Opportunities to learn can be found in the most unusual places. Tonight I watched the Discovery Channel’s reality shows, The Deadliest Catch and After the Catch. The program was about the passing of Captain Phil Harris who was Skipper of the Cornelia Marie (an Alaskan crab fishing vessel).
In a round-table discussion, those closest to Captain Phil shared stories in celebration of his life. In one segment, the camera man assigned to the Cornelia Marie shared details of his friendship with the Captain and how he helped Phil realize “to make good TV, there is a beginning, middle, and end to every story”. The camera man, Todd, was at the hospital after Captain Phil had a massive stroke and he shared how the captain requested the “end of the story” be filmed (at the time, Phil was in ICU recovering from a massive stroke).
So, what does this have to do with you and the preparation of a resume? As Todd shared his story about Captain Phil’s request, I had a light bulb moment. This story telling truth can help others in resume writing. When you prepare your resume, you need a beginning (your employment history – where you worked, snapshot of key skills); a middle (your accomplishments – how your skills benefited the organization) and an ending (the value you offer a new organization – relevance to position being sought). If you focus too much on any one component, your story becomes out of balance and you lose your audience along the way.
Follow the 3-steps to write your resume then layout your document with your ending first (value offered) and you will be on your way to a stellar resume. I cannot close without expressing my deepest sympathy to the Harris family, the crew members of the Cornelia Marie, and Captain Phil’s close friends and I thank you for allowing viewers to share your story.
About the Author:
Tammy Shoup, Executive Director and Head Writer of Breakthrough Résumés, is among a small number of professional résumé writers in the U.S. who has earned the title of Certified Professional Résumé Writer from the Professional Association of Résumé Writers / Career Coaches.
Shoup is also a member of the National Résumé Writers’ Association and Career Directors International. Her activity in both organizations ensures that her knowledge of industry and employment trends remains current. It also indicates her dedication to continuing education in her industry. Her work is published in both JIST and Barron’s career books. Please review Shoup’s information at www.breakthroughrésumés.com or www.tammyshoup.com or inquire directly to Tammy Shoup at awordpro@aol.com
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