{"id":1670,"date":"2020-04-08T22:39:10","date_gmt":"2020-04-09T02:39:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/?page_id=1670"},"modified":"2025-09-27T15:25:25","modified_gmt":"2025-09-27T19:25:25","slug":"resumes-cvs","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/get-a-job\/document-prep\/resumes-cvs\/","title":{"rendered":"Resumes &amp; CVs"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"lead\"><strong>GOAL: Get invited to an interview.<\/strong><\/div>\n<p><strong>Your resume is essentially an advertisement about your qualifications<\/strong>. In this case, each employer is your customer. Your resume (and cover letter) should emphasize how you can meet <em>their<\/em> needs vs. how the job\/internship will meet your needs and desires.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Job seekers today are expected to<\/strong> apply for positions in many different ways: filling out applications by hand, filling out online applications, emailing resumes, uploading documents into employers' platforms, and\/or applying via. an online profile in platform like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/get-a-job\/strategies\/social-media-eportfolios\/\">Linkedin<\/a>. Even when a resume does not have to be submitted, the information included in a resume can be cut and pasted into most application formats.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Give yourself 1-4 weeks <\/strong>to create your first resume. Creating a well-written, organized and effective resume can take time.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Refer to resume writing steps and resources <\/strong>below to draft, update, or refine your resume.<\/p>\n<p><em>When any of the following resources include a for-fee resume tool or service, ignore them.<\/em><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-accordion su-u-trim gcc\">\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Get Resume Development Support<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Current GCC students<\/strong> (and those who finished classwork within the last 3 months) can email their resume to Shannon Doran for review, feedback, and guidance &#8211;<em> after <\/em>updating and proofreading their existing draft.<\/li>\n<li><strong>All Massachusetts residents<\/strong> can get free resume support from their regional <a>MassHire Career Center<\/a>, after attending a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.masshirefhcareers.org\/events\/\">free webinar<\/a> on resume writing.<\/li>\n<li><strong>If you are not a Massachusetts resident<\/strong>, research your state&#8217;s un\/employment system to find out what public support is available.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>1. Resume Template &amp; Guide<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>1A. Use the GCC <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1istsv-gV_AXGpU-zvOdknUo4ga_lN0ZC5fJnJHjOH-A\/edit?usp=sharing\">Resume Drafting &amp; Editing Guide<\/a><\/strong> to create a new resume or improve an existing resume.<\/p>\n<p><strong>1B. Use one of the following GCC resume templates<\/strong>\u00a0to accelerate the development of a new resume or as a visual on how to improve an existing resume.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1hWSUrRUPHGcajdJFdhHUV5bPrkJM123dLFY4yFCKNQc\/edit?usp=sharing\"><strong>Skills-Based Resume Template<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Emphasizes skills; best for those who have limited relevant work experience. Also a space-saving and redundancy-reducing option for those who performed the same tasks at 2 or more jobs.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1L7R7TETVApr2hs8FgAmuEogS9cvYTQI-82yC9Ppbp30\/edit?usp=sharing\">Chronological Resume Template<\/a><\/strong> &#8211; Emphasizes (relevant) work history; best for experienced professionals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>DIRECTIONS:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Click one of resume template links above.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Make a copy<\/strong> and change the document label.\u00a0 Ex. Your Full Name \u2013 Official Name of Position (aka. Full Job Title) \u2013 Resume \u2013 Date<\/li>\n<li><strong>Replace the text <\/strong>in the template with your own information.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Create a &#8220;catch-all&#8221; resume<\/strong>, which includes <em>every <\/em>skill, strength, accomplishment, and work experience you can think of.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Copy the latter and customize it <\/strong>for each position and employer you apply to.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The templates above include <em>very<\/em> minimal formatting &#8211; an extra space between lines that are slightly different for section headers vs. bulleted statements. If you want to remove this formatting<strong>: <\/strong>1) Click the control (Ctrl) button and the letter &#8216;A&#8217; at the same time (to select all text). Then click &#8220;Format&#8221; in the menu bar of the template, and select &#8220;Clear Formatting.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>2. Different Types of Resumes<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>2A. <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/resume-format-guide-with-examples\">Indeed<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jobscan.co\/resume-formats\">job scan<\/a> do a nice job of outlining the 3 main types of resume formats:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/resume-format-guide-with-examples\">Resume Format Guide<\/a><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/resume-format-guide-with-examples\"> with Tips and Examples by indeed<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jobscan.co\/resume-formats\"><strong>Resume Formats &amp; Examples<\/strong> by Jobscan<\/a> (!!!Provided as a visual reference only. The &#8216;Build Your Resume&#8217; option\/tool is not free!!!)