15 Tips for Writing Winning Resumes �by Ann Hackett, Quest��

1. Determine your job search objective prior to writing the resume. Once you have determined your objective, you can structure the content of your resume around that objective. Think of your objective as the bull’s-eye to focus your resume on hitting. If you write your resume without having a clear objective in mind, it will likely come across as unfocused to those that read it. Take the time before you start your resume to form a clear objective.

2. Think of your resume as a marketing tool. Think of yourself as a product, potential employers as your customers, and your resume as a brochure about you. Market yourself through your resume. What are your features and benefits? What makes you unique? Make sure to convey this information in your resume.

3. Use your resume to obtain an interview, not a job. You don’t need to go into detail about every accomplishment. Strive to be clear and concise. The purpose of your resume is to generate enough interest in you to have an employer contact you for an interview. Use the interview to provide a more detailed explanation of your accomplishments and to land a job offer.

4. Use bulleted sentences. In the body of your resume, use bullets with short sentences rather than lengthy paragraphs. Resumes are read quickly. This bulleted sentence format makes it easier for someone to quickly scan your resume and still absorb it.

5. Use action words. Action words cause your resume to pop. To add life to your resume, use bulleted sentences that begin with action words like prepared, developed, monitored, and presented.

6. Use #’s, $’s and %’s. Numbers, dollars, and percentages stand out in the body of a resume. Use them. Here are two examples: � · Managed a department of 10 with a budget of $1,000,000. � · Increased sales by 25% in a 15-state territory.

7. Lead with your strengths. Since resumes are typically reviewed in 30 seconds, take the time to determine which bullets most strongly support your job search objective. Put those strong points first where they are more apt to be read.

8. Play Match Game. Review want ads for positions that interest you. Use the key words listed in these ads to match them to bullets in your resume. If you have missed any key words, add them to your resume.

9. Use buzzwords. If there are terms that show your competence in a particular field, use them in your resume. For marketing people, use "competitive analysis." For accounting types, use "reconciled accounts."

10. Accent the positive. Leave off negatives and irrelevant points. If you feel your date of graduation will subject you to age discrimination, leave the date off your resume. If you do some duties in your current job that don’t support your job search objective, leave them off your resume. Focus on the duties that do support your objective. Leave off irrelevant personal information like your height and weight.

11. Show what you know. Rather than going into depth in one area, use your resume to highlight your breadth of knowledge. Use an interview to provide more detail.

12. Show who you know. If you have reported to someone important such as a vice president or department manager, say so in your resume. Having reported to someone important causes the reader to infer that you are important.

13. Construct your resume to read easily. Leave white space. Use a font size no smaller than 10 point. Limit the length of your resume to 1-2 pages. Remember, resumes are reviewed quickly. Help the reader to scan your resume efficiently and effectively.

14. Have someone else review your resume. Since you are so close to your situation, it can be difficult for you to hit all your high points and clearly convey all your accomplishments. Have someone review your job search objective, your resume, and listings of positions that interest you. Encourage them to ask questions. Their questions can help you to discover items you inadvertently left off your resume. Revise your resume to include these items. Their questions can also point to items on your resume that are confusing to the reader. Clarify your resume based on this input.

15. Submit your resume to potential employers. Have the courage to submit your resume. Think of it as a game where your odds of winning increase with every resume you submit. You really do increase your odds with every resume you submit. Use a three-tiered approach. Apply for some jobs that appear to be beneath you. Perhaps they will turn out to be more than they appeared to be once you interview for them. Or perhaps once you have your foot in the door you can learn of other opportunities. Apply for jobs that seem to be just at your level. You will get interviews for some of those jobs. See how each job stacks up. Try for some jobs that seem like a stretch. That’s how you grow -- by taking risks. Don’t rule yourself out. Trust the process. Good luck in your job search!

Erin Example 1234 Career Ct. Oshkosh, WI 54091 920-424-5555 e.example@hotmail.com

Education: University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Oshkosh, WI

Bachelor of Science Graduation date: June 2008 Major: Athletic Training, Minor: Biology Overall GPA: 3.5/4.0 Participated in CAATE Accredited Athletic Training Program

Related Skills: � Knowledgeable of various wrapping and taping procedures � Current CPR, First-Aid, and AED certified � Experienced with maintaining and updating client medical records � Professional one-on-one focus and developed sense of care

Professional Experience: University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Oshkosh, WI Athletic Training Student January 2007-present

� Assist all Division III collegiate athletes under the supervision of a licensed athletic trainer � Complete recognition, evaluation, and assessment of injuries � Manage the treatment, rehabilitation, and reconditioning of athletic injuries � Assist with pre-participation physicals, SportsWare injury software, and NCAA injury surveillance � Experience in working with athletes participating in: baseball, football, men’s & women’s basketball, wrestling, and men’s & women’s soccer

Fox Valley Physical Therapy Oshkosh, WI Physical Therapy Technician May 2006-present � Assist with rehab protocols, setting up patients and treatments, and applying modalities

� Maintain and update patient charts in an efficient and accurate manner

Affinity Immediate Care Oshkosh, WI Athletic Training Student December 2006-January 2007 � Worked in conjunction with urgent care physicians

� Experienced a fast-paced, changing environment first hand

Disney’s Wide World of Sports Orlando, FL Athletic Training Student May 2006-August 2006 � Covered a multitude of national and international athletic competitions � Worked collaboratively with athletes of many nationalities and languages

Affinity Health System – St. Elizabeth Hospital Appleton, WI Athletic Training Student January 2006-May 2006 � Accompanied physicians, physician’s assistants, and licensed athletic trainers (LAT) in

orthopedics � Assisted LAT in the coverage of athletic events and in teaching at Little Chute High School

Gunderson Lutheran Sports Medicine Appleton, WI Observation (40 hours) Spring 2005

� Volunteered and observed physical therapists � Researched and discussed several client cases

