3 Resume Writing

Write a Resume

In this short presentation, you will learn:

  1. the purpose of a resume and cover letter

  2. what employers want

  3. one basic format for a resume

  4. why it is important to use the word, "Learned ..." for each job, internship or volunteer experience


Part 1 Purpose

  • The purpose of a resume is get an interview - not a job.

  • A resume talks about the skills and qualities you have and a company might want to use.

  • It's not about you. It's about how a company can you use.


What Do Employers Want?

Every job is different.
  • But for new grads - like you - some requirements are basic. 

When looking at resumes for new grads, employers want someone who:
  • is self motivated and doesn't need a lot of supervision 
  • can solve problems by themselves 
  • is responsible and reliable 
  • can communicate well 
  • can work on a team

Please do not say,

"I am motivated. I communicate well."


That's not good enough.

You have to show that you did it already with:

part-time jobs
club activities
internships
volunteer experience 


Where is the proof?

Your resume will have the proof.
Your cover letter will tell the story. 


________________________

Want some examples?

On the side menu, click the JOBS link. A pdf file will open.
  • 2 real job descriptions for intern positions in USA.
  • Jobs ask for basic requirements.

________________________

Part 2 Basic Resume Structure

One Basic Format 

Click the TEMPLATE 1 link in the menu.  You are free to change it anyway you like.

Click here to see the pdf file.

Let's look at the different parts.

a) Basic Info 
  • address is not complete 
  • cell number 
  • professional email address   


b) Profile 
A few sentences to summarize your skills.
  • You have to think like employer.
Companies want to see if your skills match their needs.
  • Most employers or recruiters spend 30 seconds reading a resume. 
  • Focus on skills first. That's why it's a good idea to put a profile at the top.


c) Work Experience 
This person has some good experience, so it goes before Education.
  • job title (including part-time) 
  • use Months to show how long you worked there
  • say what you skill you learned use numbers to be more specific 

This person describes 3 skills she learned:
  • Learned entrepreneurial work ethic. 
  • Learned to complete tasks with minimal supervision. 
  • Learned to listen to others carefully and provide clear directions. 

These skills match what we talked about a few minutes ago:
  • the basic skills that employers want new grads to have. 


d) Education 
  • name of school and major
  • finished or expected graduation date
  • list any accomplishments like scholarships include GPA if it is good and it is a job requirement 


e) Volunteer Experience
  • say place and time 
  • include this if related to the job requirements 
  • be sure to include what skills you learned or used 

 f) Certificates
  • if useful and related to the job requirements