· Keep the length to a maximum of two pages . The shorter the better, but don't short-change yourself trying to keep it to one page. Remember that the employer will spend the majority of the 20 - 30 seconds on the first page, so ensure that the most important information is on that page; less critical information on the second. This means that you may choose to place your education first, or your work experience, depending on which one you feel is stronger. Do include sufficient white space and ensure it is pleasing to the eye.

Here is a quick “formula” for highlighting your skills and accomplishments in the “Work Experience” section:

SKILL (action verb) + TASK (what did) + TOOLS (how) + RESULT (outcome)

Examples:

•  designed client database using MS Access which increased sales by 15 percent

•  promoted store and products by effectively answering customer questions and resolving complaints

You won't always be able to include all four components, but do strive to use this as a guideline for organizing and wording your points.

In summary, make sure your resume looks professional and is clear and concise. Focus on the job and employer and include only relevant information. Don't end up in the discard pile because of careless mistakes or inclusion of irrelevant information that makes it tedious for the employer to determine what you've done or what you want to do. Let them discover - easily - what you have to offer that will be a benefit to them. Intrigue them with your background and qualifications and make them want to meet with you. When you get the interview, you know your resume has done its job.

 

 





The Last Job Search Guide You'll Ever Need: How to Find and Get the Job or Internship of Your Dreams The above is an excerpt from The Last Job Search Guide You'll Ever Need: How to Find and Get the Job or Internship of Your Dreams, which is available for sale for $19.85 in our bookstore or $27.00 at Amazon.com but for free to those who subscriber to our free career newsletter. This hot new book contains job search secrets of the most experienced, most knowledgeable and most respected career experts. Learn career planning, job hunting tools and tactics, interviewing, cover letter and resume writing (lots of samples!), networking, and how to find an internship. Written by 149 career experts. To receive a free copy, subscribe to our free career newsletter.


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