PROFESSIONAL RESUMES*
YOUR GUIDE TO GETTING NOTICED WITH A
SUCCESSFUL RESUME
Topics Covered










Purpose of the Resume
Types of Resumes
Building a ‘Business’ Resume
Resume Worksheets
Active and Descriptive Words and Phrases
Scope and Accomplishment Statements
Sample Resumes
References
Electronic Recruiting
Resume Checklist
Capilano University Student Employment Services
Birch Building, Room 270
604.984.4965
[email protected]
www.capilanou.ca/ses
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
PURPOSE OF THE RESUME
To win that all important interview, you need to have a resume that stands apart from the rest on the
recruiters desk. A strong resume will highlight your relevant qualifications, experience and accomplishments
to prospective employers. It will demonstrate your ability to meet their needs and persuade them to invite
you in for an interview. Why is developing a strong resume so important?
 On average, recruiters spend only 5-7 seconds reviewing a resume.
 Just one spelling mistake can send your resume to the “no” pile.
 Increasingly, recruiters are using resume screening software which screen out resumes that don’t
include the proper combination of key words.
 A good resume predicts how you might do in your future job. View it as a sample work project.
Preparing a resume can be frustrating and time consuming, but it is worth the extra time to assemble a strong
resume to help you land your dream job! This handbook will provide you with a step-by-step guide to
creating a successful resume.
Getting Started: Research for your Resume
As with any project, you need to research before you start writing. Your resume will be composed using
information that you generate through:
 Your self-assessment (knowledge of your skills, abilities and interests). Book an appointment with
a Counsellor in BR 267 to take one of the following assessments: Myers-Briggs (MBTI), Career
Cruising, Campbell™ Interest and Skill Survey (CISS®) and the Career Assessment Inventory™.
 Analysis of each work and volunteer position you have held (describe what you accomplished,
what skills you developed and what kind of tasks you enjoyed most).
 Identifying the key competencies recruiters are looking for, including:
initiative, flexibility, leadership, decision-making, customer service,
time-management and communication skills. These can be found in the
job description for the position that you are applying for. Describe how
you have developed these skills through your paid and volunteer work,
and class projects.
Your resume should
highlight your
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
and SKILLS related to
the job you are
targeting.
Length of Resumes
Resumes are generally one to two pages in length depending on your experience and qualifications.
Creating a Professional Image
Your resume needs to create a positive first impression. To do this:






.
2
Edit carefully for
SPELLING &
GRAMMAR ERRORS!
Use a standard resume format (chronological or combination).
Even 1 error can
Ensure there are no typing, spelling or grammar mistakes.
eliminate your
Have a well-organized layout with headings and text properly aligned.
application!
Use a standard font, such as Times or Arial, between 10-11 points.
Have sufficient white space so recruiters can write comments. 1” margins are preferred.
Avoid using attention-getting gimmicks. Your abilities and presentation should sell themselves.
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
TYPES OF RESUMES
There are three standard types of resumes: chronological, functional and combination. Most employers
prefer the combination format because it highlights your career progress and your accomplishments.
Chronological
This type of resume places your skills within the context of your employment history and demonstrates your
career progress. Guidelines for composing this type of resume include:
 Information is presented in reverse chronological order (most recent
dates first) demonstrating your career progress.
 Your education is listed prior to your work experience.
Student Employment
Services recommends
using either the
CHRONOLOGICAL or
COMBINATION style
 Work history is summarized chronologically, starting with your most recent work.
 Each work experience is noted including your job title, name of employer, dates of employment,
along with a brief job description and a notation of what you accomplished within that job.
Skills Based / Functional
Skills based, or functional, focus on skills rather than job titles. It can be useful for highlighting key groups
of skills that may not necessarily stand out in your work experience on their own, and can be used to: conceal
over-qualification or lack of formal work experience; hide gaps in work history and frequent career changes;
avoid repetitive statements when similar duties have been done in different jobs. Guidelines for composing
this type of resume include:
 Functional or skill-based headings are used to describe areas of expertise gained during your
working career (i.e. Management, Credit and Finance, Administration, Human Resource
Management). Specific accomplishments are listed in each area.
 Accomplishments and skills are not linked to specific positions but rather as the outcome of the
whole career.
 A chronology of employment follows, listing position, name of employer and dates only.
Combination
This type of resume utilizes a mix of chronological and functional formats as the name suggests.
Employment history is listed in reverse chronological order with areas of expertise (using functional or skillbased headings) grouped together for emphasis in each position. The combination resume combines elements
of both chronological and functional styles. The combination format works well if you have held a variety of
jobs with the same employer or if you are moving into a different career area.
3
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL RESUME
The following is a suggested format for the layout of a resume. Highlighted are the key components you
should include, as well as some optional sections:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Name and Contact Information
Profile or Summary
Computer Skills (for students targeting jobs using their technology skills)
Education (relevant class projects and study abroad experience can also be added)
Work Experience (most recent jobs listed first)
Activities and Community Involvement
Interests and Additional Skills (optional)
Name
Your name should be in capitals and/or boldface. If you generally use a different first name, put it in
parenthesis after your official first name. i.e. Xiaoyang (Shawn) Yan. Or, if you prefer, simply note the
name you wish to go by, i.e. Shawn Yan.
Contact Information
Include address, city, province, postal code, professional e-mail address (i.e.
[email protected]), telephone number and LinkedIn, web site or e-portfolio address
(optional). Ensure that a message can be left on your telephone voicemail or with a
reliable person who is fluent in English. Your voicemail should be brief and
professional. Check your email messages daily as some recruiters are using email as
their primary means of communication with applicants.
Ensure your
contact
information is
UP-TO-DATE
and accurate.
