If it has been a while since you have needed a resume, the landscape has definitely changed. Keyword-rich documents that can pass today’s high tech scanning technology along with social media networking is the ticket to interviews. So what should you include on your resume?

DO Include –

• Basic Contact Information (Name, Contact Number, Email Address)
• Brief Opening Statement (who you are and what you offer)
• Employment History/Ministry Service (where you’ve been and what you’ve accomplished)
• Bullet Points that highlight achievements (not tasks performed).
• Education (degree held, college / university name)

Focus on the job you are seeking and only include information that is relevant. Use powerful action verbs to describe your achievements and keep your statements brief and to the point.

DON”T Include –

• Fonts that are hard to read (scrolly or scripty) or less than a 10 point in size.
• Overused clichés; team player, self-motivated, driven to succeed, etc.
• An Objective Statement; focus your opening on what you offer rather than what you are looking for.
• A Work Obituary that includes every detail about tasks performed; this makes your resume longer and loses the interest of the reader. Instead, select key highlights that will prove your value.
• Personal Information (Ministry Workers); sorry to say the scam artists have become pretty slick these days. If you are a pastor or ministry work executing an online job search, leave your personal information OFF your online resume. You may include this on your mailed hard copy.)
• Personal Information (Mainstream); never include a photo or personal information on your resume.

With the use of scanning technology, writing a resume is more than just putting your experience on paper. Today’s resume is about clearly and concisely communicating your unique value. Although you can use a resume template to gather your basic information, I would caution any job seeker about presenting a template-resume to employers. One major drawback in using a template is looking like every other candidate. Your resume should be as unique as you are. It should help you stand out from other job seekers and say “I have the skills you need and I am ready to tackle the challenges you are facing”.

If you have questions or need help, Breakthrough Resume Writing Service is a virtual (online) business that offers assistance to people from around the globe. From the privacy of your own home, you can contact Tammy at awordpro@aol.com.

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
Wishing you the best in your job search campaign! †