Resume Writing Guide
What is the purpose of a Resume?
A resume is a marketing tool that effectively communicates your skills, experiences, and knowledge in writing to
an employer. By knowing yourself and knowing what employers want, you are able to present your resume to
them in a clear, easy-to-follow format.
Recruiters spend 6 seconds reviewing whether a resume is a “fit/no fit” decision. Afterward, resumes that are a
“fit” decision will receive further consideration and will eventually be narrowed down to candidates that closely
match what the company is looking for.
A resume may be a major part of an employer’s decision whether or not you will receive an interview! The look,
format, and content are critical areas to consider when developing your resume.
Types of Resumes
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Chronological. A chronological resume starts by listing your work history, with the most recent position
listed first. Your jobs are listed in reverse chronological order with your current, or most recent job, first.
Employers typically prefer this type of resume because it's easy to see what jobs you have held and when
you have worked at them. This type of resume works well for job seekers with a strong, solid work
history.
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Functional. A functional resume focuses on your skills and experience, rather than on your chronological
work history. It is used most often by people who are changing careers or who have gaps in their
employment history.
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Combination. A combination resume lists your skills and experience first. Your employment history is
listed next. With this type of resume you can highlight the skills you have that are relevant to the job you
are applying for, and also provide the chronological work history that employers prefer.
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Targeted. A targeted resume is a resume that is customized so that it specifically highlights the
experience and skills you have that are relevant to the job you are applying for. It definitely takes more
work to write a targeted resume than to just click to apply with your existing resume.
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Nontraditional. A nontraditional resume is usually presented in a visual or online format (video, linkedin,
portfolio, website, blog, etc). It is used mostly by people who are in the creative industries (graphic
design, web development, internet marketing, architecture, etc).
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Formatting Tips
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Page margins of 1/2 to 1 inch on all sides generally look fine.
Font size: Except for your name, which can be larger, font sizes of 10, 11 or 12 generally look fine. Font
style of Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman are appropriate. Note that font sizes are not the same in each
font style (e.g. Arial 12 is much larger than Times 12). If you have trouble getting your content on one
page, try a slightly smaller font style or size. Sometimes you can enter a half-size, such as 10.5, 11.5, etc.
Spacing: Single spacing usually works best, with a blank line between each section of content. Leave some white
space to not crowd the document where it looks overwhelming
Heading: Create your heading with your name, phone, e-mail, and college and permanent addresses. Use
bold, all caps, or bigger font size to show emphasis
Naming – Name your resume something that makes sense to the employer. For example, consider using your
name and the title of the position you’re applying for (Ex. John Doe Marketing Specialist.pdf)
Parallel Structure – Be mindful of correct verb tense to describe your present or past experience
Saving – Save your final draft as a PDF document before e-mailing it to the employer to ensure the formatting
will not be affected
Another simple technique for content layout is to create a table. A table allows you to organize your content and
be creative where needed. You can easily merge or splits cells by right clicking on the mouse. Before you finalize,
set borders to "none" so they don't appear on your document. With table format, it's easy to resize and realign
your content as you revise your resume.
Best Practices
It is easy to make mistakes on your resume and harder to fix it once the employer receives it. However, there are
ways to prevent mistakes, whether you're writing your first resume or revising it.
