b'Creating an\nEffective R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\n\nAlumni Career Services\nBucknell University\nBotany Building\n(570) 577-1238\nacs@bucknell.edu\nwww.bucknell.edu/alumnicareerservices\nCareer\nDevelopment\nCenter\n\n\x0cContents\nRule of Thumb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1\n. . . .\nWhat is a R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n2\n. . . . .\nWhy Do I Need A R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3\n. . . .\nR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n4\n. . . . .\nSample Chronological R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5\n. . . . .\nSample Combination R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8\n. . . . .\nR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Building Tips for Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n11\n. . . . .\nParts of the R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12\n. .\nIdentification and Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13\nShowcasing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14\nWorksheet - Showcase Your Accomplishments . . . . . . . . . . 15\nSkill Clusters . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n\n. . . . . . . . . 16\n\nCareer Transferable Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17\nAction Verbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20\nEducation\n\n. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24\n\nEmployment History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n\n25\n\nAdditional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n\n26\n\nMake Sure You\xe2\x80\x99re resume don\xe2\x80\x99s have mistakes. . . . . . . . . . . 27\nR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28\nR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Critique Checklist\n\n. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n\n31\n\nElectronic R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32\nSample Electronic R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\n\n. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33\n\nReferences \xe2\x80\x93 Why Have Them?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34\nSample Reference Page\n.\nCover Letters . . . .\n.\nCover Letter Format . .\n.\nSample Cover Letter . .\n\n. . . . . . . . .\n\n. . . . . . . . . . 35\n\n. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n\n37\n\n. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\n\n38\n\n. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39\n\nCover Letter Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40\nWhat Is a Thank You Letter? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41\nSample Thank You Letter \xe2\x80\x93 Block Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42\n.\n\n2\n\n\x0cRule of Thumb for R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Showcasing\nPick up your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9. Where are your thumbs? They are probably at about the midpoint\nof the page. Most employers spend 15 \xe2\x80\x93 30 seconds when first examining r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9, and\nonly seeing the top half of your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9. Therefore, everything above your thumbs\nshould be the most important information that you want to convey to the employer, and\neverything below your thumbs should support the message you are communicating.\nIn this short amount of time employers determine your strengths and if you have\nsomething to offer. If they feel that you do, they will look at your resume in more depth.\nIf not, you will be filed away. You need to make sure that the employer knows what you\nare capable of doing. If you don\xe2\x80\x99t tell them, no one else will. Employers want to\nQUICKLY screen you out. Your goal is to get screened IN.\nHow do you fashion your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 so that it gets noticed? The employer doesn\xe2\x80\x99t have\ntime to search your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 for pertinent information \xe2\x80\x93 you must provide it on a silver\nplatter \xe2\x80\x93 easy to obtain and elegantly presented.\nTake the time to craft a r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 that is an accurate reflection of you. Don\xe2\x80\x99t do it alone!\nTap into book and web resources, and ask others for input. Remember that you have\nthe final say on your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\xe2\x80\x99s appearance \xe2\x80\x93 you must like it. When you look at it, you\nshould say, \xe2\x80\x9cWow, I\xe2\x80\x99m good!!\xe2\x80\x9d\n\n1\n\n\x0cWhat is a R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 ?\nIT IS NOT\n\xc2\x99 Your Autobiography\n\xc2\x99 Your Complete Obituary\nIT IS\n\xc2\x99 A Document Starting Your Professional Credentials\nITS PURPOSE IS\n\xc2\x99 Not to Obtain a job\n\xc2\x99 To Obtain an Interview (YOU get the job)\n\nYour R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Is Your Advertisement\nIn most instances your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 is your first contact with an employer. Make sure that it\ngives a positive, professional impression. Your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 is your advertising tool and\nshould provide:\n\xc2\x99 A sense of purpose - Why are you sending the r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9?\n\xc2\x99 Focus on achievements - What separates you from everyone else?\n\xc2\x99 Accuracy - Was it 2003 or 2004? Find out!!\n\xc2\x99 Clarity and Simplicity - This is not the time to try to use the word\nantidisestablishmentarianism in a document.\n\xc2\x99 An attractive package - No jelly or coffee stains, please.\n\xc2\x99 Salesmanship - What measurable facts can you provide?\n\xc2\x99 A sense of person behind the resume -This flat piece of paper needs to sing\nand dance so the employer will want to meet you in person.\n\xc2\x99 Credibility - More than 80% of r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s contain some stretch of the truth. Don\xe2\x80\x99t\ndo this. If you lose your professionalism, it will be nearly impossible to get it back.\n\n2\n\n\x0cWhy Do I Need a R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 ?\nEmployers are contacted by many applicants and have little time to thoroughly screen\neach applicant. Employers want to know exactly how you can be useful to them without\nhaving to read through excessive or unrelated details. A one page r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 is ideal for\nthose with little experience: two pages are maximum for anyone.\nA r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 should provide a positive impact by being clear, accurate, and relevant to the\njob objective and focused on one industry or employer.\n\xc2\x99 YOU are the best person to write your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9.\n\xc2\x99 In most cases your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 is your first contact with an employer.\n\xc2\x99 Your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 is a communication tool. Effective communication requires you to\nbe responsible for conveying a clear message. If your reader doesn\xe2\x80\x99t get the\ninformation, you didn\xe2\x80\x99t communicate successfully.\n\xc2\x99 Your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 summarizes who you are and what you can do.\n\xc2\x99 Your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 helps the employer decide whether or not to interview you.\n\xc2\x99 Your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 focuses on the employer\xe2\x80\x99s needs, not yours.\n\nTHE 20 SECOND RULE\nThe personnel directors of America\xe2\x80\x99s top corporations say again and again that if you\nhaven\xe2\x80\x99t presented the most important information about yourself in the top half of the\nfirst page of your resume, you can probably forget about getting the job.\nThe head of personnel management for one of the largest and most prestigious employers\nin the Washington, D.C. area told the authors that she allows 20 seconds to scan each\nresume she receives. If in that brief time, she does not see anything that gets her attention,\nshe rejects the resume.\nTaken from The 110 Biggest Mistakes Job Hunters Make by Richard L. Hermann and Linda P. Sutherland\n\nCarry r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s with you when you are canvassing companies for job openings. Submit\nthem with your application materials. When you send a r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 by mail or email,\nalways include a cover letter to identify the job for which you are applying, and why the\nemployer should hire you. Keep copies of your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 in your car and have it available\nat a moments notice.