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How would I write a good resume?
I don't know how to phrase it
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8 answers
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Mav your resume isn’t a one-size-fits-all document. Submitting the same resume to multiple employers hurts your chances of getting interviewed because a general resume won’t highlight the exact skills hiring managers are looking for.
Each time you apply for a new position, you should: Show employers that you’re the perfect person for the job by tailoring your resume to the job description. Include skills-based resume keywords from the job description throughout your resume, research the company and customize your resume to match its needs and company culture. Place your most job-relevant qualifications in a resume objective that states how you can add value to the company. The difference between a good resume and a perfect resume is often just the level of effort you put in. If you want to come across as the ideal candidate, you need to take the time to tailor your resume.
1) INTRODUCTION
Mav your contact information should always go at the top of your resume. In this header you’ll want to include anything that could be helpful for a recruiter to get in touch with you. Usually, this means adding in:
• Your full name
• Your phone number
• Your personal email address
• You might also choose to include other basic information, such as your LinkedIn or personal website URL, your social media profile.
The key is to make this part as clear as possible. If a hiring manager can’t reach you, there’s no point in perfecting the rest of your resume.
2) OBJECTIVE SUMMARY
Next, include your professional objective or a career summary. Most entry-level professionals write an objective, which defines your career goals. In contrast, most mid- and senior-level professionals write a summary, which highlights the most important aspects of your professional qualifications and accomplishments.
3) WORK EXPERIENCE
List work experience in reverse chronological order, beginning with your current or most recent position. Plan to include only professional experience that relates to the job for which you are applying. Mention your employer, your title, your employment dates and your most important responsibilities. Aim to be as specific as possible, including numbers and statistics when relevant.
4) EDUCATION
Next, outline your degrees and diplomas, starting with the highest achievement. List the institution, your degree and your date of graduation. You can also list additional information, such as your major, any honors you received or your grade point average (GPA). If you are completing a degree or diploma program, mention your expected date of graduation.
5) SKILLS
Next, include all relevant skills, including your level of competence, when applicable. You can include both technical skills, which are learned, and soft skills, which are attributes and behaviors. Include software platforms you use regularly and languages you can speak or write, too. As you decide which skills to include here, review the job description to identify important keywords that you can highlight in this section.
6) AWARDS AND HONORS
In this section, list the professional honors and awards you have received. Include the name of the award, the issuing organization and the date you received it. You may also include additional details, such as the context or the reason for the award or honor.
Hope this is helpful Mav
Each time you apply for a new position, you should: Show employers that you’re the perfect person for the job by tailoring your resume to the job description. Include skills-based resume keywords from the job description throughout your resume, research the company and customize your resume to match its needs and company culture. Place your most job-relevant qualifications in a resume objective that states how you can add value to the company. The difference between a good resume and a perfect resume is often just the level of effort you put in. If you want to come across as the ideal candidate, you need to take the time to tailor your resume.
1) INTRODUCTION
Mav your contact information should always go at the top of your resume. In this header you’ll want to include anything that could be helpful for a recruiter to get in touch with you. Usually, this means adding in:
• Your full name
• Your phone number
• Your personal email address
• You might also choose to include other basic information, such as your LinkedIn or personal website URL, your social media profile.
The key is to make this part as clear as possible. If a hiring manager can’t reach you, there’s no point in perfecting the rest of your resume.
2) OBJECTIVE SUMMARY
Next, include your professional objective or a career summary. Most entry-level professionals write an objective, which defines your career goals. In contrast, most mid- and senior-level professionals write a summary, which highlights the most important aspects of your professional qualifications and accomplishments.
3) WORK EXPERIENCE
List work experience in reverse chronological order, beginning with your current or most recent position. Plan to include only professional experience that relates to the job for which you are applying. Mention your employer, your title, your employment dates and your most important responsibilities. Aim to be as specific as possible, including numbers and statistics when relevant.