E. Example, 2

Bellin Hospital Green Bay, WI Observation (40 hours) Fall 2004 � Observed surgeries under Dr. McKenzie

� Researched and discussed several patient surgeries

Certifications and Licenses: � American Red Cross Preventing Disease Transmission January 2007 � American Red Cross AED Essentials January 2007

� American Red Cross CPR for the Professional Rescuer January 2007 � American Red Cross Sports Safety Training January 2007

Professional Memberships: � Wisconsin Athletic Trainers’ Association Fall 2005 � National Athletic Trainers’ Association Fall 2005

Work Experience: Winger’s Bar & Grill Oshkosh, WI Bartender October 2005-May 2006

� Assisted customers with food and drink orders � Worked successfully in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment � Provided excellent customer service and developed lasting relationships

Springhetti’s Landscaping Neenah, WI General Laborer Seasonal 2004, 2005, 2006 � Assisted customers in making appropriate landscape design changes on-site � Provided superior, dependable service to clients � Worked in a team atmosphere to complete daily tasks like: planting trees, mulching, and laying sod

Scholarships and Awards: � 2007 Affinity Health Systems Award for Academic Excellence in Athletic Training � University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Athletic Training Education Program Potential Award 2006 � University Dean’s List - 6 consecutive semesters

Related Activities: � Titan Sports Medicine Club Fall 2004-present � Pre-Health Professionals of Oshkosh Spring 2006-present � Oshkosh Student Association Fall 2004-Spring 2006 � Affinity Health Systems Patient Transport Spring 2006

Volunteer Activities: � Fox Valley Humane Association Volunteer Dog Walker Fall 2005-present � Big Brothers & Big Sisters Mentor Fall 2004-present � Relay for Life- University of Wisconsin Oshkosh April 2006 � Special Olympics Polar Plunge February 2006

Sarah M. Barbour Current Address: 100 Houston Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 (540) 555-6666 smbarbour@vt.edu

Permanent Address: 22141 Cabin Road Square, VA 23456

(703) 555-1234

OBJECTIVE To obtain a governmental affairs position utilizing language skills

EDUCATION BACHELOR OF ARTS, INTERNATIONAL STUDIES AND POLITICAL SCIENCE, May 2003

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, VA Minor – Spanish Overall GPA: 2.9/4.0; Dean's List last 3 semesters VIRGINIA TECH’S “WASHINGTON SEMESTER,” Alexandria, VA, Summer 2002 • In conjunction with internship with US Agency for International Development: senior seminar in US

public policy and political institutions. • Site visits at the Environmental Protection Agency, Senator John Warner’s office, the Campaign

Center and the Library of Congress. CENTER FOR EUROPEAN STUDIES AND ARCHITECTURE, Riva San Vitale, Switzerland, Fall 2001 • Studied Italian, Roman history, humanities and art. • Traveled to Spain, Germany, Austria, France, Italy and England studying culture, art, history, politics

and languages.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

• Written and oral fluency in Spanish. • Basic writing skills and conversational proficiency in German, French, and Italian.

RELATED EXPERIENCE

INTERN, US Agency for International Development Summer 2002 • Assisted in the creation of an agency-wide database. • Performed technical analysis of various agency programs and communicated their status to USAID

missions throughout the world. • Attended USAID and State Department meetings concerning global environmental issues.

OTHER EXPERIENCE

Receptionist, George Mason University School of Law, Arlington, VA Summer 2001 • Processed and filed incoming student applications and sent brochures to prospective students. Receptionist, Chesapeake Materials, Inc. Dumfries, VA Summer 2000 • Organized the filing system for a branch office, performed general office work and made bank

deposits. Office Assistant, Cedar Systems, Inc. (through Temporary Solutions) Woodbridge, VA Summer 1999 • Awarded August “Temp of the Month.” • Assisted in the organization of the company’s computer classes and performed general office work.

ACTIVITIES Phi Beta Delta International Honor Society International Studies Organization Spanish Club of Virginia Tech Dance Company of Virginia Tech, Stage Manager 2002-03

Features of this resume: • "Related experience" and "other experience" separated. • Study abroad and Washington semester included in "Education" section (not buried in

activities where it might be overlooked). • Skills are related to her objective – placed higher on the page. • Font is Arial 10 • Margins are 1/2 inch on top, bottom and sides.

Chronological Resume PAMELA D. CHAPMAN

1234 Toledo Avenue Lubbock, TX 72047

(382) 392-7362 pchapman@aol.com

OBJECTIVE

An opportunity in a marketing position requiring strong public relations skills and experience in promotional activities

EDUCATION TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY, Lubbock, TX Bachelor of Arts Degree: Marketing Minor: Public Relations Graduation: May 2001 GPA: 3.80/4.00 (Major), 3.45/4.00 (Overall)

RELEVANT - Theory of Public Relations - Public Speaking COURSESWORK - Marketing Principles - Sales Techniques

WORK (Financed 75% of college expenses) EXPERIENCE KYEW RADIO, 1090AM, Lubbock, TX Public Relations Intern May - August 2000 - Coordinated studio production and live radio broadcast - Assisted sales personnel in selling airtime to local manufacturers

- Promoted radio station at local community and sporting events

KNSD-TV CHANNEL 42, Lubbock, TX Anchor/Reporter May - August 1999 - Anchored a 30-minute newscast 5 days a week - Gained experienced in writing newscasts and directing - Reported for a 5 minute news segment around the city - Edited and wrote news packages

- Produced an educational game show "Double Trouble"

KANOMO KAMP, Brussells, MO Counselor May - August 1998 - Counseled children between the ages of 10 and 15 - Incorporated Christian principles with discipline of athletics - Taught dance, swimming, wind surfing, and sailing

ACTIVITIES/ Student Foundation, Public Relations Committee HONORS Chaplain, Kappa Gamma Theta Sorority Recipient, Ministerial Scholarship Recipient, NCT Communication Scholarship (given to 2 students each year) Dean's List (3.7+/4.0), 5 semesters **Reprinted with permission granted by John Cunningham. Cunningham, John R., The Inside Scoop, The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., 1998

Sample resume | Marquette University | Career Services Center

Jamie A. Thomas 8840 Apple Road · Jackson, WI, 53040; 847-111-2222; jkl.thomas@hotmail.com

PROFILE A position as a mental health counselor; special interests include working with emotionally disturbed adolescents.