Profile or Summary
The profile replaces the old notion of Objective. In a few lines, it highlights your skills, traits and
accomplishments that are included in the body of your resume. It presents the most relevant information
about you to the reader, helping you to be screened to the “yes” pile. The top third of your resume is where
the employer will direct the bulk of his or her initial resume scan. What you put here is vitally important. It
is recommended to develop more than one profile so you can customize your resume for different jobs and
different employers.
Do not use the profile section as “filler”. Only include a profile if there are key qualifications and
achievements, you can highlight, which are directly related to the job and will better market you as a strong
candidate.
Example of a Profile:
“A Capilano University student specializing in Psychology with over two years’ of customer service
experience. A proven self-starter with strong leadership and communication skills developed through
executive positions held in student organizations. Proficient in Microsoft Office with good knowledge of
Microsoft Access. Fluent in English and French.”
4
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Essential Skills
Ensure to include any essential skills at the beginning of your resume. For
example, recruiters looking for IT professionals have requested that your IT
skills appear at the beginning of your resume. They can quickly assess if your
technology skills match their needs. Categorize your skills using subheadings
such as Languages, Platforms and Applications.
If you are targeting an
IT related job, move
your IT skills to the
beginning of your
resume.
Education
Note your education, in reverse chronological order, at the beginning of your resume as this highlights that
you offer recent and relevant business training. State:
Current Degree:
 Title of Degree, Name of School, Location of School, and Completion Date (i.e. Bachelor of Arts,
Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC, May 20XX).
 GPA (optional) or Honours.
 Scholarship and Awards (University only)
 Courses related to the position you are seeking. Limit list to a maximum of 8 courses. (optional –
only if it adds value)
 Class projects involving use of industry related skills. Highlight your experience solving real
business problems. (optional)
Specialized Training:
 Note training related to the position/career you are targeting (i.e. Canadian Securities Course, Java
Programming-BCIT).
High School Diploma:
 You no longer need to note your high school diploma on your resume.
Note: Your Education should be listed after your work experience as you progress through your career after graduation.
Work Experience
This is the key area recruiters examine to assess your suitability for a position. They are specifically looking
to see if your experience and skills match the requirements of the position for which they are recruiting, so it
is important to spend time focusing on relevant information.
Recruiters review your competencies in leadership, decision-making, initiative, flexibility, customer service,
team orientation, results achievement, analytical thinking, time management, and communication skills. Be
sure to assess the requirements of the employer, and specifically describe how you have developed these
skills through your work experience.
You can describe your position through a ‘scope statement’. Basically, this will outline the main
responsibilities of the job and who you reported to, indicating the level of the position. Then, describe your
key accomplishments in detail. This allows you to demonstrate your transferable skills and core strengths.
Use strong action verbs (see page 11 for Job Description Verbs) to describe your accomplishments and
skills.
5
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Examples of scope statements and accomplishment statements for various areas of experience are listed on
page 15. Do not copy these statements word-for-word, but use them as a basis to describe your similar
experiences.
Format:
 List work experience in reverse chronological order – most recent jobs first.
 Name of employer, location.
Where applicable, use
 Position title. If the job title is directly related to the career you are
industry related
targeting, then list the job title ahead of the name of the employer.
terms/jargon to describe
Alternatively, if the employer is a well-known corporation, it may be
your work experience.
more prestigious to note the name of employer first.
 Dates of employment. If you’ve been in the position for more than a year, do not include months.
If months are used, they can be written out or abbreviated – just be consistent throughout your
resume. Right aligned.
 Scope Statement to describe level and overall description of the responsibilities of the job.
(optional)
 Accomplishment statements demonstrating your specific skills and how they benefited the
employer.
 Concise and specific phrases instead of complete sentences. Do not use first person (e.g. “I”) and
eliminate unnecessary words such as “the”, “a”, “an”, etc.
 Use Action Verbs in the past tense to start each point. For current employment, use present tense.
 Use business and technical terms, volumes, or dollar amounts that describe your work. Quantify
your experiences by noting %, # and $. If you increased profitability, note it in dollars ($) or by
percentages (%). If you led a project team, note the number of team members.
 Do not include company logos or web site
Activities and Community Involvement
Recruiters are interested in assessing your volunteer work and extra-curricular activities for your
employability skills in areas such as leadership, management, and problem solving.
These activities also give an employer an indication of what you are like as a person. Include:
 Volunteer activities (list in reverse chronological order; include
your leadership roles)
 Membership in student associations and professional associations
(include any leadership positions held)
 Participation in team sports (including the level of competition and
your role)
Use the Activities and
Community Involvement
section to highlight your
key skills & competencies
related to the job you are
targeting.
Interests and Additional Skills (optional)
This section is not mandatory. However, you can choose to include this section to list your interests and
hobbies that are team based, goal oriented, social, and/or industry related. (i.e. Marathon runner, rugby, etrading, golf). You can also list other relevant skills such as language and technical skills.
Page Numbering
Always remember to number any multiple paged documents. Without the page numbering, you run the risk,
if your pages become detached, of them not being linked together or lost.
6
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
RESUME WORKSHEET
Name:
Address:
City, Province:
Postal Code:
Phone #:
Email:
Education
Degree:
College:
GPA:
Relevant Courses:
Specialized Training:
Degree:
College:
GPA:
Relevant Courses:
Specialized Training:
Specific Essential Skills (software, programming languages, hardware, etc.):
7
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Work Experience
Employer:
Position/Title:
Dates:
Level Reported to:
Key Responsibilities:
Key Accomplishments/Achievements:
Employer:
Position/Title:
Dates:
Level Reported to:
Key Responsibilities:
Key Accomplishments/Achievements:
8
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Work Experience Continued . . .
