Tips for Preparing an Effective Resume

A resume is one of the most important aspects when finding a job. It lists all of your qualifications and determines whether or not you are the right canidate for the job. Because the resume is the possible employers first impression, it is important to follow steps and stay organized. Here are a few tips reguarding writing an effective resume:

• Consider first an organization that needs your strengths and fits your goals.
• Be consistent. Be sure to use, for example, the same date formats, puncuation, and spacing throughout.
• Use a high-quality printer and high grade paper.

When writing the resume it is vital one follows the following steps:

The Heading

At the top of the resume, include your name, adress, telephone number, and email address

Job Objective

The job objective gives the potential employer an idea of your goals as an employee. Keep the job objective within three lines of the resume.

Qualifications Summary

In the qualification summary section, feel free to write your qualifications for the job. Include achievements, skills, expericence, or personal qualities.

Eduacation

List the colleges you have attended and the degrees you have earned.

Employment Experience

List your previous employers in reverse chronological order meaning place your most recent job first, followed by your second most recent job and so forth.

Related Skills and Abilities

List important skills you feel are unique and beneficial

Honors and Activities

List any honors or achievements you have earned

References

Avoid this step as much as possible

Follow these steps closely and one should write an effective resume. With the economy as bad as it is, making a great first impression with an employer is very important.

Oliu, Walter E., Charles T. Brusaw, and Gerald J. Alred. Writing that Works Communicating Effectively on the Job. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2006.