Which Format Is Best for You?

Create a Mega-Data File

Make a list of all items that could be important to your resume. Gather information or write notes about previous work experiences, job descriptions, performance reviews, previous resumes, transcripts from educational programs, papers you have written, presentations you have delivered, volunteer programs, certifications, licenses, curriculum you created, awards, honors...whatever you feel is relevant to your work. If in doubt, include it. We tend to forget the things we have done, so think of things that will help you remember. If you are just out of school, you might want to think about extracurricular experiences, volunteer work, internships, etc.

This mega-file is an important step in managing your career. Continue to add to it as you take on new jobs, attend classes, etc. This will make it much easier in the future!

Step 2; Deciding What to Include

This may vary from job to job, so keep your mega-data file accessible. In order to clarify what is relevant to a particular job, ask yourself the following questions:

• What skills do I want to use in my next job?
• What do I do best?
• What skills have I developed?
• What work experience have I found satisfying?
• If I am looking at a specific job description, what skills and experiences are identified?
• What is important about my education? (This usually includes degrees and perhaps specific courses.)
• Are there unique experiences or talents I want to share?

Take time to answer these questions thoughtfully. Doing so will make the task of creating a resume easier. Then organize your materials to answer these questions. There may be some overlap, and that's okay.

Step 3: Choosing a Format

There are three basic formats that are found when writing a resume: a skills-based resume; a reverse chronological resume; and a combination resume. All three have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the job for which you are applying, you may choose one format or the other. It is good to try all three styles to see which one presents the most powerful image. Whatever style you choose, you will always need to include your work history.

Which Format Is Best for You?

	Reverse Chronological	Skills-based	Combination
What It Is	Begin with your most recent position and work backwards, typically focusing on the last 10 to 15 years of experience	Summarizes your professional skills and minimizes your work history	Utilizes the best of the reverse chronological and skills-based styles
When to Use It	When seeking a position in the same field Your career path has shown steady progress and increasing responsibilities You can demonstrate measurable results from your work You've held impressive job titles and/or have worked for big-name employers Your work history has no gaps	You are changing careers and utilizing your transferable skills You have been employed by the same company for a long time You have held several jobs that are dissimilar OR very similar in nature You are a new graduate with limited work history, but DO have relevant coursework or training Your work history contains gaps in employment	Each position you have had involved a different job You want to highlight internships or volunteer positions that are related to your field of interest Significant skills are highlighted and supported by your employment history
Cautions	Calls attention to employment gaps Skills may be difficult to spot if they are buried in job descriptions	Employers are used to viewing reverse chronological resumes. Be clear about why this is the best format for you! May be more difficult to write	Be sure your format supports your objective and is arranged in a logical, easy-to-follow manner

Step 4: Sections of a Resume

All resumes typically contain sections that highlight education and work experience. Often a profile or summary of qualifications section is used to provide the reader with an overview of your competencies. Some people also choose to include a section to highlight community or professional involvement as well as presentations or publications. Tailor your resume to bring out your strengths!

Дата добавления: 2015-10-21