Resume Writing Tips

• Spell check the old-fashioned way proof read your resume.

• Use ink jet or laser printers only. If you use ink jet make sure the print does not smudge.

• Avoid being too creative by attaching clip art to your resume.

• Print the resume and cover letter on a high quality 25% cotton fiber resume paper.

• Avoid any thing that disqualifies you for the job.

• Put it in reverse chronological order most recent job first. 

• Leave out personal pronouns like “I,” “my” and “me.”  Saying, “I

• Omit the articles “a,” “an” and “the.”  Instead of “Coordinated the special events for CJ's Financial,” simplify it to say, “Coordinated CJ's Financials special events.”

• Your résumé should focus on accomplishments, not tasks.

• Eliminate clutter, format your résumé for consistency and easy reading.

• Bold, italicize or underline important headlines (just don’t do all three at once – that’s overkill).

• Create a bulleted list – not a paragraph formation – for job descriptions.

• Use a standard font like 11or 12 point Times New Roman or Arial. Fancier fonts are not only harder to read, but they may become garbled in an e-mail format.

• Combine series’ of short, odd jobs into one listing.  (For example: “1999-2002  CJ's Financial)

• Reading your resume aloud will help you identify areas that need improvement or clarification. If something doesn’t sound right to you, it won’t sound right to a hiring manager.

Interview Tips

• The whole purpose of the process to this point is to be granted an interview. Show up at the scheduled time or al little early.

• Find out as much as possible about the company and the position you are applying for.

• Let the interviewer take the lead and be prepared to answer question about items listed in your resume.

•  Dress appropriately for the job you are applying for. Look at the way the employee's dress at work you can get a pretty good idea what to wear. When in doubt men should wear a suit and tie, women should wear a suit or conservative dress, it better to be over dressed.

•  Avoid too much cologne or perfume. Avoid too much makeup or jewelry. Look at the corporate culture of the company you are applying for. Image is important.

• During the interview keep eye contact and relax, but do not slouch.

• Answer all questions as best you can. Keep a copy of your resume with you and be prepared to answer detailed questions about your claims.

• Regardless of the outcome send the employer a thank you note as soon as possible after the interview.

Copyright © CJ's Quality Resumes 2004