How to Make a Resume

FIRST
Start by making a list of all the jobs you had with the dates. Don't leave anything out. Include jobs, awards, educational degrees, skills, personal projects: anything that would be impressive and/or interesting to anyone (even if not impressive or interesting to everyone). Even after your resume is finished, maintain this list. That way, you don't have to revisit those portions year after year. Organize your list by category

SECOND
Tailor your list to the position for which you are applying (this will require a bit of research). Trim out each item that is not directly relevant to the job and add on two or three sentences explaining the relevance of each item. Whenever possible, list your experience in terms of accomplishments and achievements rather than tasks and responsibilities. Show your success. You may end up with many different versions of your resume, each one emphasizing a different set of skills.

THIRD
Consider stating your objective. Again, keep this short and to the point, a single sentence. Personalize it to the position. Make sure your objective doesn't contradict the position you are applying for. Many employers will ignore an objective; so if it doesn't add something to the resume, don't include it.

FOURTH
It's time to format. Mind the look and feel of your resume. It should have clean lines and be easy to read. Make it two pages max, and only one page if you're just out of school - if you have more to share, save it for the interview. The font should be 10-12, no smaller, no bigger, but you should be able to read it well when you print it out. Black and white is best unless you're emphasizing your artistic or publishing skills (and even then be careful and tasteful). Keep the format neat and organized.

FIVTH
Include an address, phone number and email address. But, do not include an email that shows you shouldn't be taken seriously, such as beerandboys@email.com. Don't use your current employer's name, number or email, either. If necessary, get an extra email address with a professional name that you can use for job searches.

SIXTH
Proofread, proofread and proofread again. Have a friend or professional that you trust proofread. Have an friend proofread. Have a stranger proofread. Then proofread it again and again and again! Remember, this decides your future!! Take criticism well and remember that just because someone suggests something doesn't mean you have to make the change. Also,tell people to be frank. Don't boast about written communication skills with a typo.

SEVENTH
Toot your own horn, but be careful you don't toot it too hard you don't want to inflict disadvantageous damage. There is a fine line between fun and permanent damage.

EIGHTH
Follow directions. This is a huge indicator of responsibility to a hiring manager. If the ad says "no calls please," then don't call! If the job description asks you to provide your salary history, then you will probably want to include that information in your resume. However, this is not an absolute: it may limit your negotiating power to get the best possible salary.

How to make a resume