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Writing a resume

When writing a resume, you must be thoughtful about the format and the content of your document. Here are some important things to consider.

Format

• Consistent format (if you bold your organization names, put all organizations in bold)Ěý

• No spelling, capitalization errorsĚý

• Text size: Keep in scale. Works well to have your name at 16-18 pt, and have the body text at 10-12 ptĚý

• Margins: ½ inch (“Narrow” in Word) – 1 inch (“Normal”); keep consistent all the way around the pageĚý

• Length: 1-page is expected for most undergraduates. Graduate students can go to 2 pages IF they have enough relevant experience and it’s written concisely.Ěý

Content

• Always, tailor your content to the skills the job description is asking for first. Then, highlight experiences where you have shownĚýĚý

• Start each bullet point with an action verbĚý

• Make your resume an impact statement: From a recruiter who’s an SIS alum: “I always suggest that candidates make their resume metrics driven with a focus on impact rather than responsibilities so the resume reads as a branding statement focused on accomplishments rather than a list of job duties – i.e., what did you complete in X role and what was the outcome compared to what anyone would have to do in X role.”Ěý

How to choose professional references

What are employers looking for when they contact your references?

• To verify your work history
• To establish your integrity
• To evaluate your working style or personality
• To confirm their decision

Employers typically ask questions like these to references:

• What were your primary responsibilities?
• How did you get along with co-workers?
• What were your top skills?
• What were your limitations or weaknesses?
• What was your attendance record?
• Would the employer hire you again?

Whom should you choose as references?

Here are some suggestions:

• Someone who has witnessed you in responsible roles (e.g., an advisor, a professor, or an internship supervisor)
• A current or previous supervisor (if you haven’t informed your current employer that you’re looking for another job, indicate that on your list of references or in the interview, and ask that the employer wait to contact your current employer until further along in the process)
• A current or previous co-worker once you’re more established in your career

ĚýIn general, don’t list family members, or friends who know you only in a social capacity.

Do you need to ask your references for permission?

Yes! Before including anyone on your list of references for any job, you must ask for permission. Asking permission will also:

• Allow you to check for accurate spelling and the most current contact information.
• Ensure that the reference is happy to speak for you and will say something positive.
• Give you a good opportunity to continue to network.

Many people will be happy to be a reference, but if any seem hesitant, politely let them off the hook. You want your references to be enthusiastic about you and your abilities! Let each reference know what type of position you’re seeking and what aspects of your background you’re emphasizing, and be sure to provide each of them with the latest copy of your résumé.

If it has been a while since you have connected with your references, take the opportunity to invite them for a cup of coffee and get reacquainted (it can be virtual!). They might even have some helpful suggestions for your job search!

What should your reference sheet look like?

• It should have a consistent look and feel with your other application materials.
• It should include your name and contact information.
• It should include each person’s full name, job title, relationship to you (e.g., former supervisor, faculty advisor), and contact information (including phone number and email address).
• It should be free of errors, and easy to read and understand.

Final tips

• You do not need to include “References available upon request” on your rĂ©sumĂ©. Employers expect you to have your list completed and available.
• Some employers will ask for references on the job application. Be prepared.
• Keep your references apprised of where your job search stands and who might be calling for a reference.
• When you get a new job, be sure to send a thank-you note to those who provided references.

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One of the simplest, quickest things you can do to help facilitate your job search is to fill out 2 key areas of your .