What does a GREAT Resume do for me? * Convinces an employer to grant you an interview – you’ll stand out as a superior candidate * Advertises your skills, abilities, interests and qualifications specific to the position you are applying for
How can I create an EXCELLENT Resume? Make sure it’s easy to read: * An employer will likely spend 1 minute or less on your resume: if it’s difficult to see or understand, they’ll stop reading it. * DO NOT put it on brightly coloured paper * keep it light by using white, cream or beige resume paper * (Remember employers often fax resumes to the hiring manager: colour paper when faxed becomes a black sheet of paper)
Use the most noticeable sections of a Resume: * Studies show that the top half of the first page and the left hand side are the most important areas. You read from left to right. * Use standard bullets to highlight your achievements
Target your Resume for the specific job: * Customize your resume for each specific job you apply for * If you apply for a cook position, mention that you like cooking
Length of a Resume: * No longer than 2 pages – this does not include the reference page * Include your name and phone number on each page Format of a Resume: * Type your resume in a Microsoft Word document in case you need to email it * Don’t use WordPad or WordPerfect: most companies use Microsoft Word
Font: * Size 12 font for your resume * Size 14 bold font for your name * Use Geneva, Arial or Times New Roman
Content: * Use appropriate language and email address * No slang: use “children” instead of “kids” * Use job-specific terminology (words)
Check Grammar and Spelling: * Use the Canadian or British spelling of words, not the American spelling * Canadian: colour, honour, centre. American: color, honor, center * You may be overlooked for a job if your spelling or grammar are poor
Proofread, Proofread, And Proofread!!! * You absolutely MUST proofread your resume several times * Get friends, parents and teachers to proofread * You CANNOT have any grammar or spelling mistakes