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2B. For people with a good amount of <span style=\"text-decoration: underline\">relevant work experience: <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1L7R7TETVApr2hs8FgAmuEogS9cvYTQI-82yC9Ppbp30\/edit?usp=sharing\">Chronological Resume Template &amp; Guide<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/chronological-resume-tips-and-examples\">More on Chronological Resumes<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2C. For those with no or very little (i.e. relevant) work experience, a lot of similar work experiences, or a significant work history gap<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1hWSUrRUPHGcajdJFdhHUV5bPrkJM123dLFY4yFCKNQc\/edit?usp=sharing\"><strong>Functional\/Skills-Based Resume Template &amp; Guide<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/writing-a-resume-with-no-experience\">Writing a Resume with No Experience<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/functional-resume-tips-and-examples\">More on Functional Resumes (aka Skills-based Resumes)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/write-skills-resume\">More on Skills-Based Resume (aka Functional Resumes)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2D. For career-changers:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1hWSUrRUPHGcajdJFdhHUV5bPrkJM123dLFY4yFCKNQc\/edit?usp=sharing\"><strong>Functional\/Skills-Based Resume Template &amp; Guide<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/updating-your-resume-in-a-career-change\">5 Steps for Updating Your Resume in a <strong>Career Change<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/functional-resume-tips-and-examples\">More on Functional Resumes (aka Skills-based Resumes)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/write-skills-resume\">More on Skills-Based Resume (aka Functional Resumes)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2E. A Combination (a.k.a. Hybrid) Resume Format\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/combination-resume-tips-and-examples\">Combination Resume Guide &amp; Examples<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2F. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-make-a-video-resume\">Video Resumes<\/a> <\/strong>&#8211; Only provide a video resume, if requested by an employer.\u00a0 This format is not (yet) typically required.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\"><strong>2G. For Internships <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-create-an-internship-resume\">Resumes for Internships<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\"><strong>2H. Federal Resumes<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>There is a specific resume convention for federal jobs.\u00a0 Please refer to these resources to customize your resume accordingly.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jobscan.co\/blog\/resume-accomplishments-examples\/\">How to Write a Federal Resume<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usajobs.gov\/Help\/faq\/application\/documents\/resume\/what-to-include\/\">What to Include in Federal Resumes by USA Jobs<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2I. CVs<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In the US, &#8220;CVs&#8221; usually refers to a very long version of a resume which professors, scholars and researchers use to apply for new positions.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/what-to-include-in-your-cv\">What to Include in Your CV<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-list-publications-on-resume\">How to List Publications on a CV<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2J. College Application Resumes\/CV\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/what-to-include-in-your-cv\">https:\/\/novoresume.com\/career-blog\/college-application-resume<\/a>\n<ul>\n<li>I generally agree with what is recommended in this resource &#8211; except for how they list and format skills within the &#8216;John Doe&#8217; resume example. It is much more powerful to include skills in skill\/accomplishment statements that indicate how often and well you used skills within specific contexts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #333333;font-family: nunito-sans, Nunito Sans, sans-serif\"><a href=\"https:\/\/empowerly.com\/applications\/resume-for-college-applications\">https:\/\/empowerly.com\/applications\/resume-for-college-applications<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li>The template included in this webpage\/guide includes some great examples of what kinds of projects and experience you can add to and\/or emphasize in a college application resume\/CV.\u00a0 However, I do recommend including a photo in the resume. Refer to section 3F for an explanation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>Refer to section 2I above for additional insights about CV development.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2K. For Different Industries<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Resume for most industries will be variations on the chronological, skills-based, or combination resume format.\u00a0 However, sometimes there are unique resume trends (subtle or not) in different industries.<\/p>\n<p>Here is a small collection of resources that were reviewed by GCC Career Readiness for your consideration. You can read tips and incorporate them into the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1L7R7TETVApr2hs8FgAmuEogS9cvYTQI-82yC9Ppbp30\/edit?usp=sharing\">GCC Chronological Resume Template &amp; Guide<\/a><\/strong> or build off of the examples included within the following articles.<\/p>\n<p><em>TIP: Avoid any templates that require you to enter information into fields, pay a fee, or conform to a rigid format &#8211; especially those with two separate columns of information.