by Dr. Shanthi Thomas
Roxanne has just received her degree in Mechanical Engineering. She was indeed elated, a Mechanical Engineer now. But she knew that she had to find a job first. Her family was not exactly well-off. In fact, she had barely managed to pay her fees through university. She said to herself that the first step in job hunting would be resume writing. She had heard that a good resume can really take her places. She wondered where she could get reliable information on resume writing. She turned to Google finally.
This is what people look at first. Here you can put your full name, current address and phone number with area code. If your permanent address is different, give that also. Then add your email address.
Typically, on the left or the right-hand side. Not in the middle. Be sure that you look professional and well-dressed. You can smile, but not laugh in your photograph. Avoid grumpy looks.
List each of your degrees, duration of the course, the grade obtained, the degree-conferring institution and the place. Add also any specialized certifications or diploma such as a diploma in creative writing.
List all your work experience in chronological order from the latest to the earliest. Begin with the job title, organization name, location, and dates. You can also include volunteer experience such as internships or community experience. You have to describe each position briefly.
If you are qualified in academia and are applying for a lectureship for example, you will have to give a list of journal articles or books you authored or co-authored.
Here you can describe any awards and achievements you have received during your student years that are relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a leadership role, you could list a ‘best leader’ award you received during your college years. You can also list any scholarships you have received during your student years.
You might have acquired various skills during your student years such as computer skills or fluency in two or three languages. You could list them here.
These days, most students are involved in some extra-curricular activity or the other. If you are involved in any clubs at college or in your community, you can include them here. This includes your membership in any professional organizations.
Here you can write about any interests or hobbies that are connected to your area of expertise. For example, if you are applying for the position of a computer programmer, and you design websites as a hobby, you could include that here.
Many companies ask for at least two references. You can give the name and contact details of a person whom the interviewer may contact to ask about you. Make sure that you first contact this person and ask their permission to be your referee. You should choose individuals who will provide candid and positive recommendations.
The cover letter is not part of your resume, but it is sent along with your resume to an organization you wish to be part of. It is typically seen first before the resume. So, you have to introduce yourself, convey your enthusiasm for the job and demonstrate your knowledge very briefly.
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