\n\n3\n\n\x0cR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Formats\n\nThere are two basic r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 formats that can be used to showcase your talents.\nNeither one is better than the other and both are acceptable. Choose the format that\nyou feel best showcases your abilities.\n\nCHRONOLOGICAL\nThis format is good for people with extensive work experience either with one company\nor a few companies, usually in the field in which they are seeking employment.\nWork and educational experience is listed in reverse order of occurrence beginning with\nthe most recent dates and working back.\nJob duties are listed under the job title, organization and dates.\n\nCOMBINATION\nThis format is good for career changers, those with gaps in employment and those who\nwant to clearly sell specific skills, paralleling the needs of the employer. This format\nallows a person to use skill clusters, while still listing dates, places of employment and\njob responsibilities.\nThis r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 format combines a chronological work experience with skill clusters. The\nwork experience is organized in two separate sections:\n\xc2\x99 A skill clusters section, which highlights major areas of accomplishments from\nprevious employment, training and/or education programs. This allows you to\norganize skills in an order that most supports your job objective.\n\xc2\x99 A chronological listing in reverse order containing job title, organization for which\nyou worked, and dates of employment.\n\n4\n\n\x0cSample Chronological R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\nJohn Doe\n222 Market Street\nLewisburg, PA 17837\n570-524-0000\nDoej@aol.com\nOBJECTIVE\n\nTo obtain a position in corporate legal services with ABC Company\n\nEDUCATION\n\nBucknell University, Lewisburg, PA\nBachelor of Arts\nAnthropology\nMay 2005\n\nRELATED EXPERIENCE\nIntern\n1/05-5/05\nKomisarow, Baach & Snouffer, P.C.\nMilton, PA\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Researched new healthcare law\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Balanced firm\'s general ledger, handled press\nreleases and various administrative responsibilities\nTeaching Assistant, Introduction to Law\n8/04-5/05\nBucknell University\nLewisburg, PA\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Evaluated 60 students on weekly papers\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Led class discussions one day per week\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Assisted professor with creating and evaluating exams\nWORK EXPERIENCE\nManager\n11/01-5/03\nLewisburg Freez\nLewisburg, PA\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Trained, reviewed, and supervised 20 employees\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Evaluated and ordered $100,000 inventory\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Balanced four cash drawers and made nightly deposits\nLANGUAGES\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nFluent in Spanish\nMicrosoft Office, Macromedia Dreamweaver and Flash, Adobe\nPhotoshop\n\nACTIVITIES\nVolunteer, Sunsine Nursing Home\nMember, Phi Theta Kappa\n\n6/02- present\n8/03 \xe2\x80\x93 present\n\n5\n\n\x0cSample Chronological R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\nJane Doe\n1000 Anywhere Street\nAnywhere, NY 10014\n(212) 555-1212\ndoej@hotmail.com\nEXECUTIVE SUMMARY\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nDynamic, award-winning executive with over 12 years of proven success creating and\nlaunching new products for domestic and international markets.\nLed team of 55 to increase market share by 40%.\nGranted patent for innovative communication tool used to acquire new clients.\nSkilled in reducing marketing costs, managing cross-functional teams, and administering\nmulti-billion dollar budgets.\n\nPROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE\nXYZ Corporation, New York, NY\n2000-present\nDivision Manager, Marketing Strategy and Development\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Direct strategic planning of Internet and high speed access services with $1.7 billion\nannual revenue\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Create, track, and evaluate internal metrics and management reporting to identify\nmarketing performance and effectiveness of programs, markets, and product mix.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Analyze industry trends and competitive landscapes.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Oversee opportunity identification and evaluation; construct business cases; formulate\nnew offers and promotions.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Increased market share by 40% in local voice service launch leveraging switch resale,\ncable, and wireless technologies\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Drive branding guidelines across the organization and with external partners.\nABC Corporation, Boston, MA\n1993-2000\nMarketing and Sales Director, Consumer Services\n1995-2000\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Developed strategic business plan for new venture into consumer DSL broadband\nservice.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Led team of 20 in launch of new high-speed internet services, including customer\nidentification, sales planning, channel mix, pricing, promotion, and customer experience\ndefinition.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Directed formation of E-based capabilities, including website, E-sales, E-care, and Ebilling/payment\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Supervised in-house and outside agency creative staff of 16 in developing logos,\nwebsite, direct mail, and e-mail acquisition marketing; functioned as point person in\nexternal partner negotiations\nProduct Management Director\n1993-1995\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Defined operational plans to integrate GGC and TMT following $14 billion acquisition.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Managed $1 billion business unit; led supplier negotiations, oversaw financial and\noperational results.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Identify marketing initiatives through customer research; develop targeting and\nsegmentation plans.\n\n6\n\n\x0cJane Doe\n\nPage 2\n\nPROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE (Continued)\nSesame Seed Company\n1990-1993\nStrategic and Business Planning District Manager\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Prepared strategic and business plan communications for presentations to Board of\nDirectors, industry and financial analysts, suppliers, partners, and employees.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Ensured success of new corporate venture by strategizing business plans, cases, and\nmarket scenarios.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Supervised 10-person marketing team.\nASSOCIATIONS\nMember, Strategic Account Management Association\nMember, American Marketing Association\n\n2002-present\n1990-present\n\nPROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nVice Presidential Achievement Award, 2005\nCircle of Excellence Award, 2004\nChosen as representative from 1,000 candidates to attend an Emerging Leaders\nProgram, 2001\nTrue Spirit Award, 2000\nPatent Incentive Award, 2000\n\nSOFTWARE\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nSiebel CRM\nMacromedia Dreamweaver and Flash\nAdobe Photoshop\n\nEDUCATION\nBucknell University, Lewisburg, PA\nBachelor of Science\nBusiness Administration\n\n7\n\n\x0cSample Combination R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\nJohn Doe\n222 Market Street\nLewisburg, PA 17837\n(570) 524-0000\nDoej@aol.com\nSummary of Qualifications\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Motivated marketing professional with 12 years of proven success.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Demonstrated ability to assess and address client needs to develop strong client loyalty.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Recipient of two \xe2\x80\x9cEmployee of the Year\xe2\x80\x9d awards\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Strong team player with 8 years of management experience.\nProfessional Experience\nMarketing\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Generated a $1,000,000 new client base.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Developed \xe2\x80\x9cThe Leading Edge\xe2\x80\x9d television campaign for Rocko Sports.