Do
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Prioritize the most important information closest to the top
Make it relevant. Highlight knowledge, skills, and abilities the employer seeks
Quantify your experience using numbers and percentages when appropriate
(Ex. Accurately entered more than 200 client contact records into an Access database)
Include technical skills you have that you may use in the position (Ex. Proficient in Microsoft Word)
Be concise by using phrases instead of sentences or long paragraphs
Use strong action verbs to describe your experiences – please see Action Verbs Table
Get feedback! Ask a number of people to review your resume
Review resume examples to start your first resume
Focus on transferable skills – think about skills you developed from previous experiences and apply them
to future jobs
Don’t
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Do not use abbreviations or contractions with the exception of “state”
Too much photograph or design effects can take the emphasis away from your accomplishments
Do not copy a template or use resume wizards because they often include outdated information and
make it difficult for you to edit and adjust formatting
Do not exaggerate your experiences. Instead use accurate information that reflects your experience and
how it is relevant to the position
Do not include your high school education unless you’re still in high school. Once you are studying at the
college level an employer assumes you have completed your high school diploma or equivalent
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Do not list references or state, “references upon request.” Employers will ask for references and it goes
without saying that you will provide them
Do not use “I”, “me”, or “my” anywhere on the resume
Do not list the names of your supervisors or phone numbers and addresses of employers on your resume
Do not attempt to create a one-size-fits-all resume. Whenever you try to develop a one-size-fits-all
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resume to send to all employers, you almost always end up with something employers will toss in
the recycle bin
Do not submit your resume without having someone look over it for feedback and consistency
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Basic Components of a Resume
CONTACT INFORMATION
Provide the employer with the following: name, mailing address, e-mail address (student account), phone
number, and if possible, a link to your LinkedIn account.
Example:
Wolfie Wolfpack
1701 Wright Street, Madison, WI 53704 | 608.243.4598 |[email protected] | linkedin.com/wolfie
QUALIFICATIONS OVERVIEW
Give the employer a brief, two to three sentence summary or a bulleted list matching your relevant qualifications
to the position. In addition, this is the area you can tailor your resume to meet the requirements of the position.
Example: Three years of customer service management experience in a fast-paced retail store. Committed to
teamwork and utilizing individual team member strengths. Eager to exceed sales goals while meeting objectives.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Identify skills you know the employer seeks, especially technical skills acquired in your academic program or in
previous jobs.
Example:
Experienced patient care provider with ability to carefully assess patient needs
Familiar with HIPPA, patient rights, and professional ethics
Cooperative team member with skills to also work well independently
EDUCATION
List details about your education that would be important for the employer to know including your degree,
school, graduation date or expected graduation date.
Example:
Madison Area Technical College
Associate of Applied Science, Marketing
Madison, WI
Expected Graduation May 2015
EXPERIENCE
There is no minimum or maximum amount of work experience required for your resume. Include the most
relevant experience highlighting transferable skills for the position you are seeking.
Example:
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Mom and Pop Boutique
Client Service Specialist
Madison, WI
December 2012-Present
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• Greet and assist customers with finding and pairing styles
• Collect cash, check, or credit card payments using computerized cash register
• Create in-store and window displays monthly to showcase latest inventory
VOLUNTEER/COMMUNITY SERVICE
Service to the community illustrates goodwill, leadership, and additional transferable skills.
Example:
Safe Haven
Madison, WI
August 2013-Present
After School Program Volunteer
• Tutor middle school students three days a week with math homework
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Professional affiliations as a member or leader show you are connected to industry and your field.
Example:
International Association of Administrative Professionals
October 2012-Present
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Accomplishments that make you stand out could be anything from leading a project, being recognized with a
scholarship or award, or other certifications.
Example:
Karen Roberts Outstanding Student of the Year Recipient
April 2013
Action Verbs
When creating bulleted statements to describe your experience use action verbs to emphasize your skills and
accomplishments. The verbs you choose will draw the prospective employer’s eye and illustrate how what you
have done will transfer to what you can do for them.
