First step: Take some time constructing the foundation of your resume. This could mean hours or days constructing a rough draft. A typical resume in this initial stage is 3-5 pages in length. The reason for the long format is due to the creative description for all of your past work experiences.

When you have some quality time away from active job seeking, list your work experiences, but list as many responsibilities and duties as you can. Go into as much detail listing titles, reporting associations, projects completed, deadlines addressed, promotions, consultant duties and associations with clients. Explain special projects if they were substantial, i.e. systems/computer conversions, IPO experience and acquisitions/mergers, etc.

The reason for this extensive listing of your experiences is to develop a master template or "pool" of creative thoughts that you can use at a moment's notice to incorporate into your actual resume. When a potential company expresses interest in you or wishes a resume ASAP, your tendency can be that of a "knee jerk" fashion. Most resort to the "one size" resume and trust that it will get the message across to insure the interview. This is the option taken by most because it is of less pain and not necessarily more gain. Take the time to develop a master template. You can then cut and paste the content needed and submit a quality resume quickly. You do not want to risk your one size resume on the chance that it might get you the interview. You want quality in all that you do to create the real first impression…that of the resume.

You might find having a friend who is talented at writing assist you, but make sure the copy is accurate and sounds like you. You are the editor.

Here are some guidelines:

1. One page is best and two pages is acceptable. Most opt for a one page format.
2. Do not try too much information on one page. When you try to put too much information, you are showing the employer that you are not to clear on what they are looking for in a candidate. Your resume should be concise and to the point. Think of your resume as a marketing plan where you have only a few seconds to get your point across. Work in tandem with your cover letter to create more impact. See more details in our cover letter section.
3. Make sure your paper is of high quality heavy weight stock. Other characteristics are off-white, ivory, light tan or light gray. Copies should be original print and never photocopied. Reproduction should always be clean and professional.
4. Format your resume. Make sure it is formatted within the page's 8 ½" x 11" dimensions. Text should be centered with adequate margins. Your resume should not only say the right words, but also make a professional impression.
5. Fonts: Standard Serif, Sans Serif, Arial and Times New Roman fonts work best. Avoid ornate fonts and fonts where the characters touch. Font size is also important. Sizes between 10 points and 12 points work best.
6. Make sure gaps in employment are accounted for and addressed in a positive fashion. Leave out personal information i.e. marital status, children, hobbies and age. The exception can be your professional associations and volunteer related activities. No objective stated (see Objective or No Objective? Article).

By: Jeff Farmer, CCC
©Christian Employment Resource, 2000