resume tips 2016 - 17 - updated · 2016-10-07 · resume tips rev. – y 18, 2016 optimizing your...
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Resume TipsResume TipsResume TipsResume Tips
WHAT IS A RESUME AND WHY DO I NEED ONE?WHAT IS A RESUME AND WHY DO I NEED ONE?WHAT IS A RESUME AND WHY DO I NEED ONE?WHAT IS A RESUME AND WHY DO I NEED ONE? Your resume is the foundation document that you need for your career search. It is a summary of your
accomplishments academically, experientially and through employment that shows a potential employer the skills you have developed.
Your resume may be your first contact with a future employer and if you make a positive impression and show how you would be a “fit” for the opportunity you may be called for an interview. Remember, a good resume gets you an interview.
To create an effective resume requires preparation and thought. Once you have gathered all of the information you want to present, the next decision you need to make is what format best suits your combination of skill and experience to highlight the qualifications the employer is seeking.
There are eight templates to choose from in this document. Select the one that suits your needs. Keep in mind that you can adjust the content presentation to suit your needs. Your resume should be a reflection of
YOU.
Drop in to get your Drop in to get your Drop in to get your Drop in to get your resumeresumeresumeresume critiqued:critiqued:critiqued:critiqued:
Undergraduate Employment Clinic Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons 1:30 - 4:00
Career Clinic (Undergraduate and Alumni) Wednesday afternoons 1:30 - 4:00
Resume TipsResume TipsResume TipsResume Tips
Rev. – May 18, 2016
As you write your resume, remember honesty is the foundation of everything. Ask yourself:
Does your resumeDoes your resumeDoes your resumeDoes your resume reflect the “real you”?reflect the “real you”?reflect the “real you”?reflect the “real you”?
Sometimes you may think the best skills are what the employer wants to hear. Detail the skills and experience that demonstrates your qualifications to do the job clearly. Employers deserve an authentic description of your skills and experience in the resume.
AreAreAreAre your your your your qualificationsqualificationsqualificationsqualifications supported by evidence?supported by evidence?supported by evidence?supported by evidence?
Don’t overstate your abilities in the summary of qualifications. Whatever you indicate in the qualifications summary must be supported by evidence of these achievements within the body of the resume. For every experience and competency listed, you should be able to readily provide a compelling accomplishment
example. Describe at least one situation from the past that showcases actions, and offers tangible results of those activities (SAR). This is the reality check of the material presented.
Are yourAre yourAre yourAre your accomplishment stories transparent? accomplishment stories transparent? accomplishment stories transparent? accomplishment stories transparent?
In an effort to make achievements seem “strong enough” don’t overstate your role in the accomplishment
statement itself. If you played a supporting role in an initiative, ensure that is clear – that there is no chance the employer misinterprets. For example, if you were not the only leader of an initiative, instead of introducing the example with “led” consider using “partnered with” or “worked cooperatively”.
Did you opt to change a given job title?Did you opt to change a given job title?Did you opt to change a given job title?Did you opt to change a given job title?
Job titles are not always clear. If you changed the job title on your resume, determine if that alteration stands up to scrutiny. Also, provide other information within that section of the resume to explain the full scope of the position.
How did you handle gaps in your resume?How did you handle gaps in your resume?How did you handle gaps in your resume?How did you handle gaps in your resume?
There is no need to explain an unemployment period that is only a matter of months. However, where there is a space of more than a year in career/education flow, you may need to address that. Give the employer an explanation – whether it’s “travelled worldwide, gaining knowledge and insight into international
cultures and ways of doing business” or “pursued a diversity of opportunities from volunteering in the community to completing online courses such as…”
Are your educational credentials complete?Are your educational credentials complete?Are your educational credentials complete?Are your educational credentials complete?
If you did not finish your degree or still in school, simply putting the program title such as “Bachelor of
Science” can be misleading, write something more explanatory. For example, “Completed two years of the ______ program” or “Currently enrolled in ___ year of a ____ year program”
Are you addingAre you addingAre you addingAre you adding courses to be more competitive?courses to be more competitive?courses to be more competitive?courses to be more competitive?
You might add future education or courses to make you look more competitive as a candidate if it is in the
very near future. That way, it would be truthful to mention, for instance, “Enrolled in part time diploma program with goal of completion by_________”.
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Optimizing Your Resume for an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)Optimizing Your Resume for an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)Optimizing Your Resume for an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)Optimizing Your Resume for an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
Job seekers can increase their resumes' chances of getting through an applicant tracking system (look at MAC Student 8 for ATS sample) by following certain principles:
Use .TXT .RTF .DOCX or .DOC (i.e. Word) file types: PDF documents cannot be scanned properly.
Keep formatting simple: Don't include tables or graphics. Applicant tracking systems can't read graphics,
and they misread tables. Instead of reading tables left to right, applicant tracking systems read them up and down.
Feel free to submit a longer resume: Submitting a longer (three or four page) resume that allows you to
pack in more relevant experience and keywords and phrases could increase your chances of ranking higher in the system.
Use language found in the job description: As you are customizing your resume, look through the job
posting to determine the required skills and competencies. Identify industry terms, buzzwords and jargon
that have been used in the description. Put these key words and phrases (plus their acronyms, if applicable) into your resume. Put some thought into this process. Do not repeat keywords and jargon. Even though the system may select your resume, the actual recruiter who reads it later may frown on any repetitive, nonsensical use of these words.
Save your resume with a relatable name: Save your resume with a file name that is useful and
meaningful to the recruiter. You want the recruiter to find your resume quickly and easily, and you want to make it very clear what the resume is for, example, “YourName.Job.Posting.123”
Call your work experience, "Work Experience": Sometimes job seekers refer to their work experience
on their resume as their "Professional Experience" (or some other variation on that theme). The computer will completely skip over your work experience because you didn't label it as such.