Employer:
Position/Title:
Dates:
Level Reported to:
Key Responsibilities:
Key Accomplishments/Achievements:
Employer:
Position/Title:
Dates:
Level Reported to:
Key Responsibilities:
Key Accomplishments/Achievements:
9
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Activities and Community Involvement:
Position:
Club/Activities:
Accomplishments:
Position:
Club/Activities:
Accomplishments:
Position:
Club/Activities:
Accomplishments:
Position:
Club/Activities:
Accomplishments:
10
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
ACTIVE AND DESCRIPTIVE WORDS AND PHRASES
Personal Traits/Characteristics (use in Profile and Cover Letter):
 Able
 Achiever
 Active
 Adaptable
 Alert
 Ambitious
 Analytical
 Assertive
 Attentive
 Broad-minded
 Capable
 Challenge-oriented
 Client-focused
 Competent
 Conscientious
 Constructive
 Cooperative
 Courageous
 Curious
 Dedicated
 Dependable
 Determined
 Diplomatic
 Disciplined
 Dynamic
 Economical
 Effective
 Energetic
 Endurance
 Enterprising
 Enthusiastic
 Far-sighted
 Fast learner
 Imaginative
 Independent
 Innovative
 Logical
 Motivated
 Multi-skilled
 Optimistic
 Organized
 Original
 Perceptive
 Personable
 Pleasant
 Poised
 Positive
 Practical
 Problem-solver
 Proficient
 Productive
 Progressive
 Punctual
 Reactive
 Realistic
 Reliable
 Relationship-builder
 Resourceful
 Risk taker
 Self-starter
 Self-reliant
 Sincere
 Skilled
 Sophisticated
 Successful
 Systematic
 Tactful
 Team member
 Trustworthy
 Willing
 Work well under pressure
 Work well with others
Nature of Experience (use in Profile):
 Broad
 Complete
 Comprehensive
 Diversified
 Established
 Expert
11
 Extensive
 Intensive
 Proven
 Progressive
 Professional
 Solid
 Specific
 Successful
 Varied
 Vast
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Action Verbs (use in Accomplishment Statements)
Communication/People Skills:
 Addressed
 Advertised
 Arbitrated
 Arranged
 Articulated
 Authored
 Clarified
 Collaborated
 Communicated
 Composed
 Condensed
 Conferred
 Consulted
 Contacted
 Conveyed
 Convinced
 Corresponded
 Debated
 Defined
 Developed
 Directed
 Discussed
 Drafted
 Edited
 Elicited
 Enlisted
 Explained
 Expressed
 Formulated
 Furnished
 Incorporated
 Influenced
 Interacted
 Interpreted
 Interviewed
 Involved
 Joined
 Judged
 Lectured
 Listened
 Marketed
 Mediated
 Moderated
 Negotiated
 Observed
 Outlined
 Participated
 Persuaded
 Presented
 Promoted
 Proposed
 Publicized
 Reconciled
 Recruited
 Referred
 Reinforced
 Reported
 Resolved
 Responded
 Solicited
 Specified
 Spoke
 Suggested
 Summarized
 Synthesized
 Translated
 Wrote
 Displayed
 Drew
 Entertained
 Established
 Fashioned
 Formulated
 Founded
 Illustrated
 Initiated
 Instituted
 Integrated
 Introduced
 Invented
 Modeled
 Modified
 Originated
 Performed
 Photographed
 Planned
 Revised
 Revitalized
 Shaped
 Solved
Creative Skills:
 Acted
 Adapted
 Began
 Combined
 Composed
 Conceptualized
 Condensed
 Created
 Customized
 Designed
 Developed
 Directed
12
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Data/Financial Skills:
 Administered
 Adjusted
 Allocated
 Analyzed
 Appraised
 Assessed
 Audited
 Balanced
 Budgeted
 Calculated
 Computed
 Conserved
 Corrected
 Determined
 Developed
 Estimated
 Forecasted
 Managed
 Measured
 Netted
 Planned
 Prepared
 Programmed
 Projected
 Qualified
 Reconciled
 Reduced
 Researched
 Retrieved
 Demonstrated
 Diagnosed
 Educated
 Encouraged
 Ensured
 Expedited
 Facilitated
 Familiarized
 Furthered
 Guided
 Helped
 Insured
 Intervened
 Motivated
 Prevented
 Provided
 Referred
 Rehabilitated
 Represented
 Resolved
 Simplified
 Supplied
 Supported
 Volunteered
Helping Skills:
 Adapted
 Advocated
 Aided
 Answered
 Arranged
 Assessed
 Assisted
 Clarified
 Coached
 Collaborated
 Contributed
 Cooperated
 Counselled
Management/Leadership Skills:
 Administered
 Analyzed
 Appointed
 Approved
 Assigned
 Attained
 Authorized
 Chaired
 Considered
 Consolidated
 Contracted
 Controlled
 Converted
 Coordinated
 Decided
 Delegated
 Developed
 Directed
 Eliminated
 Emphasized
13
 Enforced
 Enhanced
 Established
 Executed
 Generated
 Handled
 Headed
 Hired
 Hosted
 Improved
 Incorporated
 Increased
 Initiated
 Inspected
 Instituted
 Led
 Managed
 Merged
 Motivated
 Navigated
 Organized
 Originated
 Overhauled
 Oversaw
 Planned
 Presided
 Prioritized
 Produced
 Recommended
 Reorganized
 Replaced
 Restored
 Reviewed
 Scheduled
 Secured
 Selected
 Streamlined
 Strengthened
 Supervised
 Terminated
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Organizational Skills:
 Approved
 Arranged
 Catalogued
 Categorized
 Charted
 Classified
 Coded
 Collected
 Compiled
 Corrected
 Corresponded
 Distributed
 Executed
 Filed
 Generated
 Incorporated
 Inspected
 Logged
 Maintained
 Monitored
 Obtained
 Operated
 Ordered
 Organized
 Prepared
 Processed
 Provided
 Purchased
 Recorded
 Registered
 Reserved
 Responded
 Reviewed
 Routed
 Scheduled
 Screened
 Submitted
 Supplied
 Standardized
 Systematized
 Updated
 Validated
 Verified
 Experimented
 Explored
 Extracted
 Formulated
 Gathered
 Inspected
 Interviewed
 Invented
 Investigated
 Located
 Measured
 Organized
 Researched
 Reviewed
 Searched
 Solved
 Summarized
 Surveyed
 Systematized
 Tested
 Encouraged
 Evaluated
 Explained
 Facilitated
 Focused
 Guided
 Individualized
 Informed
 Instilled
 Instructed
 Motivated
 Persuaded
 Simulated
 Stimulated
 Taught
 Tested
 Trained
 Transmitted
 Tutored
Research Skills:
 Analyzed
 Clarified
 Collected
