Resume Writing

Resume construction and content are an extremely important aspect of a successful job change / search. Resumes are often times the only tool that a decision-maker has when deciding who will be brought in for an interview. Most resumes do a poor job of conveying a candidates strengths and experience and thus, the candidate never is provided with an opportunity to interview. You can avoid this pitfall by following a few basic principles and by taking advantage of the wealth of published material on this topic.

Good resumes generate an interest on the part of the reader…. There's enough substance present to make the reader want to know more about the candidate. This substance is made up of the candidates job responsibilities and achievements in their employment history. In particular, achievements are the "hook" that catches the interest of the reader. Achievements should be stated in action format, such as, "Improved productivity by 17% in 1998 through the effective use of cross training." Other possible achievements include reference to awards, recognition by a customer or the company, anything that can be substantiated through correspondence you may possess or some reference in a performance review, etc. It may take some effort to identify your achievements, but they're there if you think about them.

The actual format and layout of your resume is also important. Poorly organized resumes frequently find themselves in the "cylindrical metal file" at the close of the business day. You may be able to avoid this by carefully crafting your resume, paying particular attention to the effective use of space, spelling and grammar, using a conventional format, etc. There are many publications in bookstores or on the Internet that can assist you in this effort; you should take advantage of such information or consider a resume service. However, some so-called "resume services" are nothing more than typing services and wouldn't know a good resume if they see one.

Cover letters that accompany resumes should be formal, free of errors and provide substantive reasons why you should be considered for the position for which you are applying. Avoid statements like "I think I can do the job"; if you can do the job, state so and support it with your concrete reasons. There is an emerging school of thought that cover letters should be brief, and this makes sense if the resume does an excellent job of portraying your accomplishments.

Remember, your resume and cover letter represent you……. If they are poorly done or lack "hooks", your chances of getting to first base are greatly diminished. Spend the time to make sure your resume catches someone's attention.

Premier Careers, Inc. can help you construct a resume that is accomplishment oriented. If we are working with you on a specific job we are seeking to fill, there is no charge for the assistance we will provide. However, if you are seeking professional advice and assistance to construct your resume and we are not working with you, we will be happy to provide you with a quotation for our services. These services will include consultation, resume construction, cover letter construction, printing, copying the resume to a new diskette and mailing. Please contact us if you feel we can be of service to you on this important aspect of your career search.