Getting Started - Sample Resume Outline

(Note: this is simply an outline of information usually included in a resume. There are no hard and fast rules for resume preparation other than they must be pleasing to the eye and error free. The objective is to present your background and credentials in their most favorable light. Make your resume work for you.)

1. Identification – Includes your name, address and telephone number. Be sure to include your university address if applicable, and Email address if you use it.
   
2. Job Objective or Career Goal – Specify the kind of job or field of work you want. This is one of the most important sections as it identifies the position you are seeking. Be brief and concise. If you are not able to narrow your objective to a single position, consider leaving it out altogether and developing a paragraph within your cover letter.
   
3. Education – (Place this section next unless you have had previous highly responsible experience.)
   • University Name – Major and minor subjects, degree and date received, grade point if 3.0 or better, scholarships or honors (if numerous, include under a separate heading), percentage of college expenses earned, related courses when appropriate, senior seminar, etc.
   • High School – (optional) Include distinguished offices held, activities, honors.
     
4. Experience – List jobs in reverse chronological order, the most recent first. Include voluntary work, work study, internships, etc., if they appear relevant to your job objective. Include:
   • Position title
   • Employer
   • Dates of employment
   • Responsibilities – Be concise, use action verbs, emphasize supervisory or leadership experience
   • Student teaching experience (if applicable) – Include grade and subjects taught, school district, name and phone number of cooperating teacher, and date
   • Military experience (if applicable) – Branch, length of service, duties, etc.
     
5. Honors and Activities – (optional) This section does not have to include every activity you have ever been involved in. Be selective, stressing leadership affiliations or certificates, hobbies, civic organizations, etc.
   
6. Background or Miscellaneous Section – (optional) Include miscellaneous information such as language ability, special skills, professional affiliations or certificates, hobbies, civic organizations, etc.
   
7. References – This can be handled in multiple ways. A separate sheet listing references (on resume paper), "Available upon request," or with the simple statement, “Available upon request from the Office of Career Services, Muskingum University, New Concord, OH 43762, (740) 826-8084” if you have established a credential file.

How to...

Create a Resume
Write a Cover Letter
Prepare for an Interview