 Compared
 Conducted
 Critiqued
 Detected
 Determined
 Diagnosed
 Evaluated
 Examined
Teaching/Training Skills:
 Adapted
 Advised
 Clarified
 Coached
 Communicated
 Conducted
 Coordinated
 Critiqued
 Developed
 Enabled
14
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Technical Skills:
 Adapted
 Applied
 Assembled
 Built
 Calculated
 Computed
 Conserved
 Constructed
 Converted
 Debugged
 Designed
 Determined
 Developed
 Engineered
 Fabricated
 Fortified
 Installed
 Maintained
 Operated
 Overhauled
 Printed
 Programmed
 Rectified
 Regulated
 Remodelled
 Repaired
 Replaced
 Restored
 Solved
 Specialized
 Standardized
 Studied
 Upgraded
 Utilized
Sample Scope Statements and Accomplishment Statements:
RETAIL
Sales Associate
Reporting to the Store Manager, provided personal attention and product knowledge to a diverse clientele,
encouraging customer loyalty.
 Improved store profitability by regularly exceeding sales quotas by up to 50%
 Achieved “Top Part-time Salesperson” in the second month of employment
 Created and maintained eye-catching merchandise displays to attract new and repeat business
FOOD SERVICES
Assistant Supervisor
Reporting to the Supervisor, opened store, initiated food preparation, supervised staff and provided customer
service.
 Trained and supervised seven new employees ensuring consistency of services and products to
customers
 Assumed responsibility for store’s operation in the absence of supervisor and manager
 Recognized by management for excellent customer and staff relations
Hostess
Reporting to the Restaurant Manager, welcomed guests and organized a balanced seating arrangement within
the restaurant.
 Increased efficient food service by assisting servers, handling cash, settling transactions and
completing take-out orders in a professional and courteous manner
 Performed successfully in a high-volume and fast-paced team environment
OFFICE WORK
Administrative Assistant
Reporting to the Vice President and Management Team, provided administrative support to eight staff,
including data entry, correspondence and handling telephone inquiries.
 Identified potential buyers for company publications through extensive on-line research in targeted
industries.
 Improved office work-flow by reformatting MS Outlook phone directory, creating invoice
templates and summarizing weekly sales statistics.
15
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
SELF-EMPLOYMENT
Manager
Managed all aspects of a painting franchise in North Vancouver including staffing, estimating, marketing and
providing services.
 Increased sales opportunities through cold calling, telemarketing and home shows – prepared and
delivered over 100 estimates
 Interviewed, hired and supervised 12 painters to provide quality painting services delivered on-time
and within budget
 Fostered positive client relations through resolution of customer concerns and answering all inquiries
MARKETING/SALES
Market Researcher
Reporting to the BC Field Supervisor, interviewed people of various backgrounds, ages and expertise to
compile market information and opinions.
 Conducted over 100 successful door-to-door market interviews through the use of effective
communication skills
 Followed up on research results to ensure the integrity of the data.
Telemarketer
Reporting to the Marketing Assistant, prospected clients and answered customer questions regarding
products and services, working 2 hours per week.
 Sourced an average of 70 people an hour to determine potential new investors
 Generated an average of 6 – 8 quality leads per week
Sales Associate
Reporting to the Team Leader, managed a portfolio of qualified leads, up-sold services and installed cable
equipment.
 Exceeded sales quotas by over 50%, resulting in $5000 commission within six weeks
 Built strong customer relationships by providing superior service
 Increased customer product awareness and sales through telemarketing, generating 30 – 45 calls per
hour
Teller
Reporting to the Supervisor, performed various financial transactions including deposits, withdrawals, fund
transfers, currency exchange, money order and bank drafts.
 Processed large volumes of transactions with exceptional accuracy and speed while maintaining
customer confidentiality
 Collaborated with other tellers, service representatives and supervisors to ensure that customers
received accurate information and that procedural and legal guidelines were followed
WAREHOUSE/LABOUR
Warehouse Assistant
Reporting to the Warehouse Manager, assisted in work-shift assignments and daily operations of an
importing/exporting company including loading, unloading and organizing cargo, and receiving and
processing customer orders.
 Maximized warehouse capacity and improved retrieval efficiency by organizing incoming and
outgoing cargo
 Created and distributed marketing flyers resulting in an increased customer base
16
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
TUTOR
Private Tutor
Developed a steady clientele of high school students, assisting in their study and understanding of Mathematics.
 Increased students’ marks by a minimum of one letter grade through assessing individual needs and
providing personalized instruction
 Negotiated and managed pricing issues with individual clients
MARKER
Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, Marker
Reporting to course coordinators, invigilated examinations, graded assignments and examinations and
assisted in devising marking schemes.
