Teacher Resume Tips: How to use References in your Teacher Resume

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Free Resume Articles : Teacher Resume Tips: How to use References in your Teacher Resume by Adam Waxler

Without a doubt teaching jobs can be quite difficult to secure these days. Just go to any popular teaching forum or teacher discussion board and look at all the posts from teachers who are desperately trying to land a good teaching position.

Due to the fact that teaching jobs are so difficult to secure, teachers must do everything they can to stand out form the crowd.

One of the most important aspects of getting a teaching job is your teacher resume. What makes the teacher resume so important is that it is the first, and often times the only thing an administrator or teacher interview committee will see or hear about you. As the old saying goes...you only get one chance to make a first impression...

Therefore, you need to use your resume to make that first impression.

There are many features that make up a quality teacher resume, but this article is about one specific part of that resume...the references. Remember, just like anything else, a person is most likely going to remember the first and last thing they hear/see/read etc. The same holds true for your resume...to stand out you must open with a bang and close with a bang. Unfortunately, this is where many people miss the mark.

At the end of every resume is where the applicant should list their references. However, I am shocked at how many people still simply write "references available upon request". This is a huge mistake. Why make it difficult for your potential employer to seek out your references? Are you trying to hide something? Because that is exactly what "references available upon request" indicates.

What you should do instead is make sure you list your specific references at the bottom and make sure to provide their title/position, telephone number, and email address. Again, you want to make it as easy as possible for the interview committee to contact your references.

Another mistake people make is not listing enough references. All too often people will list only three references. Any qualified teacher should be able to get many, many references. Now, while you will not need to list them all, by listing 5-10 of them you are separating yourself from all the other teachers who only listed three, or worse, stated "references available upon request".

The bottom line is that you want your resume to say loud and clear "Go ahead, check my references...I encourage you do so!"

Again, your references are the last thing the reader will see when reading your resume. By ending with several references that are easy to contact, you are ending with a bang that will make your teacher resume stand out amongst all the others.

About the Author
If you're serious about getting a teaching job and want an unfair advantage over the competition then make sure to read Adam Waxler's "Your Basic Guide to Acing ANY Teacher Interview" @ http://www.TeacherInterviewTips.com .

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=862520

Resume Tips To Land The Perfect Job

Free Resume Articles : Resume Tips To Land The Perfect Job by Tony Jacowski

Your resume must always attract an employer's attention at first sight. Hence make a best resume using some resume tips to land you your dream job

-Always use attractive titles and heading that match the job profile you want and a great way to do this would be to mention the job titles and skill headings clearly. Maintain the flow and the length of the resume and like a myth, you don't have to follow the strict rule of writing a resume in one page. You can highlight the headings to make it more presentable

-Employers generally make snap judgments while reading your resume - and if they see an unrelated job profiles or titles or skills then they immediately assume that you are not qualified for the position. Don't waste your time elaborating on your skills or the headings, as employers don't have time to waste on each resume and determine whether you have the appropriate skill or experience which they are looking for. The design of your resume must showcase your skills, experience and education at the first glance. At first glance, employers must form an image about your skills and abilities.

-Your resume should be designed to attract the employer's attention, but it should not be jazzy and should have the complete content and should include all your skills and abilities. These things may land you an interview, as well as determine your salary package that you may receive.

-Always use powerful words and statements to demonstrate or describe your achievements as well as your responsibilities. These points can grab an employer's attention and elevate your image in front of him or her. The more you specify your positive points, the better. Use powerful words and phrases to control the images that the employers develop about you while reading your resume. Powerful words should match the job profile you are seeking.

-Learn and analyze the key words that employers provide in the advertisements or job descriptions, as this should be the key element in creating powerful and impact oriented resumes.

-Always try and understand and project the employers hidden needs through your resume like for example if an employer needs someone who can handle departments, accounting more efficiently then you should identify it and anticipate the full range of need and show that you can resolve it through your resume.

-Resumes should always provide a list of duties of each applicant without explaining the benefits of the skills to the employers like for example a secretary's resume should state her typing speed and should also state how it could benefit the new employer. The real benefit of the employee should produce more work and also save the employer money.

-Your resume should create an image of you in front of the employer. When writing your resume, keep in mind the level of the job you are seeking and the salary you are expecting. Always use language according to the position you are seeking.

-Try and prioritize the content of your resume, as this is the most important mistake that is made by many job seekers. Always compile statements according to importance, relevance of the job you want.

-Always try and tweak your resume and cover letter as they can generate many more interviews for you. Try and place the heading to the left hand column for retail management positions.

Try and improve your resume as much as possible - after all, it's the one that can get you an interview call.

About the Author
Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solution's Six Sigma Online offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=862383

Beware the Life Coach Who Offers to Help you Fulfill your Dreams

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Free Resume Articles : Beware the Life Coach Who Offers to Help you Fulfill your Dreams By: Jennifer Selby Long Copyright (c) 2008 Jennifer Selby Long

What on earth is happening out there? When I attend professional association meetings and am routinely assaulted by "life coaches" trying to pitch me as a client, I wonder if the professional world has gone slightly mad. Now I know this does make me sound solidly middle-aged, but I was doing executive coaching before it had a name. When on earth did it morph into "life coaching" and take on this strange, frothy form? Good grief. It's just embarrassing.

These days, you'll have to pierce through a lot of noise in the system to get to a good coach whether of the career, leadership, or personal variety. I know, because I am always trolling for affiliates to join my team. For what it's worth, here are the minimal criteria I think you need to use. I use them myself when screening candidates.

Screen without any hesitation for ALL of the following:

1. Good personal chemistry and a sense of trust. Done right, coaching of any variety will quickly put you in some very vulnerable and occasionally uncomfortable places (sorry!). You must be able to trust the coach both personally and in terms of his or her professional competence. If you can't let down your guard with the coach, you won't grow. A "maybe" should always be a "no." If you don't feel good chemistry and a gut-level sense of trust in your first meeting, move on.

2. Substantial demonstrated results. Has the coach worked with others at your level and in similar professions? What goals did these clients have? Were these goals similar to yours? If so, what results did they achieve? Some might blab on about how results are hard to define. That's nonsense. Don't waste your time with anyone who can't demonstrate results with clients who are in some meaningful way similar to you.

3. Availability. A coach should be available to you, and not just during prescribed meeting times. Everyone learns differently. Not everyone grows best through weekly one-hour structured meetings. It's a relatively personal relationship, but a business one between peers first and foremost. As such, I expect coaches to take calls between appointments and from time to time after the official coaching process has been tied off. Some of my clients don't even set appointments any more. They call me when they need me. If a potential coach squirms at this idea, it makes me wonder why he or she can't better manage time, client expectations, and fee schedules.

4. Speed. Unless you drag your feet, you should be able to experience some progress and personal improvement within the first 1 - 2 weeks after the initial assessment is complete, in some cases sooner. Coaching is not therapy, and no coach should assume that it will take months for you to show any improvement at all. The only thing that improves with that attitude is the bank balance of the coach.

5. Strategic focus on strengths, and not just because Marcus Buckingham made it trendy and cool. We lead from our strengths, and studies had proven this years before Now, Discover Your Strengths hit the bookstores. A good coach helps you figure out how to better leverage and develop your strengths in order to make progress toward your development goals. He or she will also help you figure out how to manage or improve your weaker areas, but your weaknesses shouldn't be where you spend all of your coaching time, or even most of it. Now if I could only convince some of my clients of that...

These items are completely discretionary, depending on your interests and needs:

1. Age and Gender. If you want someone your own age (or older or younger, for that matter), it's o.k. to ask for what you want. Likewise, if you believe you would feel significantly more comfortable working with one gender over the other, seek out what you want, and curb any feelings of guilt that you might be ageist or sexist. It's more important that you be comfortable enough to be open than to be politically correct. Your coach is an objective outsider, not an employee. Clients always apologize profusely when they call to ask for a male coach, but I never take it personally.

