RESUME GUIDELINES

Heading:
  • contact information should be easy to read
  • name BIG, BOLD
  • include full address, phone number and email 
  • email address caution*

Objective:
  • this is your first impression
  • personalize your objective (use the business name)
  • write in sentence format
  • include the 1.  position applying for;  2.  name of business;  3.  why you are applying

Summary of Skills and Personal Qualities:
  • list the qualities that make you the ideal candidate for the job you’re applying for
  • show a balance of employability skills
  • use bullets, put up to 6 brief, point-form generalizations of your most important skills, education, experience, accomplishments, personal qualifications 
  • statements need to be supported later on in your resume

Employment Experience:
  • list the 1.  name of business;  2.  Position;  3.  dates you were employed;  4.  duties performed
  • put in reverse chronological order
  • use action words to describe what you did

Volunteer and Community Activities:
  • put in reverse chronological order
  • use the same format as you did for your Employment Experience--include dates, location and duties (use action verbs)

Education:
  • list date and name of high school
  •  “currently attending”, “anticipated date of graduation”
  • list any training courses, certificate programs, relevant course work, language classes, that make you a more qualified employee  (ie. FoodSafe, First Aid, Bronze Cross)
       (if you wish, you can list under a separate heading such as—Additional Training/Relevant Qualifications)

Personal Interests/Extra-Curricular Activities:
  • include your involvement in school activities, clubs, special skills or activities you like to do in your spare time.  Be brief when including information about hobbies and sports

References:
  • on your resume—under the heading References—write References available upon request.
  • then on a separate page list your references as shown on the handout provided

More Resume Writing Tips:
  • highlight your strengths and accomplishments
  • if your resume exceeds one page—make sure your reader knows there is more than one page  (page 1 of 2 in footer). 
  • put your name on the 2nd page of your resume in case the sheets get separated
  • each section should be brief and direct, so employers can read quickly
  • make your layout visually pleasing (font size 10 or 12)
  • be able to talk about anything in your resume

DON’Ts of Resume Writing:
  • don’t overdesign—no graphics or pictures
  • employers shouldn’t have to guess at what anything means
  • your resume should be no longer than 2 pages
  • make sure there are absolutely no spelling errors
  • never mislead or exaggerate about your skills or accomplishments
  • don’t include your SIN, information re: health, and/or age

Remember: 
Employers are looking for aptitude, positive attitude, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!