• Experience working with children who are at environmental and/or biological risk • Three years experience working directly with youth including drug and alcohol

counseling, foster care and teen pregnancy • Approach all tasks in a professional manner with energy, efficiency and compassion

EDUCATION MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY, Milwaukee, WI Master of Education Degree in Counseling, May 20xx

Thesis: The Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation of Teens UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN, Milwaukee, WI

Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, 20xx ADOLESCENT RELATED EXPERIENCE MILWAUKEE TEEN SERVICES, Milwaukee, WI Intern, Summer, 20xx, Part-time 20xx-20xx

Worked under supervision of psychotherapist Counseled adolescent individuals and groups for depression Cooperated with Social Services Department regarding treatment and placement

of teens in foster care Assisted with teen application for services, learned assessment techniques, and

developed understanding of child welfare issues SOUTH SHORE TEEN REHABILITATION CENTER, Milwaukee, WI Alcohol Counselor Intern, 19xx-20xx

Worked with teens involved in drug and alcohol rehabilitation Presented educational films and lectures Co-facilitated small group discussions Planned social activities

TEEN PREGNANCY SERVICE OF MILWAUKEE, WI Social Worker Assistant, 20xx-20xx

Learned caseload management of low-income, prenatal and postnatal clients Assisted with pregnancy testing, program intakes, home visits, and coordination

with a multi-disciplinary team OTHER RELATED EXPERIENCE ADVOCATES FOR RETARDED CITIZENS, Waukesha, WI Volunteer to Group Facilitator, 20xx-20xx

Helped organize, plan and participated in educational and social activities with a group of mentally handicapped teenagers

CHILD CARE, Milwaukee, WI: Nanny, Summers during undergraduate study; 20xx-20xx

Responsible for care of three children with span of ages from eight to 15 Extensive travel with families throughout U.S.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP American Psychological Association American Counseling Association

Skills Resume

DEREK D. ARNOLD Present Address: Permanent Address: 325 Wave Street 361 Hicks Ave. Jonestown, PA 76712 Lufts, MD 42315 (817) 743 - 9876 (780) 937-3645 JacDev@AbBen.edu EMPLOYMENT OBJECTIVE A position in a law enforcement agency requiring strong leadership and communication skills EDUCATION PENNSYLVANIA UNIVERSITY, Jonestown, PA Bachelor of Arts Degree Majors: Law and Society/Sociology Minor: Restaurant and Hotel Institutions Graduation: December 2000 SIGNIFICANT COURSEWORK - Social Problems - White Collar Crime - Criminology - Sociology of Law - Criminal Justice - Child Abuse and Neglect - Social Deviance and Control - Racial and Ethnic Diversity RELEVANT SKILLS Leadership

- Organized pre-practice offensive drills for teammates - Advised players on handling relationships with coaches - Led group members in preparing for class presentations - Organized charity drive for the Darby Days Fund Raiser

Communication

- Lectured on Drug Abuse to elementary school children - Delivered speeches to 30 students in a public speaking course - Participated in numerous group oral presentations during college - Wrote weekly sports column for the school paper

ACTIVITIES/HONORS Athletic Scholarship for 5 years at Pennsylvania University Two-year starter at Offensive Tackle Scout Team Player of the week 4 times during freshman year Member of the Walk for Brotherhood Fund Raising Drive, 1999-2000 INTERESTS Horseback riding, golfing, croquet and country dancing **Reprinted with permission granted by John Cunningham. Cunningham, John R., The Inside Scoop, The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., 1998

MARY JONES111 Peacock Lane

Springfield, Pennsylvania 19064(215) 575-0734

OBJECTIVE: Position in child care or teaching with a private school or day care center.

HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS:

• Extensive experience with young children• Strong communication skills with children, clarifying their problems and needs• Sensitivity to working with parents from diverse backgrounds

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:

Teaching:• Developed and implemented new curriculum ideas for nursery school children,

including a unit on the people of China.• Taught games, activities, and art and crafts projects and tutored young children in

writing and English.

Other experience with children:• Raised three children and currently involved with five grandchildren.• Read stories as a volunteer storyteller for library's pre-school reading group

program.

Communications:• Facilitated communication among parents in various parent-teacher organizations

and between parents and administrators.• Key member of team publishing school newsletter to inform community of

important school news. EXPERIENCE SUMMARY:Over ten years experience as classroom volunteer in pre-school and elementaryclassrooms and as volunteer in Oak Grove Library.

Significant background in communicating with administrators and parents as P.T.A.officer and as parent representative to Jackson Elementary Site Council.

RELEVANT TRAINING:Parent Effectiveness Training courses.University Extension classes in teaching art and in multi-cultural education.