Start your work experience with the employer/organization name: To ensure applicant tracking systems read and import your work experience properly, always start it with your employer's name,
followed by your title, followed by the dates you held that title. (Each can run on its own line). Applicant tracking systems look for company names first, followed by your title, followed by the dates you held that title. (Each can run on its own line).
Spell check, spell check, and spell check again: An applicant tracking system will skip keywords that
are misspelled.
Formatting:
• Use standard fonts such as Arial, Georgia, Arial, Courier, Lucinda, Palatino, Tahoma, Verdana,
• Avoid using special characters (like arrows) for bullets. Standard “dashes (-)” are fine.
• Steer clear of borders, shading or symbols (of any kind).
• Do not hide keywords in white font in your resume
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
MAC StudentMAC StudentMAC StudentMAC Student –––– 1111 (Basic Template)(Basic Template)(Basic Template)(Basic Template)
Temporary Address Home Address Phone number/e-mail Phone/e-mail
HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS (optional/job specific)
� Your relevant experience � Your credentials/training/education relevant to the position � One significant accomplishment, very briefly stated
� One or two skills/strengths with some qualifying statements to back it up � A reference to your values, commitment, or work ethic
EDUCATION
Bachelor of ….. year – present
Major area of study; minor
McMaster University, Hamilton, ON � Add any relevant subjects taken with a brief description � Add research/projects undertaken with brief description or results if possible
� Add academic awards if significant
EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE
Position Title (in bold) (Summer) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position
� Use action verbs to give your one-liners more impact � At least one of the one-liners should describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with
results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result) � Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Position Title (in bold) (Part-time) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province
� Trained staff on cash, debit and credit transaction to ensure consistent and effective operations � Responded to customers in an attentive manner while working in a busy downtown retail store � Entrusted with manager’s responsibilities while manager was off site and on vacation
Extra-Curricular and Volunteer Experience � List the positions you held in student and voluntary organizations; treat them like regular jobs.
Examples of extra-curricular can include: Job Shadow, Career Field Experience, MacServe, Mary Keyes Leadership Certificate, Student Success Leader to name a few.
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Page 2 Name
Position Title Dates Name of club, charity, event, city, province
� Describe what you did in this position � Emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
TECHNICAL SKILLS (optional)
Can adjust headings to be more specific or general (Computer Skills, Language Skills, Business Skills, Additional Skills, Related Skills etc.). This is where you add any relevant “hard skills” or knowledge areas. Depending on the importance to the position, this heading may be on the first page.
� Programming Languages: C/C++, Visual C++, Visual Basic � Graphic Programs: Corel Draw, AutoCAD � Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint
INTERESTS (optional)
� Tennis: Competed extensively through Canada in various junior and senior tournaments � Drama: Took major roles in high school and university drama � Public Speaking: Joined the local toastmasters group to improve speaking skills
Additional Headings: Use different headings in your resume depending on relevance to the position you are seeking.
Professional Profile, Research Experience, Relevant Experience, Additional Experience, Awards and Grants,
Lab Experience, Conferences and Presentations, Publications, Community Involvement
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
MMMMAC StudentAC StudentAC StudentAC Student –––– 2 2 2 2 ((((Limited ExperienceLimited ExperienceLimited ExperienceLimited Experience))))
Temporary Address Home Address
Phone number/e-mail Phone/e-mail
Education
Bachelor of ….. year – present
Major area of study; minor
McMaster University, Hamilton, ON � Add any relevant subjects taken with a brief description � Add research/projects undertaken with brief description or results if possible � Add academic awards if significant
Technical Skills (optional)
Adjust headings to be more specific or general (Computer Skills, Language Skills, Business Skills, Additional Skills, Related Skills etc.). This is where you add any relevant “hard skills” or knowledge areas.
Depending on the importance to the position. � Programming Languages: C#, C++, � Graphic Programs: Photoshop , AutoCAD
� Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint
Experience (paid and unpaid)
Position Title (in bold) (Summer) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position
� Use action verbs to give your one-liners more impact � At least one of the one-liners should describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with
results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result) � Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Position Title (in bold) (Part-time) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province
� Trained staff on cash, debit and credit transaction to ensure consistent and effective operations � Responded to customers in an attentive manner while working in a busy downtown retail store � Entrusted with manager’s responsibilities while manager was off site and on vacation
Extra-Curricular Experience
List the positions you held in student and voluntary organizations; treat them like regular jobs. Examples of extra-curricular can include: Job Shadow, Career Field Experience, MacServe, Mary Keyes Leadership
Certificate, Student Success Leader to name a few.
