Preparing Your Resume
Resume Styles

Chronological: This style lists employers and job history/accomplishments in reverse chronological order (most current position first). The chronological resume style is considered normal.

Functional: This style is organized by primary functional skills, like technical skills, managerial, and so on. You can document positions, responsibilities and accomplishments by category. This style will also include employer names and dates of employment. These resumes are best suited for applicants that have more experience or applicants who have worked for only a few employers.

To Do

• Save your resume in a common formats including MS Word, text-only, RTF, and HTML.
• Use adequate margins. (at least 1/2")
• Avoid unusual or fancy fonts since common ones are more readable on paper and will be found in the reader's computer.
• Use 8 1/2 x 11 white paper and black ink.
• List your achievements and or technical skills summary first.
• Be clear and concise.
• List all employers with dates.
• List all certifications and degrees.
• Omit needless items.
• Include searchable keywords in case your resume is stored in a database.

Don'ts

• Don't include personal references.
• Don't include hobbies or interests.
• Don't underline words except for links in HTML versions.
• Don't use colored paper.
• Don't refer to yourself in the third person.
• Don't include your Social Security Number.
• Don't give your age or date of birth.
• Don't use your photograph.
• Don't exaggerate your experience.
• Don't use complicated configurations, like boxes.

The Interview
Preparation

• Research the company to learn anything you need to know to accept an offer.
• Develop good questions to show interest, and to demonstrate analytical skills and/or insight.
• Prepare for tough questions that may be asked.
• Be able to show potential value by specifically applying your knowledge, experiences, and accomplishments to the company's needs, and demonstrating the potential benefits of those applications.
  

To Do

• Build rapport.
• Understand job functions, objectives, and challenges.
• Ensure that interviewer understands that you can do the job and accomplish the stated objectives.
• Ensure that interviewer knows that you want the job.
• Arrive early.
• Listen carefully.
• Give a firm handshake.
• Show interest and enthusiasm.
• Maintain good eye contact and posture.
• Be concise.
• Never assume anything.
• Avoid talking about money.
• Be friendly and smile.
• Send a follow-up letter to thank the interviewer and review how you will benefit the company.

Don'ts

• Smoke or chew gum.
• Make disparaging remarks about other companies or prior employers.
• Wear cologne or perfume.

Common Questions

What do you have to offer this company? or How can we benefit from your skills?
Make your responses specific to the company and the position you're applying for.


What are your likes and dislikes about your current position? or
Why are you leaving your current job?
Don't be negative. Talk about what you want to move to, rather than what you want to move from. Your interviewer is looking for a logical and well thought-out reason. Give an answer that is mature and thoughtful.

What are your strengths? and What are your weaknesses?
Identify your strengths and weaknesses. Make your weaknesses work for you by preparing a response to include plans you have to overcome them. Interviewers don't expect you to disqualify yourself for the job, just give a neutral or positive response.

Support your strengths with specific examples that show good judgment, ability to overcome difficult situations, and determination.

Where do you want to be five years from now?
Incorporate your interest in the position with your goals. Interviewers want to know you have goals that are consistent with what the employer can provide.

Do you have any questions for us?
Ask a question that pertains to you, not something vague or abstract. Try to choose questions that are easily answered and help the interviewer focus on your strengths.

The applicants who ultimately receive offers:

• Portray a logical, successful, and proactive career history, with a clear vision of objectives.
• Show potential to fit into the company.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and interpersonal skills.
• Possess a high energy level.
• Are able to gain an accurate understanding of the position functions, challenges, and objectives, as well as those of the company.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm for the opportunity and willingness to create a mutually beneficial financial arrangement.
• Give the interviewer confidence in the applicant.