2. Industry knowledge. As much as we all like to think that our companies, roles, and industries are unique, the truth is that the majority of leadership challenges are similar across industries. Industry experience can help some people feel more comfortable with their coaches from the onset, but consider the counterargument -- the less industry experience, the less likely you are to learn that your coach is also developing your direct peer at your direct competitor.

3. Broader consulting or management experience. In my own experience, I have found that the best executive coaches have a great deal of other business experience and do not dedicate 100% of their time to working as coaches. This gives a broader perspective, but that may or may not be important in your particular situation, particularly if your development goal is of a personal nature.

When it comes to career coaching, you're swimming in some mighty strange waters these days. So strange that career coaching deserves its own spotlight in this article. If you seek coaching in anticipation of a big career move, you could experience a strange irony: your so-called career coach could do damage to your career.

Career coaching has become a popular field, along with its sidekick, resume writing. There are no barriers to entry, with the extreme variations in quality that you might expect under those circumstances.

Gone are the days when you could count on your career coach to have a graduate degree in career counseling and years of experience. You absolutely must ask for and check credentials of anyone claiming to be a career counselor.

The worst are the career coaching services that charge thousands of dollars to provide executives and aspiring executives with a "marketing director" to write your resume and tell you how to pitch yourself. There's certainly some quality to be found out there, but mostly I come across expensive junk. For example, I recently blasted two of those resumes to bits and it was a shocking but much-appreciated experience for the clients, both of whom had previously worked with me on projects. I charged a whopping $0.00, a substantially better price than the executive career coaching services had charged. These "marketing directors" had absolutely no idea what executives value, how they think, or what would make a candidate attractive to them. The resumes were full of false bravado and hot air and did not in any way reflect the fine personalities and genuine executive potential of the candidates.

Your resume is your calling card. It's your voice to prospective colleagues, and it impacts your reputation before you've even had a chance to make one in person. Don't hand the responsibility for your voice to a near-stranger. In this arena, I know of no way to take a shortcut that doesn't shortchange. Do the hard work of writing your own resume, and give it to trusted colleagues and advisors for feedback. You can't travel light on the front end of a job search, but you sure can save yourself months of delays and wasted time later by doing the hard work now.

If you've personally used an outstanding executive-level resume writing service, I'd love to hear about it. For now, though, my recommendation is this: resume writing services may be helpful for individual contributor jobs or for those who struggle a great deal with English - although I have my doubts -- but proceed with extreme caution if the hiring manager for the job you want has a title that starts with Partner, Chief, or Vice-President.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/beware-the-life-coach-who-offers-to-help-you-fulfill-your-dreams-333919.html

About the Author:Jennifer Selby Long, Founder and Principal of Selby Group, provides executive coaching and organizational development services. Jennifer's knack is helping clients navigate the leadership and organizational challenges triggered by change and growth. She knows firsthand that great plans often fail because companies don't take into account the human factors that come into play when implementing them. Visit Jennifer at: http://selbygroup.com

How to Avoid the Killer Errors That Get Your Resume Shredded

Free Resume Articles : How to Avoid the Killer Errors That Get Your Resume Shredded By: Nick Moseley

So you need a new job then? A first job, a dream job, or maybe in credit crunch 2008 any job will do for now). No matter what job you're hunting you need a really sizzling resume in order to get interview invites flooding in. Problem: Creating a hot resume can feel impossible. Believe me, it's not hard at all, when you know what to do. However, it IS easy to make mistakes and mess it up - And messed up means shredded and shredded means no job interview.

Fear not. It's not that hard at all - once you know what to avoid - and that's what I'll tell you now.

So what are the common mistakes that will mess your resume up?

**John Doe - No contact information**

Many people feel that because they're sending a cover letter, they don't need to include their name, address, phone number and email address at the top of their resume.

However it's very common for cover letters to be separated from resumes by HR departments who then pass the resume to various other staff members for review. At this stage your contact information is very likely to be lost forever! And I can tell you that it's very frustrating for a manager to receive a good resume that has all of the qualifications that he or she is looking for in an employee without a name or any contact information.

So - Very important - Include all of your contact information at the top of your resume. Name, address, phone, email.

**What do you want to do? No objective**

Large organizations may have dozens of ads for employees advertised. If your resume goes first to an HR admin person for filtering then how will he or she know what job you're applying for unless you state this in your resume as well as cover letter (again same dangers of lost cover letters apply so put it on the CV header too)

**What do you want to achieve? No goals or ambition?**

Not necessary in all cases. Use common sense. Under your name and contact information should be a heading about your career objective. You can break this into two categories. One should be for the position which you are seeking. The other can be what you hope to attain in the future.

If, for example, you are seeking the position of a newspaper reporter but have ambitions to be an editor or a features writer, then you can outline this in your resume as a career aim. This can be a handy indication that you're a long term strategic thinker as well as a loyal employee who is keen to develop new skills and add value to the business.

As I say use common sense. If applying to small companies it may not be wise to indicate that you want the job of the person who's recruiting you!

**You don't many or any skills, bye bye! They're not psychic you know!**

In any job no matter how junior there are skills required even if it's just a summer job selling ice cream on the beach (hey that's customer facing with a bit of sales you know!) Way to many CVs are thin on evidence of relevant skills.

To many applicants lump all their tasks in a short paragraph, which will not impress many possible employers.

So don't understate your past experience ' Include all of the tasks you performed at your old job, or know how to do, that concern to the position which you are seeking.

It's good to list all of the tasks and knowledge in bullet point format so that it makes it easier for the employer to see just what you can do. This is not the time to be shy or modest. Highlighting your accomplishments, knowledge and past experience can not be too underestimated when it comes to your resume.

**Got fired or saying my current job and company are rubbish - Writing why you left or are leaving**

Not necessary at all and looked at unprofessional. You will most likely be asked why you left your prior employment during your interview. Don't badmouth your last place of employment, even if your boss was a reincarnation of the Devil! Just say that you are seeking an opportunity for new development.

**I want, I want! Talking money right off the block**

NEVER put down how much you are making at your current job or how much money you expect to pull in at the new job.

While some employers will ask that you state your salary qualifications in your cover letter, this is never acceptable on a CV.

Many employees who ask that prospective employees state their salary requirements in their cover letter tend to pay low wages and do not want to waste their time with anyone who expects to be paid enough money to make a living.

**Your resume looks like a 5 year olds "art" project**

For a 5 year old it's cute. For a resume it's death. Coloured paper, fancy fonts and pics may look really nice but is generally considered to be amateurish. Use white paper. Black ink. Standard fonts. Standard upper and lower caps and make it easy to read.

**Uneducated barbarians need not apply**

You didn't spring into existence from nowhere so make sure that you put down your educational experience from the last college or university that you attended to the first.

If you have a post graduate degree, that should come first under the Education heading, along with the degree and any awards.

Your undergraduate university or college should come second along with degrees and accomplishments. If you have a post grad degree you don't have to put down high school information ' That's a given.

**No autobiographies please!**

Pages of life story filler are a sure way to get round filed fast. With that said, it's a context thing. Don't hesitate to make your CV more than one page if your accomplishments, experience and education warrants this in the context of the position applied for.

It's better not to underestimate yourself than to keep your resume short and sweet. On the other hand don't pout down long lists of hobbies, and non work related achievements, your junior schools, places lived in, travel done and so on. It's filler and recognised as such right away. Black mark.

**Summary**

So, avoid these clangers and you'll be well on your way to creating an interview magnet of a resume that will reflect all of the reasons why you are the best person for the job as well as a resume that reflects your personality.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/how-to-avoid-the-killer-errors-that-get-your-resume-shredded-387928.html

About the Author:Originally from London sales manager Nick gave high energy strutting multi lingual audience presentations all over Europe. For love he threw that in and now lives in publishes careers websites from, for example CoolCareer where you can find public speaking, resume/CV and interview help ideas and tips.