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Page 2 Name
Position Title Dates
Name of club, charity, event, city, province � Describe what you did in this position � Emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
Interests (optional)
� Tennis: Competed extensively through Canada in various junior and senior tournaments � Drama: Took major roles in high school and university drama
� Public Speaking: Joined the local toastmasters group to improve speaking skills
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
MAC StudentMAC StudentMAC StudentMAC Student –––– 3 3 3 3 ((((Experience Gained Through Paid and Unpaid OExperience Gained Through Paid and Unpaid OExperience Gained Through Paid and Unpaid OExperience Gained Through Paid and Unpaid Opportunities)pportunities)pportunities)pportunities)
Temporary Address Home Address Phone number/e-mail Phone/e-mail
Highlights of Qualifications (optional/job specific)
� Your relevant experience � Your credentials/training/education relevant to the position � One significant accomplishment, very briefly stated
� One or two skills/strengths with some qualifying statements to back it up � A reference to your values, commitment, or work ethic
Education
Bachelor of ….. year – present
Major area of study; minor
McMaster University, Hamilton, ON � Currently enrolled in Year X of a X year program � Describe how your studies relate to the position you are applying to ( i.e.: internships/co-op/teaching)
� Add research/projects undertaken with description or results if possible � Add academic awards if significant (received from the University)
Relevant Experience
Position Title (Summer) Dates Name of company or organization, city, province
� Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position � Use action verbs to give your one-liners more impact � At least one of the one-liners should describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with
results � Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result) � Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Position Title (volunteer) Dates
Name of club, charity, event, city, province (List the positions you held in student and voluntary organizations; treat them like regular jobs) � Describe what you did in this position
� Emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
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Page 2 Name
Other Experience
Position Title (Part-time) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Trained staff on cash, debit and credit transaction to ensure consistent and effective operations
� Responded to customers in an attentive manner while working in a busy downtown retail store � Entrusted with manager’s responsibilities while manager was off site and on vacation
Position Title (Extracurricular) Dates
Name of club, charity, event, city, province � Describe what you did in this position � Emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
Technical Skills (optional) Can adjust headings to be more specific or general (Computer Skills, Language Skills, Business Skills, Additional Skills, Related Skills etc.). This is where you add any relevant “hard skills” or knowledge areas. Depending on the importance to the position, this heading may be on the first page. � Programming Languages: C/C++, Visual C++, Visual Basic
� Graphic Programs: Corel Draw, AutoCAD � Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint
Interests (optional)
� Tennis: Competed extensively through Canada in various junior and senior tournaments � Drama: Took major roles in high school and university drama � Public Speaking: Joined the local toastmasters group to improve speaking skills
Additional Headings: Use different headings in your resume depending on relevance to the position you are seeking. Professional Profile, Research Experience, Relevant Experience, Additional Experience, Awards and Grants,
Lab Experience, Conferences and Presentations, Publications, Community Involvement
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
MAC StudentMAC StudentMAC StudentMAC Student –––– 4 4 4 4 (Tec(Tec(Tec(Technical Shnical Shnical Shnical Skillskillskillskills HHHHighlightedighlightedighlightedighlighted))))
Temporary Address Home Address Phone number/e-mail Phone/e-mail
Highlights of Qualifications (optional/job specific)
� Your relevant experience � Your credentials/training/education relevant to the position
� One significant accomplishment, very briefly stated � One or two skills/strengths with some qualifying statements to back it up � A reference to your values, commitment, or work ethic
Education
Bachelor of ….. year – present
Major area of study; minor McMaster University, Hamilton, ON � Currently enrolled in Year X of a X year program
� Describe how your studies relate to the position you are applying to ( i.e.: internships/co-op/teaching) � Add research/projects undertaken with description or results if possible � Add academic awards if significant (received from the University)
Technical Skills Can adjust headings to be more specific or general (Computer Skills, Language Skills, Business Skills, Additional Skills, Related Skills etc.). This is where you add any relevant “hard skills” or knowledge areas.
Depending on the importance to the position, this heading may be on the first page. � Programming Languages: C/C++, Visual C++, Visual Basic � Graphic Programs: Corel Draw, AutoCAD
� Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint
Relevant Experience
Position Title (Summer) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province
� Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position � Use action verbs to give your one-liners more impact � At least one of the one-liners should describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with
results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result) � Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Page 2 Name
Other Experience
Position Title (Summer) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position
� Use action verbs to give your one-liners more impact � At least one of the one-liners should describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with
results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result) � Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Extra-Curricular and Volunteer Experience List the positions you held in student and voluntary organizations; treat them like regular jobs.
Position Title Dates Name of club, charity, event, city, province
� Describe what you did in this position � Emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
Interests (optional)
� Tennis: Competed extensively through Canada in various junior and senior tournaments � Drama: Took major roles in high school and university drama � Public Speaking: Joined the local toastmasters group to improve speaking skills
Additional Headings: Can use different headings in your resume depending on relevance to the position you are seeking. Professional Profile, Research Experience, Relevant Experience, Additional Experience, Awards and Grants,
Lab Experience, Conferences and Presentations, Publications, Community Involvement
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
MAC StudentMAC StudentMAC StudentMAC Student –––– 5 5 5 5 ((((Professional/Career Specific Experience)Professional/Career Specific Experience)Professional/Career Specific Experience)Professional/Career Specific Experience)
Temporary Address Home Address
Phone number/e-mail Phone/e-mail
Education
Bachelor/ Master of ….. year – present
McMaster University, Hamilton, ON
� Add any relevant subjects taken with a brief description � Add research/projects undertaken with brief description or results if possible � Add academic awards if significant
Bachelor of ….. year – present
Major area of study; minor McMaster University, Hamilton, ON � Add any relevant subjects taken with a brief description � Add research/projects undertaken with brief description or results if possible
� Add academic awards if significant
(Placement/Clinical/Internship) Experience
Position/Department Title Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position � Use action verbs to give your one-liners more impact
� At least one of the one-liners should describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result)
� Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Position/Department Title (summer) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result)
� Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Employment Experience
Position Title (in bold) (Summer) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position � Describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result) � Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Page 2 Name
Position Title (in bold) (Part-time) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Trained staff on cash, debit and credit transaction to ensure consistent and effective operations � Responded to customers in an attentive manner while working in a busy downtown retail store � Entrusted with manager’s responsibilities while manager was off site and on vacation
Professional Development
Name of Conference/ Course/Workshop/Training Dates Name of company or organization, city, province � State any license/certificate/designation received and expiration date (if needed)
� For conferences a brief overview could be provided especially if it is unique (one time offering)
Extra-Curricular and Volunteer Experience
List the positions you held in student and voluntary organizations; treat them like regular jobs.
Position Title Dates
Name of club, charity, event, city, province � Describe what you did in this position � Emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
Technical Skills (optional)
Can adjust headings to be more specific or general (Computer Skills, Language Skills, Business Skills, Additional Skills, Related Skills etc.). This is where you add any relevant “hard skills” or knowledge areas.
