Do not let anyone convince you that resumes are not important. As long as employers are asking for them, resumes are important and you need one. Even if you have your foot in the door, employers often want to see your resume. Are they the most important tool in your job search? Probably not, but they are an important tool in the overall job search process.
Employers use your resume to determine if you can add value to their organization (based on your past experiences, accomplishments, and skills). The resume is used to sell your future potential to employers and entice them to invite you for an interview.
If you don't have a resume or you would like to learn the basics of resume design, please attend the resume workshops at Counseling & Career Services and/or see David Parker, Director of Career Development.
If you are a Bren student, you are expected to attend the Advanced Resume Workshop offered through the Bren School. By attending this workshop, you will be able to develop a resume that stands out and demands attention. The workshop is full of inside information rarely communicated to students. David Parker uses his past experience as a College Recruiter and Employment Supervisor to help students develop resumes that get results.
To help get you started on refining your resume, we have highlighted some important characteristics that employers find appealing in a resume.
With thousands of job applications coming across recruiters' desks every week, many recruiters only have time to skim resumes during the first go around. If an applicant's resume does notstand out in 20-30 seconds, it will probably be rejected. Most recruiters look for and like to see the following at first glance:
1. Focused objective
2. Error free - no spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors
3. Specific, measurable accomplishments
4. Bullets
5. Plenty of white space (areas with no text)
6. Reader friendly (easily understood) format
7. Relevant information - no filler or fluff
8. Short sentences
9. Key words, numbers, phrases, percentages
10. Relevant practical experience - paid or unpaid
11. Organized layout
12. Specifics rather than generalizations
13. Contributions rather than all duties
14. Correct names and titles on the cover letter
15. Indication of strong written and verbal communication skills
While these eye openers may not get you the job, they will at least help your resume stand out and get noticed. Take a look at your resume to see what you can do to incorporate some or all of these points. Revise your resume and then have it evaluated by the Director of Career Development.
For examples of recommended resume formats, please see Director of Career Development, David Parker and/or attend the Advanced Resume Workshop.