GEORGE SMITH 123 Shorewood Drive ● Oshkosh, WI 54091 ● (920) 111-2222 ● gsmith11@example.com

EDUCATION Masters of Science: University of Wisconsin Madison Madison, WI Emphasis: Higher, Post-Secondary, Continuing Education Bachelor of Arts: University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Milwaukee, WI Major: English; Minor: Business

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

● Five years of progressive experience in student activities, leadership and volunteerism ● Dedicated to the success and development of students ● Supervised 28 Orientation Group Leaders ● Ability to build rapport with diverse populations, including students, parents, staff, and faculty ● Captivating and creative public speaker with groups small and large in excess of 350 people

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Human Relations and Communication ● Provide extensive training and program presentation: staff selection, interviewing, assessment, academic skills,

wellness, community development, transitions, ethics, alcohol education, conflict mediation, long distance relationships, leadership, time management, and academic success

● Counsel students with academic and personal concerns ● Serve as instructor for Resident Assistant seminar ● Mediate conflict, interpret, and enforce policy ● Possess excellent oral and written communication skills ● Represent department at recruitment and information sessions for parents and students ● Revised departmental handbooks: Resident Assistant Handbook and Academic Advisor Manual Student Involvement and Organization Development ● Aided in student organization development and assessment of program planning board and volunteer group, as

well as, serving as a resource to all student organizations ● Promoted student involvement through organization/involvement fairs, one-on-one contact with students, printed

materials, and presenting to parents and students at early registration programs ● Organized creative publicity campaigns for activities, performances, and organization recruitment ● Produced handbook for student organizations and advisors presenting information on recruitment, committees,

officer transition, budgets, university policies, and other helpful materials ● Presented important issues, such as budget management, fundraising, and creative publicity and program

planning to leaders of student organizations in monthly meetings ● Oversaw the student organization recognition process for more than 50 organizations Community Service Coordination ● Served as Staff Advisor to the Campus Volunteer Group and promoted student volunteerism for three years ● Established excellent working relationships with local mentor group in which students participated ● Implemented volunteer activities for the entire campus community, such as campus clean-up days, blood drives,

and gift giving programs for children of students during the holiday season ● Organized alternative spring break trips to Kentucky and Negril, Jamaica for five years for groups of 7 to 22

people

SMITH pg 2

● Member of Paint the Town Planning Committee and organized two university groups to participate ● Represented the campus community as an American Cancer Society Relay for Life Team Leader Personnel Management ● Responsible for the supervision of approximately 50 undergraduate and clerical staff ● Performed ongoing employee performance appraisals/evaluations for all supervised staff ● Conducted various employee trainings, including both professional and undergraduate staff ● Responsible for successful recruitment, interviewing, selection, and retention of all employees ● Created and implemented several professional development programs across staff to aid in the retention and

growth of staff members

RELATED ACTIVITES ● Co-Chair, Assessment Committee, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh September 2005 – Present ● Names Quilt Project Committee, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh October 2005 – Present ● Committee on Sexual Orientation, Lawrence University June 2003 – August 2004 ● Wellness Committee, Lawrence University June 2002 – September 2002 ● Retention Committee, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee January 2002 – May 2002 ● New Student Orientation, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee November 2001 – May 2002

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

Summer 2002 – Graduate Student & Faculty Collaborative Research Grant Project title: Non-matriculants of the ACT Program: Why did they choose not to enroll?

● Completed a study including a research proposal, IRB process, data collection, and analysis on findings ● Study presented at regional conference for math and science teachers by faculty investigator

● Findings presentation at the Celebration of Scholarship 2003

PRESENTATIONS

● “Creating a Positive Web Presence” University of Wisconsin Oshkosh ● “How to Get a Job in Business Without a Business Major” University of Wisconsin Oshkosh ● “What’s This Thing Called Heterosexuality?” Lawrence University ● “ Is There Life Beyond RHA? Market Yourself!” Lawrence University ● “Academic Success 101” University of Wisconsin Milwaukee ● “Staff Training: Just Another Dust Bunny in the Vacuum of Residence Life?” University of Wisconsin

Milwaukee ● “Non-traditional Approaches to Community Building” University of Wisconsin Milwaukee

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

● Residence Life Coordinator, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh September 2004 – Present

● Student Activities Specialist, Lawrence University, Appleton, WI June 2002 – August 2004 ● Peer Advisor/Resident Assistant, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee August 2001 – May 2002 ● Marketing Intern , Brady Corporation, Milwaukee, WI May 2001 – August 2001

Elizabeth McWellen College address: 442 E. Roanoke St., Apt J Blacksburg, VA 24060 (540) 961-3395 emcwellen@vt.edu

Permanent address: 5683 Alice Drive Richmond, VA 23060 (804) 364-3395

Objective Laboratory position utilizing scientific research and laboratory skills

Education Bachelor of Science in Biology, May 2003 Minor in Chemistry, emphases in Microbiology and Entomology Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, Virginia GPA: 2.9/4.0

Coursework Biological Statistics Microbial Genetics Food Microbiology Pathogenic Bacteriology

Immunology Insect Biology Medical and Veterinarian Entomology Insect Pest Management

Lab Skills Gram Stain Procedure

Cultured Bacterial and Fungal Colonies Media Preparation pH Calibration Potentiometric Calibration Calorimetry

Techniques for Bacterial Identification Tests for Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Dilutions Aseptic Technique Methods for Nematode Staining Maintenance of Laboratory Notebooks

Computer Skills

Windows 95, 98, NT Mathmatica

Microsoft Excel Microsoft Word

Research Experience

Lab Support Technician International Research and Development, Virginia Tech June 2002 – present Conduct research on spores of Metarhizium anisopliae for the control of locusts in

Sub-Saharan Africa. Evaluate production processes utilizing hemacytometer and CFU counts. Work on methods to decrease water activity as to enhance germination at lower

humidities. Assist in bioassays to determine the insects’ mortality and virulence of the insect

pathogen. Laboratory Assistant Entomology Department, Virginia Tech May – August 2001 Researched the development and fecundity of Steinernema carpocapsae nematodes

when exposed to the bacterium Xenorhabdus nematophilus using in vitro techniques. Assisted in an experiment to determine the response of plant pathogenic nematodes to X.

nematophilus. Applied predatory nematodes for the control of the Tomato Root Knot nematode. Aided in a pesticide trial for the control of Japanese beetle grubs. Undergraduate Research Entomology Department, Virginia Tech January – May 2001 Worked to develop a biopesticide for the control of a plant pathogenic nematode using

the bacteria Xenorhabdus bovienii. Responsible for general set-up and management of experiments as well as collection

and analysis of data.