Depending on the importance to the position, this heading may be on the first page. � Programming Languages: C/C++, Visual C++, Visual Basic � Graphic Programs: Corel Draw, AutoCAD
� Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint
Interests (optional)
� Tennis: Competed extensively through Canada in various junior and senior tournaments
� Drama: Took major roles in high school and university drama � Public Speaking: Joined the local toastmasters group to improve speaking skills
Additional Headings: Use different headings in your resume depending on relevance to the position you are seeking.
Professional Profile, Research Experience, Relevant Experience, Additional Experience, Awards and Grants, Lab Experience, Conferences and Presentations, Publications, Community Involvement
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
MAC StMAC StMAC StMAC Studentudentudentudent ––––6666 (Career or Job Fair)(Career or Job Fair)(Career or Job Fair)(Career or Job Fair)
Temporary Address Home Address Phone number/e-mail Phone/e-mail
Profile/Objective
� A short statement that clearly and concisely states the type and level of position/career area to which you are applying. Useful for career/job fairs when you may not have a cover letter.
� This section should be omitted if you are submitting a cover letter
Highlights of Qualifications (optional/job specific)
� Your relevant experience
� Your credentials/training/education relevant to the position � One significant accomplishment, very briefly stated � One or two skills/strengths with some qualifying statements to back it up
� A reference to your values, commitment, or work ethic
Education
Bachelor of ….. year – present
Major area of study; minor
McMaster University, Hamilton, ON � Add any relevant subjects taken with a brief description � Add research/projects undertaken with brief description or results if possible � Add academic awards if significant
Employment Experience
Position Title (in bold) (Summer) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province � Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position
� Use action verbs to give your one-liners more impact � At least one of the one-liners should describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with
results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result) � Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Position Title (in bold) (Part-time) Dates
Name of company or organization, city, province
� Trained staff on cash, debit and credit transaction to ensure consistent and effective operations � Responded to customers in an attentive manner while working in a busy downtown retail store � Entrusted with manager’s responsibilities while manager was off site and on vacation
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Page 2 Name
Extra-Curricular and Volunteer Experience List the positions you held in student and voluntary organizations; treat them like regular jobs.
Position Title Dates
Name of club, charity, event, city, province � Describe what you did in this position � Emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
Technical Skills (optional)
Adjust headings to be more specific or general (Computer Skills, Language Skills, Business Skills, Additional Skills, Related Skills etc.). This is where you add any relevant “hard skills” or knowledge areas. Depending on the importance to the position, this heading may be on the first page.
� Programming Languages: C/C++, Visual C++, Visual Basic � Graphic Programs: Corel Draw, AutoCAD � Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint
Interests (optional)
� Tennis: Competed extensively through Canada in various junior and senior tournaments � Drama: Took major roles in high school and university drama
� Public Speaking: Joined the local toastmasters group to improve speaking skills
Additional Headings: Use different headings in your resume depending on relevance to the position you are seeking.
Professional Profile, Research Experience, Relevant Experience, Additional Experience, Awards and Grants, Lab Experience, Conferences and Presentations, Publications, Community Involvement
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
MAC StudentMAC StudentMAC StudentMAC Student –––– 7 7 7 7 ((((Strong Academic Background and EStrong Academic Background and EStrong Academic Background and EStrong Academic Background and Experiencexperiencexperiencexperience))))
Home Address Phone/e-mail
CAREER PROFILECAREER PROFILECAREER PROFILECAREER PROFILE (optional)
It is a synopsis - a positive, confident summary of your special qualifications summing up what you bring to the position. It will touch on your experience (# of years, or areas of focus), your credentials significant to
the position, and your transferable skills that are key to the position. It is your marketing statement.
EDUCATIONEDUCATIONEDUCATIONEDUCATION
Master of ……. Year - present
Department of ……., McMaster University, Hamilton Thesis: Provide the title and a brief description
• Add any grants/awards received
• Add any relevant projects/courses
Honours Bachelor of ….. (area of study) 20XX
McMaster University, Hamilton
• Add academic awards if significant
• Add any relevant subjects taken with a brief description
• Add research/projects undertaken with brief description or results if possible
WORK EXPERIENCE
Position Title (in bold) 20XX -present
Name of company or organization, city
• Start with action verbs to give your statements more impact
• Describe an initiative you took or an achievement consider using Action Verb + Duty + Outcome format
• Ask yourself what were they challenges to the position, what impact did my work have, what work
style did I bring to the work or department
• Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Position Title (in bold) (part-time) 20XX – 20XX
Name of company or organization, city
• Facilitated tutorials to groups of 15-60 first year biology students to ensure difficult material was understood
• Managed responsibilities and work load to ensure tutorials were well organized, papers marked in a timely manner and office hours for students were available.
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Name – page 2
Position Title (in bold) (Summer) 20XX – 20XX
Name of company or organization, city
• Describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with results consider using SAR formula
(situation, action, result)
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
List certificate programs and workshops; provide information on outcome if relevant. List conferences
attended especially if you presented.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR AND VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE List the positions you held in student and other voluntary organizations, treat them like regular jobs.
Position Title Date
Name of club, charity, event, etc. Describe what you did in this position emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
TECHNICAL SKILLS (Optional – Can also be placed on the first page below education if relevant to the
job)
Adjust headings to be more specific or general (Computer Skills, Language Skills, Business Skills, Additional Skills, Related Skills etc.). This is where you add any relevant “hard skills” or knowledge areas. Depending on the importance to the position, this heading may be on the first page.
Programming Languages: C#, C++, Visual C++, Visual Basic Graphic Programs: Corel Draw, AutoCAD, Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint
Statistical Programs: SPSS
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
Canadian xxxxx Association Date Ontario Association of xxxxxxx Date
ADDITIONAL HEADINGS: Use different headings in your resume depending on relevance to the position you are seeking.