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Created the Nike \xe2\x80\x9cswish.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Successfully maintain an existing client base of over 100 Fortune 500 companies.\nAccomplishments\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Promoted to Lead Marketing Manager after 6 months in current position.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Recognized by peers and clients for outstanding service, for two consecutive years.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Consistently exceed marketing plan goals by 10 percent per year.\nManagement\nTrain and supervise a team of 20.\nInterviewed, selected and trained 100 volunteers.\nConduct performance reviews and professional development activities.\n\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nWork History\nLead Marketing Manager\nMarket Yourself, Inc., Harrisburg, PA\nMarketing Manager\nMarkets-R-Us, New York, NY\nMarketing Coordinator\nAmerican Red Cross, New York, NY\n\n2000-Present\n1998-2000\n1996-1998\n\nEducation\nBucknell University, Lewisburg, PA\nBachelor of Arts\nSociology\nVolunteer Experience\nBig Brothers/Big Sisters\nHabitat for Humanity\n\n2000-Present\n2002\n\n8\n\n\x0cSample Combination R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\nJane Doe\n1000 Anywhere Street\nAnywhere, NY 10014\n(212) 555-1212\ndoej@hotmail.com\nExecutive Summary\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nDynamic, award-winning executive with over 12 years of proven success creating and\nlaunching new products for domestic and international markets.\nLed team of 55 to increase market share by 40%.\nGranted patent for innovative communication tool used to acquire new clients.\nSkilled in reducing marketing costs, managing cross-functional teams, and administering\nmulti-billion dollar budgets.\n\nProfessional Experience\nManagement\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Oversee opportunity identification and evaluation; construct business cases; formulate\nnew offers and promotions.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Supervised in-house and outside agency creative staff of 16 in developing logos,\nwebsite, direct mail, and e-mail acquisition marketing; functioned as point person in\nexternal partner negotiations\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Managed $1 billion business unit; led supplier negotiations, oversaw financial and\noperational results.\nStrategic Planning\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Create, track, and evaluate internal metrics and management reporting to identify\nmarketing performance and effectiveness of programs, markets, and product mix.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Analyze industry trends and competitive landscapes.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Direct strategic planning of Internet and high speed access services with $1.7 billion\nannual revenue\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Ensured success of new corporate venture by strategizing business plans, cases, and\nmarket scenarios.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Defined operational plans to integrate GGC and TMT following $14 billion acquisition.\nDevelopment\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Drive branding guidelines across the organization and with external partners.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Directed formation of E-based capabilities, including website, E-sales, E-care, and Ebilling/payment\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Created strategic business plan for new venture into consumer DSL broadband service.\nCommunication\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Supervised 10-person marketing team.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Prepared strategic and business plan communications for presentations to Board of\nDirectors, industry and financial analysts, suppliers, partners, and employees.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Led team of 20 in launch of new high-speed internet services, including customer\nidentification, sales planning, channel mix, pricing, promotion, and customer experience\ndefinition.\n\n9\n\n\x0cJane Doe\n\nPage 2\n\nWork History\nXYZ Corporation, New York, NY\nDivision Manager, Marketing Strategy and Development\n\n2000-present\n\nABC Corporation, Boston, MA\nMarketing and Sales Director, Consumer Services\nProduct Management Director\n\n1993-2000\n1995-2000\n1993-1995\n\nSesame Seed Company\nStrategic and Business Planning District Manager\n\n1990-1993\n\nAssociations\nMember, Strategic Account Management Association\nMember, American Marketing Association\n\n2002-present\n1990-present\n\nProfessional Recognition\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nVice Presidential Achievement Award, 2005\nCircle of Excellence Award, 2004\nChosen as representative from 1,000 candidates to attend an Emerging Leaders\nProgram, 2001\nTrue Spirit Award, 2000\nPatent Incentive Award, 2000\n\nSoftware\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nSiebel CRM\nMacromedia Dreamweaver and Flash\nAdobe Photoshop\n\nEducation\nBucknell University, Lewisburg, PA\nBachelor of Science\nBusiness Administration\n\n10\n\n\x0cR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Building Tips for Success\n\xc2\x99 Remember that there is no one correct way to create a r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9. What one person\nlikes, another may not. Ask for a lot of input before deciding on the r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 that is\nright for you.\n\xc2\x99 Keep it to one page unless you have significant experience in your field. If you do\nhave a two page r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9, make sure they are two relatively complete pages.\n\xc2\x99 If you will be moving soon, use the two-address format.\n\xc2\x99 Keep typeface simple. It\xe2\x80\x99s best to use Times-Roman or Arial.\n\xc2\x99 8 1/2" x 11" white or light colored, good quality paper is best. Avoid flashy \xe2\x80\x9clook\nat me\xe2\x80\x9d colors. Use matching paper for cover letter and avoid folding your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\ninto a mailing envelope. Send it in a 9" x 11" mailing envelope.\n\xc2\x99 Justify the left margin, but not the right. It\xe2\x80\x99s easier to read.\n\xc2\x99 Highlight important information (your name, address, and titles of jobs, major\ncategories) with boldface type.\n\xc2\x99 Use 11 or 12-point type. Do not use graphics unless you are in the design field.\n\xc2\x99 Save it on a computer disk. It\xe2\x80\x99s easier to update and/or change this way. Keep\nthe disk safe, and make a back-up copy. Saving your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 also lets you make\ntargeted r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s for specific positions to which you are applying.\n\xc2\x99 Everything you put in your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 is fair game for the interview. Be able to\ndiscuss every point without having to refer to notes or ask for time to respond to\na question.\n\xc2\x99 Bring extra r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s to your interview; even if you are sure your interviewer has a\ncopy.\n\xc2\x99 Use action words (see page 20) when describing what you have done. Examples\ninclude: created, managed, developed, revised, presented, etc.\n\xc2\x99 Proof. Proof. Proof. One mistake generally means you\xe2\x80\x99re out the door. The\nquality of your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 reflects the quality of your work and professionalism. If\nyou make a mistake on your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9, will you make a mistake in your job?\nEmployers will think so.\n\xc2\x99 Remember the 3-Example Rule: If you list a skill, you need to come up with three\nexamples to support it.\n\xc2\x99 Highlight computer/technology knowledge and skills as well as experience\n\nworking as part of a group or team.\n\n11\n\n\x0c12\n\n\x0cParts of the R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9\nIdentification\nThis section should include your name, address, telephone numbers (home, and/or cell\nphone numbers), and e-mail address. Make sure the employer can reach you, or can\nleave a message easily.