Resources for Job Seekers

Resume Writing Tips

Resume Do’s

• Include contact information (name, phone number, email, address) on the top of page one
• Contact information should be the best way an employer can reach you
• Have a professional voice mail message and email address
• Use action verbs and be consistent with verb tense
• Give more space to your most recent and relevant work experience
• Quantify accomplishments when you can
• Use simple fonts and formatting- avoid fancy fonts/colors/graphics unless related to your field
• Ask someone else to proofread your work!
• Create a plain text version of your resume for electronic submission

Resume Don’ts

• Lie or embellish your knowledge/skills/abilities
• Use abbreviations or jargon (industry specific language)
• Include pictures
• Disclose personal information – all information should be job related
• Exceed two pages

Interviewing Tips

Interview Do’s

• Plan to arrive to your interview 10-15 minutes early
• Greet people with confidence
• Be aware of body language: eye contact, handshake, posture, engaged listening (leaning in, nodding, smiling)
• Take your time in answering questions; give specific, relevant examples
• Stay focused on the interview (don’t get distracted)
• Convey why you are the best candidate for the job
• Send thank you letter/note/email

Interview Don’ts

• Come unprepared
• Discuss personal information (for example: age, family status, health)
• Provide general answers (vague answers with no past experience examples)
• Be arrogant
• Exaggerate about your abilities or past work experience
• Be distracted (cell phones, chewing gum, fidgeting)
• Say anything negative about previous companies or managers