Writing a Winning Resume

When writing a resume, ask yourself the following questions. The answers will help you create a resume that persuades prospective employers to select you for an interview.
 
1.      What kind of position do I want?
 
This question helps you determine your ideal position. Your resume should be built around your ideal position and include the skills, experience, and accomplishments that pertain to that position. This creates a resume that paints a picture of how you can help prospective employers accomplish their goals.
 
2.      Why am I qualified to hold my ideal position?
 
The answers to this question help you outline the skills and experience that show the potential employer what you are capable of doing. This information can be presented at the beginning of your resume under professional profile or summary of qualifications.
 
3.      Where have I done this kind of work before?
 
Answering this question will help you develop the career experience (i.e., employment history) section of your resume. You want to let your audience know who you have worked for, where they were located, and what you did for them. In describing your job responsibilities use action verbs, include keywords, and list the skills that are relevant to your ideal position.
 
4.      How well did I do my job?
 
This question helps you identify your most important career accomplishments. Your accomplishments demonstrate to the potential employer that you have the ability to contribute to the company’s financial success. Promotions and work on special projects are achievements that will boost your value. If possible, quantify your accomplishments (i.e., reduced error rate by 30%, increased sales by 15%, acquired 15 new accounts, etc.).
 
Accomplishments can be listed in the experience section either below or above the job responsibilities.
 
Your resume should include the mix of skills, experience, and accomplishments that show the potential employer that you are the best candidate for the position.