WRITE

Before you begin writing, refer to the Summary Report from ONET. List a few skills and abilities required for the job you are seeking. Then list a few of your own accomplishments and strengths.

Since you have done your research, you have an idea of what specific jobs to apply for and what skills and abilities are needed for that job. Now you are ready to take a close look at what you have to offer.

Step 1
Start by creating a Word document. This is not a rough draft but a “laundry list” of your experiences and the dates. Experience does not have to be paid, could be volunteer or part of a club or organization.
List your work experiences, job descriptions, internships, community service, volunteer work, clubs, list of papers you have written, awards, honors, certifications, licenses, interests and anything else.
Step 2
Compare your chosen career/job and the skills needed. Look at your experience and make connections. What skills do you have to market?

Sample Resume

Step 3
Start the Experience section first. The purpose is to describe your qualifications. Begin with your present or most recent job first. This is a rough draft so add as much as you can. Keep this as a separate document to make additions throughout your career.
Step 4
Consider: Who are you writing for?
Answer: A professional who will spend 20-30 seconds looking at your resume.
Write to persuade the reader that you have what it takes to do the job.
Step 5

The first round of editing

Accomplishment oriented: Is it specific?

Written in Plain English: Is it simple and direct but not simplistic?

Organized: Is the content sequential and logical?

Action Verbs: Did you start each description with an Action Verb? Refer to the skills you are marketing. If it is a Management skill, use the verbs listed in this category to describe your experience.

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Last Updated: 3/4/08
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