Create a Resume That Rises To the Top

Monday, April 21, 2008

Free Resume Articles : Create a Resume That Rises To the Top by Michael Fleischner

Today's job market is difficult. With fewer available jobs, getting the job you want can be a real challenge, even if you're qualified. One way to stand out from the crowd is with a well written resume that makes the selection process easy for hiring managers. Make sure your resume answers who you are, what you can do for the hiring managers company, and how you can be contacted.

Who Are You?

This topic includes your name and any professional designations you have obtained, such as an MBA, Ph.D., RN, MD, or any of a number of professional distinctions. By including these designations with your name in the header of your resume, you are providing the hiring manager with immediate and valuable data regarding your candidacy and career level.

The manner in which you present your name is also important. Including familial designations such Joe Jones, III may very well be seen as pretentious by a hiring manager. Using a “Jr.” after your name may be applauded by your family, but it could give a hiring manager the wrong first impression â€" that you are young and inexperienced. Caution is always advised in these instances.

A quick word about the use of nicknames. Nicknames can work for you or against you given the circumstances. If you were named “Kendrick,” but go by “Ken,” use of your nickname would be appropriate as Ken is more modern and sounds more youthful than Kendrick.

However, if you were christened “Barbara,” but are known as “Babs” - even at work - it would be best to err on the conservative side during your job search, especially if the targeted industry is a traditional one such as banking, accounting, or education. Once hired, you can then decide whether using your nickname is appropriate. What can you do for my company?

The purpose of reading a resume is largely to determine what you can do for a particular hiring manager and the company he works for. What makes you unique? How can the company be sure that you would provide significant value?

When forming your resume, put yourself in the shoes of a hiring manager who has to look at dozens of resumes. Be sure to highlight your skills, industry expertise, or knowledge that sets you apart from all other applicants. Place this information at the very top of document. Don’t make hiring managers search for this all important information.

How You Can Be Contacted?

This data should be instantly obvious to a hiring manager. Your phone number and email address are your most important contact data. For easy access by hiring managers, phone numbers and emails should be bolded and in a larger type than the physical address, as hiring managers rarely, if ever, contact a successful candidate by “snail” mail.

A quick word about phone numbers. Although you may be tempted to list numerous phone numbers, including fax numbers, don’t.

Never include a work number even if your boss knows you’re searching for another position as this sends the wrong message to a potential employer. He or she will wonder about your loyalty and whether you’ll be using company time at your new job to speak to prospective employers.

Never include cell phone numbers because you may just be contacted while you’re in traffic which brings intrusive background noise, or where the phone signal is weak which could irritate a busy hiring manager.

Stand out from other candidates by answering the simple questions of who you are, what you can do for the company you are applying for, and basic contact information. Make this information easy to discern and you’ll have the edge you so desperately need in a challenging labor market.

About the Author
Michael Fleischner is the Managing Director of Resumeedge.com which provides Resume Writing, Sample Resumes, and Cover Letter Services.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=860123

Job Hunting - 9 Easy Steps to a Winning CV Resume

Free Resume Articles : Job Hunting - 9 Easy Steps to a Winning CV Resume by Robert Paterson

Do you want to get a head start in the job hunting market? Your cv resume is your most important asset. No matter how brilliant or highly qualified you might be, if your resume is not up to the mark, you will get rejected. Follow these 9 easy steps to make a resume that will give you the edge over your rivals.

1. Keep it simple

Don't try to impress with anything fancy or complicated. You have probably about five seconds to make your impression on the reader - if you try to be too clever, your cv will get trashed.

2. Be straight

Don't try to be witty or humorous. You might be tempted to make a joke to show that you'll be "one of the guys" when you start the job, but it's best to just confine yourself to being as factual as possible.

3. Never criticize former employers.

It might be very tempting to justify your reasons for leaving a previous job by slagging the employer to make you look good. Remember that if you do this the prospective employer is much more likely to put themselves in the position of the former employer, and to think that you might be a troublesome employee.

4. Be concise

Try not to ramble. There aren't any clear rules about how long your resume should be, but if you can fit it all on to a single A4 page, then that's probably the best. You have to include your full career history, education and achievements - so if you need to use two sheets, then do so. Don't try to cram it all on one page so it looks cramped. But never use more than two sheets.

5. Mark everything clearly

Again, there are no hard and fast rules about the design of a cv, but you should ensure that it's easy to find everything. Your name, address and contact details should be clearly shown at the top of the page.

6. Be brief

List your previous employment in reverse chronological order, stating briefly your responsibilities and any achievements. Resist the temptation to go into descriptive detail about them. You can save that for the interview. After this should follow your education history with qualifications gained. Then state your interests and hobbies. Again you should avoid going into detail about them - just state what they are.

7. Ask your referee's permission

It may seem obvious, but if you are giving someone's name as a referee, you should check with that person before you do it. It's only a formality, that's true, but your politeness will make your referee more disposed to write nice things about you.

8. Make it look good

Your resume should be printed on good quality paper, without any attachments. It should stand alone. You can show off any certificates or letters when the employer asks for them. Check carefully to ensure there are no spelling mistakes or typos on the resume.

9. Tell the truth!

It's tempting to tell little white lies on your cv, for example, to fudge the dates to hide any times of unemployment. However, this is a risky course of action, since the employer can easily check such details. Also try not to claim you can do something which you in fact can't do. This will be easily exposed. So the best thing is to be as truthful as possible.

About the Author
Robert Paterson writes for the blog "Success is not just about Money" which you can visit at http://positivehighenergy.blogspot.com/

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=859017

How to Cheat on Your Resume

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Free Resume Articles : How to Cheat on Your Resume by Fae Cheska Esperas

Do you always feel that your resume is not impressive enough for your employer to notice? Do you find your CV layout utterly boring? Well, worry no more for here are some tips to dress up that resume of yours-without the need of glitter and photo paper!

1. Make use of POWER WORDS

Remember that your future employer is looking for achievements and accomplishments. With these they gauge your working potential and see how efficient you can be as a part of their company. Better use of credible descriptor words such as "achieved", "accomplished", and "headed" when writing down your resume details. These words easily catch your interviewer's attention making him do more than just a quick glance at your CV.

2. Highlight the important details

Put emphasis on the areas which you want your employer to focus on. These include your job objectives, key strengths, most recent job experience, and most of all, your most important achievements which you think have to be recognized by your prospective employer. If you have previously taken up online degrees, then highlight them as well.

Make your dream career find you.

3. Include a short list of references

This always comes in handy because some employers actually do intensive background checks on their applicants, particularly the ones whom they think are really fit for the job. Be sure to indicate the correct contact information of your references.

4. KISS-Keep It Short and Simple

Keep your sentences simple enough for your employer to understand. Put your resume details in individual phrases so that each of them will get an equal share of the limelight. This also allows your employer to review your CV step by step and not get cluttered with a truckload of information.

Keep in mind that you are selling yourself with your resume. When your potential employer sees that you are packed with all the qualities and benefits he is looking for, then you're definitely in.

About the Author
Fae Cheska Esperas is a 22-year old writer who aims to help individuals find success in their careers.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=856360

Resume key mistakes to Avoid

Free Resume Articles : Resume key mistakes to Avoid by Syed Muzaffar Aqleem Tirmizi

The major purpose of Resume/CV is to get you to the interview rooms. Therefore, for jobseekers this is the step that requires great deal of care and holds vital significance in the whole process of Job Hunting.

Now I have listed down some key mistakes to avoid so that your Resume/CV could give you better results the next time you send it.

1- Avoid Grammatical Mistakes:

At times this has been observed and has been sated by the employers that one of the most negative that could go against any candidate is having grammatical errors in their Resume/CV. Thus, preventive measure should be taken. Before taking a printout for final submission whole document should be carefully corrected for any grammatical mistakes.

2- One Resume/CV will do:

Another turn off for the employers has been that the Resume/CV which they have received has nothing to do with the job opportunity. What the Job Seekers do is that they take many printouts of one CV and send it to all the employers. What the employers actually are looking for is a specific CV which has been created for them only. So substantial care if required.