Research Experience, Relevant Experience, Additional Experience, Awards and Grants, Lab Experience,
Conferences and Presentations, Publications, Community Involvement, Interests
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
MAC MAC MAC MAC StudentStudentStudentStudent 8888 –––– ((((Applicant Tracking System TemplateApplicant Tracking System TemplateApplicant Tracking System TemplateApplicant Tracking System Template))))
Temporary Address Local phone number
Home Address
Home phone number e-mail
Education
Bachelor of ….., year – present
Major area of study; minor McMaster University, Hamilton, ON � Add any relevant subjects taken with a brief description � Add research/projects undertaken with brief description or results if possible
� Add academic awards if significant
Work Experience
Name of company or organization, city, province, (Summer) Date
Position Title (in bold)
� Use one liners to describe your relevant activities in that position � Use action verbs and key words to give your one-liners more impact � At least one of the one-liners should describe an initiative you took or an achievement you had with
results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation, action, result) � Emphasize your transferable skills (leadership, organization, team work, etc.)
Name of company or organization, city, province, (Part-time) Date
Position Title (in bold) � Trained 8 staff on cash, debit and credit transactions to ensure consistent and effective operations � Responded to customers in an attentive manner resulting in an increase of patrons by 5% � Entrusted with manager’s responsibilities while manager was off site and on vacation
Extra-Curricular and Volunteer Experience
� List the positions you held in student and voluntary organizations; treat them like regular jobs. Examples of extra-curricular can include: Job Shadow, Career Field Experience, MacServe, Mary Keyes
Leadership Certificate, Student Success Leader to name a few.
Name of club, charity, event, city, province, Date
Position Title � Describe what you did in this position
� Emphasize your transferable skills and any achievements
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Technical Skills (optional)
Can adjust headings to be more specific or general (Computer Skills, Language Skills, Business Skills, Additional Skills, Related Skills etc.). This is where you add any relevant “hard skills” or knowledge areas.
Depending on the importance to the position, this heading may be on the first page. � Programming Languages: C/C++, Visual C++, Visual Basic � Graphic Programs: Corel Draw, AutoCAD
� Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint � Statistical Programs: SPSS
Professional Development
List certificate programs and workshops; provide information on outcome if relevant. Include dates. List conferences attended especially if you presented. Include dates.
Professional Associations Canadian xxxxx Association Date
Ontario Association of xxxxxxx Date
Interests (optional)
� Tennis: Competed extensively through Canada in various junior and senior tournaments � Drama: Took major roles in high school and university drama
� Public Speaking: Joined the local toastmasters group to improve presentation skills
Additional Headings: Use different headings in your resume depending on relevance to the position you are seeking.
Research Experience, Awards and Grants, Lab Experience, Conferences and Presentations, Publications, Community Involvement
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Mac Student (Creative)
Career Goal/Job Title
(123) 456 7899 – [email protected] – LinkedIn URL
Make a statement that will
identify what you are seeking
PROFILE
Position Title
Company/organization – city, province
2015 – Present
� Use one liners to describe your relevant
activities in that position
� Use action verbs to give your one-liners
more impact
� Describe an initiative you took or an
achievement you had with results
� Consider using SAR formula (situation,
action, result)
� Emphasize your transferable skills
(leadership, organization, team work,
etc.)
Position Title (Volunteer)
Name of club, charity, event – city, province
2014 – 2015
� Describe what you did in this position
� Emphasize your transferable skills and any
achievements
Position Title/Role (Extra-Curricular)
Course, club, placement – city, province
2013 – 2014
� Describe what you did in this position
� Emphasize your transferable skills and any
achievements
EXPERIENCE
� Your relevant experience
� Your credentials/training/education
relevant to the position
� One significant accomplishment, very
briefly stated
� One or two skills/strengths with some
qualifying statements to back it up
� A reference to your values, commitment,
or work ethic
� Accomplishments related to the position
you are applying for
CAREER ACHIEVEMENTS
PROGRAMMING C++ ........... ����������
OFFICE SUITE .......................... ����������
TEAM PLAYER ......................... ����������
CREATIVITY ............................. ����������
PROJECT MANAGEMENT ..... ����������
LEADERSHIP ............................ ����������
BILINGUAL .............................. ����������
SKILLS
Bachelor of ________ (Major)
McMaster University, Hamilton, ON
2013 - 2017
� Add any relevant subjects taken with a
brief description
� Add research/projects undertaken with
brief description or results if possible
� Add academic awards if significant
EDUCATION
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Your Your Your Your CreativeCreativeCreativeCreative Resume Resume Resume Resume The human brain can process images faster than words, colour increases interest and when it gets paired with a visual, it gets even more views.
� Get a person’s attention, create a colourful visual application; change your traditional resume into a creative resume.
� Use fun and cost-free tools to help you create it. Check out Piktochart and Easel.ly as possible options to design your resume. Each comes with a free version as well as paid plans that give access to more features and templates. Be creative!
Is this technique right for everyone? Definitely not! � Know your industry, the company, and the acceptance level for the non-traditional.
� Develop your creative document as well as your traditional materials and have them prepared to submit.
� CAUTION: Even if you feel like you found the perfect company to send your creative resume to, beware that it might not get through the ATS (Automatic Tracking System) filters.
Don’t overdo it. The point here is “skim ability”. Before you use it, have it reviewed for clarity and design. Make your value easy to see and answer the question for the employer:
� What problem will this candidate potentially solve for me? � Does it send the right message about your suitability for the job? � Does it look visually appealing?
Identify Your Value MessageIdentify Your Value MessageIdentify Your Value MessageIdentify Your Value Message
What do you want to be remembered for? Don’t take this part lightly—it’s the basis for everything else. Now, using that sentence, craft a headline that describes your value using keywords from your industry.
Make Lists of Your Skills, Work Experience, Make Lists of Your Skills, Work Experience, Make Lists of Your Skills, Work Experience, Make Lists of Your Skills, Work Experience, VolunteerVolunteerVolunteerVolunteer, and , and , and , and ExtraExtraExtraExtra----Curricular ActivitiesCurricular ActivitiesCurricular ActivitiesCurricular Activities
Take an honest look at what skills and accomplishments specifically support your value message, it becomes more manageable and clear to whoever is reading it. Next to each skill, write out your proficiency level on a scale of one to five, and any key subskills that you know are important to create an At-a-Glance
section.
