Writing Résumés

English 0750
January 2009
Purpose of Résumé
 Present applicant as professional, capable,
and intelligent
 Detail relevant experience and qualifications
 Provide specific details to support large
claims of employability
Principles of Résumé Writing
 Tailor your résumé to the job you are applying
for
 List elements of your background and
qualifications thoroughly
 Choose résumé elements that are
appropriate to the specific job
 Format your résumé to be visually appealing
 Edit your résumé carefully
Common Elements of Résumé
 Contact information  Work experience
 Name  Positions held
 Address  Employers
 Phone  Dates of employment
 Email  Responsibilities and
 Objective accomplishments
 Educational background  Special skills
 Degree(s)  Languages

 Field(s) of study  Computer skills

 Awards or honors  Certifications

 Relevant coursework
Example
 Workplace Communications, page 210
 What does this résumé do well?
 What would you change about this résumé?
 Compare this format with the samples on
pages 211 and 212. Which do you prefer,
and why?
Exercise
 Workplace Communications, exercise 9.10,
pages 225-231
 In small groups, read and discuss the letter
and résumé
 Rewrite each document