<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.monster.com\/career-advice\/article\/resumes\">Resume Examples by Industry<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/high-school-academic-resume\">Academic Resume Guide &amp; Template<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Resumes for Artists<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.collegeart.org\/standards-and-guidelines\/guidelines\/resume\">College Art Resume Guidelines<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/artistic-resumes\">How to Write an Artist Resume <\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.monster.com\/career-advice\/article\/artist-resume-example\">Artist Resume Example<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/how-to-write-graphic-designer-resume-example\">How to Write a Graphic Designer Resume<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zippia.com\/fine-artist-jobs\/skills\/?src=partial-gate\">Fine Artist Skills for Your Resume<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>3. Formatting &amp; Stylistic Choices<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p>These are great things to know as you craft and especially when you are putting the finishing touches on your resume.<\/p>\n<p><strong>3A. Length<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Unless you have 5-10 years of relevant work experience, your resume should only be one page long.<\/p>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/is-a-two-page-resume-okay\">Number of Pages<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-long-should-a-resume-be\">Length of Resume<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>3B. Margins<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Margins, including the top and bottom, can be as small as .5 inches.<\/li>\n<li>You can adjust margin sizes to help fill a single page or fit more text into one page.<\/li>\n<li>It is best to adjust pages when you are done or almost done drafting your resume<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Additional resource:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zippia.com\/advice\/resume-margins\/\">Margins<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>3C. Fonts<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Font sizes in resume usually range from .9 to .12 &#8211; depending on the font chosen and how much you text you need to include within a given page.<\/p>\n<p><em>Additional resource:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/best-fonts-for-resume\">Font Size and Types<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>3D. Numbers<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Do not spell out the name of a number (one).\u00a0 Instead, represent quantities numerically (1).\u00a0 In addition to saving space, numerals stand out visually.\u00a0 Since being specific in resumes is one of the &#8220;rules of thumb&#8221;, quantifying accomplishments and using numerals to do so, is a high-impact resume development strategy.<\/p>\n<p><strong>3E. Hyperlinks<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This is one school of thought, when it comes to the question of whether or not hyperlinks should be included in a resume:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Do not hyperlink your email address unless there are other things in your resume which are hyperlinked.<\/li>\n<li>If you cite relevant projects, awards or other accomplishments in your resume associated with a website or another electronic format, include a hyperlink.\u00a0That way application reviewers can opt to find out more if they are inclined to do so.<\/li>\n<li>Be selective about what you hyperlink. Hyperlinks should augment the content you provide but not make your resume look cluttered.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/include-links-job-application-resume-cover-letter\">According to The Muse\u00a0<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/in.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-include-links-on-resume\">According to Indeed.com<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>3F. Photos<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It is illegal for employers to base their hiring decisions on an applicants age, gender, sex, sexual preference, relationship status, ethnicity or race.\u00a0 However, if you include a photo in your resume, the decision to invite you to an interview (or not) could be influenced by both conscious and unconscious bias.<\/p>\n<p>There are some exceptions, but this is the standard recommendation.\u00a0 To learn more, check out the supplemental resources included below and\/or\u00a0talk to trusted professionals within your field.<\/p>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/should-you-include-photo-your-resume-get-hired-by-linkedin-news\/\">S<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/should-you-include-photo-your-resume-get-hired-by-linkedin-news\/\">hould You Include a Photo in Your Resume?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/resume-picture\">Putting Your Picture on a Resume Could Hurt Your Chances of Getting the Job<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>4. Create a Catch-All Resume<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p>The catch-all or &#8220;origin resume&#8221;, is an archive of your qualifications that can serve you in a variety of ways throughout your education and work life.<\/p>\n<p><strong>4A. Create and maintain a catch-all (a.k.a. origin) resume<\/strong>, which includes <em>all:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Skills<\/li>\n<li>Education credentials, training certificates, and industry recognized credentials (IRC)<\/li>\n<li>Professional \/ work experiences<\/li>\n<li>Professional projects<\/li>\n<li>Professional accomplishments<\/li>\n<li>Relevant projects<\/li>\n<li>Awards<\/li>\n<li>Etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>4B. Why? <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If maintained, your catch-all resume can serve as a lifelong archive, which you can draw from when:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>including transferrable skills in your resume for a specific position<\/li>\n<li>filling in hardcopy or online applications<\/li>\n<li>creating electronic profiles and portfolios<\/li>\n<li>applying to colleges or for scholarships<\/li>\n<li>creating a career development plan<\/li>\n<li>practicing answers to common interview questions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>4C. How? <\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1L7R7TETVApr2hs8FgAmuEogS9cvYTQI-82yC9Ppbp30\/edit?usp=sharing\">See how much you can add to (or replace in) either of these resume templates: <\/a>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1hWSUrRUPHGcajdJFdhHUV5bPrkJM123dLFY4yFCKNQc\/edit?usp=sharing\"><strong>Skills-Based Resume Template<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Emphasizes skills; best for those who have limited relevant work experience. Also a space-saving and redundancy-reducing option for those who performed the same tasks at 2 or more jobs.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1L7R7TETVApr2hs8FgAmuEogS9cvYTQI-82yC9Ppbp30\/edit?usp=sharing\">Chronological Resume Template<\/a><\/strong> &#8211; Emphasizes (relevant) work history; best for experienced professionals.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Brainstorm.<\/li>\n<li>Organize the information into various categories. (Refer to &#8220;Categories\/Section&#8221; below.)<\/li>\n<li>Fill in more details whenever you think of them.<\/li>\n<li>Do some word crafting. Use AI to help you come up with words and phrases.<\/li>\n<li>Revise, step away, revise again and again..and again.<\/li>\n<li>Ask at least 2 people you trust to proofread your resume &#8211; until no other adjustments are needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>5. Customize Resume for Each Job Application<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>5A. <\/strong>Make a copy of your catch-all resume and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/how-to-make-a-resume-examples#tailor\">create a version that is tailored to the position you are applying for<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Your resume should demonstrate how qualified you are for the specific job or internship you are applying for.<\/p>\n<p>Pay attention to the section headers used in the job\/internship posting, as well as the values implied and key words (verbs, adjectives, skills, qualifications). Include them, to the fullest extent possible, in the resume you create for each position.<\/p>\n<p><em>Additional resources &#8211; general tips:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simpleresume.com\/top-10-modern-resume-tips\/\">Top 10 Resume Tips<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/resume-writing-101\">Resume Writing 101<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/how-to-make-a-resume-examples\">How to Create a Resume (Ignore examples)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.resumecoach.com\/write-a-resume\/language-skills\/\">How to Write a Filter-Friendly Resume<\/a> (For visual reference only. Do not use the for-fee aid.)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dailywritingtips.com\/resume-writing-tips\/\">44 Resume Writing Tips<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.businessnewsdaily.com\/6972-resume-mistakes-fixes.html\">How to Fix 20 Common Resume Mistakes<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>6. Stay Organized<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>6A. Use a consistent labeling convention <\/strong><strong>across all application materials<\/strong>: resume, cover letter, and reference sheet.\u00a0 In addition to keeping you organized, it will also help human resource professionals, hiring committees\/managers, and employers find your application materials (easily), when they need to.<\/p>\n<p><em>Example: <\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Your Full Name &#8211; Official Position Title &#8211; Resume &#8211; Date (that draft was created or submission date)<\/li>\n<li>Your Full Name &#8211; Official Position Title &#8211; Cover Letter &#8211; Date (that draft was created or submission date)<\/li>\n<li>Your Full Name\u00a0&#8211; Official Position Title &#8211; References &#8211; Date (that draft was created or submission date)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>6B. Create an electronic file and hardcopy file <\/strong>to store all drafts and versions of your resume.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>7. Resume Categories\/Sections<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4817\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/files\/2022\/12\/Resume-categories-2022-12-13-162313.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"708\" height=\"460\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/files\/2022\/12\/Resume-categories-2022-12-13-162313.jpg 708w, https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/files\/2022\/12\/Resume-categories-2022-12-13-162313-300x195.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 708px) 100vw, 708px\" \/><br \/>\n<strong>7A. Here are some <em>very <\/em><u>standard<\/u> names for different sections of resumes<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/screencast-o-matic.com\/watch\/crn1cXRL4U\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Header\/Contact Information<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/screencast-o-matic.com\/watch\/crn1VVRLpB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Profile or Summary (vs. Objective)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/screencast-o-matic.com\/watch\/crnjolSVbp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Experience<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/screencast-o-matic.com\/watch\/crnjoySVta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Education<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Skills<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>7B. However, there are <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/4-better-ways-to-organize-your-resume-depending-on-who-you-are-and-where-youre-going\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>a lot of other options<\/strong><\/a> <strong>to consider<\/strong>. Sometimes, adding <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/4-better-ways-to-organize-your-resume-depending-on-who-you-are-and-where-youre-going\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">other categories and\/or using different category labels<\/a> will make your qualifications more obvious to employers and resume-reading robots.