 Accelerated the grades posting process by accurately marking assignments and examinations within
tight time deadlines
CLUB EXECUTIVE
Vice President Second Year
Led a team of six council members to facilitate a better learning environment for second year students and
determine policy for major issues that affect the entire student body.
 Increased student turnout rate from approximately 15% to 30% within one year through increased
communications
 Voiced student concerns to the Dean during personal meetings
COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE
Scout Leader
Led a team of 15 scouts, aged 9 – 13, organized indoor and outdoor activities, and planned budgets for camps
and special events.
 Created a positive, fun and safe environment for the children with emphasis on both mental and
physical development
 Integrated children with behavioural problems into the group and provided ongoing support and
communication to their families
17
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Sample Undergraduate Resume – Second Year
Mary Wei
#15-11234 Main St.
Richmond, BC V6V 2V6
Phone: (604) 555-1111
Email: [email protected]
PROFILE
A second year Capilano School of Business student with over two years of customer service experience. A
cooperative and enthusiastic team member who excels in taking initiatives to find solutions to service
problems. Proven relationship-builder, especially demonstrated in challenging and decisive environments.
Fluent in English and Cantonese, conversational Mandarin.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Business Administration
Capilano School of Business, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
 Average – 83%
 Dean’s List 2007
 Harold B and Nellie Boyes Memorial Scholarship 2006
Completion May 200x
WORK EXPERIENCE
Name of Optometry Clinic, Richmond, BC
Part time 200x – Present
Receptionist
Reporting to the owner, provide administrative support including data entry, filing, and telephone
messaging.
 Maintain a high degree of customer satisfaction by ensuring smooth business operation and
responding to all concerns and inquiries
 Maximize consistency in service by implementing an effective communication system among
employees
Name of Café, Vancouver, BC
Summer 200x
Cashier
Reporting to the owner, served customers and prepared specialty beverages in a busy full-service café.
 Resolved customer complaints by using excellent listening and problem solving skills
 Trained new staff in company’s procedures to present a positive and friendly company image
VOLUNTEER WORK
Summer Camp Volunteer, Name of Society
Welcome Leader, Student Orientation, Capilano University
Youth Group Committee Member, Name of Organization
18
200x
200x
200x – 200x
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Sample Undergraduate Resume – Third Year
Ray Brown
#3-12345 Second Ave.
Burnaby, BC
V5V 6V6
Phone: (604) 555-2222
Cell: (778) 555-1111
E-mail: [email protected]
PROFILE
A dedicated third year Capilano School of Business student with various practical experience in the auditing
and accounting industry. Highly committed, professional and responsible with a strong work ethic and
integrity. Particular strengths in leadership, time-management and problem-solving developed through both
work and student focused activities. Fluent in English and Cantonese with conversational Mandarin.
Computer Skills:
Database Programming:
Internet:
Software and Operating Systems:
MS Access, SQL, Oracle
Solid knowledge of e-commerce, internet marketing, web browsers and
web design (HTML)
MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, Visio 5.0, Windows 95/98/2000, MS
Exchange
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting
Capilano School of Business, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
 Average – 88%
 Dean’s List, 200x
 International Golden Key Award, 200x
 Capilano College Scholarship, 200x, 200x
Completion: 200x
WORK EXPERIENCE
Accounting Firm, Hong Kong
Summer 200x
Summer Trainee
Assisted in preparation of financial statements, corporate minutes, tenancy agreements and other
documentation for partner’s approval and signature. Participated in various audits for large clients such as
China Motor Bus, China Telecom and China Mobile.
 Increased efficiency of audits by preparing all necessary statements and audit procedures prior to
client visits
 Improved communication between audit team and six clients through the translation of documents
from Chinese to English, resulting in the reduction of conflicts between client’s accounting staff
and audit team
 Ensured accuracy of audit through collaboration with three law firms to conduct reasonableness
tests on interest, rent and service income for clients
1/2
19
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Sample Undergraduate Resume – Third Year, continued . . .
Ray Brown
#3-12345 Second Ave.
Burnaby, BC
V5V 6V6
Phone: (604) 555-2222
Cell: (778) 555-1111
E-mail: [email protected]
Engineering Firm, Vancouver, BC
Summer 200x
Summer Trainee
Participated in preparation of quarterly financial statements, prepared tenancy agreement value and processed
petty cash and office related claims.
 Improved efficiency in processing expense claims by creating and implementing a computerized
database to record expenses
 Enhanced relations between company accountants and auditors through accurate and timely
presentation of company records and information
International Company, Hong Kong
200x-200x
Marketing Assistant
Contributed to external relations with customers such as Tristan & American, DKNY and Country Road.
Prepared clothing samples, material samples and catalogues for clients in addition to providing
administrative support in quality control, inventory counts and display design.
 Reduced material prices for silk by 15% through negotiation with suppliers
 Decreased the number of late deliveries by over 10% by implementing a new transportation and
logistics plan
 Improved customer relations by minimizing administrative errors in contracts and orders.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVTIES
Admissions Forum Coordinator, Capilano Business Undergraduate Society
Executive Sponsorship Director, Association of Collegiate Entrepreneurs
Member, Faculty Appointments, Promotions, Tenure Committee
1st Year Orientation Leader, Capilano School of Business
Student Liaison, Enterprise Entrepreneur Conference and Competition
2/2
20
200x – present
200x – 200x
200x
200x
200x
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Sample Undergraduate Resume – Fourth Year
Terry Dosangh
#3-51234 Aspen Street,
North Vancouver, BC
V5V 2V6
Phone: (604) 555-8888
Cell: (778) 555-2222
E-mail: [email protected]
PROFILE
An energetic, enthusiastic, fourth year Capilano School of Business student, specializing in Marketing and EBusiness with entrepreneurial, marketing and event planning experience. Highly motivated and teamfocused with proven public relations skills developed through extensive promotional activities. Proficient in
Microsoft Office Suite applications, knowledgeable in MS Access and Adobe Photoshop. Additional
languages include Punjabi and French.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing and E-Business
Capilano School of Business, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
Completion: May 200x
WORK EXPERIENCE
ADVERTISING COMPANY, Vancouver, BC
Summer 200x
Special Events and Sponsorship Assistant
Reporting to the Director of Client Services, assisted in the organization of numerous promotional and
sponsorship events representing General Motors of Canada.
