Christian finance and consumer credit counseling & debt management
Career Guidance
4th Essential:
A Resume That Sells
Your resume is an opportunity to make the most of your abilities. Think of your resume as a 1 or 2 page marketing tool that promotes you!
You only have a few seconds for the reader to evaluate your accomplishments, experiences, education, and interests. You'll get invited to an interview if your resume shows how you fit into an employer's picture.
Which resume format is best?
Whatever format you choose, keep in mind that the purpose is to promote your product - YOU! Different formats work better for different jobs and for different people. Here are three commonly used formats:
A Chronological Resume lists your background starting with the most recent information first. Use it for traditional jobs requiring a specific skill or when you have lots of work experience.
A Functional Resume is composed of skills, work experiences, and strengths as they relate to the position you are applying for. Emphasis is placed on what you have or can do rather than when you achieved it. Use it if you have little or no experience but lots of skills.
A Combination Resume is a more creative approach to selling yourself. It highlights both your skills and accomplishments and also any relevant work experience. Use it if you have lots of work experience and many transferable skills.
Sample Combination Resume
Bonnie Keen
75 Irwin Drive
Springfield, MS 16736
(423) 555-1234
Professional Strengths
Teaching, training and instruction experience
Innovative and enthusiastic
Proven problem-solver
Excellent communication skills and organizational skills
Education
1998 Bachelor of Education, Senior - Science
University of Toronto, Faculty of Education
1995 Bachelor of Science (Honours) University of Toronto
Additional Qualifications
1998 Special Education Program (Part 1)
Professional Experience
Classroom Teaching:
Designed and instructed a variety of subjects for senior grades using co-operative learning principals
Evaluated and assessed individual students using recognized procedures
Developed interesting, innovative activities for students of various abilities
Motivated and encouraged students to become self-directing in their learning
Bonnie Keen
Page Two
Related Employment
Science Instructor, Science Today Program
(6 month contract)
Affiliations
Member Environmental Protection Committee, GTA
Participated - Information Technology Project
Science Network Community Group
Skills
Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
Familiar with Internet and Web Page Design
Qualified in First Aid CPR
Interests
Environmental Protection Reading
Note: Your resume is not a review of your life and all you have done. Instead, it highlights the value you bring to an organization.
1) If you are uncertain as to which format works best for you, follow the outline for the combination resume.
2) It is essential that you be specific on your resume.
3) Describe what you did at a previous job rather than your job title.
4) Even if you have no previous experience, you still possess skills that are in demand.
Try to make your resume a reflection of what employers are really looking for.
Demonstrate how you think ...
You Are:
In contact with your friends and often organize social outings or group events
For Your Resume:
Excellent communication
Effective at networking
Good organizational skills
Describe how you act ...
You Are:
Careful with money, making your income strech to meet your many expenses
For Your Resume:
Excellet in budgeting skills
The ability to be resourceful
Show how you work with others ...
You Are:
An active member of an organization, committee or club
For Your Resume:
Enjoy being a member of a team
Challenged by new situations
Typical Resume
Headings: Contents Identification: Your name, address, contact numbers and e-mail Highlights of Qualifications: Years of experience, Top Skills, Personal Attributes Relevant Experience: Company name and location, Years worked, Title and/or skills Education and Training: Last level of education, Relevant courses, workshops, and seminars Interests and Volunteer Work: Achievements/awards, Special Interest, Committees, Projects References: "Available Upon Request"
Action words should also be included in a resume. These consist of descriptive words that add power to your message.
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4th Essential:
