Writing a Resume - Basics

If you do not have a resume, you need to have one - even if you are not currently planning a job search. If your last resume was created several years ago and hasn't been updated, you need to do so. Start by determining the information to be included in your heading. Do not include your work phone number unless it is OK to receive calls there. If the resume will be posted on the Internet, it is suggested that you do not include your home address. Personal information (date of birth, social security number, race, age, number of children, marital status, etc.) should not be included in your resume.

Then write down the information you would need to include in your resume. List each job title you have had and the name of each employer and their address (at least the city) where you worked. If you remember the names, write down the name of each supervisor you had with each job. Also write the tasks you performed and your accomplishments. Then write information about volunteer or community activities in which you have been involved. Again, list the name and address of the organization and the name of your supervisor and their job title. Write out the tasks you performed and any accomplishments - from whenever they occurred in your work history. On the first draft, don't worry so much about wording, just get the information written down.

Write out the details of your educational background and/or training, including the name of the institution/organization, dates, degree or certificate received. You would also include licenses or special certifications you have received, as well as memberships in professional organizations. If you have attended college, but you didn't complete a degree, make a list of the courses you completed that relate to your current career goal or current work. Include work-related seminars or conferences you have attended. If appropriate, you should also make a list of presentations you have made, articles you have written, or other professional-related accomplishments.

Although the additional sections on your resume are not required, you may want to write down information about work-related recognitions or honors you have received and community or volunteer organizations in which you are/or have been involved. You may also need a section for special skills. Generally your hobbies or personal interests would not be included on your resume unless you know that information would be to your advantage.

My next blog will go into more details about preparing your resume for a job search.


Mary Ann Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice providing coaching and counseling for life's transitions; including career change or job search, as well as loss of job, retirement planning, grief work, coping with an empty nest, and other life planning issues. She is certified as a Master Career Counselor by the National Career Development Association; a Life/Work Counselor by the National Employment Counseling association; and is a Distance Credentialed Counselor. Check out her web site at www.YourCareerPlan.com.

To contact Ms. Davis, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 and leave a personal and confidential message or send an email to YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.