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QUESTIONS REGARDING RESUMES

1. Do you need an Objective? Probably not, because if you are like many candidates you

do not know the exact title of the job you’re pursuing. Therefore, the tendency is to write an
Objective that is far too general. Avoid the phrases like “challenging position” and “growth

potential”. They take up crucial space in which you could describe your qualifications. Challenge
yourself to write a meaningful Objective is five words or less, naming a specific job or industry.

2. In what order should you present information? People read from the top to down and

from left to right, so begin with your most persuasive information. Start by presenting the section
that demonstrates your strongest qualifications, whether it is Education, Certification, Experience,

or even Volunteer Activities. If your job title is more impressive than the company, list it first.

Similarly, if your degree is more impressive than the college, list it first.
3. Should you include a Personal Section? Rarely. Information such as age, height,

weight, health, marital status, and hobbies usually has little relevance to your qualifications for the
position.

4. Should any information be de-emphasized or omitted? Absolutely! In general, all
information that detracts from your candidacy needs special treatment. For example, well

qualifications, such as a lack of a college degree should be de-emphasized by placing the Education

section at the end of the resume. Some types of information, such as political party, race, or
disability have no relevance to your ability to perform in the business world, so should not be

addressed on your resume.
5. How can you select an appropriate resume format? There is no single correct resume

format. People in the same field require different formats because their breadth of experience,
length of employment, degree of education, accomplishments, and future goals all vary. It’s likely

that the same person at different career stages will need completely different formats for each stage.

6. How can you draw attention to the most important data? Surrounding your most
important data with empty space on paper instead of other data is the most effective method to

emphasize information. Other simple graphic techniques include highlighting in bold, italics, or
capital letters; using bullets, and identing.

7. What is an alternative resume format? An alternative resume format is a non-

traditional method to present your professional history. It is used in special circumstances to make
an impact, target a particular position, or when your resume is not an effective marketing tool for a

certain position. It can take the form of a letter, biographical sketch, portfolio, photograph, press
release, etc.