Write Good Resumes

A resume is a communication tool job seekers use to get interviews. Resumes are not a list of what you did. They list what you can do on the job. Again, use your Occupational Research (pdf). List your skills and experience that employers want. When describing work experience, start with an action verb. Do not say “responsible for …” Instead, give examples of how well you did it.

Learn about resume formats before you write yours.

  • A chronological resume lists your work history starting with the most recent. This is the most common type of resume. It is used by people who are staying in the same career pathway. See a sample of a chronological resume.
  • A functional resume groups your skills and experience by skill areas. These skill areas are called “functions.” It is often used by people who do not have any work history. See a sample of a functional resume.
  • A combination resume joins the two formats together. It groups your skills by function and it lists a short work history. It is often used by people who are changing careers. See a sample of a combination resume. 

Know what features to include on your resume.

  • Some people start their resumes with a career objective. It is your target occupation or industry. Use this if applying for a specific job title. Do not put in general statements about what you want..
  • A summary statement shows why you are a good fit for your target. You can highlight your skills and traits that make you successful. Show why you would be a good fit for the company.
  • Contact information tells the employer how to reach you. It is very important for setting up interviews. Most people list their address, phone number, and e-mail.
  • Education lists your degrees and classes. Include work licenses and certifications.
  • Your work experience describes where you worked. It also describes your skills and accomplishments.
     

Log into the Career Information System's ReNEW as an Illinois resident. Create a My CIS Portfolio. Add your information into My Education and Work History. There is a tutorial for creating resumes by filling in the blanks. There is also space to upload and store your current resume and documents.

  Application and Resume Resources
 


 

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