Learning How to Write a Resume
Whether this is your first resume or you have written several, you can gain valuable information by asking “How can I write a resume?” A resume is like writing an assignment. You have to do pre-writing, such as brainstorming, write a first draft and then revise and polish. Through a resume, you are trying to attain a position so you want to make this document as professional looking as possible so that you impress a prospective employer.
One mistake job seekers often make is that they sit down and write the resume off the top of their head. Then they simply take the first writing and submit it with their job application. Afterwards, they think of important items that they should have included in the resume because they have a direct bearing on the job.
To start off writing a resume, brainstorm all the type of work you have done. This includes both paid and unpaid work. Most people don’t realize that they do gain valuable skills and experience from volunteer work that they can transfer to a paid position. Note the specific duties and responsibilities of each one. Do the same thing with your educational qualifications. This way, you have all your degrees and certificates listed before you start the resume. Refer to the job posting from time to time to refresh your mind about any skills you have for this job.
When you do start to write the resume, place your full name and full contact information at the top of the page – in the center. Then you write a profile summary of yourself top provide the employer with a snapshot of what you can bring to this position. Look through the list of work and education that you brainstormed. Choose the items that have particular relevance to the job. The profile summary should be short – only one to three statements, so you have to be very concise.
The next section of the resume can be either your work experience or your educational background. For recent graduates, most likely this would be the education. Others can choose to put either one first – whichever you think will impress the employer the most.
After you complete the resume, do not think that you are finished. Now you have to read over the resume to edit mistakes in spelling and grammar, and make revisions to find more precise words to describe your skills. You may have to do this several times before you have a polished copy to send to your employer.
