How to Decide what to Include in a Resume
Write out your resume on your computer., Copy your master resume by making a new document on your computer., Research your prospective employer and carefully study the job description., List qualities your employer is looking for These don't have to...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Write out your resume on your computer.
Include everything, even the burger-flipping job you had in high school.
Be sure to include charity volunteer work, leisure activities, hobbies and skills.
Save this as your "Master Resume". -
Step 2: Copy your master resume by making a new document on your computer.
The new document will be your winnowed down resume. , This should give you an idea of what your employer is looking for, not just for the position, but for the "tone" of the company. , They can be implied by the phrasing or company philosophy.
For instance, if the company prides itself on "customer service"
they probably want an employee to be a "people person". , For example, if the company is looking for people with creative problem solving skills, highlight your stint as a camp counselor. , If you know how to make 3D computer animations, speak Russian, or demonstrate your leadership abilities by coaching you daughter's peewee soccer team, speak up.
Any expertise in the company's field, even if not directly relevant to your prospective position, is a plus for you.
For example, if you're applying to be a website designer for a geology museum, be sure to mention your geology minor or your volunteer work at a geology museum. , The computer programming company doesn't care about your wilderness survival certification, and the ski patrol doesn't care that you are fluent in JavaScript. -
Step 3: Research your prospective employer and carefully study the job description.
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Step 4: List qualities your employer is looking for These don't have to be explicitly stated in the want ad.
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Step 5: Find resume points that match these qualities and highlight them in your document.
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Step 6: Highlight "bonus qualities" This is where hobbies and skills come in.
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Step 7: Delete extraneous items Any items that don't show off relevant job skills or qualities should be deleted.
Detailed Guide
Include everything, even the burger-flipping job you had in high school.
Be sure to include charity volunteer work, leisure activities, hobbies and skills.
Save this as your "Master Resume".
The new document will be your winnowed down resume. , This should give you an idea of what your employer is looking for, not just for the position, but for the "tone" of the company. , They can be implied by the phrasing or company philosophy.
For instance, if the company prides itself on "customer service"
they probably want an employee to be a "people person". , For example, if the company is looking for people with creative problem solving skills, highlight your stint as a camp counselor. , If you know how to make 3D computer animations, speak Russian, or demonstrate your leadership abilities by coaching you daughter's peewee soccer team, speak up.
Any expertise in the company's field, even if not directly relevant to your prospective position, is a plus for you.
For example, if you're applying to be a website designer for a geology museum, be sure to mention your geology minor or your volunteer work at a geology museum. , The computer programming company doesn't care about your wilderness survival certification, and the ski patrol doesn't care that you are fluent in JavaScript.
About the Author
Hannah Burns
Specializes in breaking down complex practical skills topics into simple steps.
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