Developing a Powerful Resume
by Deborah Wile Dib, NCRW, CPRW, JCTC,
CCM
One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key
to self-confidence is preparation. — Arthur Ashe
 resume is much more than a document used
to answer want-ads. The development of an exciting and productive resume is a key step in
the job-search process, a step that will do much more for you than produce a written
record of your background. If developed properly, your resume will be an active PR
spokesperson, a compelling advertiser for your potential, and even your personal pep
rally. It will work for you when you send it to prospects, and it will work for you when
you need a boost in confidence. It will be a well-crafted and concise version of your
"best stuff" that will compel an employer to see you.
However, it will take a considerable amount of
time to develop such an exceptional resume. Be prepared for some very hard work. Insight,
preparation, writing, editing, writing, editing, and more writing and editing
will have to occur before your resume will be the polished and professional document you
need to get interviews. Plan to spend a few weeks on research, development, writing, and
polishing. The results will be worth every moment of the time you spent, either on your
own, or with a professional resume consultant. Your return on investment will be
tremendous.
If you decide to
tackle the development of your resume on your own, here are some important tips:
1. Show an objective, target, or
focus that gives an employer an idea of what you are looking for. This can
be in the form of an actual objective statement, or can be included in a well-crafted
profile section.
2. Make sure the top 1/3 to 1/2 of
your resume contains your most important information, written in a way that
an employer will feel compelled to see you without even reading the rest of the resume.
3. Use action verbs
for leadership impact, and industry key words to demonstrate
knowledge and experience.
4. Don't bury
achievements with responsibilities. The employer knows what a person in your
position does. However, he wants to know how you did it better!
5. Use design features
like bullets, indents, boldface, up to two different typefaces, and lots of white space to
make information easy to read. However, don't go overboard!
6. Proofread over and over
for spelling, grammar, and typos. Have a few people help you.
7. Be sure to use an excellent
quality paper with a good feel and weight.
8. Mail your resume flat,
in a quality white or buff envelope. This will prevent toner from flaking along folds and
create ease of use for the employer or recruiter who may want to copy or fax the resume.
9. Remember to keep a few copies
with you at all times (briefcase, car glove box, etc.). You never know when
you may need your resume.
10. Keep your resume current.
Update frequently to reflect new technologies, courses, and achievements, even if you are
not actively looking for a position. You will have the security of being prepared for an
unexpected crisis or opportunity.
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