Resume Building Tips

If you are planning to be in the job market, you are going to need a resume. Employers who hire for both part and full-time positions like to see resumes from applicants. This document will help you gather the pertinent information, dates and facts that you will need to build your resume.

Don't forget that there are hundreds of sample resumes that you can view in various publications in the Placement Office. You may also view sample resumes at the Placement Office web page. It may be advantageous to view several completed resumes before you get started.

Go to Resume Builder Form

Your name, address, phone number and e-mail address, if you have one, should be in a prominent place on your resume. Always put this information at the top of your page(s). Today employers will use e-mail to contact you, so include your electronic address and check it on a frequent basis.

Objective Statement or Summary

The objective statement is entirely optional, so you do not have to use one. However, a well written "objective" or "goal" statement does give the reader an idea of what you are looking for. Remember, when employers see your resume, the first thing they want to know is why has it reached their desk. A well written objective or summary statement will answer this immediately.

Education

You are currently a college or university student and this is important for the reader to know. Even though you may not have received your bachelor's degree just yet, you should include the name of the college/university you attend, your major, expected date of graduation, honors, activities, key courses completed and other pertinent information concerning your academic experience.

Employment History or Work Experience

The reader will want to know what kind and type of paid work experience you have, if any. Include the organization name, your job title or function, dates you were employed and some brief description of duties and responsibilities, as appropriate. You do not need to include the exact street addresses or the specific names of supervisors.

Other Key Information

All resumes are different. Therefore, you should include categories of information that highlight specific skills and knowledge that you possess. This is the information that the reader will use to determine whether you will be granted an interview. Some suggested categories of important information include, Computer Skills, Foreign Language Skills, Travel Experience, Military Experience, Community Activities, Professional Memberships, Certifications, Volunteer Experience and Internship Experience.