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Designing a Resume

Importance of a Resume
The resume is a tool designed to do one thing - get you an interview. It is an essential step in the job search process that introduces you to the employer and sets you apart from your competitors.

Purpose of a Resume
Briefly and concisely, your resume should relate who you are, what you know, what you have done and what you would like to do.

Getting Started

Assess your values by reviewing your personal inventory.
Determine what you would like to do and what you have done in the past.
Write a rough draft listing everything in your past that could be relevant.
Plan and weigh every word in your resume; be careful not to repeat information.

Basic Resume Guidelines

Content Areas of a Resume

Action Verbs

Scannable Resumes

There are numerous acceptable formats for resumes, but remember your resume should be unique and is your printed presentation to employers. Examples of resumes may be viewed at www.siu.edu/~ucs and you may contact Career Services for an individualized critique.

SAMPLE RESUMES are available to be viewed and downloaded.