\n\nTips\n\xc2\x99 Include area codes with all telephone numbers\n\xc2\x99 Make sure your voice mail message or e-mail address is not offensive,\nunprofessional or \xe2\x80\x9ccutesy\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x83 Examples of UNPROFESSIONAL emails:\n\xc2\x83 Studmuffin@aol.com\n\xc2\x83 emilyscarletohara@hotmail.com\n\xc2\x83 sexychick@yahoo.com\n\nObjective\nThe objective should tell what you can contribute and demonstrate the value you will\nadd to the organization. The r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 material following the objective should support or\nprove that you can perform the objective. If you have access to a computer, you can\neasily change your job objective to suit each employment opportunity.\nHaving an objective is OPTIONAL. If you choose not to use an objective, make sure\nyou refer to the job you are targeting in your cover letter.\n\nSample Strong Objectives\n\xc2\x99 A position as a General Sales Representative with Eli Lilly which will utilize my\nchemistry and sales background.\n\xc2\x99 A position in data analysis where skills in mathematics, computer programming,\nand deductive reasoning will contribute to new systems development.\n\nSample of Weak Objectives\n\xc2\x99 Management position which will use my business administration degree and will\nprovide opportunities for rapid advancement and annual salary increases.\n\xc2\x99 A public relations position in which I can maximize opportunities to develop and\nimplement programs, organize people and events, communicate positive ideas\nand images.\n\n13\n\n\x0cTips\n\xc2\x99 The objective should be as short as possible, and not include such phrases as\n\xe2\x80\x9cchallenging position\xe2\x80\x9d, \xe2\x80\x9cutilizing my skills\xe2\x80\x9d, \xe2\x80\x9cgrowth potential\xe2\x80\x9d, \xe2\x80\x9croom for\nadvancement\xe2\x80\x9d, etc.\n\xc2\x99 If you are applying for a specific job opening, always use the employer\xe2\x80\x99s job title\nfor that position.\n\xc2\x99 If you choose not to use an objective, use a summary statement or qualifications\nsection instead.\n\nShowcasing\nThere are two sections of a r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 that are optional, but are excellent ways to\nshowcase your abilities up front. Think of them as a quick snapshot of your best talents.\nThis helps the employer get interested in you quickly!\n\nSummary Statement\nWhen you have a number of years experience in a particular field or industry, this\nstatement is often used as an alternative to an objective or as an addition. It portrays a\nsummary of your credentials in sentence or paragraph form.\n\nExample\nOver ten years of successful experience providing professional customer service.\nProven ability to effectively handle difficult situations. Highly motivated, energetic and\nvery creative.\n\nQualifications\nThis section often appears on the r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 to highlight and summarize your areas of\nexpertise, and your credentials, usually including 3 \xe2\x80\x93 5 lines making reference to your\nWork History, Education and Strengths or Self Management Skills.\n\nExamples\n\xc2\x99 Recently completed my BS degree in Mechanical Engineering\n\xc2\x99 Programming experience in Java, CTT and HTML\n\xc2\x99 Fluent in Spanish and Russian\n\nTips\n\xc2\x99 Put strong statements at the beginning of your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9. The most important\ninformation should come first.\n\xc2\x99 Don\xe2\x80\x99t use the word \xe2\x80\x9cI\xe2\x80\x9d in any part of your resume.\n\n14\n\n\x0cWorksheet: Showcase Your Accomplishments\nShowcasing your abilities can a challenge, because most of us don\xe2\x80\x99t \xe2\x80\x9cbrag\xe2\x80\x9d on a daily\nbasis. However, to successfully communicate your skills to the employer, you need to\nlearn how to \xe2\x80\x9csell\xe2\x80\x9d yourself.\nTake some time to list your accomplishments. Start now, but come back to it later,\nwhen you\xe2\x80\x99ve thought of more things. Draw on all your experiences: paid, unpaid,\nvolunteer, and home. Once you have a list you can pick and choose what you want to\nhighlight.\nThere is no right or wrong way to do this, but try to include as much information as\npossible. If you trained people, how many? The employer doesn\xe2\x80\x99t know your\ncapabilities, so your job is to educate him/her on what you can bring to the position!\n\nExamples\n\xc2\x99 Successfully managed $500,000 accounts receivables and reduced delinquent\naccounts by 15 percent.\n\xc2\x99 Trained over 100 staff members in CPR and First Aid procedures.\n\xc2\x99 Developed 35 new accounts while maintaining 60 existing accounts.\n\nAccomplishments\n\nKeep in mind the variety of experiences you have had which can transfer to other job\nduties. Following is a list of some skill areas which may help you categorize your skills.\n\n15\n\n\x0cSkill Clusters\n(Both transferable skills and special knowledge skill areas)\n\nAccountant Management\nAccounting\nAdministration\nAdvertising\nBenefits\nBookkeeping\nBudgeting\nBusiness Communication\nBusiness Management\nClient Services\nCoaching\nCommunications\nCommunity Relations\nComputer\nConstruction\nCustomer Relations\nCustomer Service\nDatabase Management/Spreadsheets\nDrafting\nElectrical\nElectronic\nEmployee Relations\nEquipment Maintenance\nFabrication\nFinancial\nFood Preparation\nHome Remodeling\nHome Repair\nInspection\nInterviewing\nInventory Control\nLabor Relations\nLaboratory\nMaintenance\nManagement\nMarketing Research\nMarketing\nMechanical\nMerchandising\nNegotiation\nOffice Management\nPayroll\n\nPersonnel\nPrinting\nProduct Development\nProduction\nPublic Relations\nPurchasing\nQuality Control\nReal Estate\nRecords Management\nReception\nRecruiting\nRestaurant Management\nRetailing\nSales\nSheet metal\nShipping & Receiving\nSupervision\nTeaching\nTechnical\nTraining\n\n16\n\n\x0cCareer Transferable Skills\n\xc2\x99 INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SKILLS: ability to\xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 sort data and objects\n\xe2\x80\xa2 compile and rank information\n\xe2\x80\xa2 apply information creatively to specific problems or tasks\n\xe2\x80\xa2 synthesize facts, concepts, and principles\n\xe2\x80\xa2 understand and use organizing principles\n\xe2\x80\xa2 evaluate information against appropriate standards\n\xc2\x99 DESIGN AND PLANNING SKILLS: ability to\xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify alternative courses of action\n\xe2\x80\xa2 set realistic goals\n\xe2\x80\xa2 follow through with a plan or decision\n\xe2\x80\xa2 manage time effectively\n\xe2\x80\xa2 predict future trends and patterns\n\xe2\x80\xa2 accommodate multiple demands for commitment of time, energy and\nresources\n\xe2\x80\xa2 assess needs\n\xe2\x80\xa2 make and keep a schedule\n\xe2\x80\xa2 set priorities\n\xc2\x99 RESEARCH AND INVESTIGATION SKILLS: ability to\xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 use a variety of sources of information\n\xe2\x80\xa2 apply a variety of sources of information\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify problems and needs\n\xe2\x80\xa2 design an experiment, plan or model that systematically defines a\nproblem\n\xe2\x80\xa2 special needs or problems\n\xe2\x80\xa2 formulate questions relevant to clarifying a particular problem, topic or\nissue\n\xc2\x99 COMMUNICATION SKILLS: ability to\xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 listen with objectivity and paraphrase the content of a message\n\xe2\x80\xa2 use various forms and styles of written communication\n\xe2\x80\xa2 speak effectively to individuals and groups\n\xe2\x80\xa2 use media formats to present ideas imaginatively\n\xe2\x80\xa2 express one\'s needs, wants, opinions and preferences without\noffending the sensitivities of others\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify and communicate value judgments effectively\n\xe2\x80\xa2 describe objects or events with a minimum of factual errors\n\xe2\x80\xa2 convey a positive self-image to others\n\n17\n\n\x0c\xc2\x99 HUMAN RELATIONS AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS: ability to\xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 keep a group "on track" and moving toward the achievement of a\ncommon goal\n\xe2\x80\xa2 maintain group cooperation and support\n\xe2\x80\xa2 delegate tasks and responsibilities\n\xe2\x80\xa2 interact effectively with peers, superiors and subordinates\n\xe2\x80\xa2 express one\'s feeling appropriately\n\xe2\x80\xa2 understand the feelings of others\n\xe2\x80\xa2 use argumentation techniques to persuade others\n\xe2\x80\xa2 make commitments to persons\n\xe2\x80\xa2 be willing to take risks\n\xe2\x80\xa2 teach a skill, concept or principle to others\n\xe2\x80\xa2 analyze behavior of self and others in group situations\n\xe2\x80\xa2 demonstrate effective social behavior in a variety of settings and under\ndifferent circumstances\n\xe2\x80\xa2 work under time and environmental pressures\n\xc2\x99 CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS: ability to \xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify quickly and accurately the critical issues when making a\ndecision or solving a problem\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify a general principle that explains interrelated experiences or\nfactual data\n\xe2\x80\xa2 define the parameters of a problem\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify reasonable criteria for assessing the value of appropriateness\nof a action or behavior\n\xe2\x80\xa2 adapt one\'s concepts and behavior to changing conventions and norms\n\xe2\x80\xa2 apply appropriate criteria to strategies and action plans\n\xe2\x80\xa2 take given premises and reason to their conclusion\n\xe2\x80\xa2 create innovative solutions to complex problems\n\xe2\x80\xa2 analyze the interrelationships of events and ideas from several\nperspectives\n\xc2\x99 MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION SKILLS: ability to \xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 analyze tasks\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify people who can contribute to the solution of a problem or task\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify resource materials useful in the solution of a problem\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify one\'s own values\n\xe2\x80\xa2 motivate and lead people\n\xe2\x80\xa2 organize people and tasks to achieve specific goals\n\xc2\x99 VALUING SKILLS: ability to \xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 assess a course of action in terms of its long-range effects on the\ngeneral human welfare\n\xe2\x80\xa2 make decisions that will maximize both individual and collective good\n\xe2\x80\xa2 appreciate the contributions of art, literature, science, and technology to\ncontemporary society\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify one\'s own values\n\xe2\x80\xa2 assess one\'s values in relation to important life decisions\n\n18\n\n\x0c\xc2\x99 PERSONAL/CAREER DEVELOPMENT SKILLS: ability to \xe2\x80\xa6\n\xe2\x80\xa2 analyze and learn from life experiences--both one\'s own and other\'s\n\xe2\x80\xa2 relate the skills developed in one environment (e.g. school) to the\nrequirements of another environment (e.g. work)\n\xe2\x80\xa2 match knowledge about one\'s own characteristics and abilities to\ninformation about job or career opportunities\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify, describe and assess the relative importance of one\'s needs,\nvalues, interest, strengths and weaknesses\n\xe2\x80\xa2 develop personal growth goals that are motivating\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify and describe skills acquired through formal education and\ngeneral life experience\n\xe2\x80\xa2 identify one\'s own strengths and weaknesses\n\xe2\x80\xa2 accept and learn from negative criticism\n\xe2\x80\xa2 persist with a project when faced with failure unless it is clear that the\nproject cannot be carried out or is not worth the time or effort needed to\ncomplete it\n\xe2\x80\xa2 recognize when a project cannot be carried out or is not worth the time\nor effort required to complete it\n\xe2\x80\xa2 generate trust and confidence in others\n\xe2\x80\xa2 take risks\n\xe2\x80\xa2 accept the consequences of one\'s actions\n\xe2\x80\xa2 "market" oneself to prospective employers\n\nSource/Paul Breen and Urban Whitaker\n\nCopyright 1982 - copyright permission\n\n19\n\n\x0cACTION VERBS\nAccelerate\nHasten\n\nQuicken\nShake up\nAccomplish\nComplete\nFinish\nAchieved\nExecuted\nOvercame\nReached\nRealized\nActed\nOperated\nPerformed\nActivated\nEnergized\nStimulated\nVitalized\nAdapted\nAccommodated\nAdjusted\nAddressed\nConcentrated\nFocused\nAdjusted\nFamiliarized\nAdministered\nAdministrated\nExecuted\nGoverned\nSupervised\nAdvanced\nEncouraged\nFostered\nPromoted\nAdvised\nConferred\nConsulted\nAdvocated\nEncouraged\nFavored\nAided\nAssisted\nHelped\n\nAllocated\nAllowed\nApportioned\nAssigned\nAnalyzed\nBroke down\nDissected\nAnswered\nRejoined\nReplied\nResponded\nReturned\nApplied\nPertained\nPressed\nRelated\nUrged\nAppraised\nAssessed\nEstimated\nEvaluated\nRated\nSurveyed\nValued\nApproved\nAccepted\nFavored\nArbitrated\nJudged\nUmpired\nArranged\nDisposed\nOrdered\nOrganized\nSystematized\nAssembled\nCalled\nConvened\nSummoned\nAssessed\nAppraised\nEvaluated\nAssigned\nAllocated\nAllotted\nAllowed\n\nAttained\nAccomplished\nAchieved\nGained\nReached\nWon\nAudited\nAnalyzed\nExamined\nInspected\nReviewed\nScanned\nAugmented\nCompounded\nEnlarged\nExpanded\nExtended\nHeightened\nIncreased\nAuthorized\nApproved\nFacilitated\nEnabled\nEndorsed\nPromoted\nAwarded\nAllotted\nAssigned\nEndowed\nBalanced\nAdjusted\nCompensated\nCorresponded\nOutweighed\nRedeemed\nBegan\nCommenced\nInaugurated\nInitiated\nLaunched\nBoosted\nHeightened\nHiked\nIncreased\nRaised\n\nBoosted\nHeightened\nHiked\nIncreased\nRaised\nBuilt\nConstructed\nManufactured\nCalculated\nComputed\nEstimated\nFigured\nCaptivated\nAllured\nAttracted\nCharmed\nEnchanted\nFascinated\nCataloged\nEnrolled\nInscribed\nListed\nCharted\nArranged\nDesigned\nDevised\nPlanned\nChecked\nCorrected\nClarified\nCleared up\nExplained\nIllustrated\nSettled\nCollected\nAssembled\nGathered\nCombined\nAssociated\nConnected\nJoined\nLinked\nUnited\nCommunicated\nConveyed\nDiscovered\n\nTransmitted\nCompared\nAssimilated\nEquated\nMatched\nCompleted\nConcluded\nEnded\nFinished\nComposed\nComprised\nCreated\nFormed\nCondensed\nCompressed\nContracted\nShrunk\nConferred\nAwarded\nConsulted\nGave\nGranted\nConsolidated\nCompacted\nUnified\nConstructed\nAssembled\nBuilt\nFabricated\nFormed\nMade\nProduced\nConceived\nEnvisioned\nVisualized\nConsulted\nAdvised\nConferred\nContinued\nEndured\nPersisted\nContributed\nAided\nAssisted\nHelped\n\n20\n\n\x0cControlled\nComposed\nContained\nRegulated\nRestrained\nConverted\nImpelled\nMoved\nPersuaded\nSwayed\nConveyed\nChanneled\nCommunicated\nConducted\nTransmitted\nConvinced\nAssured\nPersuaded\nPrompted\nSatisfied\nCoordinated\nAccommodated\nArranged\nCorresponded\nAgreed\nApproached\nConformed\nCounseled\nAdvised\nDirected\nRecommended\nSuggested\nCreated\nComposed\nFormulated\nGenerated\nMade\nOriginated\nProduced\nCritiqued\nCommented\nCriticized\nReviewed\nCultivated\nDeveloped\nEducated\nFostered\nInstructed\nManaged\n\nFormulated\nDevised\nNourished\nNurtured\nProduced\nDecided\nConcluded\nDetermined\nFigured\nResolved\nSettled\nDefined\nDescribed\nPrescribed\nDelegated\nAdministered\nAppointed\nAssigned\nDelivered\nDesignated\nGave\nSelected\nDemonstrated\nDisplayed\nExhibited\nIllustrated\nShowed\nDesigned\nArranged\nConstructed\nCreated\nPlanned\nDetected\nEncountered\nFound\nDetermined\nDecided\nDestined\nPerformed\nDeveloped\nAmplified\nElaborated\nEnlarged\nExpanded\nDevised\nConcocted\nCreated\nInvented\nPlanned\n\nDiagnosed\nDetermined\nDistinguished\nIdentified\nDirected\nConducted\nControlled\nGuided\nManaged\nDiscovered\nRevealed\nUnmasked\nDisplayed\nExhibited\nRevealed\nShowed\nDistributed\nCirculated\nDisbursed\nDispensed\nDivided\nDocumented\nRecorded\nDrafted\nFormulated\nOutlined\nPrepared\nSketched\nEarned\nAcquired\nDeserved\nWon\nEducated\nDisciplined\nInstructed\nTaught\nEffected\nCaused\nEnforced\nImplemented\nEliminated\nAccented\nAccentuated\nDismissed\nEmphasized\nEncouraged\nFostered\nInspired\nNourished\nStudied\n\nEnforced\nEffected\nEngineered\nManeuvered\nWangled\nEnhanced\nDeepened\nHeightened\nIntensified\nMagnified\nEnlarged\nAmplified\nDeveloped\nElaborated\nExpanded\nEnlisted\nEnrolled\nJoined\nEnsured\nAssured\nDiverted\nEntertained\nInsured\nRecreated\nSecured\nEstablished\nConstituted\nCreated\nEnacted\nInstituted\nEstimated\nAppraised\nApproximated\nAssessed\nCalculated\nComputed\nEvaluated\nRated\nEvaluated\nAppraised\nAssessed\nClassified\nEstimated\nRated\nExecuted\nAchieved\nAdministrated\nImplemented\nPerformed\nConnected\n\nExpanded\nDeveloped\nElaborated\nIncreased\nExperienced\nProficient\nSkilled\nVersed\nExplained\nClarified\nExplored\nExpounded\nInquired\nInterpreted\nInvestigated\nProbed\nExpressed\nFormulated\nSignified\nStated\nExtended\nExpanded\nOffered\nPresented\nFashioned\nFabricated\nFormed\nProduced\nFocus\nConcentrated\nFormed\nComposed\nConstructed\nDeveloped\nFabricated\nFashioned\nProduced\nDrafted\nExpressed\nPrepared\nFostered\nCultivated\nEncouraged\nPromoted\nFound\nBased\nCompleted\nEstablished\nExecuted\n21\n\n\x0cFulfilled\nImplemented\nPreformed\nSatisfied\nFurnished\nEquipped\nProvided\nSupplied\nGained\nAccomplished\nAchieved\nAcquired\nAttained\nEarned\nImproved\nSecured\nGathered\nAssembled\nCollected\nDeducted\nDerived\nGenerated\nCreated\nOriginated\nProduced\nGoverned\nAdministered\nDirected\nExecuted\nGranted\nAcknowledged\nAllowed\nAwarded\nGuaranteed\nCertified\nWarranted\nGuided\nConducted\nDirected\nPiloted\nHandled\nExercised\nGoverned\nManaged\nOperated\nResponded