Make a bold statement with your resume. Let the words in your resume work for you! Create short phrases to describe your duties. Avoid using diluted phrases like "Responsible for" or "In charge of." Arrange these phrases in order of importance to the position. Use the Skills Checklist and Action Verbs in your resume to create effective descriptions; that will help you generate a sense of enthusiasm and a "can do" image. Spicy words like "achieved", "implemented", "managed", and "coordinated" make your resume more interesting and relevant to the reader. When assessing your resume, see if you are able to get a sense of this, if you can't, find away to improve it.
Assess the Content
Does the resume order make sense? Have you presented your strengths presented at beginning of your resume? Have you used keywords from the job description in the resume? Have you quantified your accomplishments to give the reader a measurable scope of your responsibilities? Is the information complete? Does your resume give a clear picture of what you have to offer? Have you read it over and asked two or three trusted friends or colleagues to assess it critically. Seek the advice of faculty, career service staff, Alumni or business professionals. Each person's unique perspective will help you clarify your goals, wording and presentation.
A Focused Resume
Even if you choose not to use an objective, your resume has to support your reason for writing it. Check for redundant, out of place, or irrelevant information. Look at your resume objectively, making sure you have only included achievements that are relevant to the job.
Highlighting Your Strengths
Are you highlighting your strengths? Have you used the resume format that works best for you? Is a chronological format better for you than a functional (skills-based resume)? Or should you use a combination of both. Are there sections you could add to strengthen your resume?
Do You Have Gaps in Your Resume?
Look at your job description's requirements and duties (if available) and compare them to your resume highlights. You cannot assume that the reader of the resume will assume anything, so ask yourself, "What is missing?" If you can document what they are requiring, do so. For example, if they ask for experience with Microsoft Access, do not state "experienced with computer software." Be specific, this allows the reader to see that you are qualified. If you have expert knowledge of Microsoft Access, say it.
Length of Resume
Always keep in mind that the average time an employer will spend scanning your resume is under a minute, so it is very important to eliminate any irrelevant wording that could cause distractions to your reader. Ask yourself, "Is my resume too long?" It is good practice to review your resume and circle the 5 points you think are the most likely to help you land an interview. Then look at the parts of the resume you haven't circled. Are there things you could shorten or delete?
Review the materials you gathered for your "skills-file" if you feel your resume is not long enough, don't over look your previous experience and training. Other things that could support your targeted resume are improvements you made at various places you worked. Find your old job descriptions and performance reviews from previous employers look through them to remind yourself of your accomplishments. When you have limited work experience, emphasize the skills that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, accuracy, or punctuality that you may have gained through your coursework, extracurricular activities or volunteer experiences.
Do You Have Appropriate Usage of Section Headings?
Just because someone else used the heading title "Objective" on his or her resume doesn't mean that it is the best title for you to use. Perhaps "Focus" or "Skills Summary" is more descriptive of your experiences. People remember section headings because those stand out, allow them to work for you.
References
References should only be provided when they are requested. There is a current trend in resumes to leave off the phrase "References available upon request", because this is assumed to be true and is not needed. However, be prepared with a list of references that will support your application.
The best reference is able to talk about your work experiences and skills. Before listing someone as a reference, make sure you have their permission so that they can be prepared and there aren't any surprises.
Critique Your Resume
Creating a strong and concise resume is extremely important. The beginning of your resume should clearly state your career goal while the body of the resume logically supports this objective. Remember, your resume is a marketing tool for you to use as your public notice to employers. It is important that you are comfortable with your resume format and content because it makes a personal statement about you and your career. If you are not proud of the final product then take time to make the necessary changes.
To help you assess your finished product use the following resume critique chart. Print the final resume on high quality resume paper with matching envelopes (preferably white, ivory, or light grey).
