The ultimate guide to creating a resume

A resume is the most important document you’ll submit in your job search. The beginner’s guide to creating a resume featured helpful tips on how to stand out and grab the attention of an employer. This guide shares several tips inspired by the Career Services guidebook to help you build the perfect resume. 

The beginner guide discussed how to make your heading stand out, how to create a visually appealing format, and how to list your experience. These items are necessary for having a well-put-together resume, but you can add more information. 

State your objective

An objective is best used for any part-time work, internships, or career fairs. 

• Be brief, clear, and concise
• Indicate realistic career plans that are specific to the company and position for which you are applying
• Be sure your resume supports your stated objective

List your education

Your levels of education should appear in reverse chronological order and you should omit any high school information if possible. Your degree and majors should accurately reflect your transcript. 

• Include school name and location, with the city and state
• Provide only the month and year of graduation
• State overall GPA if it is 3.0 or higher
• Use two to five position-relevant course titles as they appear on your transcript if appropriate

Highlight your technical skills

Prioritize the skills that directly relate to the position you are applying for to show how you have the qualifications for the role. 

• List any computer software you are familiar with and any certifications obtained
• Avoid listing transferable skills like “great communication”, “teamwork-oriented”, and “leadership skills”

Feature your awards or honors

Awards and honors are official recognitions of your work and accomplishments. If they apply to the position you are applying for, make sure to include them. 

• Provide names of professional, community, or campus organizations and positions held and include dates
• Indicate positions held and recognitions received from organizations
• Exclude high school activities and awards unless you are a first-semester freshman

These tips, along with the beginners guide to creating a resume, share the necessary steps to crafting the perfect resume. A traditional cover letter and a list of references are two more items you may need to submit when applying for jobs. An article will soon be posted on how to create these documents as well. 

Davenport University offers career coaches that can assist you throughout the entire process of applying for a job. From reviewing resumes to practicing interview skills, they have your back. Check out Davenport’s career services page to learn more.