A résumé’s purpose is to persuade an employer to interview you by demonstrating that you are qualified for a certain type of work.  It will also serve as an outline during the interview and a reminder after the interview.  It is not a long list of everything you have ever accomplished nor is it a fact sheet of your history.  It should contain carefully selected and organized information that shows how your past experiences are related to your future job target or goals.

Planning Your Résumé

The most effective résumé is generally targeted toward a specific career field.  Therefore, it is important that you are able to narrow down your job search.  You will want to take inventory of your skills, values, interests, abilities, and achievements.  Ask yourself, "What kinds of careers should I be considering with the background, interests and abilities I possess?"  If you are having trouble answering this question, we have many ways to assist you.  Once you have a target field in mind, you'll want to research the qualifications which those employers seek.  This will help you determine what to emphasize in your résumé.  Finally, analyze your past experiences to determine in what ways you have demonstrated some or most of the desired qualifications.  You may have significant, related experience but don't automatically discount those "McJobs" you've had - waitress, office assistant, production worker, etc.  You have probably gained valuable and marketable experience from each job you've held.

Résumé Format

The format of your résumé should emphasize the strengths and abilities relevant to the position for which you are applying.  A résumé is typically one page long unless you have extended experience in your field.  Your résumé is a reflection of you.  If your résumé is sloppy, unorganized, and contains spelling errors, it will reflect poorly on your work habits.  Proofread your résumé many times; have a friend proofread it and bring it to the Career Development Center for a résumé critique. 

Printing

We strongly recommend using a laser printer to print your résumé.  Using ink jet printers can result in a résumé with "bleeding" of the print and this creates a less-than-crisp look.  Using a typewriter is unacceptable in our computer age.   Your paper should be a high quality bond (20 lb. or higher) and a neutral color (consider off-white, ivory, or white).  Black ink is traditional.  Your cover letter and envelope should match your résumé paper whenever possible.  You'll want to use a large, 9" x 11", envelope so that your cover letter and résumé are not folded.