Top Resume Concerns

Length

If your experience is limited, then one page will suffice. You do not want to add fluff and irrelevant information to create a longer resume but if you truly have multiple examples of accomplishments and experience, then length is open to allow you room to showcase all your talents.

Education

New workforce joiners, such as college seniors and recent graduates, should put their education in the beginning of their resume. More experienced applicants who possess work experience related to the position can include their experience due to its relevance to the employer.

GPA

Only include your college GPA if it is impressive. It should be at least a 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale

Listing Only Paid Experience

Resumes should include all work that helped you gain relevant experience including internships, apprenticeships, and volunteer work. These sorts of experiences can be very important, especially if they directly relate to the position you are seeking.

Personal Information

The only personal information that should be included on your resume is that which allows the employer to contact you regarding the job. This includes name, address, phone number and email address.

Cover Letter

The cover letter is a very important tool that can set your resume apart from others in the employer’s stack. If properly written, this will actually ensure your resume gets read. It needs to be concise with short and easy to read paragraphs. The letter should be directed to a particular person if allowed and should showcase your personality without losing its professionalism. You need to show the employer that you understand the company and what it needs from an employee. A great way to show that you are the person to solve its problems is by telling real life situations where you have overcome certain tasks in the job force (or school if you are a recent graduate) with results that truly helped the company or institution. REMEMBER TO PROOFREAD! Look over the letter at least 3 times and read it out loud to yourself or a friend to make sure it makes sense.