Adaptable Skills
Administrative Skills
Analysis Skills
Clerical Skills
Creative Skills
Adapt
Lead
Conduct
Record
Design
Adjust
Decide
Sort
Observe
Create
Amend
Resolve
Summarize
Summarize
Generate
Anticipate
Execute
Simplify
Arrange
Conceptualize
Improvise
Streamline
Categorize
Compile
Invent
Modify
Expand
Inventory
Maintain
Develop
Navigate
Employ
Obtain
Support
Sketch
Overcame
Obtain
Check
Provide
Renovate
Perceive
Anticipate
Uncover
Chart
Conceive
Resolve
Chair
Synthesize
Track
Cultivate
Respond
Institute
Recommend
Respond
Spark
Revise
Prescribe
Evaluate
Schedule
Produce
Tailor
Preside
Interpret
Answer
Construct
Transform
Pilot
Appraise
Preserve
Make
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Communication Skills
Development Skills
Financial Skills
Helping Skills
Management Skills
Explain
Discover
Budget
Advise
Supervise
Compose
Shape
Balance
Aid
Manage
Demonstrate
Draft
Forecast
Encourage
Direct
Report
Complete
Project
Facilitate
Propose
Introduce
Launch
Solve
Coach
Train
Convey
Establish
Quantify
Serve
Improve
Present
Formulate
Maximize
Guide
Monitor
Express
Implement
Calculate
Care for
Implement
Illustrate
Redesign
Audit
Translate
Procure
Define
Procure
Save
Supply
Assign
Propose
Determine
Tabulate
Motivate
Charge
Announce
Assemble
Process
Inspire
Appoint
Clarify
Introduce
Secure
Assist
Resolve
Refer
Institute
Form
Support
Accomplish
Marketing Skills
Organization Skills
Research Skills
Teamwork Skills
Technical Skills
Persuade
Plan
Investigate
Collaborate
Assemble
Merchandise
Compile
Identify
Coordinate
Build
Perform
Organize
Clarify
Participate
Calculate
Fundraise
Coordinate
Process
Connect
Repair
Influence
Identify
Locate
Mediate
Remodel
Motivate
Schedule
Recommend
Relate
Process
Increase
Maintain
Gather
Negotiate
Refinish
Market
Prioritize
Corroborate
Represent
Log
Forecast
Arrange
Collect
Learn
Install
Recruit
Expand
Screen
Listen
Compute
Produce
Review
Sequence
Negotiate
Specify
Sell
Simplify
Measure
Facilitate
Inspect
Escalate
Appraise
Analyze
Contribute
Troubleshoot
Increase
Unify
Examine
Discuss
Maintain
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I update my resume?
In today’s competitive workforce, your resume should be tailored to every position you apply for.
Tip: Study the job description (key words, minimum and preferred qualifications, job duties, etc) to help you tailor
your resume to meet the needs of the employer.
What is important to list on a resume?
Include the education and experiences most relevant to the job opening. Additionally, your resume may include
any of the following: Qualifications Overview, Education, Skills Summary, Experience, Volunteer or Community
Service, Professional Affiliations, and Accomplishments.
Tip: Always research resume samples related to your career or industry field. It will assist you in developing the
look and feel of your resume.
What is the recommended length of a resume?
For most people, a one-page resume can illustrate their relevant experience to a prospective employer. However,
some people have more experience that would help sell their skills to an employer and may need two pages.
Tip: Always read the “how to apply” section for any indicators of what the employers want from applicants.
Is it important to include an objective?
It will depend on your situation and the industry that you are in. Some employers appreciate objectives that are
clear, concise, and further asserts for the position you are applying for. Other employers believe objective
statements are outdated and waste space stating what you want, rather than what you can do for the employer.
Tip: An objective statement may be useful for those that are changing career fields. If you are in this situation, it is
recommended that you further your research on how to write effective object statements that will help you land
an interview.
What kind of a picture should I put on my LinkedIn account?
It is best to have a picture that is at your professional best (a head-to-chest shot with minimal make-up on a white
or gray background). LinkedIn is an online professional networking platform; therefore it is best to avoid personal
pictures (pets, families, etc).
Tip: One of the biggest mistakes with a LinkedIn account is not having a professional picture. You are 7 times
more likely to have your profile reviewed if you have a picture.
Please Note: This Reference Guide was created by Career and Employment Center (CEC) staff at
Madison Area Technical College. It is intended to be a guide and may not be all-inclusive to meet
your specific needs. If preparing these documents for a class, be sure to follow the directions given by
your instructor. For additional assistance or to make an appointment, contact us:
[email protected] or (608) 243-4598 or at Truax Gateway A1003.
