How to write a resume?

[DumbGuy]

Anyone know any tips on how to write one?

This is the first time I'm actually doing one. I might get a job as a tech in the University of Miami, and my friend has some "hookups" in there, but still I have to turn in one to show my skills.
I've been working in IT for about 3 years now (2 jobs and freelancing), but I'm currently unemployed, hopefully I'll get this one

Anyways, should I do a cover letter? Also, how do I show what skills I posses?

Thanks

 

[Scarpozzi]

The best way to write one is to write down all your credentials, education, work experience, contact information. After you write it down, go to google and search for resumes. Find a format you like that's to the point... Try to get at least a page and a half of info about yourself, but not more than 2 pages...(unless you're a rocket scientist)

For a cover letter, there are even sites out there that have form letters that will allow you to insert your name and the job position and that's all you need. They're a good way to get an idea of how to write an effective cover letter.

 

[fonzinator]

Originally posted by: DumbGuy
Anyone know any tips on how to write one?

This is the first time I'm actually doing one. I might get a job as a tech in the University of Miami, and my friend has some "hookups" in there, but still I have to turn in one to show my skills.
I've been working in IT for about 3 years now (2 jobs and freelancing), but I'm currently unemployed, hopefully I'll get this one

Anyways, should I do a cover letter? Also, how do I show what skills I posses?

Thanks

By ALL MEANS, write a cover letter! Your cover letter will convey much about who you are as a person. In your cover letter devote a paragraph to the following things:
1) Say hello, what job you are applying for and how you found out about it
2) Why you feel you are qualified for the job (list skills)
3) Other qualities you feel may increase your ability to do this job well - BRAG about yourself!
4) Speak about why you'd like to work for this company - they like this!
5) Thank them for their time and leave it hanging for further contact - either by your initiative if you have a recruiter's contact info, or by their's - if no contact info
6) Write: "enclosure: resume" at the bottom left hand corner of your cover letter - this will impress them with your attention to detail and professionalism
7) Keep it to one page or less - they don't want to read a book.

Hotjobs.com has some great info about writing a cover letter and resume.
How to write a resume - Hotjobs.com

For your resume:
Look at a few online samples and model yours after one you like. Aside from formatting, here are a few tips:
1) List your most current and pertinent jobs/skills
2) Be as descriptively consise as possible when illustrating work experience or skills. Make yourself sound as good as possible without lying. Highlight the largest achieved goals you can think of for each job you've had.
3) List some hobbies or activites that will make you well rounded
4) Include 3 professional references with contact info - they will want these if they are seriously considering you, don't make them ask you for them.
5) Keep it to one page if possible.
6) Since almost every resume these days is scanned into a system, use normal fonts and avoid underlining anything in your resume. Bold is okay.

Hope this helps.

 

[DumbGuy]

Thanks for the tips guys, great help

 

[Yossarian]

Post it here and we'll be nice enough to tear it apart for you You need other people to read it anyway.

I don't agree with listing references though. I have had several good technical jobs and if they want them, they'll ask. I put "References available upon request." Otherwise you're wasting valuable page 1 space.