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FOR ALL YOU JOB SEEKERS: HERE ARE RESUME “DO’S & DON’TS”

(Article published in HWW May 2003)


by Maureen Brady, TMP Worldwide

Maureen Brady leads a group of Junior League members who volunteer their time and skills to help the parents and children at the Milbank/Pelham Fritz Apartments.

Have you been home and away from the job market for an extended period of time and now want or need to get a job? The gap(s) in your resume — whether it is from being laid off, taking time off to care for a family member or raise your children or for just getting some R&R — can be viewed in a positive light.

In addition to maintaining your confidence, you need to be creative in utilizing the skills you have learned and used while at home and transfer them to your resume. Cooking, cleaning, shopping, and caring from your children are all “management” related issues. You are, in effect, managing you home. Paying the bills, “budgeting” your finances, and keeping track of what’s due are all useful skills as well. Coordinating all your children’s doctor appointments, play dates, school functions, and after-school activities are all time management and prioritization skills.

Transferring these skills to your resume in business terms will help you focus in on what you goal is — getting a job and making you more confident in explaining to potential employers what your skills are. When writing your resume, find out what skills the employer is seeking and be sure to tailor your resume to that job.

  1. 1.Some quick tips for writing your resume:

  2. 2.Keep it to one page, (unless you have been working for 15+ years)

  3. 3.Don’t be long winded. Be clear and concise. Use bullet points and short paragraphs.

  4. 4.Recent grad? Put your education at the top.

  5. 5.Make sure your dates are accurate. Don’t fudge or lie.

  6. 6.Make sure the format and font are easy to read.

  7. 7.Don’t put personal information on your resume — no marital status, kids or age.

  8. 8.No extra papers are needed. Just a cover letter and the resume. No transcripts, awards or certificates, unless specifically requested.

  9. 9.Print your resume and cover letter on good quality paper.

  10. 10.Explain those gaps. Potential employers will want to know why they are there.

  11. 11.ALWAYS SPELL CHECK THE DOCUMENTS.