For your work experience, write out each position that is relevant to your value message, the length of time you held the position, and engaging best accomplishments in that position.
Add your Education and Consider Extras that Support Your Value MessageAdd your Education and Consider Extras that Support Your Value MessageAdd your Education and Consider Extras that Support Your Value MessageAdd your Education and Consider Extras that Support Your Value Message
For your education, include the institution, degree, and dates. Extras, should be added only if they support your message. If it’s not clear how they fit, feel free to put in a small blurb about a particular item’s significance.
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Communication/People SkillsCommunication/People SkillsCommunication/People SkillsCommunication/People Skills
• Addressed
• Advertised
• Arbitrated
• Arranged
• Articulated
• Authored
• Clarified
• Collaborated
• Communicated
• Composed
• Condensed
• Conferred
• Consulted
• Contacted
• Conveyed
• Convinced
• Corresponded
• Debated
• Defined
• Developed
• Directed
• Discussed
• Drafted
• Edited
• Elicited
• Enlisted
• Explained
• Expressed
• Formulated
• Furnished
• Incorporated
• Influenced
• Interacted
• Interpreted
• Interviewed
• Involved
• Joined
• Judged
• Lectured
• Listened
• Marketed
• Mediated
• Moderated
• Negotiated
• Observed
• Outlined
• Participated
• Persuaded
• Presented
• Promoted
• Proposed
• Publicized
• Reconciled
• Recruited
• Referred
• Reinforced
• Reported
• Resolved
• Responded
• Solicited
• Specified
• Spoke
• Suggested
• Summarized
• Synthesized
• Translated
• Wrote
Creative SkillsCreative SkillsCreative SkillsCreative Skills
• Acted
• Adapted
• Began
• Combined
• Composed
• Conceptualized
• Condensed
• Created
• Customized
• Designed
• Developed
• Directed
• Displayed
• Drew
• Entertained
• Established
• Fashioned
• Formulated
• Founded
• Illustrated
• Initiated
• Instituted
• Integrated
• Introduced
• Invented
• Modeled
• Modified
• Originated
• Performed
• Photographed
• Planned
• Revised
• Revitalized
• Shaped
• Solved
Data/Financial SkillsData/Financial SkillsData/Financial SkillsData/Financial Skills
• Administered
• Adjusted
• Allocated
• Analyzed
• Appraised
• Assessed
• Audited
• Balanced
• Budgeted
• Calculated
• Computed
• Conserved
• Corrected
• Determined
• Developed
• Estimated
• Forecasted
• Managed
• Marketed
• Measured
• Netted
• Planned
• Prepared
• Programmed
• Projected
• Qualified
• Reconciled
• Reduced
• Researched
• Retrieved
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Helping SkillsHelping SkillsHelping SkillsHelping Skills
• Adapted
• Advocated
• Aided
• Answered
• Arranged
• Assessed
• Assisted
• Clarified
• Coached
• Collaborated
• Contributed
• Cooperated
• Counselled
• Demonstrated
• Diagnosed
• Educated
• Encouraged
• Ensured
• Expedited
• Facilitated
• Familiarized
• Furthered
• Guided
• Helped
• Insured
• Intervened
• Motivated
• Prevented
• Provided
• Referred
• Rehabilitated
• Represented
• Resolved
• Simplified
• Supplied
• Supported
• Volunteered
Management/Leadership SkillsManagement/Leadership SkillsManagement/Leadership SkillsManagement/Leadership Skills
• Administered
• Analyzed
• Appointed
• Approved
• Assigned
• Attained
• Authorized
• Chaired
• Considered
• Consolidated
• Contracted
• Controlled
• Converted
• Coordinated
• Decided
• Delegated
• Developed
• Directed
• Eliminated
• Emphasized
• Enforced
• Enhanced
• Established
• Executed
• Generated
• Handled
• Headed
• Hired
• Hosted
• Improved
• Incorporated
• Increased
• Initiated
• Inspected
• Instituted
• Led
• Managed
• Merged
• Motivated
• Navigated
• Organized
• Originated
• Overhauled
• Oversaw
• Planned
• Presided
• Prioritized
• Produced
• Recommended
• Reorganized
• Replaced
• Restored
• Reviewed
• Scheduled
• Secured
• Selected
• Streamlined
• Strengthened
• Supervised
• Terminated
Organizational SkillsOrganizational SkillsOrganizational SkillsOrganizational Skills
• Approved
• Arranged
• Catalogued
• Categorized
• Charted
• Classified
• Coded
• Collected
• Compiled
• Corrected
• Corresponded
• Distributed
• Executed
• Filed
• Generated
• Incorporated
• Inspected
• Logged
• Maintained
• Monitored
• Obtained
• Operated
• Ordered
• Organized
• Prepared
• Processed
• Provided
• Purchased
• Recorded
• Registered
• Reserved
• Responded
• Reviewed
• Routed
• Scheduled
• Screened
• Submitted
• Supplied
• Standardized
• Systematized
• Updated
• Validated
• Verified
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Research SkillsResearch SkillsResearch SkillsResearch Skills
• Analyzed
• Clarified
• Collected
• Compared
• Conducted
• Critiqued
• Detected
• Determined
• Diagnosed
• Evaluated
• Examined
• Experimented
• Explored
• Extracted
• Formulated
• Gathered
• Inspected
• Interviewed
• Invented
• Investigated
• Located
• Measured
• Organized
• Researched
• Reviewed
• Searched
• Solved
• Summarized
• Surveyed
• Systematized
• Tested
Teaching SkillsTeaching SkillsTeaching SkillsTeaching Skills
• Adapted
• Advised
• Clarified
• Coached
• Communicated
• Conducted
• Coordinated
• Critiqued
• Developed
• Enabled
• Encouraged
• Evaluated
• Explained
• Facilitated
• Focused
• Guided
• Individualized
• Informed
• Instilled
• Instructed
• Motivated
• Persuaded
• Simulated
• Stimulated
• Taught
• Tested
• Trained
• Transmitted
• Tutored
Technical SkillsTechnical SkillsTechnical SkillsTechnical Skills
• Adapted
• Applied
• Assembled
• Built
• Calculated
• Computed
• Conserved
• Constructed
• Converted
• Debugged
• Designed
• Determined
• Developed
• Engineered
• Fabricated
• Fortified
• Installed
• Maintained
• Operated
• Overhauled
• Printed
• Programmed
• Rectified
• Regulated
• Remodeled
• Repaired
• Replaced
• Restored
• Solved
• Specialized
• Standardized
• Studied
• Upgraded
• Utilized
Source: http://www.quintcareers.com/
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Use a Style Guide in Developing Use a Style Guide in Developing Use a Style Guide in Developing Use a Style Guide in Developing your Resumeyour Resumeyour Resumeyour Resume
In Canada, we have many style guides. For instance, media professionals recognize the Globe and Mail Style Book, the APA guide is especially used for psychology papers and theses, and each university
commonly has its own writing and style guide for formal papers and presentations.