4) EDUCATION
Next, outline your degrees and diplomas, starting with the highest achievement. List the institution, your degree and your date of graduation. You can also list additional information, such as your major, any honors you received or your grade point average (GPA). If you are completing a degree or diploma program, mention your expected date of graduation.
5) SKILLS
Next, include all relevant skills, including your level of competence, when applicable. You can include both technical skills, which are learned, and soft skills, which are attributes and behaviors. Include software platforms you use regularly and languages you can speak or write, too. As you decide which skills to include here, review the job description to identify important keywords that you can highlight in this section.
6) AWARDS AND HONORS
In this section, list the professional honors and awards you have received. Include the name of the award, the issuing organization and the date you received it. You may also include additional details, such as the context or the reason for the award or honor.
Hope this is helpful Mav
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Mav,
Employers want to know a few things:
1. you can do the job. Either actual experience, or education and aptitude
2. you will get along with co-workers, customers, managers, etc
3. you will keep the company out of trouble
This all takes different forms with different jobs. Keeping the company out of trouble has to do with regulatory compliance (not using expired medicines, for example) and safety (putting out the "Wet floor" signs). Lawsuits are costly in both time and dollars.
Since you said you have trouble knowing how to "phrase it," consider looking to the job description for the keywords. This is crucial because many companies use computers to "read" the resume initially. You can also google terms such as "resumes for nursing." Another important thing to remember is a resume does not need to sound "pompous," just professional! It's a big difference . The first time, just capture what you are thinking. Then you go back through and clean it up. Make sure that it says what you think it says. For example, I was once passed over for a position requiring supervisory experience because, even though I said I held the title of "supervisor" I did not in fact say that I actually supervised anyone. Petty? maybe. But, you get the idea!
Writing a resume is not an exact art, especially because no two employers are looking for the exact same thing! Even two hiring managers within the same company might not have the same preferences. So, you give it your best shot. I prefer a website called www.gotresumebuilder.com as it lets you create, add, delete, and rearrange sections very easily, gives you suggestions, and does all the formatting for you. It's free with a student ID or library card.
Finally, remember to be respectful of your reader's time. A resume is just long enough to get you the interview - it's not an autobiography!
Best of luck!
Kim
Employers want to know a few things:
1. you can do the job. Either actual experience, or education and aptitude
2. you will get along with co-workers, customers, managers, etc
3. you will keep the company out of trouble
This all takes different forms with different jobs. Keeping the company out of trouble has to do with regulatory compliance (not using expired medicines, for example) and safety (putting out the "Wet floor" signs). Lawsuits are costly in both time and dollars.
Since you said you have trouble knowing how to "phrase it," consider looking to the job description for the keywords. This is crucial because many companies use computers to "read" the resume initially. You can also google terms such as "resumes for nursing." Another important thing to remember is a resume does not need to sound "pompous," just professional! It's a big difference . The first time, just capture what you are thinking. Then you go back through and clean it up. Make sure that it says what you think it says. For example, I was once passed over for a position requiring supervisory experience because, even though I said I held the title of "supervisor" I did not in fact say that I actually supervised anyone. Petty? maybe. But, you get the idea!
Writing a resume is not an exact art, especially because no two employers are looking for the exact same thing! Even two hiring managers within the same company might not have the same preferences. So, you give it your best shot. I prefer a website called www.gotresumebuilder.com as it lets you create, add, delete, and rearrange sections very easily, gives you suggestions, and does all the formatting for you. It's free with a student ID or library card.
Finally, remember to be respectful of your reader's time. A resume is just long enough to get you the interview - it's not an autobiography!
Best of luck!
Kim
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Mav,
Great job on articulating your question!
Crafting an impressive resume is a crucial step in showcasing yourself to prospective employers. A well-structured resume can set you apart from the competition and boost your chances of landing an interview. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in creating an effective resume:
Select the appropriate format: There are three widely used resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. The chronological format presents your work experience in reverse order, starting with your most recent job. The functional format emphasizes your skills and abilities over your work history. The combination format blends elements of both the chronological and functional formats.