3- Lack of Details:

At times irrelevant information is provided and relevant information seems to be missing from the Resume/CV. Therefore, we need to make sure that the key information will remain present there. Remain to the point and not to mention irrelevant details. However, do list about your accomplishment in a story form.

4- Incorrect Contact Information:

Another thing that needs attention is that you should not provide incorrect information in the resume. As this process usually entails getting in touch with you. But, if the information is not as correct that it should be then it will again fail to full fill its purpose.

5- Consultation:

Before sending your resumes do get it checked by some individuals. It's always a good idea to get your Resume/ CV checked by some expert. They will provide you professional feedback and might also recommend you for something better in future.

So, these are the major mistakes which you need to avoid and by doing so you will be increasing the probability of letting the Resume/CV attain its objective.

About the Author
Syed Muzaffar Aqleem Tirmizi is part of the operational management in leading cellular operator in Pakistan, specializing in providing training solutions for individuals, teams and organizations.For your training needs or operational analysis could be contacted at tirmizi@tirmizifinancials.com or visit http://www.tirmizifinancials.com or http://www.ma-tirmizi.com

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=853709

Business Resume Tips

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Resume Articles : Business Resume Tips by Jason Kay

For most job-seekers, the resume is the only way to get your foot in the door. Unfortunately, the employer probably gets so many resumes, that he barely has time to read through them all. This makes getting a foot in the door extremely difficult.

What usually happens is that human resources will do an initial screening of all resumes sent in. Those that pass the initial HR screening may go to the hiring manager, who will scan the resumes and pick out the ones that seem to be a good fit for his needs. After this process, a more thorough screening will be done to select candidates that might be called for a phone interview.

Once a job-seeker gets that phone call, the importance and weight of the resume starts to drop in comparison with the more personal communications. Therefore, the goal of creating a resume should be to pass through the initial screening process. Some tips to help you be impressive on paper are listed below.

Make it a marketing tool

A resume is a tool for you to use to market yourself. An employer lists a job because there is an unmet need. Therefore, your resume should address how you can meet that need better than anyone else.

There is nothing wrong with creating multiple versions of a resume, so long as you are truthful. Target your resume to the employer either by creating a resume for different industry verticals or targeted job titles.

Make it highlight results

Too many people simply write down job titles and dates without giving good examples of what type of previous results were achieved. When writing your experience, make sure you highlight your biggest achievements. Use action words like, "I managed", "I led", "I developed" and then in a very short sentence, state what the result was.

A great example is "I led a 4 million dollar project which resulted in a 50 million dollar profit." This is short and to the point, but also gives the employer something very real and practical to work with.

Make the summary meaningful

When creating a summary, avoid generics at all cost. Be specific about who you are, what you have accomplished and what you wish to do.

A sentence that states you are a professional seeking a challenging position doesn't have any meaning. Instead, a summary that states you are a sales management professional with ten years success in increasing profits wishing to find a position in the automobile sales industry gives the employer more information to work with.

Make it look good

Last but not least is how your resume looks. Use bullet points, keep the same font and format throughout the resume and make good use of white space. Realistically, you probably have 30 seconds to make it into the follow-up pile instead of the throw-away pile.

In addition, check spelling and grammar. Then, you should check spelling and grammar. Finally, you should have someone else check your spelling and grammar. One misspelled word or unreadable sentence could label you as incompetent.

In conclusion, remember that a resume is not intended to be a complete job history and is not intended to list every accomplishment you have ever had. A resume should be used to show the employer why you are worthy of an interview. You must address the employer's needs, target the employer's industry and make it look eye-catching and professional.

About the Author
Jason Kay is an expert resume writer who contributes to career advice websites such as JobGoRound.com, which provides resume writing service reviews and resume distribution service reviews.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=853011

Writing An Effective Legal Resume

Free Resume Articles : Writing An Effective Legal Resume by Jason Kay

Law school taught you plenty, but it probably didn't teach you how to write a resume that will secure you an interview with the firm of your dreams. It can be daunting to create or even update a resume because there's so much pressure to be unique. The best advice, however, is not to strive for "different" but for "best." Legal resumes aren't the venue for getting creative or artsy. You want to blow them away them with your incredible successes and winning attitude. How do you do that? By putting your experience in the best possible light (no lying) and expressing your desire to do great work for them.

Below are more tips on creating a winning legal resume:

Pick a format. In some professions, it's easy to determine whether you should submit a chronological resume or a functional resume. For attorneys, however, the choice isn't as clear cut. First, think about the goal of your resume. Are you changing fields? Do you change jobs a lot? Are you new to the legal profession? A functional resume is probably your best bet. Are you submitting your resume in hopes of a promotion? Are you applying for a senior-level position? Are you changing cities but sticking to the same area of law? Choose chronological. The final factor in the format debate is the firm to which you're applying. If it's a young, hip firm, they may conclude that you're not up-to-date on current legal matters if they see 25 years of experience on your resume. So opt for a functional rather than chronological resume. But if you're applying to an old-school firm, they may think that 25 years is just a launching point, so chronological is fine.

Include an objective--or not. Again, whether you include an objective at the beginning of your resume depends on a couple of factors. It's only considered necessary if the firm to which you're applying is active in a number of legal fields or if your resume includes experience in a variety of areas. If you're a family law attorney applying to a family law firm, it's assumed that your objective is to work in family law.

Move your education to the bottom. Unless you've been out of law school for fewer than five years, format your resume so that the details of your education are at the end of your resume. And the longer you've been out of school, the shorter your education section should be. It's your experience talking now--not your GPA.

Keep it clean. It's tempting to throw everything into your work history in hopes that something in there will impress a potential employer, but resist the urge to "kitchen sink" your resume. Make sure every detail is somehow relevant to the job you want. When you're applying for an environmental law position, mentioning your 82 percent success rate in personal injury law is fine (it shows your winning history), but mentioning the number of hits per game that you average on your slow-pitch softball team is just bizarre. And, yes, it happens more often that you'd like to believe.

Spell it out. There's a significant amount of legal jargon and acronyms that you'd hope potential employers would know, but you can't be sure that the person reading your resume first is an attorney. Lots of firms farm out their human resources needs to companies who sift through resumes from doctors to garbage collectors. When in doubt, spell it out. And definitely spell out your job titles. If you were an assistant state's attorney, for example, spell out "assistant." One exasperated hiring manager mentioned that if she saw any more "ass. attorneys" on a resume, she would simply toss it.

Consider a transaction sheet. Depending on the area of law for which you're submitting a resume--and if you have enough years of experience--you may want to include a transaction sheet as part of your resume. For an even cleaner look, make it a supplement to your resume. Rather than list transactions chronologically (you shouldn't use dates anyway), group them by area of law. Also, keep the sheet simple, using bullet points to illustrate your successful transactions. Finally, make sure you're legally able to disclose any information you include on the sheet--dollar amounts in particular.

Proof and proof again. While it's never a good idea to make a grammatical or spelling mistake on a resume, nobody wants to hire an attorney who doesn't know the difference between "there" and "their." Run your resume past a friend who does know the difference.

About the Author
Jason Kay is an expert resume writer who contributes to career advice websites such as JobGoRound.com, which provides resume writing service reviews and resume distribution service reviews.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=852870

What Are You Reading, and How Can It Help Your Resume and Job Search?

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Resume Articles : What Are You Reading, and How Can It Help Your Resume and Job Search? by Allen Voivod

If you're about to prepare a resume, or you're considering a revision to a resume, of course you're bound to be diving in to books about writing resumes.

But you're not just a resume writer, are you? You're a well-rounded business person. As a manager, executive, or solo business professional, your reading shouldn't (and probably doesn't) center simply around task-based books. And interestingly, reading some of the higher level business books can actually help you with the task of completing your resume - and other job-search-related tasks.

Before we get into that, though, here are three great resources for finding out which business books should be on the top of your reading list.