<\/p>\n<p><strong>7C. What would guide these changes? <\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/4-better-ways-to-organize-your-resume-depending-on-who-you-are-and-where-youre-going\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Where you are on your career path<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>The job descriptions for each position you are applying for.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The easier you can make it for employers (and resume reading robots) to see the connection between your qualifications and what<em> they <\/em>need, the better. Also, sometimes employers only scan the top half of the resume initially.\u00a0 Therefore, getting their attention and impressing them early on is a<em> very <\/em>good strategy. <strong>How?<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Mark the obvious priorities, values, adjectives, action verbs, and qualifications included in the job description &#8211; to make these key words more obvious to you.<\/li>\n<li>Include as many of these key words and phrases in your resume as you can, while maintaining complete honesty.<\/li>\n<li>Rename the categories of information in your resume to match the words used in the job description, when applicable.<\/li>\n<li>Move categories of information within your resume, so the most relevant and impressive information is featured in the top half of your resume.<\/li>\n<li>Split categories of information into subcategories, so the most relevant and impressive information can be read by employers first.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><em>For example:<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Dilemma (aka. opportunity):<\/strong><br \/>\nLet&#8217;s say that you have more relevant volunteer experience than paid work experience. Although both types of positions could be listed under the label &#8220;Experience&#8221; or even &#8220;Work Experience&#8221;, when you list them together in reverse chronological order, your relevant volunteer experiences will not stand out as much.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Solution: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ol>\n<li>Split your experience into two sections: &#8220;Volunteer Experience&#8221; and &#8220;Work Experience&#8221; (or &#8220;Other Work Experience&#8221; if you prefer).<\/li>\n<li>Move your new Volunteer Experience section into the upper half of your resume.<\/li>\n<li>Place the &#8220;Work Experience&#8221; section below it.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>8. The Header<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>8A. The header includes you contact information (and then some).\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>TIP<\/strong>: Use the same exact header at the top of your resume, cover letter, and reference sheet. Your header will become your &#8220;word logo&#8221;, which will help employers more easily identify you (and find your different application materials).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Watch this short video<\/strong> to learn more and see examples of different header formats:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/screencast-o-matic.com\/watch\/crn1cXRL4U\">Header Section (short video tutorial) (c)<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/heres-exactly-what-should-be-included-in-your-resumes-header\">Resume Header Tips &amp; Examples<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>8B. Postal address<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You don&#8217;t always want or need to include your postal address in your resume.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Do not include your address if<\/strong> you are uploading your resume into a job search engine that can be viewed by almost anyone. Not all employers in search engines are legitimate, and you don&#8217;t want just anyone to be able to learn so much about you and also know where you live.<\/p>\n<p><strong>If you are applying for a job that you could easily commute to<\/strong>, include your address or the City\/Town and two-initials for the state you live in.\u00a0 Being local will reassure some employers.<\/p>\n<p><strong>If you are applying for a job that is far away<\/strong>, you might want to omit your address, so they don&#8217;t immediately wonder if the distance or moving costs (for them or you) will be an issue.<\/p>\n<p><em>Additional resource:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thebalancecareers.com\/should-you-include-your-address-on-your-resume-4155593\">Include Your Address on Resume?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>8C. Electronic profile or portfolio<\/strong>\u00a0is becoming more of a norm.<\/p>\n<p><em>Pros and cons &#8211; for starters:\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px\">CONS: If people see a photo of you, conscious and\/or unconscious bias can influence employers&#8217; outreach and hiring decisions.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px\">PROS: It is <em>possible (but not a given)<\/em> that your online presence will impress them or help them recognize your qualifications in different ways.<\/p>\n<p><em>Additional resource:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thebalancecareers.com\/how-to-include-your-linkedin-url-on-your-resume-2064039\">Include Your Linkedin URL on Resume?