Exploring the Resume
A good resume is your key to getting into the company of your
choice. Your resume is the first opportunity that an employer will have to see what you
can do and why you would be the best candidate for their job. A good resume will get you
in the door for an interview.
Resumes do not write themselves. They require research, self
examination and self promotion. Effective resumes are not a simple chronological list of
jobs held. A resume must demonstrate your achievements in a clear and concise way. Writing
your resume is an exercise in getting ready for the perfect job.
Resume Format
There is no perfect format. The best format for you is the one that fits your experience,
and which suits the position and industry for which you are striving. It must
look good, and be clear to you and anyone who may review it. Remember the
resume is also the first writing sample that a company will get from you.
Chronological
The chronological format begins with your current job and ends with your first position.
This resume format lists dates, job titles, employer and employer's location for each job.
Under each job heading, list some of your responsibilities and your achievements. Most
employers prefer this format because its familiar, and it is easy to read and understand.
It can work well for candidates who are not changing careers, applying in the financial
industry, or have an job history that shows longevity and professional growth. This format
also points out gaps in job history, lack of experience, Job Jumpers and career jumpers.
If you fall into one of these categories, consider a different format.
Functional The functional format emphasizes your skills and accomplishments. Achievements are
grouped under headings like "Management" or "Year 2000". This
format is excellent for those changing careers. It allows you to point out the types of
skills that can be transferred to the new position/career that you are seeking.
The functional approach can also minimize items that can be
perceived as negative, such as periods of unemployment or lack of professional growth.
Because of this some resume screeners will not review resumes that are ambiguous like the
functional resume.
Mixed Mixed formats exist because career paths are very fluid these days in comparison
to what was once considered normal. A consultant, or temporary worker might list a job
title and follow that with a list of positions and companies that the skill was performed
for, as well as listing achievements for each position.
What Goes In The Resume
Your Objective
Many resume experts think an objective is key because it provides the reason for the
document. Some experts find the objective unimportant because your objective is
stated in your cover letter that is sent with your resume. If you do not have an objective
be prepared to answer the question in the job interview.
Skills Summary
Many resume experts recommend starting your resume with a summary of your main skills that
will be highlighted in the resume. This has the potential of getting the attention of the
resume screener. Remember it can also eliminate you just as easily.
Some Accomplishments Regardless of the format you use for your resume, a simple listing of your previous
responsibilities has the potential of eliminating interest in you for the position that
you are trying to obtain.
Promote yourself in your resume but be very accurate. Do not
oversell your skills or capabilities. If you overestimate yourself on your resume and it
is discovered during your interview, it could disqualify you for a position quickly!
If you lack experience, try listing some of your unpaid
accomplishments. In the technical world this might include- setting up a network at home,
award winning shareware that you wrote, or non-profit contributions, like setting up a
school network.
Education This information should be at the bottom of your resume if you have been out of school
for a long time. List all ongoing training programs that your current and previous
employers have provided or that you have taken on your own.
Professional Associations / Awards These should be listed at the end of your resume. You might list the associations to
which you belong (Only if they are related to the job or industry.) Awards that apply
should also be listed. Include personal interests that are relevant to the position that
you are applying for only if you have room.
What Eden will do for you
Eden goes a step further when helping you make important career decisions.
Position Research What does your potential employer do? What is the corporate culture like? What are the
challenges facing the industry? This information will help Eden to find the perfect fit
for you as you make career decisions.
Prepare your
resume to fit the position
At Eden we understand the importance of tailoring the resume to the
position. Too often extremely talented Information Technology specialists do not get
positions for which they are qualified because of a failure to communicate effectively,
through their resume. Eden will help you to bring out your skills and general assets in
your resume.
At Eden we review countless resumes. We will make sure
that you are well positioned to obtain the job that you are applying for.
Exploring the Resume