you have been out of work for a while and re-entering the job market or pursuing same or similar work. The most desirable resume to an employer is the targeted format.

References

• United States Department of Labor: Home