*Bestseller lists. From major media outlets like the New York Times, to major retailers like Amazon, you'll find a bounty of bestseller lists with a quick Google search.

*Top books of the year lists. The lists differ, since everyone's opinion is different, and lists like these are more about fostering discussion than anything else. Major media and retailers put out these lists, too, and so do more job-search-relevant places. Monster.com, for example, offers an Best Business Books of the Year list.

*Business summaries. You've seen them advertised in the airline magazines, flooding your mailbox with direct response offers, and blinking in banner ads on the sides of your favorite business websites. The truth is, these summaries are a great deal for the time-crunched professional. Absorb the main concepts in a short reading session, and take a stroll over to your local library if you want to dive deeper.

So, what do these business books have to do with resume writing and distribution? On the face of it, not much. But step back for a moment and ask yourself these questions:

* What are hiring managers in your target industries reading right now?

* What are recruiters and headhunters reading right now?

* What's on the executive office bookshelves in venture captial firms right now?

I'd be willing to bet the answers include a few of the books on those lists. And if these are the books they're reading, shouldn't these be the books you're reading, too?

Make sure your resume, your interviews, and your networking encounters demonstrate (in a nicely understated way) you're up to date with some of the hottest business books out there. Even (and especially) if you don't agree with what you read in them. Polite disagreement makes for some great conversation.

About the Author
Allen Voivod is the Chief Blogger for ResumeMachine.com, the leading resume distribution resource for managers, executives, and professionals looking to accelerate their job search results. Get the attention of thousands of hiring agents with the largest and most frequently updated recruiter database on the web, and dive into a wealth of immediately useful career articles and blog posts - all at http://www.ResumeMachine.com !

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=847760

Preparing Your Resume and Cover Letter: What They Forgot to Teach You in College

Free Resume Articles : Preparing Your Resume and Cover Letter: What They Forgot to Teach You in College by Michael Flesichner

Congratulations! You have a college diploma in your hand that says you're ready to go out into the working world. You may have maintained a stellar GPA. You may have participated in groundbreaking scientific research. You may have written, produced, and performed an entire concerto. Whatever your program of study, you may feel like your college education has paved the way into the work force. That is, until you realize something: you don't know how to prepare a resume.

It's astounding how comprehensive your college education seemed to be, and yet it's likely you were never taught the basics of resume-writing. Presenting yourself to a potential employer by writing an excellent resume may be critical to your success. It may even be more important than your grades, extra-curricular activities, and your other achievements. Make sure that you include these crucial elements:

* Your personal info. Include your name, address, telephone number, cell phone number, pager number, and email. Most potential employers will try to contact you by your home phone. But just in case, it's good to leave a few different contact options. Never include your social security number, as some people mistakenly do on resumes or job applications. This information could be used to steal your identity and isn't necessary during the application process.

* Your educational history. You need not go all the way back to elementary school. Start with your most recent educational info: college. Details should include where you attended (every institution, if you attended more than one), its location, your graduation year, and your major/program. Next, list the high school that you graduated from. It is usually not necessary to list every high school, if you happened to attend more than one. Simply include the name of the one where you graduated and the year.

* Your employment history. How many of your past work places you include will depend upon how many there are. If you've had less than five different jobs in your life so far, list them all, and the duration that you worked at them. If you've tried more than your average share of jobs, you may want to list only the most recent ones. There is no prohibition against listing them all. However, if you did a lot of job hopping and some of your positions lasted mere months, including this information should be discretionary.

* Any volunteer work that you've done. This is important because it shows that you have other experience besides your last fast food job. Volunteer experience may be the key that sets you apart from other potential job candidates.

This is the basic information about yourself that every potential employer you contact will see. In addition to handing out your resume, you should include a cover letter addressed directly to the company you are making application to. The cover letter is extremely important, because it gives you a chance to share more than just the basics about yourself. Your resume contains general information; the cover letter contains information specific to that company. This is where you explain why you want to work for that particular company. It's your chance to persuade a potential employer that you are worth granting a face-to-face interview. There's a good chance that whoever is looking at your resume is also reviewing dozens of others. A persuasive cover letter may be the difference between causing an employer to examine your resume more closely or tossing it in the 'out' file. Address it directly to the person who will be reviewing candidates. If you don't know it, make an effort to find out.

Remember that being persuasive does not mean being long-winded. Busy executives won't have time to read a five page cover letter. Make it at least a page, but no more than two pages. Coupled with a well-written and concise resume, your cover letter will grab an employer's attention and make him or her want to take a second look at you.

About the Author
Michael Fleischner is the Managing Director of Resumeedge.com which provides Resume Writing, Sample Resumes, and Cover Letter Services.
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Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=846606

Lacking a Degree? Top Resume Tips for Aspiring Leaders

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Free Resume Articles : Lacking a Degree? Top Resume Tips for Aspiring Leaders by Laura SmithProulx

If you're a senior-level professional or manager, you've probably worked your way up the corporate ranks through demonstrated leadership, dedication, and proficiency.

At some point, you may find yourself wanting to transition upward in your career, and this can be where that nagging doubt sets in: you never finished (or even started) college.

What if this holds you back?

In my work as a professional resume writer, it amazes me how often this question comes up. It seems that ascending professionals divided into two camps: those who fear what might happen during the job search because their career took off too quickly to attend to educational matters, and those without a degree who have ascended the career ladder just the same.

If you aspire to the corner office, moving from the first group into the second requires using some key strategies to pique an employer's interest. Consider these tips to present a confident image, no matter what your educational status:

> Look at your career contributions with dollar signs.

Employers are always interested in the bottom line. Can you add to it, or control the expenses affecting it? Then, by all means, get this information onto your resume.

Now, extracting this data can be a challenge, but consider the payoff! A powerful leadership resume must practically shout this information in order to prove the strength of your performance.

Ask yourself hard questions about the results of your work, and then put figures to as much of it as possible.

For example, when working with a telecommunications executive lacking a degree, I discussed his leadership role in a reengineering project.

Our analysis yielded sentences such as "Eliminated $34M in rework and achieved 78+% ROI by leading sales and service delivery teams to identify core revisions." Information such as this helped him quickly demonstrate fitness for a leadership role, while minimizing questions on his educational status.

Results such as these speak for themselves and can cut through any doubt about your abilities-degree or not.

> Add professional training as proof of ongoing development.

You may have attended hours of seminars, leadership training sessions, and other professional development endeavors. Now's the time to take advantage of your participation.

Keep a complete list as fodder for an educational section on your resume, thus avoiding any temptation to simply skip this information. Adding this data can demonstrate not only a passion for lifelong learning, but also a dedication to learning concepts that benefit employers.

> Mention partial degree programs and other studies.

College coursework, even if you did not finish a degree program, still counts toward secondary education requirements in the eyes of many hiring managers.

In fact, one of the key questions I always ask leadership professionals is whether they attended college without graduating. Most employers understand that life happens, and that not everyone finishes their degree programs.

Use every opportunity to your advantage! Don't forget to list college studies, including majors and areas of concentration, on your resume.

> Showcase your personal brand and leadership qualities.

Everyone has unique strengths and capabilities to offer their next employer. What are yours? Have you thought about the impact you have on the company's business?

Ask yourself what pattern emerges when you name personal qualities and traits that allow you to succeed. Believe it or not, these are very relevant to employers, and OFTEN stand out more during a job hunt than degrees do.

Make a list of what you achieve that consistently affects revenue, the corporate reputation, or efficiency, and then describe the steps you've taken to attain these results.

Ensure that this information takes center stage on your resume, rather that just listing mundane tasks and other details.

In summary, establishing a link between your expertise and consistent corporate performance is the fastest way to gain attention during your job search.

And consider this: For every employer requiring a degree, there are probably two others that will look at your "on-the-job education" as equivalent (and possibly even stronger) credentials.

