Resume Writing Tips

Posted by teacher on November 17, 2006

by Joel Heffner

Getting your first job or getting a better job usually starts with an effective resume. Here are 8 tips that may make the difference.

Create your own Web site. If you have a Web site that contains content related to your subject area, you probably will have an advantage. You will need a domain name and host. The domain should cost less than $10 per year. Hosting costs less than $10 per month. Do some comparison shopping before you get a host.

Check your spelling and grammar! If you overlook a silly mistake, your resume may end up in the waste paper basket.

Ask someone else to proofread your resume for spelling and grammar. You may be surprised at what you may have missed.

Ask someone else to proofread your resume for content. Ask someone who will give you an objective analysis. This is not a good time to ask your mother. She will think that everything you say is good. Get an outside opinion.

Use a high quality paper. Do not use the paper you normally use. The paper should be thick and have a significant rag content. Check your local office supply store to see what is avialable.

Print your resume using a laser printer, if possible. Photo copies and printing from an inkjet printer may not be up to the standard you need.

Write an appealing cover letter. Before they get to your resume, they will read your cover letter. If they are not impressed with your letter, they may never get to your resume.

Get help! You should write a resume with a book such as Resume Magic by Susan Britton Whitcomb next to you. You might also consider hiring a service that specializes in writing resumes.

Your resume may not get a job. However, a well crafted resume will get you to the next step.