to\nUtilized\n\nHeaded\nAddressed\nDirected\nOriginated\nHeightened\nEnhanced\nExpanded\nIncreased\nIntensified\nHired\nChartered\nEmployed\nEngaged\nIdentified\nDistinguished\nRecognized\nIllustrated\nClarified\nDemonstrated\nExemplified\nExplained\nImplemented\nCompleted\nEnforced\nExecuted\nFulfilled\nPerformed\nImproved\nEnlightened\nIncorporated\nCombined\nEmbodied\nIntegrated\nIncreased\nExpanded\nHeightened\nRaised\nInfluenced\nAffected\nImpressed\nInspired\nInitiated\nCommenced\nIntroduced\nLaunched\nInspected\nExamined\n\nSurveyed\nInspired\nExhilarated\nImpressed\nInfluenced\nInstalled\nEncouraged\nInducted\nInitiated\nInstituted\nCreated\nEstablished\nIntroduced\nLaunched\nOriginated\nInstructed\nCreated\nDirected\nTrained\nInterpreted\nDescribed\nExplained\nExpounded\nIntegrated\nBlended\nCoordinated\nIncorporated\nUnified\nIntroduced\nInitiated\nInstituted\nInvented\nContrived\nDevised\nFormulated\nInvolved\nAffected\nConcerned\nImplicated\nIssued\nEmanated\nOriginated\nPublished\nJoined\nAssociated\nCombined\n\nRelated\nUnited\nJudged\nCollected\nConcluded\nDeduced\nDeducted\nDerived\nInferred\nLaunched\nBegan\nCommenced\nEmbarked\nInitiated\nIntroduced\nOriginated\nLead (led)\nConducted\nDirected\nGuided\nIntroduced\nLectured\nAddressed\nListened\nAttended\nHeeded\nLocated\nPlaced\nPositioned\nSited\nSituated\nMaintained\nPresented\nProvided\nSupported\nSustained\nManaged\nConducted\nDirected\nGoverned\nMagnified\nMaximized\nOperated\nMeasured\nGauged\nScaled\n\nMediated\nInterceded\nIntermediate\nIntervened\nMerged\nBlended\nCompounded\nIntermingled\nMingled\nMixed\nMobilized\nActivated\nCirculated\nMoved\nPropelled\nModified\nAltered\nChanged\nRefashioned\nTurned\nMonitored\nControlled\nOversaw\nWatched\nMotivated\nExcited\nGalvanized\nMoved\nProvoked\nRoused\nStimulated\nNavigated\nDirected\nMapped out\nNegotiated\nAdjusted\nAgreed\nArranged\nBargained\nContracted\nSettled\nObserved\nDistinguished\nNoted\nNoticed\nPerceived\nViewed\n\n22\n\n\x0cObtained\nAcquired\nGained\nGot\nSecured\nOpened\nBegan\nCleared\nExposed\nFreed\nInitiated\nReleased\nRevealed\nStarted\nUncovered\nOperated\nAdministered\nHandled\nOversaw\nRan\nSupervised\nOrchestrated\nArranged\nBlended\nHarmonized\nIntegrated\nUnified\nOrdered\nAdjusted\nArranged\nClassified\nDisposed\nOrganized\nRegulated\nOriginated\nActed\nBehaved\nCommenced\nConducted\nCreated\nFunctional\nGenerated\nHandled\nInitiated\nManaged\nManeuvered\nOperated\nRegistered\n\nPerformed\nOutline\nDefined\nOverhauled\nFixed\nMended\nOvertook\nPatched\nRebuilt\nReconstructed\nOversaw\nChaperoned\nOverlook\nSupervised\nSurveyed\nParticipated\nEntered into\nJoined in\nShared\nPerformed\nAccomplished\nAchieved\nBehaved\nCompleted\nEnacted\nExecuted\nFulfilled\nFunctioned\nImplemented\nOperated\nPersuaded\nConvinced\nPrevailed\nPinpointed\nDetermined\nDiagnosed\nDistinguished\nIdentified\nPlaced\nRecognized\nSpotted\nPioneered\nCreated\nMade\nOriginated\nPlaced\nEstablished\n\nFixed\nLaid\nPut\nSettled\nPlanned\nArranged\nContemplated\nDesigned\nDevised\nDrafted\nOrganized\nOutlined\nPlayed\nDiverted\nEnacted\nEngaged\nHandled\nPrepared\nDrafted\nFixed\nFormulated\nFramed\nMade\nPresented\nAddressed\nDirected\nGave\nOffered\nPresided\nCarried on\nConducted\nControlled\nDirected\nManaged\nPrevented\nAnticipated\nAverted\nDeferred\nPrinted\nImprinted\nStamped\nWrote\nProcessed\nBuilt\nConstructed\nCreated\nCultivated\n\nFabricated\nFormed\nGenerated\nGrew\nManufactured\nOriginated\nRaised\nYielded\nProgrammed\nScheduled\nSet up\nProjected\nArranged\nConceived\nDesigned\nDevised\nEnvisioned\nFeatured\nProposed\nAimed\nContemplate\nDesigned\nIntended\nPreferred\nProved\nDemonstrated\nDetermined\nEstablished\nExamined\nShowed\nTested\nProvided\nDelivered\nDispensed\nGave\nSupplied\nTransferred\nPublished\nAdvertised\nAnnounced\nDeclare\nProclaimed\nPurchased\nBought\nTook\nQualified\nAuthorized\n\nCharacterized\nEntitled\nRaised\nAssembled\nCollected\nElevated\nInstigated\nLifted\nProduced\nProvoked\nUpheld\nRan\nActed\nDirected\nExtended\nHandled\nMade\nWorked\nRated\nJudged\nReached\nAccomplished\nAchieved\nApproached\nAttained\nConceived\nEnvisioned\nFeatured\nImagined\nThought\nVisualized\nRecommended\nAcclaimed\nAdvised\nCommended\nCounseled\nReconciled\nAccommodated\nAttuned\nConformed\nCoordinated\nHarmonized\nIntegrated\nTuned\nRecorded\nIndicated\nMarked\n\n23\n\n\x0cReduced\nDecreased\nDiminished\nLessened\nLowered\nResearched\nInquired\nInvestigated\nProbed\nResponded\nAnswered\nReplied\nReturned\nResponsible\nAccountable\nAnswerable\nLiable\nRestored\nRecalled\nReclaimed\nRecovered\nReestablished\nRefurbished\nReinstated\nReintroduced\nRejuvenated\nRenewed\nRevived\nRevamped\nMended\nRebuilt\nReconstructed\nRedrafted\nRepaired\nRevised\nRewrote\nReviewed\nReconsidered\nReevaluated\nReexamined\nRevised\nRedrafted\nRedrew\nRestyled\nReworked\nRewrote\n\nScheduled\nBooked\nCarded\nListed\nRecorded\nTimed\nSearched\nExamined\nInspected\nRummaged\nScanned\nScoured\nSecured\nAcquired\nAssured\nInsured\nObtained\nProtected\nShielded\nSelected\nChose\nElected\nOpted (for)\nPreferred\nShaped\nAssembled\nBuilt\nConstructed\nFabricated\nFormed\nFramed\nMade\nMolded\nSimulated\nActed\nAssumed\nResembled\nSold\nMarketed\nMerchandised\nRetailed\nVended\nSolved\nFixed\nResolved\nWorked out\n\nSpecialized\nEnumerated\nItemized\nParticularized\nSpecified\nSpecified\nMentioned\nNamed\nStarted\nBegan\nCreated\nEstablished\nInitiated\nOrganized\nStreamlined\nSimplified\nStrengthened\nEncouraged\nEnergized\nReinforced\nStudied\nContemplated\nExamined\nInspected\nSurveyed\nSuggested\nImplied\nIndicated\nInsinuated\nSummarized\nSummed\nSynopsized\nSupervised\nOversaw\nSuperintended\nSupplied\nDelivered\nDispensed\nProvided\nTransferred\nSupported\nAdvocated\nEncouraged\nEndured\nProvided\nSustained\nUpheld\n\nSurpassed\nExceeded\nExcelled\nSurveyed\nAssessed\nEvaluated\nExamined\nInspected\nOversaw\nSustained\nAbided\nEndured\nPreserved\nUpheld\nSynthesized\nArranged\nHarmonized\nIntegrated\nUnified\nSystematized\nArranged\nOrdered\nOrganized\nTargeted\nAimed\nTaught\nDisciplined\nEducated\nInstructed\nTrained\nTerminated\nAdjourned\nClosed\nCompleted\nDismissed\nFinished\nLeft\nResigned\nTested\nChecked\nDemonstrated\nExamined\nProved\nTried\nTotaled\nAdded\nAggregated\n\nTraded\nChanged\nExchanged\nSubstituted\nTrained\nEnticed\nInstructed\nReeducated\nTranslated\nConverted\nRendered\nTransposed\nUncovered\nDisclosed\nDiscovered\nRevealed\nUnveiled\nUnified\nConcentrated\nIntegrated\nUnited\nUpdated\nModernized\nRefreshed\nRefurbished\nUpgraded\nAdvanced\nElevated\nPreferred\nPromoted\nUtilized\nApplied\nEmployed\nHandled\nUsed\nValidated\nConfirmed\nJustified\nVerified\nWorked\nActed\nHandled\nOperated\nPerformed\nRan\n\n24\n\n\x0cEducation\nYou should list any training specific to the job desired, as well as your Bucknell\nexperience, noting major fields of study. List diplomas and degrees with your most\nrecent education first and include education in reverse chronological order. Also note\npost graduate and special training courses or seminars you have completed. Cite\nspecial job related skills, such as knowledge of a foreign language or specialized\ncertification.\nIf you are a new graduate with little work experience, you might place your educational\nbackground before your work experience, especially if your recent education or training\nis what qualifies you for the job. On most resumes the education section is placed at the\nend of the resume. You can expand the education section with more details to show\nhow your studies and extracurricular activities relate to the work you seek.\n\nExample\nBucknell University, Lewisburg, PA\nProgram of Study\nDegree Received, date (if within the last 5 years)\n\nTips\n\xc2\x99 Dates are not necessary unless they are favorable to you, I.E. recent\neducation. (You might have to supply them if the employer wants to verify.)\n\xc2\x99 If you have attended or completed college, omit high school.\n\xc2\x99 Include your GPA if it is higher than 3.0. If your major GPA is higher than your\noverall GPA, include it, but indicate that it is your major GPA.\n\n25\n\n\x0cEmployment History\nYou will need to include your job titles, places and dates of employment, and job\nresponsibilities. You may separate your experience into that for which you were paid\nand experience for which you were not paid. Remember, however, that experience is\nvaluable, even if you were not paid to do it.\n\nTips\n\xc2\x99 Don\xe2\x80\x99t go back more than 10-15 years.