by W. Diane Van Zwol

Created on: May 03, 2008   Last Updated: December 13, 2011

What is a resume?

The word resume was initially coined in 1804 to signify a summary, or a written account, of a person's basic qualifications or credentials. It is intended to be used by a person like you, who is currently seeking or applying for employment.

These tips will show you what a resume can do for you. By using these guidelines, you will find that you are successful, in terms of obtaining a job that is appropriate for you.

1. Your cover letter identifies you.

Your cover letter is probably the most important page of your resume, simply because without it, any potential employer may, or may not, be able to contact you. This page gives your employer your contact information with your name, address, telephone number, and your e-mail address.

2. Your most recent employment experience informs your potential employer immediately as to whether or not you have the required employment experience, or expertise, required for the job that is being offered or posted, either internally or externally.

Begin your resume with your most recent employment experience. Sometimes, it takes a while to document all of your employment history, but you will be glad that you did that first, before writing your resume. Your potential employer may only want to know what you have been doing in the last five or 10 years, but you will want to be able to relate other employment history to him or her at a later date, if asked, so be prepared with a complete employment record. This should include the the name and address of the employers, dates of employment and previous salary records, if possible.

3. Your academic or education record immediately reveals to your potential employer whether or not you have sufficient education or training to handle the proposed position.

Begin with your most recent education and training, as that is what is current and will be of more benefit than many years of other, possibly unrelated, kinds of education or training. There may be specific kinds of education or training that your employer is seeking, so be prepared to relate any other previous education and training to him, if asked to do so. It may also be of benefit to you, in terms of the actual salary that you will receive. Your employer will know what further training or education will be required in the future, in order for you to succeed in your new job.

4. Your current other interests will reveal personal information about you.

Relate your current interests in this part of your resume,

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