Everyone wants to tell you how to build a resume. But, I’m going to tell you something different. I’m going to tell you about how to build a resume from the point of view of someone who has read hundreds of them. I’ve seen good ones, bad ones, eye catchers and some with graphics so complicated that’s all you see.

How To Build A Resume

The first thing to remember about how to build a resume is that your potential employer is going to go through twenty to forty resumes for any open position. In most cases, the actual job application is only a formal document for the HR staff. Nine times out of ten the employer makes his or her initial decision based on your resume. Your resume IS your job application. The catch is that the employer is only going to take about thirty seconds to read it. That means that you have one page in which to effectively present yourself. If you have to use a font smaller than 12 pt then your resume is too long. It’s even better if you can increase the front to 14 pt. Remebmer - before you start tiping your best resume, try to chek some entry level resume examples in web. That will make it easier to read and it will “stand out” from all the others.

The next thing to know about how to build a resume is that the employer is going to look at is your employment history first. Potential employers want to know two things. First, does your employment history show that you are stable or jump ship every three to four months. Ideally, you should have at least a year or two at every job you list. Second, the employer wants to know if your previous employment history shows you have the skills they are looking for. Keep your entries short: Name of company, dates of employment, job title and a brief summery of your duties. If you have the room, you should list recent accomplishments with your last employer.

If you get this far then the employer will look at your education. The closer your education is to the requirements of the open position the better off you are. If you are a liberal arts graduate then your employment history better be a really close fit. The next thing employers look at is your statement of goals. The employer wants to know that what you are looking for is close to what he is offering. Stating that you are looking for an inside type job when the position states it is outside will send your resume directly to the discard pile. You should also give the impression you are looking for a long-term job with a stable company.

How To Build A Resume – Conclusion

The biggest thing you have to know about how to build a resume is how to make it fit the job you are applying for. When you write your resume you should only write a template, not a one-size fits all document. READ the employer’s job description and modify your resume to fit. Knowing how to build a resume is important but it really isn’t rocket science.