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>8D. Hyperlinks<\/strong> in resumes are becoming more of a norm. It is not required but it can sometimes be strategic to include them. <em>Considerations:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you hyperlink your Handshake or Linkedin Profile handle, then also hyperlink your email address.<\/li>\n<li>If you do not include a link to an electronic profile or portfolio in your header, it&#8217;s not necessary to hyperlink your email address &#8211; for consistency sake.<\/li>\n<li>If you include hyperlinks, within the body of your resume (so employers can see examples of your best work; online articles about or by you; blogs or web pages you have created, etc.), then also hyperlink your email address.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/include-links-job-application-resume-cover-letter\">According to The Muse\u00a0<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/in.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-include-links-on-resume\">According to Indeed.com<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>8E. Headshots\/Photo<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It is illegal for employers to base their hiring decisions on an applicants age, gender, sex, sexual preference, relationship status, ethnicity or race.\u00a0 However, if you include a photo in your resume, the decision to invite you to an interview (or not) could be influenced by both conscious and unconscious bias.<\/p>\n<p>There are some exceptions, but this is the standard recommendation.\u00a0 To learn more, check out the supplemental resources included below and\/or\u00a0talk to trusted professionals within your field.<\/p>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/should-you-include-photo-your-resume-get-hired-by-linkedin-news\/\">S<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/should-you-include-photo-your-resume-get-hired-by-linkedin-news\/\">hould You Include a Photo in Your Resume?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/resume-picture\">Putting Your Picture on a Resume Could Hurt Your Chances of Getting the Job<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>9. Profile or Summary (vs. Objective)<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>The position<\/strong> for the summary or profile section is\u00a0 just under the contact information (a.k.a. header).<\/p>\n<p><strong>9A.<\/strong> <strong>The &#8220;objective&#8221; has become pass\u00e9.\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Why?<\/strong> The objective usually included a phrase about what type of professional they are (for example: business management professional) and the kind of job they are seeking in what specific industry.\u00a0 Inevitably, the objective states the obvious and does not provide any substantial information about a person&#8217;s qualifications.<\/p>\n<p><strong>9B. The definition of a resume Summary vs. Profile <\/strong>varies from one source to another, but the difference always has to do with the formatting (paragraph vs. bullets). The content included in each is the same.<\/p>\n<p>Learn about this especially impactful section of your resume:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/presentation\/d\/1Tl14OtqR13gYfG2NYvoontPMDBVVypjW64LkEx6pJn0\/edit?usp=sharing\">Summary or Profile Section<\/a><\/strong> (slide deck) (c)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>A summary<\/strong> includes a series of sentences (a.k.a. &#8220;accomplishment statements&#8221;), which do not have to all relate to each other and do not include pronouns or many filler and transition words.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A profile<\/strong> includes the same exact information in a bulleted format and is therefore usually easier to write.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A hybrid summary\/profile<\/strong> usually includes 1-4 accomplishment statements in a paragraph format, followed by 3 or more bullets with accomplishment statements. Since the terms &#8220;summary&#8221; and &#8220;profile&#8221; are often used interchangeably, either label will do for this hybrid version.<\/p>\n<p><strong>9B. Additional resources<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/resumegenius.com\/blog\/resume-help\/resume-summary\">How To &amp; Examples<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-write-a-professional-profile\">How to Write a Professional Profile<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/3-resume-summary-examples-thatll-make-writing-your-own-easier\">Make Writing a Profile Easier<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>10. The Skills Section<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>10A. Embed skills within the Summary\/Profile and\/or Experience section <\/strong>to the fullest extent possible &#8211; instead of stacking your most relevant and impressive skills in a Skills section.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why?:<\/strong> Skills are more impactful and convincing when put into context and linked directly to your actions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>An exception to this &#8220;rule&#8221;<\/strong>: a short skills section included at the very bottom of a resume can be a great way to efficiently list <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/exploration\/marketable-skills\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">hard (aka. technological) skills that are relatively standard in the industry<\/a> but are also essential to the job you are applying for.<\/p>\n<p><strong>10B.<\/strong> <strong>Inspirational aids<\/strong> &#8211; Use the resources below to jog your mind about what skills you have and to get examples of language used to describe your skills.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/exploration\/marketable-skills\">Marketable Skills<\/a> &#8211; A webpage designed to help you think of your marketable skills and make a plan to get more!