How to Prepare a Proper Resume

How to write a proper resume and ace a job interview?

A good resume is built out of the following sections:

• Heading – The heading must include your first and last name, address, phone number and a professional email address. Make sure that the phone and the email address you provided are valid.
• Education – Should include the name of the college you are attending or graduated from. Be sure to mention the graduation date, the major you are pursuing and mention a GPA on your resume only if it is 3.0 and above.
• Experience – Name and address of the company worked for – the address should include only the city and the state. Mention the period of time in which you worked for the company in dates. Use action verbs to describe your duties and mention any achievements
• Skills – In this section you might include any specific skills that you believe would be relevant to the desired job. These may include skills such as: Computer skills, language skills etc.

Formatting: A proper resume must be clear and consistent in format. The recommended font for a resume is Times New Roman size 10-12. The resume should not be longer than a page. Proof read your resume for misspelling.

To get a better position in getting a job it is highly recommended that you’ll send a cover letter.

A cover letter should contain 3 paragraphs:
1^st paragraph – Introduction, position for which you are applying, how you heard about it.
2^nd paragraph – 2 or 3 previous work or education experiences as support for why you should be hired.
3^rd Paragraph – Thank the employer for their time and let them know of your availability hours.  

How to ace an interview

An interview allows both parties to get to know each other; it provides you with a chance to sell yourself. In addition it provides you with the opportunity to learn more about the job. Employers use interviews to test your qualification to determine whether you are a good fit for the job or not.

There are several ways to create a great impression and increase your chances of getting the job:

• Dress Professionally- For men, suit, and shirt with tie and polished shoes.                                     For women conservative pants and skirts stockings & dress shoes.
• Always arrive 10-15 minutes early, bring few copies of your resume, be polite to every one you encounter and turn your cellphone off.
• Read your resume carefully and be prepared to answer questions regarding your interests skills and goals.
• Be confident about yourself and believe that you are the right person for the position.
• Research the job you are applying for and learn about the responsibilities involved in the position.
• At the interview, keep your answers brief and focused, be honest and truthful about your skills and interests. 
• Be sure to prepare questions for the interviewer. This will show that you put an effort to learn and research your future position.
• It is recommended to bring the following items; briefcase or portfolio in which you’ll carry a pen – note pad, copy of your resume, at least three references.  
• Finally, prepare yourself for the interview by practicing in the mirror, schedule a mock interview with a career adviser. This will prevent anxiety during the real interview.                                                             

 

Nathalie Jean –Elie, Yosef Bagdadi