RESUME CHECKLIST AND CRITIQUE
Take some time away from your resume and then revisit it through the eyes of a prospective employer. Keep in mind that resumes are initially scanned by eye or machine (i.e., to meet resume-search-technology requirements) before they are read thoroughly and you are considered a candidate. Remember that a resume is an advertisement that demonstrates who you are, what you have done, what you do and what you can do.
1) OVERALL APPEARANCE:
Would you want to read it?
2) LAYOUT:
Does the resume look professional – well typed, with good spacing, consistent fonts, etc. Do the key points stand out?
3) LENGTH:
Could the resume tell the same story if shortened?
4) RELEVANCE:
Has extraneous material been eliminated?
5) WRITING STYLE:
Is it easy to get a picture of your qualifications?
6) ACTION ORIENTED
Do sentences and paragraphs begin with action verbs?
7) SPECIFICITY:
Does the resume avoid generalities and focus on specific information about your experience, projects, etc.?
8) ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
Are your accomplishments and problem solving skills emphasized?
9) COMPLETENESS:
Is all important information included? (contact info, job/life experience, skills, honors, etc.)
10) BOTTOM LINE:
How well does the resume accomplish its ultimate purpose of getting the employer to invite candidate for an interview?
A few more items to make sure all pertinent information is captured in your resume:
​
Personal Information: Full Name (re: official name is preferred for legality (IRS), background checks, etc.), home address, telephone number, email address
​
Experience: Work experience, military experience if relevant, school projects, summer jobs, internships, part-time jobs, relevant hobby experience
​
Skill Set: Target 3 or 4 skills that are most relevant to your objective supported with accomplishments where possible
​
Activities: Where relevant to the position sought: Associations, memberships, clubs, professional societies, scholastic honors, church participation, volunteering, sports interests/achievements, special projects, committee assignments
​
References: Typically provided upon request, but if you have a reason to include them, give both professional and character references, being sure to get permission before submitting anyone’s name as a reference