Writing a Resume Here are some tips to help you write or review your resume. Your resume is a reflection of who you are, so make it the best it can be! Use a Resume Template Instead of reinventing the wheel, use a resume template. Microsoft Office Online has several available through its Word programme. Choose a template that is visually appealing to you but which also is suitable for your education and experience level. The Chronological resume is a good basic template. Despite its name, the chronological resume usually lists the most current information first and works backwards in time. First Things First… with One Caution The first information you input is your name, address and other contact information. Like the rest of your resume, make sure it is error free and accurate. One caution about this section – do not include unprofessional email addresses. If your personal email address reads something like babycakes@hotmail.com you may want to sign up for another email address using the first letter of your first name and your surname (example jsmith@hotmail.com). If you are already employed, do not give your current employer’s phone number. No potential employer will be impressed that you use your work number to conduct personal business, such as finding a new job. Objective Your objective is your goal, which can be general or specific depending on the reason you are writing a resume in the first place. Do not make it too short or too vague, for example “to secure employment in the business field.” A better objective would be more specific and more detailed, for example, “to secure employment in the accounting field in a large company, with an opportunity for advancement.” Educational Experience If you have more educational than employment experience, put your educational experience first. Some templates include a section in which to include skills (see the Microsoft high school graduate resume). Put your most recent educational experience first, and don’t forget to include current studies. For example, if you are studying at Bermuda College, include that too: Bermuda College 2003-Present Associate Degree in Arts (Psychology) Projected graduation date May 2005.
List your high school educational experience if you graduated with a high school diploma. Don’t’ forget to include any activities or accomplishments you attained in high school. Work Experience If you have significant work experience, list it before your educational achievements. List your most recent employment experience first. Although it may not seem relevant, list the duties and skills you acquired. There are many transferable skills (skills which are looked for in any job) you can demonstrate on a resume, such as time keeping, customer service, etc. The duties described should be detailed and concise. References It is best to keep this section short and simple. “References available upon request” is sufficient. Some General Tips The material should fit neatly on one page, and be easy to read. Your resume should be error-free – no spelling, grammatical or punctuation errors. Your statements should be clear, concise, on point, and easily understood. Avoid repeating information. The resume should portray you in the best possible light. Eliminate unnecessary information – such as height, weight, gender, health, marital status – although in Bermuda (due to immigration law) it is advisable to include nationality. Be sure to highlight your benefits to the potential employer.