Activities Alpha Chi Omega Women’s Fraternity, 2000-present Senior Class Representative to the Chapter Relations and Standards Board Virginia Tech Tae Kwon Do Club

Features of this resume: Lab skills –

relevant to objective.

Upper level courses (don't list basic courses obviously taken because of your major).

Table used to format – set borders invisible on actual resume!

Font = Arial 10 Margins = .7

Sample Resume ! LIBERAL ARTS

Stacy Barrington729 N. 11th Street, Cobeen Hall 14652 Boston Ave.Milwaukee, WI 53212 Rochester, NY 00123(414) 288-9003 (202) 545-9442stacy.barrington@mu.edu barringpsy@aol.com

OBJECTIVE Seeking a management trainee position in an international company contributingcommunication/listening skills, organizational ability and problem-solving aptitude. Fluent in French and culturally aware.

EDUCATION MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY, Milwaukee, WI Bachelor of Arts Degree, May, 20xx Major: Psychology, Minor: French GPA 3.8/4.0

UNIVERSITE CATHOLIQUE DE LYON, France (Sept.-June, 20xx)! While living in a family setting, became fluent in French, both written and spoken.! Learned to see the world from a different cultural perspective

Relevant Coursework:Organizational Behavior Industrial PsychologySocial Psychology European Civilization and Culture

STRENGTHS ! Customer Service: Six years of experience in tactfully handling customer concerns.! Quick thinker and detail-oriented! Analytical: Solid analytical and problem-solving skills! Research and investigation skills. Able to make effective use of all available resources.! Personal Attributes: Self-starter, fast learner, decisive, team player and goal-oriented.

EXPERIENCEStudent Manager, SODEXHO-MARRIOTT FOOD SERVICES, Milwaukee, WI 20xx-20xx, 20xx-present! Served customers and supervised five to ten students in each shift, giving feedback

regularly! Hired and trained new student employees, developing new training procedures that were

adopted by the corporate training facility.

Sales Associate, LERNER NEW YORK, INC., Rochester, NY Summers and holidays, 20xx-present! Serviced all facets of store sales, specializing in friendly customer relations and bringing in

repeat clients! Organized display setups and promotions

Student Ambassador, ADMISSIONS OFFICE, Marquette University 19xx-20xx! Tailored tours to meet informational needs of prospective students and parents! Participated in student panels and discussions! Processed, updated and organized application materials

HONORS ! Alpha Sigma Nu, Jesuit Honor Society; MU National Academic Scholarship; Rotary Young! American Scholarship; Psi Chi, Psychology Honor Society; Francais Award of Merit

ACTIVITIES ! Cobeen Hall Council, President; International Student Organization; Big Brother, Big Sister! Volunteer Tutor, Indo-Chinese Learning Center; Habitat for Humanity

Quickly and succinctly capture an employer’s attention and interest. Most employers spend 15-20 seconds reviewing a resume.

Emphasize and quantify accomplishments rather than just listing responsibilities. Try to add in facts and figures whenever possible. For example: “Designed and delivered math tutoring lessons to a group of seven fifth and sixth graders.”

Do research and learn to speak the employer’s language. Research the organization to understand any jargon that is particular to the industry or trends that are developing. In addition, research skills required of the job, so as to highlight and promote relevant skills in the resume.

Incorporate transferable skills. Although not directly related to the position, most skills are transferable to many positions and important to employers. Be sure to include such skills as: communication, teamwork, building strategic working relationships, organizational, etc., in a resume.

A SUCCESSFUL RESUME WILL:

o Be specific and quantitative whenever possible

o Check the spelling of every word, and be on the lookout for missing words

o Be consistent with formatting

o Organize your resume in reverse chronological order

o Pay close attention to verb tenses in your bullets

o Keep your resume no longer than one page

o Be truthful about your accomplishments without undervaluing your experiences

o Use resume templates from word processing programs, such as MSWord

o Use phrases like “Responsible for” and “Was in charge of”

o Say what you were supposed to do; say what you did

o Begin bullets with “I” or use complete sentences

o Include personal information such as your social security number, age, or nation of origin

o List unrelated, minor duties such as “opened mail” or ‘filed documents”

o Limit yourself by including only paid experiences

A resume is a summary of your education, experience, and skills.Its main purpose is to convince a potential employer to invite you for an interview – to make them want to learn more about you. Resumes are used to screen applicants and determine which candidates have the backgrounds which most closely match employers’ needs.

resumeDOs DON’Ts

writingRESUMES

resume

CONTACT INFORMATION:

EDUCATION:

BASICS:• Name, address, phone number, and email address

should be at the top of the page. • Always include area and zip codes.• For current students, list both a college and home

address and phone numbers.

SUGGESTIONS:• Be sure your answering machine message and email

address are business-appropriate. • If you have roommates or if someone else could be

answering your calls, make sure they use proper etiquette and relay the message to you.

BASICS:• Begin with your most recent educational experience.

Include the degree you expect to earn/ have earned, your major/minor, university, expected date of graduation, and GPA.

• Add course highlights as an option (titled “Relevant Coursework”).

SUGGESTIONS:• Generally list GPA if it is a 3.0 or above. You may

want to include the GPA in your major if it is higher than your cumulative GPA.

• List any study abroad experiences or other colleges you have attended for a significant period of time.

Students can use a variety of headings to summarize and chronicle information for an employer.

Sample headings include:

WHAT HEADINGS SHOULD I INCLUDE?

There is more than one right way to write a resume – talk to as many people as possible to gain a clearer picture of how you would like to organize your own.

