Resume Writing Tips

1. A resume is a one page advertisement for you. You are selling yourself to an employer so your resume should demonstrate the skills and experiences that relate to the type of work you are seeking.

2. Avoid unnecessary words like "My main duties included..." or "My primary responsibilities were...". Instead begin phrases with action words such as established, supervised, maintained, and coordinated. Click here to see a list of action words.

3. Omit irrelevant personal data such as health, marital status, date of birth, etc.

4. Do not have your photograph printed on you resume and do not enclose one with your cover letter.

5. Do not list references on your resume. Do not state "References available upon request".

6. Make sure that every word is spelled correctly and use proper grammar and punctuation. Proofread carefully! Have a friend read it.

7. Do not use abbreviations on your resume.

8. Layout and design should be attractive, invite attention and be well organized. Use white space to make it easy to read and pleasing to the eye.

9. Have your resume printed using a laser or bubble jet printer. Use high quality paper (at least 25% cotton or linen blend with a watermark).

10. When completing an application, do so thoroughly, and attach your resume to it. Do not say "see resume" on the application, employers may interpret this as a sign of laziness.