Decide what to Include in a Resume
It's temping to include everything you've ever done on your resume in the hope of impressing your prospective employer. Instead, they are likely to be overwhelmed, or think you're disorganized. Try these steps to create a polished and relevant resume.
Steps
- Write out your resume on your computer. Include everything, even the burger-flipping job you had in high school. Be sure to include charity volunteer work, leisure activities, hobbies and skills. Save this as your "Master Resume".
- Copy your master resume by making a new document on your computer. The new document will be your winnowed down resume.
- Research your prospective employer and carefully study the job description. This should give you an idea of what your employer is looking for, not just for the position, but for the "tone" of the company.
- List qualities your employer is looking for These don't have to be explicitly stated in the want ad. They can be implied by the phrasing or company philosophy. For instance, if the company prides itself on "customer service", they probably want an employee to be a "people person".
- Find resume points that match these qualities and highlight them in your document. For example, if the company is looking for people with creative problem solving skills, highlight your stint as a camp counselor.
- Highlight "bonus qualities" This is where hobbies and skills come in. If you know how to make 3D computer animations, speak Russian, or demonstrate your leadership abilities by coaching you daughter's peewee soccer team, speak up. Any expertise in the company's field, even if not directly relevant to your prospective position, is a plus for you. For example, if you're applying to be a website designer for a geology museum, be sure to mention your geology minor or your volunteer work at a geology museum.
- Delete extraneous items Any items that don't show off relevant job skills or qualities should be deleted. The computer programming company doesn't care about your wilderness survival certification, and the ski patrol doesn't care that you are fluent in JavaScript.
Tips
- Have someone read over your resume before you send it out.
- Create a specific resume for each job you apply for. Your prospective employer will appreciate your effort and care.
- Be prepared to discuss resume items in your interview. While writing your resume, take notes on talking points and make flashcards for yourself.
