Job Resume Basics

A job resume is one of the singularly most important documents of modern times. Ok, maybe a resume isn’t as powerful as the Magna Charta or the Declaration of Independence, but it is still significantly important for anyone who is looking for a job. Many years ago, the most common way of presenting one’s experience was by including all relevant information within a “broadcast letter” which is a combination resume and cover letter. Unfortunately, this makes for a very long letter that begs to be skimmed rather than read. A job resume is a much better way of organizing relevant information to the prospective employer. In order for a resume to be effective, however, is that it presents certain specific information properly. The following information provides what exactly should be found on every job resume.

Personal Information – Essentially, this refers to name, address, phone number, alternate phone number and e-mail. It is impossible to receive a job offer if the prospective employer has no idea how to get a hold of the person they wish to hire. Inaccurate or incomplete personal information on a job resume is a major no-no.

Work Experience – Clearly it would be impossible to list ALL experience one has within a one or two page resume, so it is best to stick with detailed information about the previous five years and, if possible, highlights of any other relevant work experience that may be useful to add. When describing the work experience, it would be wise to mention the full name of your employing company, the location (city), your full job title and a brief mentions of your duties and responsibilities.

Educational Experience – On a job resume, always list your highest level of education, degrees/diploma received (number of credits completed if the degree has not been finished), G.P.A. if it would be helpful (that is, do not mention a low or average G.P.A.) and the full name and location of the educational institution.

Awards/Honors – Basically, any and everything that you have won in recognition of quality work or hobbyist pursuits.