Resume Writing Workshop

Presenting Your Experience and Skills

University of PennsylvaniaCareer Services

What is the purpose of a

resume?1. Send to potential employer to get an

interview2. Facilitate an interview3. Share information with people who

offer to help you with your job or college search

4. Supplement information on a job or scholarship application

5. All of the above

The Trouble with Resumes

• From USA Today Snapshots…

– Dishonesty and Lies                                     36%– Too Long                                                          21%– Errors & Misspellings                                     19%– Lack of Specifics                                             12%– Irrelevant Material                                         11%– Failure to List Accomplishments                  10%– Too Short                                                        

2%

A Good Resume Should…

Invite you to read it, with a clear layoutStress most important qualities,

strengths, accomplishments, and skills in relationship to specific position

Use the vocabulary of the industry, but not jargon

Stress value delivered, not just dutiesBe free of spelling, punctuation, and

grammatical errors

Before you begin, remember:

• A good resume takes time and effort• Capitalize on ALL experiences• Only present accurate and true

information• Target your resume – know your

audience• Be creative within professional

guidelines

Brainstorming and Organization

• Make lists of everything– Classes, Research Papers, Honors/Awards,

Work Experiences, Volunteer Experiences, Elected Positions, Interests, Computer Skills, Lab Skills, Accomplishments, Publications, etc.

• Consider possible headings– Contact Information, Education, Work

Experience, Research Experience, Leadership Experience, Interests, Computer Skills, etc.

Demonstrate Transferable Skills

• Show how the skills you developed in one area can be applied in the job you want

– Class Projects: Teamwork Skills–Waiting Tables: Customer Service Skills– Club Newsletter Editor: Ability to Meet

Deadlines– Camp Counselor: Interpersonal Skills

Resume Wording

• Use action words to stress accomplishments– Examples: Administered, researched, conducted,

coordinated, evaluated, supervised, founded, analyzed, managed, coordinated, trained, advised, consulted

• Avoid phrases like “Responsibilities included” when possible

• Past and present tenses are acceptable• Avoid complete sentences, pronouns,

articles• Mention the impact you made where

possible.

Formatting Guidelines

• Not a list – quality of information is more important than quantity

• Include sufficient white space– blank lines between entries– .75 inch margins minimum

• Font size should be 10 -12 points – headings slightly larger

• Not too fancy – should be professional• Use easy to read font (ie: Times New

Roman)

Consider Resume Formats• Chronological Sample 1

– Easy to read and traditional– Stresses more recent experiences– Emphasizes continuity and growth

• Functional Sample 2– Flexible about presenting information– Highlights skills more than specific jobs– May be viewed suspiciously by some employers

• Mixed Sample 3– Combines chronological and functional formats– Works well for students with both related and unrelated

experiences

Purpose of Cover Letters• Introduce (or reintroduce) yourself• Express your interest in and

knowledge of the organization and position

• Clarify and highlight your specific qualifications for the position, paying close attention to job description

• Serve as writing sample• Facilitate next steps

Cover Letter Format

• First Paragraph: Introduce yourself, indicate what position you are applying for, demonstrate knowledge and interest in position and organization

• Middle Paragraphs (2 – 3): Elaborate on a few specific strengths/experiences that align well with the position.

• Final Paragraph: Encourage an interview. Discuss next steps.

Questions?