Resume Tips: Keep it Simple but Strong in Message

Whether you are looking for your first job, a new job, or you are returning to the workplace after years of child rearing, you will need a resume as you apply for work. My experience as a recruiter is that people tend to have a small panic attack at the thought of doing a new resume. There are numerous books on resume writing, and there are also different types of resumes, depending on your background and the position for which you are applying. However, in most cases, resumes that follow a simple, organized format, giving a clear view of a person's experience and skills, are the ones a recruiter loves to review.

I will outline the two most common resume samples: the experienced-based resume, and the functional resume. Both of these resume types should meet the needs of at least 90% of the job-searching population.

The Experienced-Based Resume

This resume is generally used by individuals who have had a fairly steady work history, even though it may consist of just one job over a period of years. It is a common resume of choice for students who are graduating college or graduate school, and who may have only summer work experience and / or volunteer experience. When I was an on-campus recruiter, this type of resume enabled me to get a quick glance at the candidate's background, education and interests. It allows the recruiter's eye to go straight down the page and quickly pick up important information on the candidate.

In this resume, you would first list your job Objective, such as "To obtain a business management position in a major financial services company." Then you would follow with information under the following headings: Work Experience, Major Accomplishments, Education, Awards and Honors, Affiliations, and Outside Interests. If you are relatively fresh out of school, or applying for work after you graduate, place the section on Education before the section on Work Experience, listing your education and expected graduation date. If you excel in school, list your grade point average and any school honors.

At work in the office

Credit: Ian Britton

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