Some Basic Principles

  • There is no one right way to write a resume. Within each profession there are expectations of what a "good" resume will look like. Some employers look for evidence of a well-rounded individual. Others look for a concrete focus supported with relevant experience, while others are impressed with accomplishments that show stability and long-term commitment.

  • Have your drafts reviewed at the Advising & Career Center and also ask someone in your target profession to critique it. If you are looking for jobs in more than one field, you may need more than one resume.

  • Do not try to be everything to everyone. Have your job search narrowed down to a couple of occupational areas based on your career goals, education, and experience. The contents of your resume should be targeted toward your goals.

  • Keep it brief! One to two pages are acceptable — your resume should not be an autobiography.

  • Describe your accomplishments positively and accurately. This is not the place for modesty or exaggeration. Use quantities, amounts, and percentages, dollar values where they enhance the description.

  • There are no absolute rules regarding resume format — only guidelines. Pick a format that best highlights your relevant skills and accomplishments that match your career objective.

  • Lead with your strengths! Put your most relevant experiences toward the top of your resume.

  • Don't limit the resume content to just your work experience. There are many transferable skills that can be developed through volunteer positions, involvement in student and professional organizations, and through class projects. In many cases, we do our best work on volunteer positions as they involve activities we really enjoy doing.

  • Omit personal pronouns, such as "I," "me," "my," etc.

  • Omit all personal data, such as height, weight, marital status, age, health, etc.

  • Don't mention salary or wages on your resume.

  • Do not include personal references as a part of your resume. Rather, have available at least three references on a separate sheet to be provided when asked for by an employer. The line "References Available Upon Request" can also be omitted, as this is a given.

  • ALWAYS send a neatly typed cover letter with your resume to introduce yourself.

  • Visual presentation counts. Maintain an eye-pleasing balance. Be creative not bizarre. Once you have drafted your resume, complete the process by adding professionalism to the final format. Use a good laser printer and quality paper.

  • Make sure that your resume and cover letter have no typing or grammatical errors. Employers consistently cite this as the first reason they eliminate applicants.

  • Always carry extra copies of your resume with you during your job search.