How to Properly Make a Resume

You must make your resume clearly stand out to get a chance at an interview.

A good resume quickly tells an employer you have what it takes to be an asset to the organization. Creating a targeted, accomplishment-laden resume will increase your chances of getting an interview.

Instructions

1. Know the basics of a resume format. Head your page with your name, address, home and cell phone numbers, as well as your e-mail address. Use easy to read fonts such as Times, Garamond or Palatino. Font size should not exceed 14 points and should not be smaller than 10 points. Keep your resume to one page if at all possible. To accomplish this employ clear, concise statements.

2. Determine your objective. This is the first section of your resume after your name and contact information. Your objective should briefly reflect what kind of position you are seeking and what skills you can bring to the job.

3. Customize your resume to the position you are seeking. Reference the job ad and use key words from it in your resume. Include relevant information that shows you are a good match for the position. If you are applying for a sales position, for example, feature how you increased sales by 40 percent in your current position.

4. Follow your objective section with your work experience, starting with your most current position first. List the company name, your job title, and the years of employment. Analyze your work experience and accomplishments, looking beyond your job titles. Focus on tangible, quantifiable accomplishments made during your career history. For example, streamlined accounts receivables, reducing costs by 20 percent or developed and implemented volunteer recruitment program that resulted in a 20 percent increase in new volunteers. Capture this key information in bulleted statements following your job information.

5. Use dynamic verbs to describe your accomplishments. Instead of saying you were "responsible for," apply words such as managed, implemented, planned, executed, coordinated, directed and other action words that better convey your accomplishments and skills.

6. Cite your college and training information after your employment section. Include any special accomplishments or awards that are related to these areas. Also include any relevant affiliations such Rotary Club or American Marketing Association.

7. Include "References available upon request" at the end of your resume. Be prepared with a list of references when you interview for the position.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a quality, professional paper for your resume and cover letter with matching envelopes. Purple scented paper really doesn't make the appropriate statement. White, ivory, cream and light gray are good color selections.

References

• Trinity College: How to Write a Resume
• How To Write a Resume: Resume Writing Tips
• Best Sample Resume: How to Write a Resume