How to Create a Resume in Generic Form
As an essential part of job searching, the resume in generic form focuses on a simple style, format and content. The format is adaptable and easy for potential employers to digest. A generic resume provides a template structure from which to develop and modify according to specific, personalized requirements.
The font should be 11 or 12 point in such styles as courier, Times Roman, Arial, or Helvetica in black ink only. Keep the format streamlined without fancy lines so that the document can be easily searched when it is posted online. A simple format will also be easier to paste and transmit in an email, which potential employers may require.
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Instructions
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Preparation of the Resume
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Gather all of the relevant information about employment, career highlights, education and training. Organize the data in chronological order for ease in creating the resume document.
Open and save a new document on a computer with a word processing program or prepare to use a typewriter. Ensure that adequate black ink and white paper is available for proofing printouts and printing final versions of the document. Refer to a template for format reference such as one located at either the U.S. Department of Labor or Career Builder website.
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Left justify the heading for the online version of the resume. Print versions of resumes may easily have centered headings. At the top of the page, include your full name, physical address, email address and phone number. For online resumes and security, list only the city and state. Create another copy to include full address information to present for interviews.
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List work experience for the last five to 10 years. Include employment date, job title, company name and location for each job listed. Indicate direct supervisor contact information if possible. Under that line, briefly and succinctly describe job duties. If applicable, include a concise description of any accomplishments with each position.
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List any degrees with courses of study, year graduated or anticipated graduation date. State the university or educational institution and its location. List technical programs or skills such as computer, laboratory, specific office and familiarity with foreign languages. Emphasize certification and licenses earned and developed abilities. If still in school, list academic awards, scholarships, organizations and achievements. Do not include high school degree information.
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In two different sections, list any relevant career highlights, achievements and awards, especially those that support an application for a particular line of work. Include any professional and technical organization memberships and positions of leadership under the last heading.
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Tips & Warnings
Include keywords that reveal skills and experience according to the targeted industry. Try to keep the resume at two pages and include contact information on each page in case pages get separated. Create different versions of the resume for different career objectives. Prepare an online version of the resume with left justification and a print version with centered headings to mail, present in person and at interviews.
Include only accurate, verifiable information about your education and employment. Ensure that you use a spell check program if using a computer, and proofread the document several times. Web site references should be strictly professional or academic. Refrain from including any employment references, photos or personal information such as age, date of birth, gender or marital status. Revise social networking account sites and eliminate any personal information that could reflect negatively.