•Education

•Relevant Experience

•Experience

•Related Projects

•Leadership Experience

•Activities

•Relevant Coursework

•Skills

•Interests

•Honors/Awards

•Community Service/Volunteer Experience

sections of yourRESUME

ACTIVITIES & INTEREST:

COMMUNITY SERVICE:

BASICS:• List college-related activities including student

government, fraternities/sororities, student clubs, sports activities, etc. not mentioned elsewhere.

SUGGESTIONS:• Be sure to note the offices you held and committee

involvement you had in each of your activities.

BASICS:• List organizations and the skills and abilities utilized.

SUGGESTIONS:• Come in to CAPS and speak with a counselor if

you need help deciding if and/or how to include potentially controversial information (i.e. religious, political, etc.).

EXPERIENCE:

BASICS:• Include any employment, internships, significant

campus leadership offices, volunteer work, and relevant class/research projects.

• Include title, name of organization, location, and dates for each position.

• Emphasize duties, responsibilities, skills, abilities, and accomplishments appropriate to the position for which you are applying.

SUGGESTIONS:• Use phrases beginning with action verbs rather

than sentences.• Do not use pronouns in your job descriptions.• You do not need to restrict to paid experience.• You may which to separate this section into

multiple sections such as “Leadership Experience”, “Work Experience”, “Related Experience”, and “Other Experience.”

HONORS:

BASICS:• Include academic honors such as the Dean’s List,

scholarships, or honors societies.

SUGGESTIONS:• Honors may be listed under a separate heading or

as a subsection under “Education.”

SKILLS:

BASICS:• Foreign languages, computer skills, and other relevant

skills should be included.

SUGGESTIONS:• List level of fluency/proficiency with languages/

computer skills. (Don’t overstate your competence.)

AdministeredAnalyzedAssignedAttainedChaired

ConsolidatedContractedCoordinatedDelegated

DevelopedDirectedEvaluatedExecuted

ImprovedIncreasedOrganizedOversaw

PlannedPrioritizedProducedRecommended

ReviewedScheduledStrengthenedSupervised

MANAGEMENT:

resumeVERB LIST

AddressedArbitratedArrangedAuthoredCollaborated

ConvincedCorrespondedDevelopedDirectedDrafted

EditedEnlistedFormulatedInfluencedInterpreted

LecturedMediatedModeratedNegotiated

PersuadedPromotedPublicizedReconciled

RecruitedSpokeTranslatedWrote

COMMUNICATION:

RESEARCH:ClarifiedCollectedCritiqued

DiagnosedEvaluated Examined

ExtractedIdentifiedInspected

InterpretedInterviewedInvestigated

OrganizedReviewedSummarized

SurveyedSystematized

AssembledBuiltCalculated

ComputedDesignedDevised

EngineeredFabricatedMaintained

OperatedOverhauledProgrammed

Remodeled Repaired

SolvedUpgraded

TECHNICAL:

AdaptedAdvisedClarifiedCoached

CommunicatedCoordinatedDemystifiedDeveloped

EnabledEncouragedEvaluated

ExplainedFacilitatedGuided

InformedInstructedPersuaded

Set GoalsStimulatedTrained

TEACHING:

AdministeredAllocatedAnalyzed

AppraisedAuditedBalanced

BudgetedCalculatedComputed

DevelopedForecastedManaged

MarketedPlanned

ProjectedResearched

FINANCIAL:

ActedConceptualizedCreatedCustomized

DesignedDevelopedDirectedEstablished

FashionedFoundedIllustratedInitiated

InstitutedIntegratedIntroduced

InventedOriginatedPerformed

PlannedRevitalizedShaped

CREATIVE:

AssessedAssistedClarified

CoachedCounseledDemonstrated

DiagnosedEducatedExpedited

FacilitatedFamiliarizedGuided

MotivatedReferred

RehabilitatedRepresented

HELPING:

ApprovedArrangedCatalogedClassifed

CollectedCompiledDispatchedExecuted

GeneratedImplementedInspectedMonitored

OperatedOrganizedPreparedProcessed

PurchasedRecordedRetrievedScreened

SpecifiedSystematizedTabulatedValidated

CLERICAL or DETAIL ORIENTED:

YOUR NAMEStreet Address

City, State Zip CodeTelephone Number

youremail@uchicago.edu

ACTIVITIES, COMMUNITY SERVICE or LEADERSHIP [Possible titles/examples of descriptive headings]Title, Organization, City, State, Dates[Note: This section can be formatted exactly like your experience section or you can omit a description. If this section’s experience is more relevant to the type of work you’re pursuing, consider putting it above experience.]

EDUCATIONInstitution, City, StateDegree, expected Month YearGPA: X.X/4.0Relevant Courses: [Note: Include list of courses in which you’ve done substantive work that you might want to describe in an

interview. This is optional. Awards and honors can also be listed here.]

Name of High School, City, StateDiploma, Month Year[Note: Include GPA, class rank, or any other exceptional academic honor that might inform employers of your scholastic

achievements, but High School will probably drop out of your resume as you gain more experience. Some employers do NOT want to see it by the time you’re a 3rd year student but some name recognition might other times be a plus.]

SKILLS[Note: List computer, language, and any other technical skills you possess. Other types of skills (e.g., communication skills, organizational skills) should not be listed, but rather incorporated into your descriptions above.]

