Building a Resume That Gets Attention

Resume Quiz

How long does an employer look at a resume?

30 seconds 2 minutes 5 minutes 30 minutes

Resume Quiz

That’s right! 30 Seconds!

Resume Know-How

How do I grab the employer’s attention? Easy to read Logical flow Focused on accomplishments

PAR statements Targeted to reader IntriguingSample Resumes

KEY POINTS – THE DO’S

Clean format that is easy to read/easy to scan.

Most important information first. Choose strong headings. Stress results, skills, and

accomplishments rather than duties. Write to an outsider. Use consistent tense. Begin sentences with action verbs. Laser print on quality paper.

KEY POINTS – THE DON’TS

#1 Resume mistake???? ERRORS!!! Do not include personal information. Avoid personal pronouns. Do not have a 2nd page, unless it is a

full 2nd page and very relevant. Avoid use of abbreviations, slang or

jargon.

Categories of a Resume

Identifying Information Objective Education Experience Skills Activities, Honors, Interests References

Identifying Information

Name Permanent address Temporary address (if applies) Phone number E-mail address Web sites- be careful

Objective

A clear, concise statement expressing your goal

Gives resume structure Be specific 4 ways to focus

Position, Industry, Skills, Long-term goals

Sample Objectives

To obtain a challenging position in technical sales utilizing my scientific knowledge and communication skills.

Seeking an entry level position in wellness education.

To obtain a laboratory position in the biotechnology industry.

Education

University and BS degree

Graduation Date Majors & Minors Include GPA if + 3.0 Relevant Coursework Can include honors Expenses Paid Research Projects (here or

experience section)

Sample Education

North Carolina State University, Raleigh NCBachelor of Science in AgronomyConcentration in Turfgrass ManagementGPA: 3.4/4.0Projected Graduation: May 2007Multiple Scholarship Recipient, Dean’s List

Experience

Paid Jobs Volunteer Work Internships, Co-ops Family Business Family Farm Student Groups Leadership Roles

Formatting Experience

Title of position Name/Location of organization What you accomplished on the

job Use action words

Action Words

Incorrect I took the weight of

the animals. I made appointments. I checked blood samples.

Correct Weighed animals;

scheduled appointments; assisted vet with lab analysis.

Better Action Words

Stress accomplishments over duties Computerized office record-keeping

procedures; earned vet assistant certificate via on-the-job experience.

Managed research project investigating water quality; managed budget, supervised internship staff, presented findings to board.

ACCOMPLISHMENT STATEMENTS

Past tense – still doing or did before Use action verbs Quantify & qualify “Responsible for campers”

Becomes . . . . . . “Planned and coordinated activities and fieldtrips for

30 children ages 6 – 12”

“Operated cash register” Becomes. . . . .

“Provided prompt and friendly service to patrons and averaged $1000 in daily sales”

EXPERIENCE - Sample

Server, Houlihan’s, Jobsville, PA, 9/04 – present. Handled orders for over 200 patrons daily, including

business, family, and tourist clientele Succeeded in providing excellent communicative,

tactful and proficient services Independently resolved customer complaints and

dissatisfaction Averaged $600 in daily sales

Skills

Computer Technical Laboratory Communication Leadership Language

Sample Skills

Proficient with analytical methods such as ELISA, HPLC, GC, and Titrations.

Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Internet, Email Applications, and Database Programs.

Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.

Activities, Honors, Interests

Clubs Leadership Roles Professional

Associations Unusual hobbies Include only if

active member Avoid “padding”

ACTIVITIES Can be place in experience

section to draw attention to something meaningful

NCSU Intercollegiate Soccer Team 2001-2005 Awarded a four year athletic scholarship Trained year round, approximately 25 hours a week Selected as a Wolfpack Team Representative (Student

Athlete Advisory Committee) Managed a demanding schedule as an athlete and full time

student, maintaining a 3.4 GPA Demonstrated leadership skills as the team captain, junior

and senior year of college

References

Available on request At least 3 to support your candidacy Talk with your references FIRST On separate page Bring to interview Include all particulars (name, title,

company, address, phone, email)

Formatting Resumes

Needs to look professional One page is preferable Organize for reader Visually pleasing Use quality paper Proof, edit, proof, edit…..

Now Create Your Own Resume!Register on the CALS Career Services Online Resume

System!