About the Author
A unique resume authority, Laura Smith-Proulx is the Executive Director of An Expert Resume (http://www.anexpertresume.com), a career services company that caters to organizational leaders, from managers poised for growth to senior-level executives. Laura has contributed to the success of hundreds of leadership professionals with powerful resumes designed to uniquely brand candidates and facilitate career advancement.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=846396

Go Beyond Your Resume, and Visualize Your Perfect Job

Free Resume Articles : Go Beyond Your Resume, and Visualize Your Perfect Job by Allen Voivod

Got your resume out to the recruiters? Already signed up for that resume distribution service? Good. While your resume starts making its way through the job search ether, you've got some time to think about how you want your new job to look.

More money would be nice, but everyone wants that. Go deeper. Think about the benefits. The office culture. The opportunities for growth inside your new company? What else? There's bound to be more things that have crossed your mind.

Here are just a few of the options to consider:

1. What your workday will be like. Think about how you want to be able to communicate and interact with your bosses, your peers, your subordinates. What's best for you? Is the pressure to perform high, low, or just right? What kind of room do you need for do the job you want to do?

2. Benefits. There are so many new and inventive ways companies are giving incentives to their new hires - everything from hometown basketball team tickets to on-site child care and health clubs. and that's not to mention the old-school health, vacation, and retirement options you may have.

3. Your work/life balance. Are you okay with making a greater commitment to work - one that takes away from your free time, whether you're on your own or you have a family? How about your commute, or your ability and interesting in telecommuting?

4. Your goals. If you're not staying at the place you're at now, it's a safe bet your new job won't be your last. What's the next step after this one? can you imagine a job that will prepare you for the next step? What will you need to learn, experience, and achieve in the new position, in order to get even closer to you ultimate career goals?

Back in my bank auditor days, I switched companies to get more money - but that was just part of the equation. I also got a broader set of responsibilities, cut my commute time and distance by 85%, and had a much better chance to affect real change in my company.

My desires may be totally different from yours. But don't just stop at thinking they're different. Actually take some time to define what you really want out of the next job, aside from the money.

And when that recruiter emails you, or when the headhunter calls, you'll know how to spot the right opportunity - and not waste anyone's time. Especially your own.

About the Author
Allen Voivod is the Chief Blogger for ResumeMachine.com, the leading resume distribution resource for managers, executives, and professionals looking to accelerate their job search results. Get the attention of thousands of hiring agents with the largest and most frequently updated recruiter database on the web, and dive into a wealth of immediately useful career articles and blog posts - all at http://www.ResumeMachine.com !

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=846202

Writing An Engineering Resume That Gets Attention

Friday, April 11, 2008

Free Resume Writing Articles : Writing An Engineering Resume That Gets Attention by Jason Kay

You're talented and experienced, so any old resume should be able to secure that dream job you're after, right? Wrong. Whether you're writing a new resume or revising an existing resume, you can't assume that the standard rules apply. After all, you're an engineer! And while you're undoubtedly a very good engineer, there will be dozens--perhaps hundreds--of talented engineers applying for the same desirable job.

What works for most professionals won't necessarily work for an engineering resume. For instance, resumes are typically structured in a chronological format, but because the field of engineering is very project-oriented, it's better to list important (read: impressive) projects, achievements, and skills first. Below are more tips on creating an engineering resume that will lead to those all-important interviews.

* Be specific. By the very nature of the work, most engineers are able to think outside the box, juggle multiple projects, and a variety of other resume clichés. So don't bore potential employers with those generic phrases. If you list your ability to successfully work on multiple projects simultaneously, provide a one- or two-line example from your past work history to back up your claim.

* But not about your salary. Depending on your area of specialization and experience, engineers can expect to make quite a handsome living. So it's not unusual for employers to request a salary history or salary range from engineering applicants. While you may not be able to avoid the issue altogether, it's important to try to skirt it as much as possible. You may think you absolutely need X amount of dollars to consider a position, but the truth is that there are a lot of variables: a great benefits package can make up for a lot, as can perks such as flexible hours or ample vacation. So always provide a range--not an exact number--if explicitly asked. And if you're required to provide a salary history, try to insert a range as well. If you started out your last job at $80,000 but left making $100,000, assign $80,000-$100,000 to that job, rather than simply $100,000. Otherwise, you might price yourself out a job that you really want.

* Use keywords. Though it's important that your resume be written in reader-friendly language that makes sense to hiring managers, it's also very possible that your resume will be scanned for specific keywords. Scanning is becoming increasingly common--especially in technical professions such as engineering--and if your resume is found lacking, it may not move on. Make sure you weave in qualifications, certifications, and experience that are outlined in the job posting, mimicking the posting's language where it makes sense.

* Give the good stuff. Cover letters are important, but ask any hiring manager, and they'll tell you that they skip cover letters more often than they read them. So don't hold back any of your accomplishments from your resume, thinking that you need something fresh for the cover letter. Always list the most important information on your resume.

* Define your objective. If you include an objective at the top of your resume, make sure it fits with the job you're applying for. If you're submitting a resume for an aeronautical engineering position, but your objective details your aspiration to move into environmental engineering, your resume won't get a second glance. Not only does it broadcast the fact that you don't know or don't care what the job listing said, but employers will assume that you don't intend to stick around for the long haul. Also, don't write a one-size-fits-all objective stating your desire to "utilize my extensive skills to benefit your company." That could fit any company from McDonald's to NASA!

About the Author
Jason Kay is a professional resume writer who is dedicated to providing job seekers with resources and information that assist with each step of the job search cycle. Read resume writing service reviews and ratings, resume distribution advice, and interview tips at http://www.JobGoRound.com.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=845985

Writing An IT Resume That Stands Out

Free Resume Articles : Writing An IT Resume That Stands Out by Jason Kay

Information technology jobs are popping up in unheard-of numbers all over the world. After all, everyone uses computers today, which means everyone needs help figuring them out and fixing them when things go awry. But just because more IT jobs are available than ever before doesn't mean that you can slap together a so-so resume and assume you'll be hired. Why not? Because there are also more applicants than ever before. So it's crucial that your resume is both eye-catching and informative. Below are some tips that will help you stand out from the IT crowd and land an interview for your dream job.

* Target your resume to the job. Your resume will be given more weight if it's clear that you've created it especially for the IT job that's been posted. Look through the requirements for the job and make sure your corresponding skills and experience are the first things listed on your resume.

* Use the skills section. Most people have a skills section on their resume, but they include two or three "skills" such as two years of college French or the ability to create PowerPoint presentations. For the IT resume, however, the skills section is one of the most important and should be placed before your work history. This is where you can really put yourself head and shoulders above the competition by listing all of your experience with and knowledge of hardware and software. Just make sure your lists are organized into easy-to-read segments.

* Give certifications and experience equal weight. IT is one profession where experience counts at least as much as any certifications you have. Don't get me wrong; certifications are important. They show that you've put in the time to learn important programs and procedures. But if you're light on certifications, it's not necessarily a deal breaker. Most companies would rather hire someone with three years of the experience they need than someone with a dozen certifications but no hands-on experience.

* Demonstrate problem-solving abilities. At its core, information technology is all about problem-solving--finding a problem, identifying its cause, and correcting the problem. Make sure your resume reflects the most impressive ways you've used your problem-solving skills in the past to help your company or clients resolve their IT issues.

* Avoid jargon and acronyms. Information technology uses more jargon and acronyms than just about any other field, so IT applicants need to be especially careful when it comes to abusing them on a resume. Don't assume that someone familiar with IT terms will be reading your resume--at least not at every step in the process. Depending on the company, your resume may go through a general hiring manager first, and if he or she can't decipher your resume, it may get tossed.

* Don't exaggerate. Stretching the truth, exaggerating, outright lying--call it what you will, but playing fast and loose with your experience or credentials will most likely come back to haunt you. Companies aren't going to entrust their precious IT infrastructure to just anyone and usually do more extensive checking on IT candidates. Put your experience in the best light, but stick to the truth.