\n\xc2\x99 Don\xe2\x80\x99t list supervisor contact information. It belongs on a separate reference\nsheet.\n\nAdditional Information\nDO include such things as business, professional, social or civic affiliations; honors and\nawards; and military service.\nOMIT all personal information including marital status, age, state of health, etc. (it is\nillegal for an employer to request that information).\nDo not include this section unless it is pertinent to your qualifications for a particular job\nobjective.\n\n26\n\n\x0cMake Sure you\xe2\x80\x99re resume don\xe2\x80\x99s have mistakes\nby Robert Half\nRobert Half, founder of the California based personnel service Accountemps, has\ncollected r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 bloopers from his Resumania file for more than 40 years. Some\nexcerpts:\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cExtensive background in public accounting. I can also stand on my head!\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cEducation: College, August, 1880 \xe2\x80\x93 May 1984.\xe2\x80\x9d (Must have been a tough\ncurriculum.)\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cCover Letter: Thank you for your consideration. Hope to hear from you shorty!\xe2\x80\x9d\n(Hey, let\xe2\x80\x99s not get personal.)\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cStrengths: Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining composer.\xe2\x80\x9d\n(Would that be Mozart, or Beethoven?)\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cEducation: B.A. in Loberal Arts.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cPlease disregard the attached resume \xe2\x80\x93 it is terribly out of date.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cHere are my qualifications for you to overlook.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cI perform my job with effortless efficiency, effectiveness, efficacy and expertise.\xe2\x80\x9d\n(And an eye on the \xe2\x80\x9ce\xe2\x80\x9d section of the dictionary, evidently.)\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cPersonal: Married 20 years; own a home, along with a friendly mortgage\ncompany.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cInsufficient writing skills, thought processes have slowed down some.\nIf I am not one of the best, I will look for another opportunity.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cSeek challenges that test my mind and body, since the two are usually\ninseparable.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cWork Experience: Responsibilities included checking customers out.\xe2\x80\x9d (And then\ndid he rank them on a scale of one-to-ten?)\n\xc2\x99 My compensation should be at least equal to my age.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cPersonal Qualities: Outstanding worker; flexible 24 hours a day, seven days a\nweek, 365 days a year.\xe2\x80\x9d (It\xe2\x80\x99s Gumby!)\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cI don\xe2\x80\x99t usually blow my own horn, but in this case, I will go right ahead and do\nso.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99 \xe2\x80\x9cMy intensity and focus are at inordinately high levels, and my ability to complete\nprojects on time is unspeakable.\xe2\x80\x9d\n\xc2\x99\n27\n\n\x0cR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Worksheet\nName ___________________________________________________________\nAddress__________________________________________________________\nPhone ___________________________________________________________\nE-mail ___________________________________________________________\nJob Objective _____________________________________________________\nHIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS OR SUMMARY OF EXPERIENCE\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\nSKILL CLUSTERS (Titles such as Customer Service, Computer Skills, Management\nSkills, etc.)\n___________Skills:\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n___________Skills:\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\n28\n\n\x0c___________Skills:\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\nWork History\nEmployer_________________________________________________________\nLocation _________________________________________________________\nDates__________________________To_______________________________\nPosition or Title____________________________________________________\nList as many responsibilities, accomplishments or results that describe your performance.\n\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\nEmployer_________________________________________________________\nLocation _________________________________________________________\nDates__________________________To_______________________________\nPosition or Title____________________________________________________\nList as many responsibilities, accomplishments or results that describe your performance.\n\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\xc2\xbe ___________________________________________________________\n\n29\n\n\x0cEducation\nSchool __________________________________________________________\nCity, State________________________________________________________\nDiploma, Degree, Certificate or Field of Study____________________________\n\nDate (only if very recent)_____________________________________________\n\nSchool __________________________________________________________\nCity, State________________________________________________________\nDiploma, Degree, Certificate or Field of Study____________________________\n\nDate (only if very recent)_____________________________________________\nAdditional Training or Education\n\nCommunity or Volunteer Work\n\nAdditional Information\n\n30\n\n\x0cR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Critique Checklist\nMaterial fits neatly on one page, two pages if there is enough relevant experience.\nNo spelling, grammar or punctuation errors. Typing is neat, clean and\nprofessional-looking.\nName, address, telephone and e-mail are at the top and easy to locate.\nMargins at sides and bottom are not less than one-half inch.\nLayout and design are easy to read and pleasing to the eye.\nImportant titles are emphasized by using text enhancements where appropriate (caps,\nbolds, underline, italics), but not overdone.\nIndentations or appropriate symbols are used to organize information logically.\nOverall appearance invites one to read it.\nAction words are used to communicate accomplishments and results.\nExtraneous personal information (height, weight, age, sex, etc.) has been omitted.\nIf using a career objective, make sure it is specific, clear and targeted.\nRemember the RULE OF THUMB - the most important information is in the first half.\nUse conservative colors like white, off-white, beige or gray parchment.\nAvoid graphics and colorful paper unless you are in the design field.\nAlways use reverse chronological order.\nEmployment that is older than 15 years is not listed.\nLanguage specific only to the company in which you worked has been translated to apply\nto other areas (spell out acronymns).\nStrongest statements are at the top, working downward from them.\nDates of employment and education are included and accurate.\n\xe2\x80\x9cReferences Available Upon Request\xe2\x80\x9d has been replaced with more skills.\nQuantities, amounts and dollar values are used to enhance the description your job.\nReferences are listed on a separate sheet of paper.\nAddresses and phone numbers of previous employers are omitted.\nHobbies or social skills are not listed unless they are related to the job target.\nThe word \xe2\x80\x9cI\xe2\x80\x9d is used only in the cover letter.\nIf I am changing careers, my transferable skills are easily identifiable.\nI feel that my r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 represents me well.\n\nR\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Critiques are available to Bucknell alumni\nby emailing acs@bucknell.edu or\ncalling to set up an appointment at 570-577-1238\n\n31\n\n\x0cElectronic R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s\nElectronic r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s are similar to traditional r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s in that the purpose is the same - to\nget you an interview. They are also similar to scannable r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s; they are reduced to\ndigital form for an employer to search. Traditionally, the r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 focused on visual\naesthetics. The content focused on action verbs and was structured to grab a person\'s\nattention. The focus with an electronic resume is to grab a computer\'s attention. The\nbest electronic r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 is one that is scannable, searchable, and uploadable.