Building a Solid Resume
When you apply for a position, you will need a resume. A resume is a document that summarizes relevant job experience and education. The resume is typically the first document that a potential employer sees when they are considering applicants. A typical resume is no more than a page long. It should only be longer if you need more space to share your experience/qualifications. The resume can be compared to a CV, although they are different.Curriculum Vitae or CV is focuses more on your academic success and is often longer than a typical resume. For most recruiters however, when they ask for a CV, they are referring to a resume.
Creating a strong resume is one of the most important aspects of the job search process. You should write your resume with the realization many recruiters will only devote 30 seconds to reading it before they make a decision on whether or not to interview you. Good resumes are always custom tailored to the employer to which you’re applying. A good resume won’t guarantee you a job, but it will certainly help you get your foot in the door. There are several components which makeup a solid resume.
As simple as it may sound, your contact information is a critical component of your resume. At the top of the page, make sure your name, address, email, and phone number are clearly visible and understandable. This is imperative if your resume is to be successful.
Education
Unless you have significant work experience, your resume should begin by listing your educational attainment(s). Begin with your most recent education and list what you consider to be applicable. Typically, most resumes are limited to listing junior college and college experiences. When listing education remember the following:
-Always list your GPA if it is above 3.0 (This is dependent on your field of study. With regards to your major, list your GPA as it sets you apart from other applicants)
-List your Major GPA if it is higher than your total GPA
-List ACT/SAT or graduate test scores if you feel they are a positive
-Include your major of study and any minors you have
-If you have not yet graduated, list your anticipated graduation date
-This is a great place to include involvement in any clubs/service/leadership activities
Work Experience
Work experience is a chance to showcase the places you have worked and the accomplishments you achieved in different situations. When you list your work experience begin each entry by listing the following:
Name of Employer
Dates Employed (if possible, use years, not months)
Job Title
City/State/Country (if outside U.S.)
Following this information include 3-5 bullet points which highlight your achievements in that position. Remember to begin each bullet with an action verb such as: organized, raised, managed, developed, performed, built, and established. Use quantitative data to prove your success story because numbers really help.
A good source to use is the CAR interview approach as you write about your previous employment. This is also known as the STAR method, among many others (refer to "Interview", "Be Prepared" tab). If you use the CAR interview approach as you write your resume, your accomplishments will be better recorded on your resume and you will be more prepared for the interview process. Matrix Sheet
Service/Leadership
Many students do not have extensive work experience. You may need to add a section for service/leadership/skills, etc. If you have served a mission, this is a great place to include it. See this link for some help: Service/Mission on Resume
Other Interests
At the close of your resume, you have the opportunity to make a statement about what sets you apart. Be careful and sensitive about what you choose to include at the bottom of your resume. When tastefully written, the items you include may create positive discussion and help you appear well-rounded to your prospective employer. However, if the information you include is in any way improper or distasteful, the employer may discard you from its applicant pool. For example, one BYU student pursuing an investment career once referenced his passion for John Deere Tractors in the “Other Interests” section. So fascinated were the recruiters at the bank that they called him in to interview. His interest in John Deere tractors set him apart from the rest of the other applicants who also had great GPAs and unique service opportunities.
Other Items to Consider:
1. Begin with a summary
2. Use a chronological format
3. Focus on your accomplishments
4. Use descriptive verbs
5. Make your resume inviting to read
Resume Integrity
As you develop your resume and cover letter in pursuit of various positions which may offer high appeal and equally high requirements, it can be tempting to stretch the truth. Any short term gain you receive by notching your GPA, test scores, or achievements higher than you actually received will not be in your best interest. Ramification of lying on your resume can haunt you the remainder of your career.
In many instances your initial application is kept on file with your employer. Any dishonesty on this application can be held against you at any point in time later in your career. Sell yourself honestly on all of your employment documents. It will lead you to significantly greater success and happiness throughout your career and your life.