* Identify your value. Clearly state the value that you will bring to your potential employer. Don't assume that your skills, experience, and certifications are saying it for you; spell it out. "I am able to single-handedly support your mainframe needs, as evidenced by (insert experience)..." says a lot more to employers than a simple fact or number. Companies want to get the most bang for their buck, and you need to prove that hiring you is the best decision they could make.

About the Author
Jason Kay is a professional resume writer who is dedicated to providing job seekers with resources and information that assist with each step of the job search cycle. Read resume writing service reviews and ratings, resume distribution advice, and interview tips at http://www.JobGoRound.com.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=835540

Military-To-Civilian Resume Tips

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Free Resume Articles : Military-To-Civilian Resume Tips by Jason Kay

When you're separating from the military after years of service, it can be daunting to look for a civilian job. Sure, you've got experience that most other job seekers don't. (Has any other applicant jumped out of an airplane in the middle of the night? I don't think so.) But the question is, how do you get potential employers to look past "military" and see how your incredible experiences will benefit their company?

It's not such a difficult task, but it does require more finesse than the typical job seeker has to put into a resume. There are several mistakes that many former military personnel make when writing a resume designed for civilian jobs. Fortunately, the tips below will help you understand what potential employers are looking for and how to design your resume to meet those needs.

* Play up the discipline factor. What's the first thing that comes to mind when most civilians think of military service? Discipline, a strong work ethic, or perhaps loyalty. And what characteristics are employers looking for today? Discipline, a strong work ethic, and loyalty. One of the biggest complaints that employers have today is that employees job hop frequently and don't have the work ethic that they did 20 years ago. This is one area where your military experience will work to your advantage, so highlight your work ethic and ability to self-start.

* Stick to the point. As the commercial says, you probably did more before 9 a.m. than most people do all day, but don't put it all in your resume. Outline your military jobs and the transferable skills applicable to the job you're applying for. If you worked in communications, for example, and are now searching for a communication job outside the military, focus on how you developed a new information system. The honors you received for shooting accuracy isn't going to interest them.

* Don't deluge with details. Similar to the tip above, when you're describing the finer points of your job or skills, a good rule of thumb is to avoid using more than one line to do so. Leave out why you did something (ie: a personnel shortage prompted you to volunteer) or details that would only matter to the military (ie: the make or model of aircraft). For greater effectiveness, keep it simple: "My retention program resulted in a 20% increase in re-signings."

* Learn a new language. The military has its own language and terminology that people on the outside don't necessarily understand. And since the point of a resume is to clearly communicate your skills and strengths, you need to research the non-military way to phrase your skills. Also, never use acronyms or abbreviations. Make your resume as easy to understand as possible.

* Include relevant courses and programs you've completed. Remember those IT or management classes the military made you take? Those are very transferable into the private sector. Employers won't care that the military paid for them; they care about the knowledge you gained. So list all of the classes you completed that are relevant to the job you're applying for.

* Take advantage of your documented evaluations. In the military, you receive constant evaluations of how you're doing in your job--unlike most civilians. You've got proof that you met or exceeded expectations, so don't forget to include that data. Use more than words, though. Highlight the numbers and percentages that prove your point: how many personnel you supervised or how much you slashed a budget.

* Separate your skills from your achievements. You undoubtedly have many of both as a result of your military career. For a more readable resume, don't try to include both in the same section, or it will become too wordy. Hiring managers want easy-to-digest information bullets, so give it to them.

About the Author
Jason Kay is a professional resume writer who contributes to career related magazines and websites such as JobGoRound.com, which provides resume writing service reviews and cover letter writing tips.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=827760

Resume Template - A Guide on How to Write A Resume Quickly

Monday, April 7, 2008

Free Resume Template - A Guide on How to Write A Resume Quickly by Woody

There are plenty of people who want a fast method on how to write a resume and resort to using a resume template. But does it improve your chances of getting that job interview? A resume template can obviously speed up learning how to write a resume, however it can also result in your application looking similarly like the rest.

Yes, a resume template is a valuable tool but it can generate problems if you do not know how to write a resume with a template correctly. Listed, are some of its advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of a Resume Template

A resume template is relatively simple and easy to use. It can be readily downloaded from the net. All that is needed is filling up the necessary information. You do not have to spend plenty of time learning how to use it. You may have to make a few changes but it still cuts the time you would have spent starting afresh.

There a numerous formats and styles that come with a resume template. This gives you more choice. You can then select what format will be suitable for the current role that you are seeking.

A resume template is professional looking. The fonts and formats of a resume template are products of careful research and you are assured that it is presentable. It is just a matter of selecting which one is best.

Disadvantages of a Resume Template

There is a chance that your resume will look like the rest.

Some applicants depend only on a resume template and try to cram in every information that is required even if does not necessarily suit the role they are seeking. This results in an overload of information that can confuse a prospective employer when he has to sort out only the details that are required of the job.

A resume template has numerous formats and styles that sometimes you might end up choosing one that is relatively out of the ordinary. This can either result in two things - impress an employer or confuse him.

So, Is Using a Resume Template Good?

A resume template will ony be ever as good as how you intend to use it. While it can be a very useful tool, try not put in all information when it is not necessary for the position you are applying for. If correctly used, a resume template is a very reliable way on how to write a resume that has a professional look.

About the Author
Fact: 9 out of 10 resumes will not spend a second in the employer's hand and will be thrown as trash - an unworthy end to a resume we spent hours making. Learn how to write a resume that works and how to effectively use a resume template.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=827636

Tips on How to Write a Resume Objective

Free Resume Articles : Tips on How to Write a Resume Objective by Woody

A lot of people are at a loss on how to write a resume objective that gets the interest of an employer. The first item noticed in a resume is usually the resume objective. As such, it will be to your benefit to know how to write a resume objective that stresses how you can be an asset to a company.

To learn how to write a resume objective is not hard, but it must not be taken for granted. Being the first noticeable statement, it can impact an employers decision to either throw it into the bin or call you for an interview.

How to Write a Resume Objective that Gets the Interview

1. Simplicity is the key. To learn how to write a resume objective, you need to learn how to keep it clear, concise, and straight to the point. No beating around the bush.

2. Make your resume objective stress out what you can bring to a company and not what you can take out of it. Focus on what you can offer to the position that you are applying for. To be successful on how to write a resume objective, think like the recruiter.

3. Avoid words that keep the focus on yourself like 'I', 'Me' or 'Mine'. These are self-centered and the employer might think you only want to work for yourself and not for them. Again, to learn how to write a resume objective that recruiters like, think like you are the recruiter.

4. To learn how to write a resume objective that gets the interest of employers, avoid some key phrases that do not give your resume justice and can be a hindrance to you being interviewed. A phrase like "seeking a position with an opportunity for career advancement" might give the wrong impression. Employers might feel that you will not be staying long and that you are only applying for the position as a springboard for better and lucrative offers if you don't get what you want. As such, you must carefully consider how to write a resume objective that doesn't turn the recruiter's interest off.

These are some of the main items you must take into consideration if you like to learn how to write a resume objective to get that needed job interview. Your resume objective must be short but clearly convey your statement across. It must be one to two sentences long but properly worded to make the employer read more of your resume. It must immediately convey the message that you are the right applicant for the job.

However, if you find it difficult to learn how to write a resume objective that is effective, then by all means try to look for some samples that you can start out with. Examples of resume objectives can easily be found on the internet but you need to rephrase it to suit your situation while keeping the main points above. This is one alternative on how to write a resume objective that has already been tried and tested.

About the Author
Fact: 9 out of 10 resumes end up in the trash - a worthless end to something we spent time writing. Learn How to Write a Resume that blows away your competition and gets you that interview.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=826754

Why You Need To Use A Resume Instead Of A Job Application

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Free Resume Example Articles : Why You Need To Use A Resume Instead Of A Job Application by Ann Baehr

A resume is needed over the job application is because it is a presentation of who you are. In short, it is an advertisement. You are the product.

It includes achievements instead of just "duties" and provides a lot more room for your information compared to the small section found on a job application form.

