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)
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!