Provide up-to-date contact information: At the top of your resume, include your full name, phone number, email address, and if you wish, your address. Ensure the contact information is current and professional.
Compose a captivating summary or objective statement: Kick off your resume with a succinct summary or objective statement that underlines your key qualifications and career aspirations. This section should pique the reader's interest and encourage them to read further.
Showcase your pertinent skills: Dedicate a section to highlight your skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Include both hard skills (technical capabilities) and soft skills (people and communication skills). Use bullet points to present your skills in a clear and structured way.
Detail your work experience: In the work experience section, provide information about your past jobs, including job titles, company names, dates of employment, and a description of your duties and achievements. Use action words and quantify your accomplishments where possible.
List education and certifications: Document your educational background, including degrees earned, institutions attended, and graduation dates. If relevant, mention any pertinent certifications or licenses you possess.
Include additional sections if needed: Depending on your background and the job you're applying for, you might want to include extra sections such as volunteer work, internships, professional affiliations, or relevant projects. These sections can help illustrate your diverse skills and experiences.
Customize your resume for each job application: Adapt your resume for each job you apply to by emphasizing the most relevant skills and experiences. Thoroughly review the job description and incorporate keywords that match your qualifications.
Adopt a clean and professional layout: Opt for a clean and easy-to-read font, like Arial or Calibri, and maintain uniform formatting throughout your resume. Use bullet points, headings, and white space to make your resume visually appealing and easy to navigate.
Review and revise: Before submitting your resume, thoroughly check it for any grammatical or spelling errors. Have someone else look over it as well to catch any errors you might have overlooked.
Remember, a great resume is concise, well-structured, and tailored to the specific job you're applying for. It should effectively highlight your qualifications and leave a positive impression on potential employers.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications:
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers is a trusted online resource offering guidance on a variety of career-related topics, including resume writing. It features detailed articles penned by experts in the field.
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed is a globally recognized job search platform that also offers valuable resources for job seekers. Their career guide section provides tips and advice on resume writing, covering different facets of the process.
CareerBuilder: CareerBuilder is another popular job board website that offers a plethora of resources for job seekers. Their career advice section includes articles on resume writing best practices and strategies for standing out in the job market.
These publications were used to compile information on best practices and guidelines for writing an effective resume.
Don't forget to check out my autobiography to discover the foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals that boost brain power and academic performance. You'll even find that these nutrients can enhance IQ Test scores after consumption.
Stay blessed - because He excels in blessing!
Great job on articulating your question!
Crafting an impressive resume is a crucial step in showcasing yourself to prospective employers. A well-structured resume can set you apart from the competition and boost your chances of landing an interview. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in creating an effective resume:
Select the appropriate format: There are three widely used resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. The chronological format presents your work experience in reverse order, starting with your most recent job. The functional format emphasizes your skills and abilities over your work history. The combination format blends elements of both the chronological and functional formats.
Provide up-to-date contact information: At the top of your resume, include your full name, phone number, email address, and if you wish, your address. Ensure the contact information is current and professional.
Compose a captivating summary or objective statement: Kick off your resume with a succinct summary or objective statement that underlines your key qualifications and career aspirations. This section should pique the reader's interest and encourage them to read further.
Showcase your pertinent skills: Dedicate a section to highlight your skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Include both hard skills (technical capabilities) and soft skills (people and communication skills). Use bullet points to present your skills in a clear and structured way.
Detail your work experience: In the work experience section, provide information about your past jobs, including job titles, company names, dates of employment, and a description of your duties and achievements. Use action words and quantify your accomplishments where possible.
List education and certifications: Document your educational background, including degrees earned, institutions attended, and graduation dates. If relevant, mention any pertinent certifications or licenses you possess.
Include additional sections if needed: Depending on your background and the job you're applying for, you might want to include extra sections such as volunteer work, internships, professional affiliations, or relevant projects. These sections can help illustrate your diverse skills and experiences.
Customize your resume for each job application: Adapt your resume for each job you apply to by emphasizing the most relevant skills and experiences. Thoroughly review the job description and incorporate keywords that match your qualifications.