 Implemented “Cadillac CTS Jazz Series” campaign by coordinating logistics with event planners
and conducting site inspections to promote the launch of the 2003 Cadillac CTS
 Successfully executed $60,000 sponsorship of the “Merritt Mountain Music Festival” (one of the
largest country music festivals in Canada)
 Recommended improvements to increase exposure of General Motors of Canada to increase overall
effectiveness of campaigns
RESTAURANT, Vancouver, BC
Hostess, Fine Dining
Summer 200x
Reporting to the Dining Room Manager, provided exceptional customer service by greeting and
serving up to 200 customers per night.
 Achieved high customer satisfaction by providing prompt services and resolving customer
complaints through effective communication and problem-solving skills
 Trained four new staff, maintaining consistency and quality of customer service expected by both
restaurant and customers
21
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Terry Dosangh
#3-51234 Aspen Street,
North Vancouver, BC
V5V 2V6
Phone: (604) 555-8888
Cell: (778) 555-2222
E-mail: [email protected]
WORK EXPERIENCE CON’T
FACET JEWELRY, Vancouver, BC
200x – 200x
Co-Founder/Entrepreneur
Part of a four-person team that promoted and sold handmade jewelry through various distribution
channels.
 Trained and supervised five sales representatives to operate a booth at the high-traffic Richmond
Night Market
 Increased weekly sales by over 20% through the use of compelling promotional strategies and
personal selling techniques
 Improved company profitability by locating discount suppliers and expanding product offering
through the purchase of unique raw materials
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
MARKETING ASSOCIATION
200X – present
Special Events Manager
Organized “Capilano Business Banquet”, the largest event hosted by the association and attended by
over 100 students, business professionals and Capilano School of Business faculty members.
 Contacted and invited keynote speakers that included representatives from Procter and Gamble, Mark
Anthony Group and Proximity Canada
COMMERCE COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
200x – present
Marketing Chair
Actively promote volunteerism and awareness to encourage involvement by Capilano students.
 Created promotional material that utilized e-mail marketing strategies and traditional print media
 Raised and donated over $350 to the BC Children’s Hospital and UNICEF through membership and
“Candy-Gram” sales
CAPILANO E-BUSINESS CLUB
200x – 200x
Promotions Coordinator
Responsible for stimulating student awareness and interest in the inaugural year of the E-Business Club.
 Utilized a variety of media such as flyers, brochures, newspapers, television and e-mail
advertisements
 Attracted 80 new members and increased student participation through the promotion of special
events
CAREER CONFERENCE
Fall 200x
Sales and Promotions Committee
Member of a nine-person team that organized one of the largest career conferences for students,
sponsored by the Business Undergraduate Society.
 Maintained sales ticket database to confirm number of attendees. Collected and totaled ticket sales.
 Successfully reached event capacity by selling a total of 300 tickets.
22
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Sample Investment Banking Style Resume (one page) . . .
JOE SMITH
123456 Queens West Avenue
Vancouver, BC
V6V 3V3
[email protected]
604.555.6666
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Business Administration, Capilano School of Business
Completion: May 200X
Capilano University, North Vancouver, Canada
 Specialized in Finance
 Third year average: 83%
 Relevant courses: Business Finance, Theory of Finance, Security Markets, Risk Management & Financial Engineering, Investment
Policy, Quantitative Analysis of Financial Decisions, Elementary Algebra
Chartered Financial Analyst Program (level one – in progress)
WORK EXPERIENCE
Investment Management Intern, Capital Holdings Limited, Vancouver, Canada
 Scrutinized analysts’ research reports; developed and maintained complex financial models
 Researched and compiled valuation data and financial ratios for Australian mid-cap and small-cap stocks
 Collaborated with the qualitative research team to streamline the monthly Asian Stock screens
 Met with management of top companies to discuss profitability and financial situation
Summer 200X
Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, Marker, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
 Invigilated second year finance student examinations; accurately graded assignments and examinations
Jan-Mar 200X
Research Assistant, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Summer 200X
 Assisted Dr. Jim Cheng to develop research paper, “Downsizing, upsizing the impact of economies on the Hong Kong stock
market.”
 Researched and documented Hong Kong listed companies’ financial reports
 Organized Hong Kong listed companies’ background information
Customer Sales Representative, Eaton’s, Vancouver, Canada
 Provided customer service; assisted in inventory control; organized stock room
Part-time 200X-200X
Customer Sales Representative, Footlocker, Vancouver, Canada
 Provided customer service; coordinated daily merchandising of new stock; streamlined inventory control system
ACTIVITIES
Vice-President, CBUS, Capilano University
 Enhance communications between club, Finance faculty and members; initiate and coordinate club events
Second Year Class Liaison, School of Business, Capilano University
 Enhanced correspondence between professors and second year students
Intramural Basketball Team Captain, X-Men League, Capilano University
Part-time 2000
April 200X-present
2000-200X
200X-200X
SKILLS
 Computer Skills: Windows, MS Office, FrontPage, Outlook, Photoshop, Flash, Lindo, Oracle, UML, CASE, SQL, PL/SQL, ODQL,
HTML, C++, FactSet, Bloomberg
 Language Skills: English, Cantonese, and Mandarin
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS
Bank of Montreal Scholarship (200X); Capilano University Undergraduate Scholar Program Scholarship (200X); Ranked 2nd in Finance
major and ranked 9th overall in the School of Business 200X; Capilano University Dean’s List (200X); Golden Key National Society
(since 200X)
23
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
REFERENCES
During interviews, recruiters may request a Reference List and Letters of Reference. In North America DO
NOT include your references on the resume and DO NOT indicate “References available upon request”.