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Sample Chronological Resume
Wolfie Wolfpack
1701 Wright Street • Madison, WI 53704 • 608.243.4598 • [email protected]
Qualifications Overview
Client-centered systems administrator specializing in simplifying complex p rocesses to end users.
Adept in both Windows and Apple operating systems. Experience with testing and troubleshooting.
Education
Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI
IT-Help Desk Support Specialist , One-Year Technical Diploma
Expected Graduation May 2014
Technology Experience
Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI
Wolfpack Techies, Technician Team Member
 Lead Projects Team consisting of five technicians
 Ask questions to diagnose technical issues and understand client needs
 Install, configure, and troubleshoot hardware and software
 Maintain written records for all actions taken
October 2012-Present
Supplemental Experience
Best Buy, Madison, WI
April 2010-October 2012
Sales Associate
 Provided customers with product information to match their needs
 Assisted customers with purchases, applying for financing, and explaining insurance programs
 Maintained merchandising and ensured inventory was accurate
Professional Development
Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI
September 2012-Present
Association of Information Technology Professionals, Vice President of Marketing
 Lead marketing for events including maintaining social media
 Assist officer team with brainstorming and planning events
 Volunteer with DaneNet to provide IT support to non-profits in Madison
 Attend networking events through Accelerate Madison
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Sample Functional Resume
Ima Jobs
1701 Wright Street | Madison, WI 53704 | 608.243.4598 | [email protected] |
linkedin.com/imajobs
Education
Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI
Associate of Applied Science, Marketing
Expected Graduation December 2013; GPA 3.7/4.0
Related Coursework
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Social Media Principles
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Advanced Social Media Campaigns
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Mobile Marketing
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Innovative Trends in Marketing
Internet Marketing
Publicity and Promotion Strategies
Student Leadership
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Madison College Volunteer Center, Alternative
Break Coordinator
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Madison College Marketing Club. Vice-President
August 2013-Present
August 2012-Present
Customer Service
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Communicated with clients to answer questions and help locate products
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Averaged a rating of 4.5 on a 5 scale customer satisfaction survey
Social Media
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Created and maintained content for Madison College Volunteer Center Facebook and Twitter
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Designed Facebook events to market Madison College Volunteer Center
Team Work
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Served on Madison College Volunteer Center Programming Board
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Worked with Land’s End team members to present satisfaction survey results to management
Work History
Land’s End, Customer Service Representative
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Greet and provide pleasant shopping experience to patrons
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Assist customers with purchase or return of merchandise
Community Service
Safe Haven After School Program, Volunteer
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Tutor middle school students three days a week with their math homework
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June 2012-Present
August 2013-Present
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Sample Combination Resume
Jose Sample
608.243.4598
[email protected]
Professional Profile
Veterinary Technician student who grew up on a family farm, caring for large animals and pets. Trained
to handle animals and administer medications, vaccines, and treatments.
Key Skills
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Understanding of veterinary medical terminology
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Knowledgeable in animal diseases and pharmacology
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Trained in automated laboratory procedures for hematology and clinical chemistries
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Follow Animal Welfare Act and other regulations pertaining to the care of laboratory animals
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Perform laboratory procedures, including blood chemistries, parasitology, and urine analysis
Education
Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI
Associate of Applied Science, Veterinary Technician Program
Expected Graduation: May 2014
Veterinary Technician Experience
Animal Caretaker, Pete’s Farm
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De Forest, WI
May 2009 - December 2010
Scheduled the boarding of pets
Checked immunizations records prior to admission to the resort
Greeted customers and their pets in a friendly and welcoming manner
Community Service
Volunteer, Humane Society
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January 2011 - Present
Provide nursing care and healing therapy for animals
Check animal health, room temperature, and humidity daily
Maintain clean, sterile, and safe treatment room
Educate and advise clients on animal nutrition and home care
Pet Admission Staff,Doggie Pet Resort
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Verona, WI
Madison, WI
May 2010 - Present
Cuddle dogs and cats that need tender loving care
Groom and bathe animals
Clean and disinfect animal rooms and cages
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