\n\nIs Your R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 Searchable?\nMany companies are requesting that you submit your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 online, totally avoiding the\npaper version. Your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 is directly uploaded into their computers, which, in turn,\nformat your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 to their standards and allow them to search the database. You will\nwant to use key words specific to your field and the position for which you are applying.\n\nElectronic Forms\nThese are typically found on an organization\'s web site. You will be asked to type\ncertain information into blank text boxes and when completed, to click on a button to\nsubmit the information. Sometimes you are given extra space to type a cover letter or a\nsummary of qualifications. In order to utilize electronic forms, you must be using a\nbrowser that will support them, such as Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Internet\nExplorer.\n\nE-mail\nThis is the most direct method. You can send your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 as a text-only message or as\nan attachment. Since there are a wide variety of e-mail systems that people use for\nhome and business, you need to make sure that the employer receives your resume.\nReducing your resume to a text-only version such as ASCII (American Standard Code\nfor Information Interchange) is a reliable method. The characters in your resume will be\nuniversally recognized with little room for confusion. Incidentally, electronic forms\nprocess information as ASCII text. To create a good ASCII resume file, you will want to\nremove ALL formatting from your resume (italics, boldface, bullets, vertical and\nhorizontal lines, etc.). Since ASCII usually appears in Courier font in most systems, you\nmay want to initially type your resume in Courier. Start your resume with a flush left\nmargin of zero, keeping your right margin at about 65 characters. You may want to test\nyour resume by sending it to a friend or copying yourself to see how it actually looks.\nBe sure to check to see if the employer has specific instructions on how to submit your\nresume.\nIf you are instructed to send an attachment, using a Word document is best. The\nemployer may not have the ability to open a document in a PDF or zip file.\n\n32\n\n\x0cSample Electronic R\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9s\n\nJANE DOE\n1000 Anywhere Street\nLewisburg, PA 17837\n570-555-1212\nDoeJ@yahoo.com\nOBJECTIVE: To secure a position in the Public Relations field\nEDUCATION:\nBachelor of Science in Business Administration, May 2005\nBucknell University, Lewisburg, PA\nMajor GPA: 3.7/4.0\nRELATED EXPERIENCE:\nP.R. Intern, University Relations, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA\n8-04 to present\n*Promoter of office events and programs\n*Presenter of office services to campus organizations and classes\n*Publisher of advertisements using PageMaker software\nPublic Affairs Intern, Mead Paper Company, Corning, NY 5-03 to 8-04\nInterviewer, researcher and writer of weekly employee newsletter\n*Researched data on numerous projects\n*Coordinated special meetings and events\nP.R. Chairperson, Delta Zeta Sorority, Bucknell University,\n8-01 to 5-02\n*Produced advertisements for the student newspaper\n*Liaison between events and chapter members\n*Promoted high level of chapter attendance at internal activities\nPresident, P.R. Student Society of America, Bucknell University\n8-00 to 5-01\n*Organized publicity for meetings\n*Developed monthly chapter newsletter\n*Conducted bi-weekly meetings\nOTHER EXPERIENCE\nSales Associate, JC Penny, Inc., Selingsgrove, PA\nCOMPUTER SKILLS\nQuark Express, PageMaker, WordPerfect, WriteNow, Microsoft Word,\nClaris Works, WWW, E-mail, Microsoft Excel, Ventura\nHONORS AND ACTIVITIES\nDean\'s List\nMember, Women in Communications, Inc.\n\n33\n\n\x0cReferences - Why Have Them?\n\xe2\x80\xa2 They know people who can help.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 People who are evaluating your candidacy may know them.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 They indicate the breadth of your experiences (professional, academic, personal,\netc.)\n\nWho Should Be Included?\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Current Practitioner - Someone who is doing what you\xe2\x80\x99re applying to do. Do you have\nwhat it takes to do the job? This person should be able to say an unqualified YES!\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Academics - Someone who can attest to your academic proficiency.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Work - Someone who can speak to your qualities as an employee and worker.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Personal - Someone who can speak about you as a person.\n\nWho You Should NOT Include\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nRelatives and/or parents\nBrothers and/or sisters\nPeople who don\xe2\x80\x99t know you\n\xe2\x80\x9cBig Name\xe2\x80\x9d people you don\xe2\x80\x99t know\n\nReference Page\n\xe2\x80\xa2 This is a separate page from your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9 and cover letter.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 This page should be included with any application material you submit.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 It should be done on the same paper as your r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9, and should have the same\nheading with your contact information at the top.\n\n\xe2\x80\xa2\n\nYou never know who knows someone else.\n\nYou Should Always\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Follow directions and supply the type of references the employer requests.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 ASK your references if they feel comfortable being your reference.\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Give your references copies of your resume as well as a description of the job\nyou are applying for. They are doing you a favor- help them!\n\n\xe2\x80\xa2 Thank your references!\n\nAdapted from a handout prepared by the SUNY Oswego Career Services office.\n\n34\n\n\x0cSample Reference Page\n\nJane Doe\n1000 Anywhere Street\nAnywhere, NY 10014\n(212) 555-1212\ndoej@hotmail.com\n\nReferences\nDr. Sarah Smith\nProfessor of Political Science\nBucknell University\nLewisburg, PA 17837\n(570) 577-0000\n\nMr. Leon Johnson\nAttorney at Law\nKomisarow, Baach & Snouffer, P.C.\n1010 Anywhere Blvd.\nMilton, PA 17847\n(570) 742-0000\n\nMs. Karen Danish\nPresident\nKaren Danish & Associates\n2000 Anytown Street\nNew York, NY 10001\n(600) 348-1000\n\n35\n\n\x0c36\n\n\x0cCover Letter\nThe purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you to an employer, give them a frame of reference,\nand provide a sample of your writing ability. Some employers focus on the cover letter, others\nfocus on the r\xc3\xa9sum\xc3\xa9. Make sure that you invest time in developing both, and you will present\nyourself in a more professional light.\nOnce you have developed a cover letter you are happy with, hang on to it with both hands. The\nbody of the letter will always highlight and showcase the key points you wish to stress, and then\nall you will need to do is personalize it to fit an employers specific needs. Keep the following\nthings in mind when developing your cover letter.\nTypes of cover letters\nThere are two types of cover letters that can be used in your job search. A letter of application\nis written when applying for a specific position that has been advertised or referred. Make sure\nto state the source of the position (name of referral or posting source; ex: HotJobs). A letter of\ninquiry is written to gain an understanding about the employer and the availability of positions\nwithin the organization. This type of cover letter is used when you do not have background\ninformation on the employer and/or possible positions or programs that currently exist in the\norganization.\nBe Specific\nAlways address your letter to a specific person or title. \xe2\x80\x9cTo Whom it May Concern,\xe2\x80\x9d or \xe2\x80\x9cDear Sir\nor Madam,\xe2\x80\x9d just doesn\xe2\x80\x99t cut it anymore. Call the company to find out who to address the letter\nto. Ask how to spell the person\xe2\x80\x99s name, what his/her title is, and if you aren\xe2\x80\x99t sure, if the person\nis a he or a she (ex: Chris Smith). It\xe2\x80\x99s always better to err on the side of caution.\nI worked with a gentleman named \xe2\x80\x9cDoug\xe2\x80\x9d who received mai