Adopt a clean and professional layout: Opt for a clean and easy-to-read font, like Arial or Calibri, and maintain uniform formatting throughout your resume. Use bullet points, headings, and white space to make your resume visually appealing and easy to navigate.
Review and revise: Before submitting your resume, thoroughly check it for any grammatical or spelling errors. Have someone else look over it as well to catch any errors you might have overlooked.
Remember, a great resume is concise, well-structured, and tailored to the specific job you're applying for. It should effectively highlight your qualifications and leave a positive impression on potential employers.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications:
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers is a trusted online resource offering guidance on a variety of career-related topics, including resume writing. It features detailed articles penned by experts in the field.
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed is a globally recognized job search platform that also offers valuable resources for job seekers. Their career guide section provides tips and advice on resume writing, covering different facets of the process.
CareerBuilder: CareerBuilder is another popular job board website that offers a plethora of resources for job seekers. Their career advice section includes articles on resume writing best practices and strategies for standing out in the job market.
These publications were used to compile information on best practices and guidelines for writing an effective resume.
Don't forget to check out my autobiography to discover the foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals that boost brain power and academic performance. You'll even find that these nutrients can enhance IQ Test scores after consumption.
Stay blessed - because He excels in blessing!
Updated
Marlena’s Answer
Focus on the job you want, what it entails, and where you are wanting to go! Objective statement is great, some look for it, others don't, some require it. Education, experience with jobs. Be sure to summarize skills, responsibilities you had in each job to highlight why you qualify or are the best candidate. Honors, volunteering, etc. I like to see these sections as a hiring manager! It tells me you've excelled previously, and that you do think about others. Committees you have been on or are on, duties as member. Also be sure to include projects you've collaborated on, etc. Certifications you currently or previously held, when they expired, etc. References are a toss up. Recruiters always ask, if you interview, they ask. I no longer wait to provide references so I include professional and personal references at the end of my CV/resume. I also tweak mine often, name it accordingly if I adjust something for a specific job, etc. Always proofread, but not immediately after writing it, wait a while, then proofread. You know what you meant to say if you immediately review after writing but may not realize that was how you did not intend it to be written. I always review later prior to any new submission to ensure I've included responsibilities/duties that I may have forgotten earlier or that will ensure my qualification for a job.
Resume
CV
Resume essentials
Goal/objective statement
Proofread
Marlena recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Mickael’s Answer
Hi Mav,
Doc Frick is right that a resume is not a one-fit all, but you will find that you can almost do something like that. You can find many templates on the web, starting with Microsoft Office Templates.
In general, I would recommend:
(1) General presentation about you and your one-sentence objective
(2) Educations including Skills and GPA if you have
(3) Professional experience. Include internships here.
(4) Awards and honor
(5) Anything else:
- associations you may have been
- your hobbies: some like, some dislike to see them in a resume so be aware. I personally think they make you YOU and not yet another resume from another to-be-nurse.
Do not write too much, or your resume is no longer a resume. When you list professional experience, make sure to have one line of what that was about and what you learned. Keep the details for the interview.
Finally, make it reviewed by friends and strangers. A typographic mistake is "fine" but too many will hurt you. Start the sentence with uppercase letter and end them with a dot.
Remember that the person that will read your resume may not be a nurse or a doctor. You will have to face Artificial Intelligence auto-triaging and some Human Resources person that will look for keywords from the job offer. So make sure your resume is tailored from your template to show these as much as you can. Again, never overdo it.
I hope it helps.
All the best,
Mickael
Doc Frick is right that a resume is not a one-fit all, but you will find that you can almost do something like that. You can find many templates on the web, starting with Microsoft Office Templates.
In general, I would recommend:
(1) General presentation about you and your one-sentence objective
(2) Educations including Skills and GPA if you have
(3) Professional experience. Include internships here.
(4) Awards and honor
(5) Anything else:
- associations you may have been
- your hobbies: some like, some dislike to see them in a resume so be aware. I personally think they make you YOU and not yet another resume from another to-be-nurse.
