The resume is a document that summarizes the
job candidate, providing all the information a prospective employer
would find relevant, but doing so in a way that is most advantageous to
the candidate.
- Step One Take an
inventory
of the specific tasks
that you are able to do, and find
out
how the skills are described in the
targeted business or inventory.
Example:
You might
have learned how to
create an Excel spreadsheet, but “creating a
spreadsheet” is not
a typical business function. Instead,
a
businessperson would be competent in “creating an asset
valuation spreadsheet”
or “updating an inventory control spreadsheet.”
Students
in some majors develop a specific set of
technical skills. If
you graduate with a
degree in accounting, for instance, you’ll be able to conduct
an audit or
prepare a tax return. An
MIS major might
be skilled in developing a database or designing a web application. Other majors focus on
theories and concepts,
and you might find that your technical competence is built as you apply
the
principles through an internship or during a class project to delegate
responsibility or create an organizational change.
- Step Two Decide how
to demonstrate
the quality and consistency of your
skill, abilities, and interests.
The resume is only one document in
your toolbox. A website or portfolio might also be used,
along with letters of
recommendation from professors and
supervisors. Of
course, you’ll want to
be sure that the quality and consistency of your work is high enough to
demonstrate, and you’ll probably want to sit for any
certifications, exams or
credentials that are available in your field.
- Step Three Format
the resume as appropriate to the targeted industry and position.
Notice this is NOT the first step! The format and
content of a resume are not arbitrary. Resume forms vary
widely
precisely
because the purpose is to showcase an individual. There are a number of strategic
decisions to be made, and those decisions can't be made without knowing
what needs to be showcased!
As you read through the
descriptions of the
typical resume format, try to think of ways you can adjust the
formatting and
content to highlight the skills, habits, and characteristics that make
you a
“businesslike” person.
- Step Four Print
the resume on high quality paper. While
actively job
hunting a linen texture or conservative color can cause the resume to
stand
out, but for career purposes an electronic or plain paper copy is
easier for
others to use.
|
Resume Format
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Additional
Links
Tips
For Business Majors
|