A resume is the marketing and advertising tool of your job search. The most professional representation of your work and skill related background. It is important to make a good impression - be creative but professional. Resumes are paper representations of your past experience. Since employers skim resumes, it is essential that your resume be clear and easy to read. Your resume is the only "perfect" component of the self-placement process. There is no "perfect" or "right" resume format - it depends upon the job you hope to find and your past experiences. Remember, the purpose of a resume is to get you a job interview. The interview gets you the job.

To make an effective "first impression" your resume should interest the readers and make them want to talk to you. It should present you as a unique and interesting individual. You have about 20 seconds to interest the employer in meeting you. Make sure the resume tells the employer:

• Who you are
• What you can do for the company
• Why you believe you can do the job (i.e. experience, course work).

TYPES OF RESUMES

Chronological

A reverse chronological list of education, job experiences and accomplishments. As the most common type of resume, it is recommended for the first-time resume writer. 

EXAMPLES: [#1 - PDF, DOC] [#2 - PDF, DOC] [#3 - PDF, DOC] 

Functional

Highlights the professional skills you have gained throughout your career. Similar to a chronological resume but presented around skill clusters. Recommended for professionals with a variety of work experience or for individuals interested in a career change who do not have direct job experience in the new career area.

EXAMPLES: [#1 - PDF, DOC]

Curriculum Vitae

Used within the academic community to highlight work experience as well as research interests and professional development within an academic setting. Recommended for graduate students and for those pursuing teaching or research positions in a college or university.

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