Resumes Resumes need to be: - Targeted to the position you are applying for
- Consistent in presentation
- Checked for spelling and grammar
- Font size no less than 11
- Printed on good quality paper (if sending)
- Proof-read thoroughly
- Bolded, in appropriate places
While some headings are negotiable, the following usually forms the basis of a resume: Personal details
These include name, address, email address, contact phone numbers. Do not include information on martial status, number of children etc. Objective
This focuses on your career objective related to the organisation and position under consideration. Professional Profile / Skills Summary
This usually focuses on the skills you wish to emphasise in relation to the criteria. Common criteria include: communication, teamwork, leadership and time management. Make several clear, powerful but succinct statements which emphasise your competencies in relation to the position's criteria. Education
Indicate your educational qualifications, giving details of dates and institutions. Employment History
Include all types of employment including non-paid work (volunteer work, charity work, school duties, family business etc.) while on parental leave. If your history is a long one you may wish to be selective about the positions for which you give more details. You should indicate the job title and employer, main responsibilities of the position, and particular achievements in the role. Professional Affiliations
These include membership of professional associations and professional development events attended recently. Referees
It is usual to list contact details of 2 to 3 referees, including their name, title, place of employment and telephone number. Ensure that you have consulted your referees first and that they have a copy of your application prior to them being contacted by the prospective employer. Other headings
Apart from these basic headings, there are numerous other headings you could use dependent on your experience and the job you are targeting. Some of these include: - research experience
- special expertise areas
- technical experience
- community service
- project management experience
- leadership/management experience
- administrative experience
- achievements
Cover Letters Make sure that you address it to the right person. Ideally find out their name, rather than just 'Dear Sir/Madam'. The letter should: be no more than 1 page in length be targeted to the position emphasize your experience, skills and interests which make you an ideal candidate for the position be written in a persuasive tone
The letter will contain 3 short paragraphs: 1. In the opening paragraph, indicate why you are writing and when and where you saw the position advertised. 2. In the body paragraph, emphasize the experience and skills you have that are relevant to the position. Indicate why you wish to work for the organisation; be enthusiastic and pursuasive. 3. In the final paragraph or conclusion, re-state your interest and indicate what you have included with the letter (e.g. resume). Indicate your desire to discuss your application at interview. Yours sincerely Sign and print your name under the signature.
Source: Organisational Development Unit, Human Resources Division, The Australian National University, Career Planning course 2007 |
