How Is the Best Way to Prepare a General Background Brief Resume?

Use a computer program to layout your resume.

Regardless of the type of job you're applying for or your current industry, there are some basic elements to just about every resume. Employers wants to read about your past work and education experience, plus they need to know how to contact you. Your resume should reflect your best qualities and experience.

Instructions

1. Include your contact information at the top of the page. You'll want to include your name, phone number, mailing address and email address. If you'll be moving, make sure to list a mailing address where you can still pick up your mail, such as at a family member's house. This is especially important if you're a college student with a campus mailbox. Keep in mind that you'll want a professional email address and voicemail message.

2. List your work experience, starting with your current or most recent job and work backwards. Include your job title, months and years of employment, employer and a brief, one-line description of your job duties.

3. List your educational experience, starting with your current or most recent school. Include the name of the school, the years attended and your major or majors. If you have a high GPA, you can include that as well. If not, it's best to leave your GPA out. Don't forget to include your high school information as well.

4. Include information about any special skills that you have or extracurricular activities that you've participated in. These can either relate directly to the position you're applying for or be included to showcase your diverse interests.

5. Finish your resume by writing that you will include references upon request. Include this information at the bottom of the page. Make sure to always have an updated and current list of references so that you can send them immediately if a potential employer asks for them. If you're asked for an interview, bring a list of references with you.

Tips & Warnings

• Some computer and word processing programs have resume templates that will help you to create a professional looking resume.

• Your resume should be easy to read. Avoid wordy sentences. Also, keep your resume to one page, and make sure it's typed in a legible font.

References

• Barrel of Crafts: Basic Resume Tutorial
• Wisconsin Job Center: Resume Writing, A Basic Guide
• Surviving College Life: How to Write a Basic Resume