Chapter I. Selling Yourself on Paper
How to Make a Great First Impression
Your resume has to sell the reader with the first few statements.
  • Make sure you state your job objective in a way that is consistent with the type of position you are seeking. For example, if you are applying for a job as a carpenter's helper, state as your objective an entry level job in carpentry.
  • List your strongest skills with examples toward the beginning of the resume, for example, leadership - captain of high school soccer team.
  • If success in the classroom and/or in school activities is a strong asset, list it early in the resume.
Write your resume with the employer in mind.
  • If possible, match your qualifications to those the ad or job description lists as necessary or desirable.
Your accomplishments should stand out.
  • Do not use long paragraphs.
  • Make it easy for the employer to discover your successes when he reads about your school and work history.
Your resume should have an appealing look.
  • It should look clean and professional.
  • Check carefully for spelling and grammar errors. Use your Spelling and Grammar checker if you have a computer.
  • Stick to one page (two at most!).
Resume Do's and Don'ts

DO DON'T
  • Be explicit and clear.
  • Use action words.
  • Use direct, simple English.
  • Do it yourself! Get input from others,
    but you know yourself best.
  • Don't list hobbies unless related to work.
  • Don't list references.
  • Don't list salary requirements or past salaries.
  • Don't give reasons for leaving past jobs.
  • Don't list personal information such as age, sex, weight, height, or marital status.
  • Don't attach a photo.
Go to: Table of Contents, What is a Resume?, How to Make a Great First Impression, Action Words For Resumes, Sample Resume - Recent High School Graduate, Sample Resume Cover Letter, Filling Out Application Forms
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