Illustration by Ingo Fast
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Resumé Refresher
By Mary Quigley and Loretta E. Kaufman, November & December 2004
Chances are you haven’t written a resumé for quite some time
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Don't be too lofty
Classic resumé advice is to put a lofty objective at the top of your
resumé, such as "I seek a challenging sales position that will
allow me to maximize my potential and income." Problem: that eliminates
your chances for any nonsales job. Better idea: widen your horizons and think
of an objective that will give you (and the prospective employer) more
options.
Use categories, not chronology
A resumé that groups your skills and accomplishments by categories
(such as research, sales, customer service) provides a snapshot of your
strengths and qualifications. It also helps gloss over any gaps in
employment.
Quantify your experience
Use numbers and percentages that will bolster your appeal. For example,
instead of simply saying that you headed up a sales department, write that
revenues increased by 20 percent on your watch.
Include unpaid experience
Volunteer and community work, such as fundraising or event coordinating for
a school or club, can translate as marketing and sales experience.
Employ action verbs
Verbs like "organized," "negotiated,"
"created," and "supervised" announce that you're the
sort of worker who takes charge and gets things done.
Don't be "creative"
Simply center your name, address, e-mail, and phone at top; don't use
lines or borders; leave wide margins on both sides; and use white paper.
Keep it to one page
The resumé will get only a quick glance, and you want your most
marketable skills to jump out. Also, watch your spelling; have someone else
proofread for you.
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