Applicant Tracking Systems
Many companies use applicant tracking systems that scan your resume for keywords from the job description. You’re not just trying to impress a person. You’re also trying to impress the software. Target your resume to the exact job. Show how your skills and experience match the language in the posting so it’s clear you’re a strong fit.
The Format
When you build your resume, choose a format that fits your story. There are three main options.
- Chronological highlights your work history. It works best if you have steady experience in one field and want a similar job.
- Functional highlights your skills. Use it to show what you can do even if your past jobs don’t line up with your new career goals.
- Combination blends both. Pick two or three skill areas and group your experiences under them, so employers see your strengths and your work history at the same time.
Your resume needs a few key parts: your contact information, education and relevant experience. You can add other sections if they help you show why you’re a good fit.
Pick sections that match the job you want. When you show a mix of paid and unpaid experience, you help the hiring manager to see what you’ve done that others may not have.
Sections
The order in which you list some of these sections may vary.
Contact Info
Listed at the top of your first page. Include your preferred name (pronouns optional), phone number, email and an optional LinkedIn or digital portfolio URL.
Summary of Qualifications (or Professional Summary)
Below your contact info, list 3-5 bullet points highlighting key skills, accomplishments or experiences that match the job. Catch the hiring manager’s attention here.
Education
Include your post-secondary schools and any relevant coursework.
Employment Experience (or Relevant Experience or Work History)
List paid or unpaid experience and what you accomplished.
Skills (or Technical Skills or Software and Media kills)
List relevant field-specific technical skills.
Certifications
List any relevant credentials you’ve earned.
Volunteer Experience
Include volunteer work or community engagement.
Other Sections
Add any other sections that show your unique experience. Market yourself!
The First Draft
Start by brainstorming what to include on your resume. Use our Resume Worksheet to gather your experiences in one place. Think carefully so you don’t miss anything that could catch a hiring manager’s eye.
Writer’s block is common. The fix? Write a quick first draft instead of a polished resume. Write freely now, edit later. Here are some tips:
- Start by listing the basic sections of your resume. Don’t worry about order or wording yet. Just get your info down.
- Use whatever writing tool works best for you: a yellow legal pad before typing on your computer or voice memos — anything that helps.
- Include a summary of qualifications to show employers what you can do.
- Use keywords from your research. Target the job description when you can.
- Keep it short. Recent grads usually keep resumes to 1-2 pages.
Resume Resources
Feel free to download these resources to help you craft your resume:
Need more resources? Contact Student Employment Services and we'll provide them!