What is a Resume?

A resume provides a brief snapshot of the skills and experiences that you possess relevant to the job for which you are applying. The point of a resume is to demonstrate that you are likely to be a high performer at the new job and entice the employer to invite you for an interview. It is crucial to tailor your resume to the job for which you are applying. This can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. You might want to create a separate resume “type” for each industry or type of position that you are seeking.Generally speaking, you only have about 30 seconds to impress a recruiter or prospective employer with your resume, so it must be concise. One page is ideal - no more than two pages. Your resume should also be well‐formatted and must convince the reader that you are worth interviewing. Analyze the Job Description Thoroughly review the job description for the position you are seeking. Highlight keywords which indicate required skills and qualifications. Use similar words on your resume.  Generate a List of Experience and Accomplishments Make a list of your experience and accomplishments. Include things that you enjoy doing, have done well, and are proud of. You can include anything from educational accomplishments, jobs or volunteer experience. Focus on the results of your efforts.  Identify Relevant Skill Areas Describe and order your experiences so that they focus on skills and achievements that are relevant to the position for which you are applying.Format your Resume Include your contact information at the top of your resume. Be sure to include your name, current address, phone number, and email address. You might want to make your name stand out by making the text larger, or bolding the font. List your experience in reverse chronological order – from most recent to least recent. Start with your work history and end by listing your educational background. ReferencesInclude 3‐5 professional references on a separate page. The most effective references are those of current and former employers and your supervisors. List names, titles, and contact information.Once you’ve identified some companies you’re interested in—or perhaps even want to work—you can visit their websites to learn more about them. Reflect how the company values their time, talent, and technology. Matching the tone of the employer and job description will set you apart as long as you present yourself well on your resume.