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/every-basic-question-you-have-about-your-resume-skills-section-answered\">Skills Section Overview<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/best-resume-skills\">Top 10 Skills for Resumes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/personal-traits-to-include-on-your-resume\">10 Traits to Include<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-write-a-professional-profile\">Microsoft Office Skills<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/social-media-skills\">Social Media Skills<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/computer-coding-skills\">Top Computer Coding Skills<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>10C. Languages\/Multi-lingual<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s usually prudent to indicate if you speak and\/or understand more than one language (at different levels of proficiency) in the profile\/summary section of a resume.\u00a0 Another option is to add them to a &#8220;Skills&#8221; section to your resume.\u00a0 If knowing other languages is a key requirement of the position, you may even want to have a section called &#8220;Language Skills&#8221; in your resume, so it stands out.\u00a0 Having a section dedicated to this skill, will also make it possible for you to move this information into a more prominent position within your resume. (For example: the top vs. bottom half of your resume)<\/p>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.resumecoach.com\/write-a-resume\/language-skills\/\">List Languages in a Resume<\/a> (Provided as a visual reference only vs. to recommend their for-fee tool.)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/corporatefinanceinstitute.com\/resources\/careers\/resume\/language-proficiency-levels\/\">List Languages &#8211; Different Proficiency Levels<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>11. The Education Section<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>11A. The placement of the Education Section<\/strong> should be based on where you are on your education path and how relevant it is to the job you are applying for.<\/p>\n<p><strong>11B. Education experience should be listed in reverse chronological order.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>11C. The formatting<\/strong> should be completely or relatively consistent with formatting used in the Experience section of your resume.<\/p>\n<p><strong>11D. If you have earned an associate degree, bachelor&#8217;s degree or more<\/strong>, you will no longer need to list a high school diploma, HiSet or GED in your resume. You can include Secondary education experiences, if it is provides you with an opportunity to highlight exemplary and\/or relevant achievements.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Watch this short video to learn more!<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h4><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/screencast-o-matic.com\/watch\/crnjoySVta\">The Education Section<\/a> (video) (c)<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-list-education-on-a-resume\">How to List Education on a Resume<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/how-to-and-how-not-to-list-education-on-your-resume\">Education Section Tips<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/how-to-list-online-courses-on-your-resume-the-right-way-because-yes-there-is-a-wrong-way\">Listing Professional Coursework<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-list-certifications-on-a-resume\">How to List Certifications on a Resume<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>12. The (Work) Experience Section<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>12A.<\/strong> The Experiences section tends to require more reflection, creativity, and word crafting than other sections of the resume. AI, like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, can be used to simplify and accelerate this process.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to watching this short video tutorial, be sure to check out the other resources included below to wrap your mind around how to create an effective, descriptive, easy-to-read, and concise experience section:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h4><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/screencast-o-matic.com\/watch\/crnjolSVbp\">The Experience Section<\/a> (video) (c)<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-many-jobs-to-put-on-a-resume\">Listing Jobs<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themuse.com\/advice\/how-to-make-a-resume-examples#otherexperience\">Volunteer Work &amp; Other Experience<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>12B. Task &amp; Accomplishment Statements<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jobscan.co\/blog\/resume-accomplishments-examples\/\">Accomplishment Statements to Demonstrate Value<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/using-bullet-points-to-improve-your-resume\">Bullet Points &amp; Accomplishment Statement Examples<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/listing-professional-experience-on-your-resume\">Listing Professional Experience<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>12C.Word Choices<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/resume-past-or-present-tense\">Resume Tense: Past or Present?