Do not write too much, or your resume is no longer a resume. When you list professional experience, make sure to have one line of what that was about and what you learned. Keep the details for the interview.
Finally, make it reviewed by friends and strangers. A typographic mistake is "fine" but too many will hurt you. Start the sentence with uppercase letter and end them with a dot.
Remember that the person that will read your resume may not be a nurse or a doctor. You will have to face Artificial Intelligence auto-triaging and some Human Resources person that will look for keywords from the job offer. So make sure your resume is tailored from your template to show these as much as you can. Again, never overdo it.
I hope it helps.
All the best,
Mickael
Updated
Jaci’s Answer
Writing a good resume has a lot to do with who you are and what makes you stand out. When writing a resume, I would recommend creating a template resume that has all of your work experience and skills. I would then read the job description and create and update the template resume to include key skills included in the job description that you meet. Each resume you send in should be tailored to the job you are applying to.
I would highlight the things that really make you stand out as well. There are sometimes upwards of 1000 other people applying for the same job so what makes you stand out? Be sure to use action words and what results you delivered. Also be sure to check from spelling and grammar mistakes as that will show the recruiter your attention to detail.
Write down your skills and experience
Identify what makes you special.
Use Templates to create a resume that is striking.
Have someone proof read the resume.
I would highlight the things that really make you stand out as well. There are sometimes upwards of 1000 other people applying for the same job so what makes you stand out? Be sure to use action words and what results you delivered. Also be sure to check from spelling and grammar mistakes as that will show the recruiter your attention to detail.
Jaci recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Alyssa’s Answer
Maintain a precise and straightforward resume
Considering that employers typically spend around 30 seconds perusing a resume, it's crucial that yours immediately communicates your qualifications for the job.
Thoroughly check your resume for errors
Ensure your resume is free from spelling or grammar errors by proofreading it multiple times. Having another person review it can also help catch any mistakes that might give employers a negative impression and potentially cost you the job.
Keep your resume to a maximum of two pages
Focus your resume on your most recent experiences. Older roles and experiences that date back more than 15 years should either be removed or reduced, allowing employers to concentrate on more pertinent information.
Customize your resume for the job you're applying to
Highlight work experiences or achievements that are relevant to the job you're seeking. This can be achieved by studying the job description or the employer's website.
Showcase your accomplishments
Identify and highlight the best examples of where you've demonstrated your skills. These instances should reflect your achievements in your role and give a clear picture of the kind of employee you are. This information is best placed in the "Work Experience" section of your resume.
Always be truthful
Dishonesty on your resume is a bad idea. Avoid overstating your skills or results as this can mislead employers. Believe in the value you bring.
Provide measurable achievements
Impress employers by including concrete numbers that reflect your achievements, such as the number of people you managed, the quantity of products you sold, or the percentage by which you increased sales.
Use simple language and action-oriented verbs
Remember that your resume may be reviewed by recruiters or HR specialists who may not be familiar with your specific field. Use simple, clear language, but also include persuasive verbs like handled, managed, led, developed, increased, accomplished, leveraged, etc.
Include unpaid work that demonstrates your skills
If you've volunteered with a reputable organization or worked for a significant cause, include it in your resume. These experiences should be listed under the "Work Experience" or "Volunteer Work" section, particularly if they're relevant to the job you're applying for.
Ensure your contact information is correct and included
Your resume should display your name, address, email, and phone number at the top of the first page. Double-check this information for accuracy to ensure employers can reach you.
Considering that employers typically spend around 30 seconds perusing a resume, it's crucial that yours immediately communicates your qualifications for the job.
Thoroughly check your resume for errors
Ensure your resume is free from spelling or grammar errors by proofreading it multiple times. Having another person review it can also help catch any mistakes that might give employers a negative impression and potentially cost you the job.
Keep your resume to a maximum of two pages
Focus your resume on your most recent experiences. Older roles and experiences that date back more than 15 years should either be removed or reduced, allowing employers to concentrate on more pertinent information.
