Resume Suggestions

  • Use a standard type font that is easy to read such as Times New Roman, Arial, Garamond, Helvetica, etc.
  • Keep sentences short
  • Fragments are okay and bullet statements can be used when appropriate.
  • Avoid using first person pronoun.
  • Be concise, to the point, keep it simple and use plain English.
  • Go from general to specific.
  • Triple-check your resume for careless errors.   Have someone else check it as well.
  • Pay close attention to the key words used in the job lead that relate to your knowledge, skills and abilities if they apply to you, and make sure those words appear in your resume.
  • Ask friends and acquaintances in your occupation that have recently been hired to share their resume with you and provide tips.
  • Prepare several resumes, each targeted to specific jobs you seek or compose a single resume that can be customized to specific job postings.
  • Verify dates of employment before documenting them on a resume or application.
  • Use this list as a guide when discussing achievements to show results:

  • Saved money . . . (how much?)

  • Met tight deadlines and suspense

  • Operated within budget

  • Increased sales . . . (by how much?)

  • Generated new business . . . (such as?)

  • Developed, designed and introduced new systems . . . (such as?)

  • Identified problems and implemented solutions . . . (give specifics)

  • Hired and trained employees . . . (show results)

  • Dealt with ambiguity and managed change . . . (give examples)

  • Demonstrated multi-tasking abilities . . . (how?)

  • Team player . . . (give examples)

  • Interpersonal skills . . . (give examples)

  • Effective written and verbal communication/presentation skills

Note:  Federal Government programs require information regarding your Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. Also, applicants for Federal Government  positions should frame their resume around the following:

  • Planning

  • Organizing

  • Leading

  • Controlling