EXPERIENCEOrganization, City, StateTitle, Month Year – Month Year [Note: you can bold your title or your organization – whichever is more relevant/important and switch which is on top, but be consistent and keep the location with the organization]•••[Note: Include bulleted description above. Start with action verbs describing your skills and include details that will help employers understand your accomplishments, skills, knowledge, personal characteristics, and experience level. Include quantity, frequency, or impact of your work whenever possible. Consider answering the following questions to help you write more effective bullet points but do not use sub-bullets in the resume; longer descriptions may lend themselves to using sentence fragment/paragraph style instead of bullets:o What did you do? What were the results of your work?o What were your accomplishments?o How did you help the organization? What impact did your tasks have on your colleagues, your department, or the

organization as a whole?o What did you learn? What skills/knowledge did you enhance?o How does this experience relate to your internship/employment goal?]

resumeTEMPLATE

David Maroondmaroon@uchicago.edu

773-555-1234School Address:5454 South Shore Drive, Apt. 19FChicago, IL 60615

Permanent Address:123 Briar Dr.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07489

EDUCATION

LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES

SKILLS

Fluent in German and PolishMS Word, Word Perfect, Excel, Minitab, Powerpoint, SAS, and Quicken

THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGOBachelor of Arts in Political ScienceCumulative GPA: 3.6/4.0; Concentration GPA: 3.6/4.0Dean’s List 2004-2007

Chicago, ILExpected June 2008

EXPERIENCE

FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF CHICAGOTechnical Support Intern, Economic Research Department• Perform risk assessment of research department and its classifications of data• Create searchable Paradox database, update information, and construct linked forms for three departments• Use SAS to create graphs to support seven risk assessment projects

Chicago, ILJune 2006 – Present

MORNINGSTAR, INC.Intern, Electronic Products Group• Created and administered software databases designed to increase communication and efficiency between development teams• Researched optimal equity and mutual fund portfolios by weighing risk against return using information technologies• Collaborated with project manager to test accuracy and usability of Morningstar pre-release software; advanced its development

Chicago, ILJune 2005 – Oct. 2005

JOSEPH REGENSTEIN LIBRARY, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGOCirculation Assistant• Trained patrons in use of newly-implemented online cataloguing system• Located and charged out material for patrons, discharged and shelved returned books

Chicago, ILSept. 2004 – June 2005

Varsity Basketball, University of ChicagoReceived NCAA Division II tournament bids, 2002 and 2003

Sept. 2004 – Present

Student Government, University of Chicago• Organized more than 20 campus activities and functions for student body as a member of the Student Affairs Committee• Consulted on the renovation of a student union for undergraduates as well as other projects to improve student life on campus

Sept. 2005 – June 2006

sampleRESUMES

Sally Smithsmith@uchicago.edu

School Address:5412 S. University Ave.Chicago, IL 60637(773) 555-7864

Permanent Address:123 Main Street

Stevens Point, WI 54481(715) 456-2222

SKILLSComputer: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as HyperStudio and Adobe Photoshop; Basic knowledge of HTMLLanguage: Proficient in reading and writing SpanishCertifications: Adult and Infant CPR

EDUCATIONThe University of Chicago, Chicago, ILBachelor of Arts, expected June 2011Enrolled in core liberal arts courses with plans to pursue pre-med curriculum

SPASH High School, Stevens Point, WIDiploma, June 2007Honors Included: President’s Education Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement, Special Corporate National Merit

Scholarship sponsored by Pfizer, Inc., and National Council of Teachers of English Nomination for Excellence in Writing

EXPERIENCEJoseph Regenstein Library, University of Chicago, Chicago, ILSerials Assistant, October 2007 – present• Guide patrons through the newly-implemented online cataloging system• Locate and charge out books, audio-visual equipment, and microfiche for patrons• Shelve returned books accurately and efficiently

LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIESAssistant Chair, Model United Nations at the University of Chicago, October 2007 – present• Research and write 10-page papers on political and economic problems such as vaccine financing and urban health• Collaborate with team to plan two-day conference for more than 1,500 high school students

President, Students against Destructive Decisions, SPASH High School 2006 – 2007• Led executive board members in coordinating four large campaigns and raising more than $3000• Increased active membership by 30% through innovative membership drive efforts• Served as spokesperson to local community, raising awareness of violence and injury prevention strategies

Vice President, Student Council, SPASH High School, 2005 – 2006• Planned and facilitated weekly student council meetings• Represented 1500 students in meetings with administrators; lobbied for and implemented spirit week

Captain, Varsity Tennis Team, SPASH High School, 2006 – 2007• Managed time required for 20-hour/week of tennis plus activities and rigorous academic courses• Placed 3rd in doubles at Wisconsin State Tennis Tournament• Varsity Team member 3 years, Junior Varsity 1 year

Member, Spanish Club, SPASH High School, 2003 – 2007

Once you determine a major, state BA in _____ and DROP the High School listing unless it will help your job search If GPA is 3.0 or higher, it

is best to include.

Your interests aren’t qualifications for a job necessarily, but they provide employers with topics about which they can inquire at the beginning of an interview. This often helps you relax and leads to a better interview but can easily be dropped if space is an issue.

Stating accomplishments has more impact than stating duties

INTERESTSDigital photography, skydiving, and sports medicine

Volunteer and student activities can be just as impressive to an employer as work experience

Sample Functional Resume Joanna Lockwood 55 Kingston Avenue Sedona, AZ 77543

jjlocky@yahoo.com OBJECTIVE

A position with the Phoenix Hospital Center, Inc., where I can use my volunteer management experience and business skills.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A solid record of volunteer achievement in crisis intervention, counseling, and teaching. • Four years’ experience in managing a service business with $3.5 million volume.

EXPERIENCE Volunteer Management and Counseling Skills

• Co-facilitated the volunteer training program for the Suicide and Crisis Center, which included the theory and practice of crisis intervention, the profile of the person in crisis, active listening skills, role playing, team building, and the fostering of personal growth.

• Recruited, trained, and supervised a team of 25 people. • Acted as a role model for new trainees getting on-the-job training. • Counseled over 700 persons using the crisis intervention model while volunteering once a

week for the Suicide and Crisis Center. • Counseled bereaved families who had recently experienced the death of a hospice patient.

Public Relations/Media Experience

• Assisted in the management of large and small accounts for large and small accounts for both marketing and high technology departments.