A job application includes information that would not be appropriate to list on a resume such as references, reasons for leaving a job, salary information and mailing addresses for each employer, to name a few.

Resumes have been in existence for several decades, probably right after WWII, and were certainly a lot less complicated than they are these days. They were not as much of a critical part of the job search process as they are now.

Many jobs, such as blue-collar trades, nurses, and hairstylists required a brief conversation with a supervisor or to complete a job application at the business location in response to a simple job ad or a walk-in-off-the-street effort to explore job opportunities.

The fact that people went directly to the company to complete the application meant minimal competition unless the country was going through a recession and the lines for even the lowest paying jobs wrapped around the block.

The 1980's changed all of that. Companies felt the financial pressures of the economy and emerging competition, both in the U.S. and globally reaching. To survive, major companies merged with other companies or were acquired in leverage buy-outs.

When two companies merge it creates duplicate positions down the line. It usually takes about a year for the newly formed company or acquiring company to figure out who is staying and who is going.

When the dust settles, there ends up being a rise in unemployment and fewer job openings. Since the reason companies underwent a merger or acquisition is financial, restructuring their company and its workforce was necessary and keep costs down.

To achieve that goal, companies began hiring candidates who were well rounded and could perform more than one job function. That way the company could increase productivity and reduce payroll expenses. The proverbial dedicated employee who stayed in the same job for thirty years and retired with a gold watch became a thing of the past and more of a risk to companies looking for candidates who could multitask.

This put a lot of pressure on job seekers to develop resumes that highlighted how well rounded they were. The chronological resumes weren't really working well to achieve that goal, so the functional resume was designed to showcase a job seeker's functional skills rather than their chronology.

The functional format seemed like a great idea at first, but hiring companies disliked it because it allowed job seekers to hide gaps in employment and it made it difficult to understand a job seeker's career path.

The solution was the combination format, which combines the elements of the chronological and functional formats to achieve flexibility and focus. In short, it satisfied the needs of both parties. To this day, the chronological resume is the most preferred because it is straightforward. The trick is to have it mostly chronological with elements of the combination format to break things up and add interest. Just make sure it is well organized.

During the 1980's, the World Wide Web as we know it today began to take hold and exploded by the 1990's making it very easy for job seekers and hiring companies to communicate. This meant exponentially more job seekers applying to job ads online than ever before. No longer could companies pick up the phone or read an email to qualify a potential candidate.

Companies do not have the resources to read a general letter or email covering the basics of a job seeker's employment history. They need to see a resume because a resume, although creatively written and designed, is still a technical presentation of a candidate's background, breaking it down into universally recognized sections that we all have grown to know and expect.

These all-familiar categories include Objective (or Title Statement / Heading), Summary of Qualifications (or Profile), Professional Experience (or Work History), Education and Computer Skills. Other categories include Community Involvement, Military Background, Internship Experience, etc., depending on the job seeker's unique background.

This makes it a lot easier for companies to scan through hard copies of resumes coming in over the fax or in the mail. In fact, so many resumes are sent to companies on a daily basis in response to job ads (print and online) or exploring opportunities that companies have implemented the use of resume scanning technology. The software uses Optical Character Recognition to convert hard copy to text and stores it in a database. Then when the company has a vacancy, they go to their resume database and search for possible candidates.

Embrace the resume. It is an effective way for you to showcase your skills and achievements in a way that an email or letter could not. That said, you need a cover letter to because a cover letter is not technical and will allow you to establish a rapport with a hiring manager in a way that you could not with just a resume.

About the Author
Ann Baehr is a CPRW and President of Best Resumes of New York. Notable credentials include her former role as Second Vice President of NRWA and contribution to 25+ resume and cover letter sample books. To learn more visit http://www.e-bestresumes.com or http://www.annbaehr.com

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=826463

Building a Strong Resume with the Right Accountancy Jobs

Free Resume Example Articles : Building a Strong Resume with the Right Accountancy Jobs by Asc

A professional who wants to build a career as a successful accountant needs to know where to find good accountancy jobs. The growing number of accountancy graduates hitting the job market each year makes it difficult for qualified accountants to find well-paid positions. Your ability to hunt down accountancy jobs in the right industries at the right time will help you find work that is fulfilling over the long term.

One of the areas where accountancy jobs hold steady despite economic problems is local government agencies. There is always a need in Parliament, local governments and other bureaucratic agencies for experts in sound accounting practices. The creation of an annual budget along with supplement budgets and accounting reports means that accountancy jobs are always available in government agencies. You need to decide whether the bureaucratic difficulties of government accounting balance out the benefits of public service.

A natural extension of accountancy jobs in city government is high salary positions in county, state and national agencies. The fiscal crunches at lower levels of government in the United Kingdom make accurate ledgers important to track expenses and revenues. Your work in accountancy jobs within city government can help save public dollars and direct government spending with constant reminders about keeping books straight.

The largest wages for accountancy experts are available in the private sector. National and international corporations use accountants to manage tax documents, monitor expense reports and act as a watchdog for improper spending. These positions are ideal for accountants who can handle a high workload and understand the multiple layers of ethical practices involved in private bookkeeping.

You can take a higher cut of clients’ fees and other revenues when you start your own accountancy practice. The barriers to starting your own accountancy firm include locating qualified employees, obtaining business licenses and developing a reputation in your community for quality work. It is important to take a sober look at starting an accountancy practice by reviewing the high expenses incurred in the first few months after opening your doors.

A final venue for accountancy jobs for young professionals is the non-profit world. Advocacy groups, legal aid services and other groups that are registered as non profits need intelligent accountants to monitor daily expenses and revenues. The work of non-profit accountants is muddied with strict spending guidelines for grants, donations and other unique revenue. You can use your talent for numbers and close observance of detailed information for good when you work with non-profit groups.

About the Author
ASC Connections are a leading Recruitment Solutions Provider, providing permanent, temporary and contract/interim Accountancy Jobs

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=825310

How to Write a Resume Fast

Free Resume Example Articles : How to Write a Resume Fast by Woody

If you need a guide on how to write a resume fast, then this article will provide that.
If you are like the rest of us, then you would probably have jumped from one employment to another trying to find that job satisfaction we all desire. By then, you would have come to a realization that knowing how to write a resume that is effective is important.

As a matter of fact, knowing how to write a resume that highlights your skills can help you get that position you've always wanted. Knowing how to write a resume is not very hard once you learn the basics. If you think writing is difficult, you are not alone. A lot of people feel the same way. Just calm down. Learning how to write a resume that is effective is not as difficult as it seems.

How to Write a Resume Quickly

1. The first thing that you need to do is write down your employment history for the last 5 years. Try to analyze the positions that you held and check whether it suits the new position that you want to apply for. Your job record will be your guide on how to write a resume easily.

2. For every position that you held, write down your detailed duties and responsibilities. Prospective empolyers will obviously give this a thorough consideration to decide whether your are the right candidate for the position so analyze it thoroughly. To effectively know how to write a resume that sells needs your careful analysis.

3. Tell the truth. If you blatantly lie with your credentials, it will be discovered. Then you will have to live up with your embarrassment if you get interviewed and the employer finds out. To learn how to write a resume also requires you to be honest.

4. Write down your achievements. This is another important criteria on how to write a resume to get you the job. With this, employers will know that you have the desire and drive to be successful in your career. However, remember rule number 3.

These are the points you need to take into account when you like to know how to write a resume fast. You do not need to be a professional to learn how to write a resume that employers want. But it will need your patience and time.

However, there will sometimes be obstacles on how to write a resume quickly. Some will eventually find it hard and takes up too much time. If that happens, then get an expert to do the job or let a resume maker program sort out your employment details. These are a last resort on how to write a resume that recruiters will chose from all the rest.

About the Author
Learning to write a resume that gets the employer's interest and gets you that needed interview shouldn't be that hard. Read more Tips on How to Write a Resume that guarantees success.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=823566