TEN TIPS TO A SUCCESSFUL RESUME

Make sure your contact information is current and that there is a definite way for someone to reach you. Daytime telephone numbers are simply the best because they are the most efficient.

Objective statements are optional. If you include one on your resume, make sure that the position you are submitting it for is relevant to your stated goals.

Professional experience should be stated in chronological order starting with the most recent positions, company names and divisions, cities worked, and the dates (mm/yy) worked. Do not skip anything, even those that you had bad experiences with. Companies do extensive reference and background checks. If you have omitted part of your background it sends up a "red flag".

Keep the description of your job as brief as possible. Use the space on your resume ro effectively say, not only what you have done but, more importantly, how well you have performed.

Build in highlighted accomplishments for each position. Financially describe your impact on the company. Did you make some huge sales? Make operations more efficient? etc. Be prepared to back up any claims made about your accomplishments.

Your education and specialized training information is absolutely critical. List your degrees earned with the name of the institution, the exact degree conferred including the year. Employers know that this is one of the areas in which candidates falsify information so they almost always verify you education. Play it straight. Other specialized training should follow the same guidlines.

Personal information is just that. If you feel strongly that it will improve your chances, include it but, keep it brief.

Publish your resume in an easy to read format. There are hundreds of books on the subject, many of which include samples to get you started. Always print it out on high quality white paper. It reproduces well incase you need quick copies, and scans into computer systems with fewer flaws.

If you are sending your resume electronically, prepare two versions. One version is used to "cut and paste" to a web-site form or the like. Use either the .txt or the .rtf file format for creating cut and paste documents. If you prefer to attach your resume to an email, title the attached document with your name so as to avoid it being lost.

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Email: rwalo@chilmarkconsulting.com