• Developed a premium finance package and presented it to over 100 companies in two states.

• Projected our image and developed professional rapport with 300 agents around the state while keeping them abreast of company policies and procedures.

Business Management

• Developed and implemented operations systems for three general agencies and a premium financial company, subsidiaries of Barrett & Associates, Inc.

• Evaluated potential and active trouble spots involving staff, customers, and companies; reported findings and recommendations to management; resolved problems and revised existing systems.

• Monitored legal, governmental and cultural changes that might affect the insurance and premium finance industries and suggested necessary modifications to ensure compliance.

EDUCATION

Princeton University, A.B. in English, June 1972 Certificate in Psychology G.P.A.: 3.6

WORK HISTORY Barrett & Associates, Sedona, AZ Manager 1972 – 1989 Psychological Center of Phoenix, AZ Coordinator 1989 – 1999

Thomas Vandeveer 1105 New Lott Drive Blacksburg, VA 24060

540-555-4321 vandeveer@mail.com

OBJECTIVE Challenging business financial analyst position specializing in economics

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS • Two years' experience in economic & financial management analysis

• Web-based coordination of business & e-commerce strategy • Statistical, spatial, and econometric modeling and analysis • Database management

EDUCATION M.S. Applied Economics, May 2000 GPA: 3.8/4.0

Thesis: “Framework for Economic Impact Assessment of IPM-CRSP: a GIS application” B.A. Economics, Minor: Chemistry, July 1997 GPA: 3.0/4.0 Specialization: Macroeconomics & Finance Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, VA

COMPUTER SKILLS Platforms: Windows 3.1/95/98/NT/2000

Software: GIS (ArcView, ArcIMS, ARC/INFO, BusinessMAP Pro, ATLAS GIS, ACT 1.25), Lotus 1-2-3, MS Office Pro 97/2000, WordPerfect 2000, MINITAB, Mathematica, STATA, SAS, SAS JMP, DREAM, Adobe PageMaker, PhotoShop, and Acrobat. Programming: Pascal, Flash, JavaScript, HTML, DHTML, and XHTML

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE Freelance Web Consultant, Blacksburg, VA, May 2000 – present

AGECON.COM | AFRICOMP.COM | IFAF.NET | GUAYLA.COM • Generate business leads and design complete web solutions for clients. • Formulate e-strategic guidance and conceptual consulting. • Provide interface design; content research, development, and synthesis. • Perform the evaluation, planning, development, deployment and ongoing use of web-based

mechanisms and information. • Build and maintain economic and spatial database. Research Assistant, Blacksburg, VA, January 1998 – July 2000 Office of Institutional Research and Development, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University • Designed a framework for assessing economic impact of USAID-funded Integrated Pest

Management (IPM) program. • Performed economic (Benefit-Cost Analysis) and statistical analysis of IPM programs using

database-based computer program called DREAM. • Traveled to both sites and collected primary and secondary data and information. • Examined the transferability of IPM technologies and their adoption beyond the primary sites

using spatial modeling within a framework of geographic information system (GIS) technology. Researcher, Blacksburg, VA, December 1996 – August 1997 Agricultural & Applied Economics Department, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University • Examined the effects of communication and transport infrastructures on economic development;

reviewed literature and collected relevant data and information. • Performed empirical examination using econometric methods on SAS JM.

AWARDS AND ACTIVITIES

Outstanding Leadership & Service Award, African Students Association, February 1998 Certificate of Achievement, U.S. Committee for UNICEF, fall 1996 President 1996-97, Secretary 1995-96, Virginia Tech African Students Association Captain and Manager 1996-present, San George Intramural Soccer Team

Features of this resume: Summary of

qualifications – can be used when you have professional experience.

Job title and employer emphasized with bold font.

267

Résumé Therapy and Vocational Test Feedback:Tailoring Interventions to Self-Efficacy Outcomes

Thomas S. KrieshokJon C. Ulven

Jennifer L. HecoxKara Wettersten

University of Kansas

Self-efficacy is a useful construct in vocational psychology becauseit helps us conceptualize client issues, interventions to addressthose issues, and instrumentation to assess vocational status andimprovement. This article details two separate studies with veteransseeking vocational assistance within a Veteran’s Affairs MedicalCenter. In both studies, the interventions themselves were designedaround the strengthening of specific self-efficacy expectations. In thefirst study, patients’ efficacy regarding general job search anddecision-making behaviors was targeted using little more thantraditional résumé preparation. In the second study, personalityand cognitive functioning test feedback provided a platform todiscuss difficult personality issues, their usual manifestation inthe patient’s work life, and the patient’s efficacy about integratingthis information in future career decision-making, job seeking, andwork. In both studies, moderate to large effect sizes supported theeffectiveness of our interventions.

Keywords: Self-efficacy, résumé, vocational assessment, interventionoutcome, disabilities

Journal of Career AssessmentVolume 8/Number 3/Summer 2000/Pages ; 1

Self-efficacy has become one of the most tested and important constructsin vocational psychology over the past 25 years. Its popularity owes in partto its robustness as an outcome measure, its ability to provide specificdirection for interventions, and in our ability to ask very specific outcomequestions within the self-efficacy framework (Bandura, 1995). Self-efficacyexpectations (Bandura, 1977) are beliefs we hold about our ability tocomplete specific tasks, including such things as speaking in public, doingwell on an exam, or traveling on an airplane. These beliefs extend into allareas of functioning, including issues related to work.

This research was carried out with the cooperation of the Department of VeteransAffairs Medical Center-Kansas City.

Correspondence concerning this article and requests for offprints should be addressedto Thomas S. Krieshok, Psychology & Research in Education, 621 Pearson Hall,University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045-2338.

Published and copyright © 2000 by Psychological Assessment Resources, Inc. All rights reserved.

at UNIV OF KANSAS on September 25, 2009 http://jca.sagepub.comDownloaded from