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/action-verbs-to-make-your-resume-stand-out\">195 Action Verbs<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/words-to-avoid-and-include-on-a-resume\">Words to Avoid<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/masscis.intocareers.org\/JS\/materials\/ActionWords.pdf\">Action Word Lists for Accomplishment &amp; Task Statements<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>13. Don't Include or Mention References<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p><strong>Instead of including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/get-a-job\/document-prep\/references\/\">professional references<\/a> on a resume, create a separate <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/files\/2020\/04\/Reference-Sheet-Template-p1-only.docx\">reference sheet<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1PottYZD6y2lygbuugFyLu4rHOGIN0GA0\/edit?usp=sharing&amp;ouid=110947284081317158046&amp;rtpof=true&amp;sd=true\">Reference Sheet Template &amp; Guide<\/a><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/should-you-include-references-on-a-resume\">Should You Include References on a Resume?<\/a> NO! The employer will let you know if\/when they want a list of your reference. Usually, this will happen after an interview. Bring a Reference Sheet to your interviews, just in case.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>14. Proofreading &amp; Editors<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p>The resume writing process involves drafting, editing, drafting, editing, etc. &#8211; until it is polished and employer-ready.<\/p>\n<p>The savvy job searcher drafts their application materials in advance of conducting a job search, and continues to add to their catch-all (a.k.a. origin) resume over time.<\/p>\n<p>Ideally, you will be able to step away from each draft you have &#8220;finished&#8221; for 2 or more days. When you look at it again, you will notice more things that can be fixed, improved, etc.\u00a0 Ample time to get feedback from others (GCC Career Readiness Services, MassHire Career Center, family members, and\/or friends) can make all of the difference.<\/p>\n<p>You are relying on your resume (and your qualifications) to earn you an interview, and you deserve support.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Email your (updated and proofread) resume to <a href=\"mailto:careerservices@gcc.mass.edu\">Career Readiness Services<\/a> for feedback, recommendations, and learning aids.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Additional resources:<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/proofreading-tips-that-will-improve-your-resume\">Before You Submit: Proofreading Tips<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dailywritingtips.com\/8-proofreading-tips-and-techniques\/\">Proofreading Tips &amp; Techniques<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>15. Submitting a Resume<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<p>Submit application materials prior to application deadlines, if possible, since employers sometimes interview and\/or hire prior to posted application deadlines.<\/p>\n<p><strong>15A. Use a consistent labeling convention<\/strong> &#8211; Please refer to the &#8220;Stay Organized&#8221; section of this page for an explanation and examples.<\/p>\n<p><strong>15B. <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-create-resume-pdf\">Save and share resumes as a PDF<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>15C. <\/strong><strong>How to email a resume<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Resources \/ guides:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-email-a-resume\">How to email a resume<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/resumes-cover-letters\/how-to-send-an-email-cover-letter-with-example\">How to Email a Cover Letter (tips &amp; examples)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grammarly.com\/blog\/professional-email-in-english\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Write a Professional Email, With Tips and Examples<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>16. Bonus: Fun Facts<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The average number of jobs<\/strong> people hold over a lifetime = <strong>12<\/strong>. (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.zippia.com\/answers\/how-many-jobs-does-the-average-person-have-in-their-lifetime\">Zippia.com, <\/a>Feb 2022)<\/li>\n<li><strong>The average number of applications for one interview = 7\u00a0 <\/strong>(<a href=\"https:\/\/www.zippia.com\/answers\/how-many-jobs-does-the-average-person-have-in-their-lifetime\">Zippia.com, <\/a>Feb 2022) or 10-20 (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.movementtowork.com\/how-many-applications-does-it-take-to-get-a-job\/#:~:text=Recent%20stats%20show%20that%20it,to%20get%20one%20job%20offer.\">www.movementtowork.com<\/a>, 2022)<\/li>\n<li>The average number of interviews to secure one job = 10-15\u00a0(<a href=\"https:\/\/www.movementtowork.com\/how-many-applications-does-it-take-to-get-a-job\/#:~:text=Recent%20stats%20show%20that%20it,to%20get%20one%20job%20offer.\">www.movementtowork.com<\/a>, 2022)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Additionally, people usually create many drafts of their resume, cover letter, and (less so) reference sheet before applying for each job\/internship.\u00a0 That means persistence and staying organized is key.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<p><em>(c) All rights reserved by Greenfield Community College.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4012\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/files\/2021\/09\/15-Resume-Tips-Better-2020-10-20-181410.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"643\" height=\"916\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/files\/2021\/09\/15-Resume-Tips-Better-2020-10-20-181410.jpg 643w, https:\/\/www.gcc.mass.edu\/career-services\/files\/2021\/09\/15-Resume-Tips-Better-2020-10-20-181410-211x300.jpg 211w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 643px) 100vw, 643px\" \/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your resume is essentially an advertisement about your qualifications. In this case, each employer is your customer. Your resume (and cover letter) should emphasize how you can meet their needs vs. how the job\/internship will meet your needs and desires. 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