Font and SizeFont and SizeFont and SizeFont and Size
Your resume, will either be read directly by a person, or will get scanned into an ATS (electronic applicant tracking system). In either case, the font you use makes your words easy to interpret.
Simple, clean fonts like Arial or Verdana guarantee the readability of your text. More ornate fonts, such as
Times New Roman or Garamond can also be used effectively. Any of these fonts would be suitable for a resume as long as you consistently use one font only.
When you decide which font to use, you’ll need to consider which style elements to add, bold, CAPITALISE or underline. Be consistent in how you apply style elements.
Suggested Sizes:
• Name – 14 – 16 pt.
• Headings – 12 – 14 pt.
• Body – 11 – 12 pt.
You Can Improve your ResumeYou Can Improve your ResumeYou Can Improve your ResumeYou Can Improve your Resume
The following are examples of recommended guidelines which may help you recognize deficiencies in your resume:
Acronyms - You may know all the corporate lingo and short forms, but these may not be familiar to your
readers. Spell out your first use of each in full.
Adjectives - When it comes to a resume, descriptive words that you use in conversation or ‘Overviews’
often take up space without adding value.
Pronouns - NEVER use first or second person pronouns in your resume document. Reserve words like I, my,
we, our for your letters or your LinkedIn summary.
Numbers - Those under 10 are normally spelled out in full while those above 10 are numeric.
Dollar Abbreviations - Selecting K, M, or B, to express thousands, millions, or billions of dollars is a
practical space-saving strategy.
Structure bullets effectivelyStructure bullets effectivelyStructure bullets effectivelyStructure bullets effectively ---- Concepts and strategieConcepts and strategieConcepts and strategieConcepts and strategies:s:s:s:
Keep your bullets short and to the point. Your readers are scanning for nuggets of gold, not reading a novel.
• Be sure the format of those in each section match. For action/result statements, for instance, begin
each with a past tense action verb.
• Omit unnecessary words like ‘a’, ‘an’, ‘the’ – and the pronouns mentioned previously. These use space.
Think about how you read something in the newspaper. Invariably, your eyes move quickly across a line of text, catching key nouns and verbs that capture the essence.
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Bullet Examples:
• Led two-person team during departmental restructuring; completed successful transition of 140 people and five core processes in 11 months
• Oversaw process improvements across operations, sales, marketing, and finance; in one year,
led process improvements that supported $150K in revenue growth
• Ensure accurate spelling and grammar. Did you know that there are several English grammar and
spell-check options within the Word language setting? Set it to “English Canada” when you
are directing your documents to Canadian opportunities. Then, check your spelling. Be sure you personally proof it after the automated spell-check. The tool does not catch the difference between words like ‘too’, ‘two’, and ‘to’ so, it misses those – and similar items – where a spelling error still makes an actual word.
VVVVerify use of:erify use of:erify use of:erify use of:
• Number Form: Be consistent in your use of all number and date formats. Don’t forget to list the currency
if it is not in Canadian dollars.
• Capitalization: Certain names and titles are not to be capitalized in your resume, when in doubt check
first.
• Parallelism: Wherever you have series of related words, phrases or clauses, make sure they are all of a similar structure.
• Punctuation: Use commas and semicolons or dashes properly. If you’re not sure, consult a Canadian style book.
• Active Voice: Structure your sentences so that each clearly shows that the subject of the sentence is the doer of the action.
• General Formatting: Double-check your paragraph spacing, date alignment, and tab settings.
Be consistentBe consistentBe consistentBe consistent
Apart from glaring structural, mechanical, spelling, and grammar mistakes, one of the most common errors
is a lack of consistency. Once you make your stylistic choices, be sure you follow them for all your resume content.
It never hurts to get help from someone with greater expertise. Ask a professional to do another proofing of
your material. When you rely on yourself, you may not even realize the glaring grammar errors that have turned into habits over the years.
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
AccomplAccomplAccomplAccomplishment Statementsishment Statementsishment Statementsishment Statements
For a resume which gives employers a better “picture” of what you have done, or to really “pack a punch” in your cover letters, it is more effective to have statements which are specific and results oriented.
Following are pairs of statements identifying the same achievements, however, the second statement of each pair gives more data than the other. See the difference it makes?