Customize your resume for the job you're applying to
Highlight work experiences or achievements that are relevant to the job you're seeking. This can be achieved by studying the job description or the employer's website.
Showcase your accomplishments
Identify and highlight the best examples of where you've demonstrated your skills. These instances should reflect your achievements in your role and give a clear picture of the kind of employee you are. This information is best placed in the "Work Experience" section of your resume.
Always be truthful
Dishonesty on your resume is a bad idea. Avoid overstating your skills or results as this can mislead employers. Believe in the value you bring.
Provide measurable achievements
Impress employers by including concrete numbers that reflect your achievements, such as the number of people you managed, the quantity of products you sold, or the percentage by which you increased sales.
Use simple language and action-oriented verbs
Remember that your resume may be reviewed by recruiters or HR specialists who may not be familiar with your specific field. Use simple, clear language, but also include persuasive verbs like handled, managed, led, developed, increased, accomplished, leveraged, etc.
Include unpaid work that demonstrates your skills
If you've volunteered with a reputable organization or worked for a significant cause, include it in your resume. These experiences should be listed under the "Work Experience" or "Volunteer Work" section, particularly if they're relevant to the job you're applying for.
Ensure your contact information is correct and included
Your resume should display your name, address, email, and phone number at the top of the first page. Double-check this information for accuracy to ensure employers can reach you.
Updated
Carly’s Answer
Hi Mav,
Your resume is a snapshot of your professional background! Tailor it to showcase your strengths and align with the specific job you're applying for. Keep it concise, relevant, and error-free to make a positive impression on potential employers. Things to include -
Contact Information:
Include your full name, professional email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile.
Resume Summary/Objective:
Start with a brief summary or objective statement highlighting your career goals and key skills.
Professional Experience:
List work experience in reverse chronological order. Use action verbs to describe responsibilities and achievements. Quantify achievements whenever possible.
Skills:
Include a section for relevant hard and soft skills. Tailor this section to match the job description.
Education:
Provide details about your educational background, including degree, institution, and graduation date.
Achievements and Awards:
Showcase any relevant awards, certifications, or special projects.
Keywords:
Use keywords from the job description to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) if applicable.
Formatting:
Keep the format clean, organized, and easy to read. Use a professional font.
Tailor for Each Job:
Customize your resume for each application by emphasizing relevant experience and skills.
Proofread:
Eliminate spelling and grammatical errors. Have someone else review your resume for feedback.
Length:
Aim for a one-page resume for entry-level positions; two pages for more experienced roles.
Action Verbs:
Start sentences with strong action verbs to make your achievements stand out.
Professional Title:
Consider adding a professional title that aligns with your expertise.
Your resume is a snapshot of your professional background! Tailor it to showcase your strengths and align with the specific job you're applying for. Keep it concise, relevant, and error-free to make a positive impression on potential employers. Things to include -
Contact Information:
Include your full name, professional email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile.
Resume Summary/Objective:
Start with a brief summary or objective statement highlighting your career goals and key skills.
Professional Experience:
List work experience in reverse chronological order. Use action verbs to describe responsibilities and achievements. Quantify achievements whenever possible.
Skills:
Include a section for relevant hard and soft skills. Tailor this section to match the job description.
Education:
Provide details about your educational background, including degree, institution, and graduation date.
Achievements and Awards:
Showcase any relevant awards, certifications, or special projects.
Keywords:
Use keywords from the job description to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) if applicable.
Formatting:
Keep the format clean, organized, and easy to read. Use a professional font.
Tailor for Each Job:
Customize your resume for each application by emphasizing relevant experience and skills.
Proofread:
Eliminate spelling and grammatical errors. Have someone else review your resume for feedback.
Length:
Aim for a one-page resume for entry-level positions; two pages for more experienced roles.
Action Verbs:
Start sentences with strong action verbs to make your achievements stand out.
Professional Title:
Consider adding a professional title that aligns with your expertise.