Employers and recruiters assume that you will provide references when the time is appropriate. Create a
separate Reference List to bring to an interview.
Your references can be your former managers, supervisors, and senior managers. References must be aware
of your work and accomplishments while in their employ. If none of the aforementioned are available, a
senior co-worker, trainer, a supplier or customer you worked with could also be references.
If your work experience is from outside of North America, you may wish to also include names of professors
who have agreed to comment on your classroom performance.
Always call your prospective references to ask for their permission to use
their names. Take the opportunity to renew your contact with them and review
your key accomplishments so they will be able to speak favourably about you.
When an employer has asked for your reference list, call your references to let
them know the name of the company, the position and highlights of the job so
they can be prepared to answer questions. Remember to call to thank your
references after a prospective employer has contacted them, and also after you
have secured employment.
Always ASK your
references if they are
willing to act as your
reference.
References should be presented in a consistent format, which includes:
 Your name, address and contact information at the top of the page
 Name, title and contact information of your references (the standard is three)
 A brief note under each name explaining their relationship to you (i.e. supervisor)
24
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Sample Reference List . . .
SAMUEL J. WATSON
11111 East Sullivan Avenue
Surrey, BC V6V 5V5
(604) 555-1234
[email protected]
REFERENCE LIST
Mr. Arnold Blake
President
Colour Your World Company
1111 Nelson Street
Vancouver, BC V6E 3V7
Phone: (604) 555-1777
Former Manager
Professor Colin Hook
Co-op Faculty Supervisor
Sauder School of Business
University of British Columbia
Room #300, 2033 Main Mall
Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Ms. Sally Smith
Manager
Simon’s Distributors
5555 West St. Clair Avenue
Toronto, Ontario T2V 1O9
Phone: (604) 555-8321
Phone: (406) 555-9080
e-mail: [email protected]
(Former Manager-Xerox Business Systems)
Michael Chong
Managing Partner
Jonathon Bing & Associates
Ice House Street
Hong Kong
(Letter of reference attached)
25
Phone: 011 555-5555-5555
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
ELECTRONIC RECRUITING
On-line Applications
Many corporations, large and small, recruit through their websites and/or use Applicant Tracking Systems
(ATS) to store, retrieve and – most importantly – review resumes. Alternatively, they may ask that you
complete an on-line application, which takes the place of your resume. If completing an online application,
use key words and technological language related to the job you are applying for. Transfer as much relevant
information as you can from your resume into the on-line application.
The ATS will filter resumes and application forms depending on key criteria set by the employer (for
example key skills, education and experience). Usually, the resumes that are approved by the ATS will then
be reviewed by the Hiring Manager.
ATS are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated. Keep in mind the following:
 Pay close attention to the job description as this is likely to contain the key words for the ATS.
Ensure that these exact words and phrases are included in your resume.
 Use nouns over verbs as these systems search for specific nouns which identify the applicants as
having the experience they require. i.e. “programmer, purchaser”.
 Consider including a “Key Skills” section at the top of your resume. In this section note as many
key nouns which describe your experience and skills.
 Use industry jargon, and industry nouns.
 Do not use fancy fonts such as italics, underlining, shadowing, boxes, bullets, bolding.
 Avoid vertical and horizontal lines that touch text (the ATS will not read any text that is touched
by a line).
 List phone number on a separate line.
 Remove all indentations.
Resumes submitted via E-Mail
Recruiters often request students to apply via e-mail. When applying via e-mail:
 Create a professional, brief e-mail message.
 In the “Subject” line note the job posting you are applying for.
 As with any business correspondence, be brief and professional.
 Proofread, proofread, proofread. Avoid spelling and grammar errors,
using informal language, and using a directive, demanding tone.
26
When e-mailing a resume
save it as a:
Word, RTF, TXT or PDF
document
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
 Do not bombard the recruiter with e-mails. If they haven’t responded within 1-2 weeks, send a
follow-up e-mail.
Sending your resume as an Attachment:
 The majority of recruiters request you attach your cover letter and resume as a WORD (*.doc),
ASCII (*.txt), RTF (*.rtf), or PDF (*.pdf) format.
Resume submitted via E-mail (continued)
Sending your resume within your e-mail message:
 Some IT recruiters prefer that you write your cover letter and resume within the e-mail message.
 Limit your text to 65 characters per line to ensure that the document formats correctly.
 It is recommended you send a copy of this e-mail message to a friend to ensure the cover letter
retains its original format.
 Recruiters are aware that your cover letter will not be signed.
Resumes posted on the Web
RESUME DATABASES:
Resumes can be posted on the web in a resume database such as at these Canadian sites: Monster.ca,
Workopolis.com, Working.canada.com, Jobshark.ca. These sites draw the attention of recruiters who are
searching for candidates with specific skills.
Monstertrak.com suggests you consider the following when posting a resume on a web database:
 Overall reputation of the site
 Cost to post (most are free for applicants looking for work)
 Ability to update and delete your resume
 How long your resume will be stored on the site before it is automatically deleted
Posting a Web Resume
A web-based resume gives you flexibility with regard to graphics and overall presentation format. To
develop a web resume:
1. Obtain web space in which you can develop your web site from an internet service provider.
2. Design your web site using web authoring tools, such as: Dreamweaver, FrontPage.
3. Build your web resume including meta tags which are used by search engines to find your site.
Meta tags include key words and descriptions of your skills and experience.
