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• 1. Self Assessment
• 2. Research
• 3. Decision-Making
• 4. Networks & Contacts
  • 4.1 Work Search
    • 4.1.1 Traditional Methods of Finding Openings
    • 4.1.2 Internet Sites Listing Job Advertisements
    • 4.1.3 Creative Methods for Finding Work
    • 4.1.4 Researching Employers
    • 4.1.5 Networking, Developing Leads and Making Contacts
    • 4.1.6 Networking Contacts
    • 4.1.7 Networking Diagrams
    • 4.1.8 Create a Job Seeker's Calling Card
  • 4.2 Resumes
    • 4.2.1 Preparing to Write Your Resume
    • 4.2.2 Major Sections of a Resume
    • 4.2.3 Types of Resumes
    • 4.2.4 Functional Resume
    • 4.2.5 Additional Resume Tips
    • 4.2.6 Action Verbs that Describe Skills
    • 4.2.7 Preparing an Electronic Version of Your Resume
    • 4.2.8 Resume Templates
    • 4.2.9 Resources on Resume Writing
  • 4.3 Letters
    • 4.3.1 Cover and Broadcast Letters
    • 4.3.2 Comparison of Cover and Broadcast Letters
    • 4.3.3 A Process to Develop Letters
    • 4.3.4 Creating Thank You Letters
    • 4.3.5 Sample Letter Format
    • 4.3.6 Resources on Letter Writing
  • 4.4 Interviews
    • 4.4.1 The Core of the Interview Process
    • 4.4.2 Selling Your Benefits
    • 4.4.3 Understanding Verbal & Non-Verbal Communication
    • 4.4.4 Approaches to Interviewing
    • 4.4.5 The Employer's Evaluation
    • 4.4.6 Tips for Effective Interviewing
    • 4.4.7 Your Rights in the Interview
    • 4.4.8 Resources on Interviewing
• 5. Work
• 6. Life/Work Planning

Step 4.2.1: Preparing To Write Your Resume

• It is important to tailor your qualifications to the work for which you are applying

• To do this, review your Self Assessment worksheets from Step 1 and the descriptions of the work information you have obtained from your research in Step 2

• Before you start a draft of your resume, make sure you gather the following information:

Resume Data

1. Personal data Name Local address Permanent address Phone number E-mail address Web page (if appropriate)	Additional Data for Co-op Student ID Level and Plan
2. Current work objective
3. Special skills & qualities related to objective Refer to your skills analysis from Section 1 Languages Computer skills, etc. Certificates received
4. Education Subjects related to your objective Samples of best work in classes related to your objective (e.g., team or individual projects) Other significant facts (e.g., honours, awards, credentials, achievements)
5. Work experience Employer Length of employment Position Accomplishments Samples of best work if relevant
6. Volunteer work, community involvement, association memberships Organization Length of involvement Role Accomplishments Samples of best work if relevant
7. Publications, presentations & reports
8. Activities & interests Extracurricular activities Positions of responsibility you have held Athletic accomplishments Range of general interests

 

Targeting Your Resume -

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Style and Appearance

The first impression of your resume should be favourable for both your electronic and paper versions: well organized material, easy-to-read font (Ariel or Times Roman, 11+ point size) correct grammar and spelling, up-to-date information. Your paper copies should be printed on high quality white or light colour paper and have no handwritten corrections or whiteout.

Prepare a positive document presenting your skills, qualities and experience. Don't be shy! If you don’t believe in yourself, how will a potential employer? On the other hand, the resume must be an honest evaluation. Don't lie or stretch the truth. The misrepresentation will come back to haunt you...if not in the interview, then on the job.

There is no one right resume. The goal is to create a document that presents your strengths, which are revealed through both content and writing style. Be enthusiastic, confident, and focused.

To continue with Step 4.2.2, click here.