Basic Parts of a Résumé
Contact Information
Include your name, address (both current and permanent), telephone number, and email address. Be sure your email is professional.
Objective
State your current employment goal in a clear and concise phrase. Try to connect the objective to the job or industry for which you are applying.
Education
List the degree you are currently pursuing, expected graduation date, and grade point average. Continue in reverse chronological order with any other relevant post-secondary institutions or training. High school information is not necessary in most cases.
Work Experience
List in reverse chronological order your job title, employer, location (city and state), work performed, and dates. Use action verbs to describe your work. Highlight accomplishments and any skills developed. Whenever possible, quantify what you did (Example: led six-member team, achieved $ in quarterly sales). Avoid the term “Responsibilities or Duties” — instead use action words that emphasize results.
Honors and Activities
List academic honors (Dean’s list, scholarships) or other awards you have received. Also list campus organizations (list those related to your career field first) or volunteer community groups, including any leadership positions and accomplishments. Focus on your college experiences instead of high school.
Skills
List computer and other technical skills (begin with those related to your major), operational knowledge of special equipment, languages, licenses or certifications. Include any additional special skills you have that may interest an employer.
References
“References Available Upon Request” is a good way to conclude your résumé if space allows. However, do not omit relevant information about yourself in order to make this phrase fit on the page. (See Choosing References/Sample Format)
