What a resume is for

You'll need

• Two or three job postings you'd actually apply to
• A list of your jobs, school, activities and volunteer work, with dates
• A word processor or a free resume template

What to know

1. Pick one kind of job to aim at. A resume should focus on a specific job title and use the keywords that show you meet its minimum qualifications (CareerOneStop).
2. Start with your contact information: full name, address, phone number and email. No permanent address? Use a place where you can get mail, or a P.O. box (CareerOneStop).
3. Add a short summary with your three or four top skills or accomplishments, then work experience, education, and volunteering or activities (CareerOneStop).
4. Find the keywords. Read several postings for the same job and note what keeps showing up, like skills, training or credentials. Use the exact words the posting uses, because a different word may not be recognized (CareerOneStop).
5. Write bullets with action verbs, like organized, trained, repaired or led. Be specific, and add numbers where you can (Harvard).
6. Keep it to one page, proofread it, and have at least one good speller check it too (CareerOneStop).

If it doesn't work

• Applying and hearing nothing? Many employers use software that filters out resumes missing key requirements. Check that your resume uses the posting's words for the skills you really have (CareerOneStop).
• Not sure how to send it? If the employer doesn't say, use Word, PDF or plain text (CareerOneStop).
• Want a second pair of eyes? Your local American Job Center gives free resume feedback (CareerOneStop). So does a school counselor or career center.

Good to know