HOW DO I START WRITING MY RESUME?

The first step is to take out a blank sheet of paper and brainstorm.  Write down all of your jobs, activities, achievements, and special skills (including computer skills).  Also, you may include some Queens coursework that you have completed that is related to the job you are applying for.

The resume should be organized, concise, and easy to read.  It is important not to overcrowd your resume and to leave plenty of white space so important points are highlighted.  Avoid long paragraphs and use bullets to call attention to important points.

Here are a few resume guidelines:

• Basic Identification - This includes name, school address, permanent address, phone number and e-mail address.  Make sure you check that e-mail account frequently and that your screen name is professional.  Also be sure to have an appropriate voice mail message.

• Education - Most recent education, any other degrees you have earned, anticipated date of graduation, major and minor, GPA  (if over a 3.0), and relevant coursework if applicable.

• Experience - List in reverse chronological order the work, study, campus or community activities that have given you experience related to your career goals.  Describe your responsibilities and the position(s) you held.  Remember all experiences have given you skills that are important and transferable to a job.

• Activities- List any recent on-campus/off-campus extracurricular activities that demonstrate involvement at Queens or in your community.  Give special attention to any and all leadership roles. 

• Skills - Special skills, especially computer and language proficiency skills are important to potential employers.  Also list any special skills you may have that relate to your career field.

• Organization and Sequence – Beginning with your name, address, e-mail address and telephone number, organize the information in logical and easy-to-follow categories.  Under education and work experience, your most recent degree or job should be listed first.

Here are some ideas for possible resume subject headings:

• OBJECTIVE/PROFILE/SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
• EDUCATION
• RELEVANT COURSEWORK
• HONORS/AWARDS/ACCOMPLISHMENTS

PROFESSIONAL/RELATED EXPEREINCE

• ADDITIONAL EMPLOYMENT
• SPECIAL INTERESTS, SKILLS (computer, language, and skills related to your career field)
• ACTIVITIES/VOLUNTEERISM
• PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

Length – Typically a resume of a graduating student is one page in length.  If you should have multiple pages it is a good idea to place your name and phone number on the top of each page just in case the pages separate.  In addition, it is recommended that you staple the pages together as opposed to using paper clips, which are easily lost.

Format – Readability, eye appeal and a total positive impression should be your goals.  General spacing, margin adjustment, and separation of the components of your resume will help you achieve this effect.  Underline, capitalize, italicize, or bold key headings, job titles, etc.   Design your resume so that it can be easily scanned.

Writing Style – Avoid wordiness; be succinct; regardless of the style, be clear.  Excessive detail is unnecessary, especially in job descriptions.  Focus on accomplishments and skills learned, not just routine duties.  Always use action words when starting each phase and quantify when possible.  Where appropriate, include jargon that shows the employer that you know the field.

Duplicate Copies – Have your resume duplicated on high quality paper using a high quality printer or copier so that each copy looks as good as the original. 

ACTION VERBS THAT CONVEY SKILLS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

* For more information and resume sample click here