You’re interested in a job, and they want your resume. Now what? We’ll start by building on the stories we discussed last time and then list what to do and, by example, what to avoid – and we’ll have some fun along the way.
Your resume is a marketing tool that enables you to tell a potential employer what you can do for them. Do your homework and tailor your resume to a targeted industry, company and, if possible, reader. It should include memorable stories that retell your accomplishments (quantifiable, if possible) and how you achieved those results. Other resume tips include:
• Stress what you can do for the employer.
• Personalize each resume you send out.
• Have a clear focus (objective) on what you’re looking for.
• Use relevant industry buzzwords, especially in your skills list.
• Focus on the last 10-12 years and lump the rest under “other experience.”
• To fend off age bias, eliminate the year you graduated from college.
• To reduce unemployment gaps, remove months from your work chronology.
• If you’re changing careers, use a style emphasizing your functional skills rather than work chronology or write a one-page bio instead.
To lighten things up a bit, here are real-life examples of what not to put on your resume. And you thought you needed help?
Cover letter
“Dear Sir/Modem.”
“I am extremely detailoriented and meticulate about derails.”
“Please disregard the attached resume – it is terribly out of date.”
Accomplishments
“Graduated in the top 70 percent of my class.”
“Consistently tanked as top sales producer for new accounts.”
“The Marines is and probably will be the biggest accomplishment I’ve ever had, even though I wasn’t able to join.”
Education
“1994 – Moron University.”
“College, September 1880-June 1984.”
“My GPA at night is 3.0.”
Experience
“Any interruption in employment is due to being unemployed.”
“Responsibilities included recruiting, interviewing and executing final candidates.”
“Twin brother has accounting degree.”
“Worked successfully on a team of one.”
Miscellaneous
Current “$36,000. Salary desired: $250,000.”
Reason for leaving last job: “Bounty hunting was outlawed in my state.”
Reason for leaving: “Maturity leave.”
Steve Piazzale, Ph.D., is a career/life coach and host of the TV show “You’re Hired!” He has a private practice. For information and a risk-free session, call 964-4366, e-mail [email protected] or logon to www.BayAreaCareerCoach.com.