4. Upload your web site to your web space.
27
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
5. Register your site on several search engines. i.e. Google.com or Yahoo.com
Tips on Web Writing from the Columbus Group:
Eliminate verbal nouns. i.e. Instead of “Take into account”, use “Consider”.
Eliminate extraneous words: By eliminating redundancies and repetition, the reader can easily find what
they are seeking and quickly move through the copy.
Who, What, Where, When, Why: Tell your readers the Five W’s at the beginning of your document: Who is
this for, what is in it, where will you find things, when it took place, and why is it here.
Don’t say ‘click here’ – the user expects to click when a hyperlink is present and expects an action to occur.
i.e. Instead of click here to download my Database Management Report, use “Check out my Database
Management Project. (PDF, 350K)
Web Writing Resources:
 http://www.sun.com/980713/webwriting/
 http://www.useit.com/papers/webwriting/rewriting.html
Electronic / Scannable Resume
This is another version of your paper resume, reconfigured for electronic transmission. Electronic resumes
can be scanned, converted to code, summarized, stored in a data bank, searched by key words, extracted,
viewed on screen, replicated and electronically transmitted within and between companies. If a recruiter
requests an electronic resume it must be formatted as follows.
28
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
Sample Electronic Resume
STANLEY WOO
22-55555 West 10th Avenue
Vancouver, BC V7V 7V7
(604) 555-6666
[email protected]
OBJECTIVE
Database Developer
COMPUTER SKILLS
Graphical Software: Adobe Photoshop, Monarch Platform, Strandware, Visio Technical 4.5
Software Skills: MS Office, Lotus 123
Operating Systems: MS DOS 6.22, UNIX, Windows ‘95
Programming: Basic, Pascal
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Business Administration
Option: Management Information Systems
Capilano University
North Vancouver, BC
Completion May 200X
EXPERIENCE
ABC CORPORATION
Vancouver, BC
PMD Help Desk Assistant
Summer 200X
Answered and logged calls at PMD Help Desk.
Supported in-house applications for employees.
Researched a web-enabling tool (ReportMart) for Business Information Services Group.
Acted as main contact with Sqribe Technologies with respect to web-enabling tools.
TELUS
Burnaby, BC
Customer Development Assistant
Summer 199X
Promoted Telus Bundles package to new clientele.
Provided comprehensive information about Telus services and competitive advantages.
Participated in Telus Customer First Training Program.
SPECIALIZED TRAINING
Basic and Pascal Computer Skills
British Columbia Institute of Technology
Burnaby, BC
199X
St. John’s First Aid Certificate
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITES
Employment Representative
UBC Management Information Systems Club
Organized IT knowledge seminar featuring Crystal Decisions – Crystal Reports
*This document (Professional Business Resumes) was adapted from the Sauder School of Business,
University of British Columbia.
29
Student Employment Service
Professional Resumes
RESUME CHECKLIST
Overall
Education Continued
 NO spelling, typing or grammar errors
 Easy to read; good use of white space
 Headings and bullet points are used to easily
differentiate sections
 Use standard, easy to read font with size no
smaller than 10
 If need two pages, fill second page at least half
full with relevant info and include page numbers
 Add name and primary contact details on
subsequent page
 Margins should be .75” to 1”
 Keep formatting and use of punctuation
consistent
 Study abroad experience
 Relevant academic projects (can separate)
 Do not include high school unless it was within a
couple of years
Header
 Name should go first (emphasize name by
making font larger, boldface, all capitals etc.)
 Include contact information: address, city and
province, postal code, email address, phone
number, e-portfolio or website address (optional)
Profile/Highlights of Qualifications
 Overview of key skills, traits and how/where they
were obtained relevant to the targeted position
 Ensure it is tailored to the employer/position
 Focus on employer’s needs; detail what value
applicant brings not what the employer can do for
the applicant
 Avoid fluff and merely listing skills (excellent
communication, organizational, leadership,
creative, event management skills)
 Only include if highlights are strong, can be
substantiated and relevant to position
Essential Skills
 List specific skills relevant to position (e.g. IT
skills such as hardware, programming languages)
Professional Experience
 Experience listed in reverse chronological order
(most recent job first)
 Include name of employer, city and province, job
title, date of employment with consistent format
 Can extract relevant/related experience and create
separate section with same title
 Avoid passive phrasing such as “responsible for”,
“duties included”, etc.
 Use bullets; avoid paragraphs
 Use descriptive phrases to highlight
accomplishments and start with action verbs
(manage, create, lead, etc.)
 Vary usage of action verbs
 Optional: detail job duties/tasks, reporting
relationships using brief one to two liner scope
statement before accomplishment points
 Avoid the use of personal pronouns (I, me,
myself) and articles (the, a, an, etc.)
 Use industry terms where applicable
 Quantify experience by noting %, $ and #. (How
many customers did you serve? How much did
you exceed the sales targets? How many people
did you manage?)
 Present tense for current positions, past tense for
former positions
Volunteer/ Extracurricular Activities
 Can use same format as professional experience
 Include campus activities, community
involvement, participation in team sports
Interests
Education
 List title of degree, specialization, name of
school, city and province and completion date
 Multiple degrees/credentials listed in reverse
chronological order
 Include specialized training specific to position
 Scholarships and awards with brief description of
criteria (academic or community merit etc.)
 Relevant courses only if supplements experience
30
 Interests/hobbies related to industry or
professional development (Optional)
References
 Eliminate “References available upon request”
 Reference list should be on separate page with
same header as resume