The resume format and checklist....

Having your resume in the correct format is crucial. Today recruiters are looking for a quick snapshot of what you the employee have to offer. The faster you can relay this information to the recruiter the better chance you will get called for the interview. Here is a quick reference on how your resume should be formatted.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Put your contact information at the top of your resume. It should include your name, address, phone number and e-mail address.

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS/PROFILE: Powerful opening statement/paragraph of qualifications and profile.

EXPERIENCE: List your most recent experience first and do not overlook internships,Volunteer positions and part-time employment. Use action verbs to highlight accomplishments and skills.

EDUCATION: List your degrees in chronological order with the most recent degree first. You may also include relevant coursework to highlight specific skills and knowledge. If your GPA is above the norm, go ahead and list it in this section.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This section may stand alone under the “Additional Information” heading and highlight relevant information that may include Honors/ Awards, computer and language skills, professional associations, university and
community activities (including any offices held). As a style issue, if you choose to break these out as separate headings that’s perfectly acceptable. What is not acceptable is personal information such as age, marital status or religion.

REFERENCES: Do not put references on your resume. When you go to an interview have a prepared list of 2-4 references on a separate sheet of paper that matches you’re resume with your contact information at the top.

Use this as quick guide to see if your resume matches – if not just adjust until it’s correct and matches the above format.

Resume Checklist-
-My resume is clear, concise and makes a positive impression in 20 seconds or less.
-There are no spelling, grammar or punctuation errors.
-My resume presents skills and accomplishments that match employer requirements.
-My resume accurately summarizes my qualifications.
-Accomplishment statements on the resume start with action verbs.
-The resume is organized, easy to read and has a balance between content and white space.
-The font size on the resume is 11 or 12 point.