In this lesson we are going to review one of the most common professional documents needed to get you selected for a job – the resume. A resume is an important document as it gives a potential employer a glimpse of your education, background and skills. Everyone needs to have a resume, no matter what stage you are in your career and your resume should be continually updated. Now let’s learn how to put together a stellar resume!
Review the Required Resources thoroughly BEFORE going through the Graded Activities. Please be aware of the due dates associated with this lesson.
Required Resources
What is a Resume?
(Estimated time to complete: 8 minutes)
Before you venture into crafting your own resume, review the Purdue Online Writing Lab’s Introduction to and Expectations for Resumes. Also review the video How to Write a Resume (view until 2:34 minutes as remaining portion of video is not necessary).
Resume vs a Curriculum Vitae
(Estimated time to complete: 7 minutes)
Do not confuse a resume with a Curriculum Vitae or CV. There are distinct differences as outlined in Curricula Vitae (CVs) vs Resumes. In general resumes present your skills and background concisely while CVs list all of your academic accomplishments. Determining which type of document to submit is dependent on the type of position one is applying for (position descriptions will specify which type of document to submit). In general, CVs are appropriate for individuals applying to positions at a university or college.
What Sections Should be Included in a Resume?
(Estimated time to complete: 8 minutes)
To determine what sections should be included in a resume review the Purdue Online Writing Lab’s information on the contact information section, the education section, and the work experience section.
How Long Should Your Resume Be?
(Estimated time to complete: 5 minutes)
It is important to put together a clear and concise resume as outlined in the Purdue Online Writing Lab’s when to use 2 pages or more.
Resume Design
(Estimated time to complete: 5 minutes)
Especially for jobs where there are many applicants who may have only a few seconds to make an impression on an employer to want to review your resume further. Review these resume design tips from the Purdue Online Writing Lab to get that employer to want to review your resume!
Sample Resumes
(Estimated time to complete: 7 minutes)
Need some inspiration for drafting your resume? Check out the Purdue Online Writing Lab’s sample resumes. You can also check out the resume templates available in word processors such as through Google Docs or Word Online. Students and alumni of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa can also take advantage of the Career Center and ask for feedback on their resume from a career consultant.