Building a Resume That Gets Attention

Resume Quiz

How long does an employer look at a resume?

30 seconds 2 minutes 5 minutes 30 minutes

Resume Quiz

That’s right! 30 Seconds!

Resume Know-How

How do I grab the employer’s attention? Easy to read Logical flow Focused on accomplishments

PAR statements Targeted to reader Intriguing

Categories of a Resume

Personal Information Objective Education Experience Skills Activities, Honors, Interests References

Personal Information

Name Permanent address Temporary address (if applies) Phone number E-mail address

Objective

A clear, concise statement expressing your goal

Gives resume structure Be specific 4 ways to focus

Position, Industry, Skills, Long-term goals

Sample Objectives

To obtain a challenging position in technical sales utilizing my scientific knowledge and communication skills.

Seeking an entry level position in wellness education.

To obtain a laboratory position in the biotechnology industry.

Education University and BS

degree Graduation Date Majors & Minors Include GPA if + 3.0 Relevant Coursework Can include honors Expenses Paid

Sample Education

North Carolina State University, Raleigh NCBachelor of Science in AgronomyConcentration in Turfgrass ManagementGPA: 3.4/4.0Projected Graduation: May 2007Multiple Scholarship Recipient, Dean’s List

Experience

Paid Jobs Volunteer Work Internships, Co-ops Family Business Family Farm Student Groups Leadership Roles

Formatting Experience

Title of position Name/Location of organization What you accomplished on the

job Use action words

Action Words

Incorrect I took the weight of

the animals. I made appointments. I checked blood samples.

Correct Weighed animals;

scheduled appointments; assisted vet with lab analysis.

Better Action Words Stress accomplishments over duties

Computerized office record-keeping procedures; earned vet assistant certificate via on-the-job experience.

Managed research project investigating water quality; managed budget, supervised internship staff, presented findings to board.

Skills

Computer Technical Laboratory Communication Leadership Language

Sample Skills

Proficient with analytical methods such as ELISA, HPLC, GC, and Titrations.

Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Internet, Email Applications, and Database Programs.

Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.

Activities, Honors, Interests

Clubs Leadership Roles Professional

Associations Unusual hobbies Include only if

active member Avoid “padding”

References

Available on request At least 3 to support your candidacy Talk with your references FIRST On separate page Bring to interview Include all particulars (name, title,

company, address, phone, email)

Formatting Resumes

Needs to look professional One page is preferable Organize for reader Visually pleasing Use quality paper Proof, edit, proof, edit…..

Now Create Your Own Resume!