• Provided customer service
• Provided customer service in a busy retail environment resulting in the creation of a loyal customer
base and improved sales by 10%
• Initiated reorganization of file system
• Initiated reorganization of file system which made client information more accessible to staff of non-profit organization
• Initiated and completed system of data entry from manual to computerized
• Initiated and completed system of data entry from manual to computerized system, resulting in improved account analysis and report generation for tax and other purposes
• Maintained and updated files
• Maintained and updated patient files for rehabilitation clinic with approximately 340 regular patients
• Trained administrators and other staff
• Trained administrators and other staff at physiotherapy clinic on MS Excel, saving outside training
expenses of more than a $1000
• Created manual for volunteers
• Created procedural and responsibilities manual for volunteers at a community agency, which reduced overlapping duties and increased efficiency.
• Worked on product layouts
• Revised merchandise layout and recommended changes that resulted in increased product visibility and increased sales by 33%
• Work well in a team environment
• Collaborated with team members to complete a group marketing project for final year commerce class
ensuring tasks were identified and completed by the team members on time
• Leadership experience
• Oversaw group project by providing vision and direction regarding project objectives, task distribution resulting in group cohesion and a successful project
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Resume ChecklistResume ChecklistResume ChecklistResume Checklist
Your resume should be tailored each time you apply for a job to ensure you are effectively communicating
your most important skills and qualifications for that position. This checklist contains explanations of common sections found on resumes. A resume is a unique reflection of you. There are many different titles to use, choose those which suit you best.
General Points:General Points:General Points:General Points:
� Written in third person, not “I” or “my” � Use short action-oriented phrases, called accomplishment statements instead of complete sentences to
describe your experiences
� Does not include any irrelevant personal information (marital status, age, racial, religious or political affiliations, etc.)
� Use past tense if the position was in the past and if you are still involved, use the present tense
Contact Information:Contact Information:Contact Information:Contact Information:
� Is clearly presented at the top; includes current address information, permanent and temporary, telephone number(s) where you can be reached or a message can be left from 9 am to 5 pm
� Includes name and phone number at the top of second page, if applicable
Objective Objective Objective Objective (optional)::::
� A short statement that clearly and concisely states the type and level of position for which you are applying
� Tailored to each different position and/or company ie. To obtain an internship in the field of publishing
with company xyz. � If you are pressed for space on the resume, this section can be omitted, particularly if also submitting a
cover letter
Profile Profile Profile Profile (optional): : : :
� A marketing statement that is a positive, confident summary of your special qualifications. It will address your experience (# of years or areas of focus), your relevant credentials and your transferable skills that are key to the position
Highlights of Qualifications:Highlights of Qualifications:Highlights of Qualifications:Highlights of Qualifications:
� A section that highlights 3-5 key points that provide a snapshot of why an employer should hire you for a particular job
� Highlight your relevant skills, knowledge, accomplishments, experiences that pertain to the job you are applying for
� Avoid generic statements; offer context and proof of your claims. For example: Before: Excellent writing skills After: Proven ability to thoroughly research topics in genetic technology and write detailed,
scientific reports � Research the job posting and/or details about the occupation to select the most relevant points you
would like the employer to know
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Rev. – May 18, 2016
Education:Education:Education:Education:
� Listed in reverse chronological order (most recent first) � Includes name of degree, university, major, graduation date and GPA (optional) � Avoid abbreviations. ie. Use “Bachelor of Arts”, instead of BA � May include other degrees or relevant higher education, training, certificate programs � May include relevant coursework (do not use course codes), thesis or major project descriptions that
indicate knowledge, skills acquired
� Does not include information from high school (unless you are in 1st or 2nd year, applying to summer jobs in your area)
� Include academic accomplishments/awards you have received if less than 3. Otherwise, place in separate section titled with a relevant heading. Include name of the award, reason awarded and date
Work Experience:Work Experience:Work Experience:Work Experience:
� Listed in reverse chronological order (most recent first) � May include part-time, full time, summer positions, internship or co-op experiences relevant to the
position you are applying for
� Includes organization name, job title, city, province, and dates of employment � Describe your experiences using up to 6 relevant accomplishment statements that quantify and qualify
your contributions, instead of a mere ‘summary of duties and responsibilities’
� Begin your accomplishment statements with a strong action word � Highlight your most relevant positions, both paid and unpaid, you could divide your experiences into
‘Related Experience’ and ‘Additional Experience’
Extracurricular and Volunteer Experience: Extracurricular and Volunteer Experience: Extracurricular and Volunteer Experience: Extracurricular and Volunteer Experience:
� Follow the format as outlined in the work experience section. � Includes all relevant activities within clubs, volunteer work, athletics etc., unless already mentioned in
a ‘Relevant Experience’ section
� Bring forward relevant skills that may not be mentioned elsewhere and do not underestimate these types of experiences
� Avoid referring to political and religious groups by name to avoid any hidden discrimination or bias by an employer
Professional Development:Professional Development:Professional Development:Professional Development:
� Includes training courses you have done, professional association memberships, conferences attended, membership to student clubs on campus, certificates you have received etc.
� Purpose of the section is to show employers relevant activities you have done that have contributed to
your career development
Interests: Interests: Interests: Interests: (optional)::::
� Includes any additional information about activities you are involved in or interests you have that are not included above. Avoid “reading, sports, films” which is too general. You can be quite detailed
� Be creative. This is often the section where employers look to start an “icebreaker” conversation
Resume TipsResume TipsResume TipsResume Tips
Rev. – May 18, 2016
Before you suBefore you suBefore you suBefore you submit your resume, check the following:bmit your resume, check the following:bmit your resume, check the following:bmit your resume, check the following:
� Looks professional and is inviting to read � Margins are appropriate to make things fit on the page, white space and text is balanced � Uses bold and italic (not underlining) to make important items stand out
� Uses a readable font size: 11 or 12 and a professional looking font: Arial, Times New Roman, Tahoma � Ensures consistency of font size, use of bold and italics and bullet points throughout � Printed on high quality 8½ x 11 paper
� No longer than 2 pages, with your most relevant information on the first page � Proofread, proofread and proofread again! We have sample resumes available in our resource area to help you.