How to Write a Good Resume: Part 1 -- What Is a Resume, and Why Do I Need One?
Content Updated on February 10, 2009
The Technical Definition
A resume is a document that you give to potential employers to let them know what skills you have and how those skills can be applied to benefit their company.
The Goal of a Resume: Advertise Yourself
A resume is an advertisement. In this case, you are advertising yourself as an employee and trying to get the employer to buy an interview with you.
Since the goal of a resume is to advertise yourself, the secret to writing a good resume is to think like an advertiser.
- Get them to notice you
- Get them interested in what you're saying
- Make them want you
- Make it easy for them to "Act now!"
What Goes With Your Resume?
Resumes can be a part of a "hire me" package. Other parts of this package include:
Cover Letter
Ideally, you're resume will also be coupled with a cover letter, usually a friendly yet professional one page letter that introduces yourself to the employer and let's the employer know how you learned about the company and job opening and why you think you would be an asset to them.
Letters of Recommendations
Several letters of recommendation can also accompany a resume to let potential employers know that you are a reputable person.
References
You'll also want to have a list of references to offer to the employer after they've looked at your other documents. References allow your employer to talk to people directly and ask questions about your abilities and reputation.
Samples of Your Work
Some employers want to see a portfolio, work you've done in the past to prove that you're good at what you do.
The Job I Want Doesn't Require a Resume, so Why Should I Make One?
Even if you're applying for a job that doesn't require a resume, making a resume will help you recognize and verbalize your skills, qualifications, and goals, the exact things you will need to talk about during a job interview (and every job requires some sort of job interview).
Plus, giving a resume to a potential employer even when that resume wasn't necessary shows that you are willing to put in extra effort to get the job done and to do it right.
Related Items
Similar topics
See other Kristen's Guide topics in this category.
How to Write a Good Resume -- Part 2: Gathering Your Information
How to Write a Good Resume -- Part 3: Figuring Out the Best Structure for Your Resume
How to Write a Good Resume -- Part 4: Getting the Words Right