Resume Writing

There are two main focuses to creating or updating a resume - the content and the format. The following tips will help you develop an effective resume and avoid any mishaps along the way. View a sample resume.

Content

• Above all, be truthful. Don't misrepresent your education or career background.
• Focus on listing your previous experience and education. Be sure to include activities in professional associations (TSCPA) if they relate to the job opportunity.
• Customize your resume to fit the specific requirements of the job opening.
• Describe how your significant contributions affected the bottom line.
• Don't include personal information such as social activities, marital status and hobbies.
• Leave salary information off of the resume. If an ad requests salary requirements, include them in the cover letter.

Format

• List your work experience in reverse chronological order (most recent position first) followed by your education.
• Use bullet points when describing your job duties. Bullet points are easier to read than paragraphs.
• Don't overdo the text formatting with a lot of bolding or underlining.
• Give previous positions with experience relevant to the job opening more room for description.