Resume Writing

Obtaining a better job today has become more competitive entering the new millennium as better positions require more specialized skills. While a good resume cannot get you a job, a bad resume can prevent you from getting your foot in the door. We believe the best tips we can give on resume writing are to explain what you should always do and never do.

 

What works today

A conservative style and a focus on key achievements -- especially those that are of particular interest to the potential employer. And remember, it is essential that people that qualify for several different jobs (and many do) have several different resumes. What interests an employer for, let's say, an executive assistant may not interest the employer hiring a desktop publishing specialist. All resumes should be accurate and truthful, but each should highlight different strengths as they relate to the job opening.

WSi invites you to let WSi create a resume for you. For a moderate fee, WSi will take your handwritten resume information provided to us on the form that our Denver office has and create a professional, attractive and effective resume for you.

  • Honestly summarize the technologies (hardware, software, databases, operating environments, etc.) 
     you are  familiar with and show when you've used each one when describing your work history.
  • Update your resume as you approach completion of each assignment.
  • Use "bullet" format where appropriate.
  • Use conventional English. Stay away from multi-syllable words when a one- or two-syllable word is clearer. 
    
  • Use short paragraphs -- preferably no longer than five lines.
  • Make sure the resume and the cover letter are error free. Proofread and have others proofread for you, too.
  • Rewrite a resume for a specific position with a specific company. It's extra work but may very well pay off.
  • Include your significant contributions at each one of your jobs. Allow the most space for the positions that 
are most relevant to the position you are applying for.
  • List any licensing, certificates or other job certifications.
  • List your activities with professional, trade and civic associations -- but only if they are appropriate.
  • Keep a permanent file of your achievements, no matter how inconsequential they may appear to be. 
     This is the basis for a good resume.
  • Send your resume in a timely manner. Fax or e-mail your resume whenever possible.
  • Never give reasons for termination or leaving a job. In almost all cases, the reader can find negative connotations to even the best explanation.
  • Never list hobbies, sports and social activities.
  • Never include your height, weight or remarks about your physical appearance or health. Other things to leave out include your Social Security number, your spouse's occupation and your personal philosophies.
  • Never include in your experience technologies for which you have no work experience.
  • Never state "References available on request." It's assumed, and only clutters up the resume.
  • Never list references in the resume.
  • Never use exact dates. Months and years are sufficient. Don't include the date your resume was prepared. If your search takes longer then a few months, the resume will appear outdated.
  • Never include your company phone number unless your immediate boss is aware of your departure.
  • Never list your high school or grammar school if you're a college graduate.
  • Never state your objectives on your resume unless the resume is targeted to that position or occupation.
  • Never use professional jargon unless you're sure the resume will be read by someone who understands the buzzwords.
  • Never use the so-called "action words" like sparked, accelerated and streamlined. They're passe.
  • Never provide salary information on the resume. Save it for the interview. If you are required to give that information, reveal it in the cover letter.
  • Never lie.