Guidelines for Resumes

This is a list of several items that actual employers listed as advice for prospective applicants when creating resumes.

1) Resumes and cover letters are visual representations that also demonstrate one's writing skills. Make sure you take the time to proofread your resume for grammatical and structural mistakes.

2) Include Accomplishments--that is what sets people apart.

3) The more relevant the work experience the better, but any work experience is better than NO work experience.

4) A GPA below 2.5 is usually screened out unless there are very extenuating circumstances, so don't publicize.

5) If you use a career objective, it should be specific. You can also use a summary statement and explain what you have to offer to the company.

6) In the cover letter, show that you know something about the company; show a sense of direction, enthusiasm, assertiveness, and confidence.

7) Don't exaggerate.

8) Target the cover letter. Don't use a form letter. I have received a few cover letters that were actually intended for another company and it was very obvious. It made me not take the resume very seriously.

9) If you worked while going to school, that shows initiative. Also, if you did volunteering or internships, make sure to list them.

10) For some organizations, if you have the ability to relocate you will have an advantage.

11) Don't put salary requirements on a resume!

12) Do not include any personal information such as marital status, age, etc.

13) Do not include a picture.

14) Do not assemble a lot of information in a plastic cover.

15) Be brief in your cover letter--it shouldn't be longer than four paragraphs.

16) Put the effort into yourself. A solid resume and cover letter will definitely set you a apart.


Thanks to Jim Wampler and Kari Shultz