News

by Meg Bonacorsi

STEVENS POINT (WAOW) - If you've ever applied for a job, then you know a resume is typically a must.

But have you ever wondered what makes a truly good resume?

Certified resume writer Tim Solinger says, "Until the interview comes along, if you get called for the interview, the resume has to really carry the weight. And so it's really critical that the resume be prepared the best way possible."

... ultimately it's the content that's the key thing ...

But the truth is, not everyone knows what the best way is.

"I think I remember in high school we did a little course on writing resumes but I never really paid attention," says a 22-year-old Wausau man.

Others have a pretty good idea.

One Wausau woman says, "Just keeping it as short as possible and try to keep to keep at one page and just keep things straight to the point."

Solinger says the one page rule isn't always true - especially if you have a lot of experience.

As for one common mistake he says, "Resumes are not fully developed. That there's not enough information on the resume about an individual's accomplishments or responsibilities."

I was guilty of another common mistake - my resume doesn't have a focus statement.

Solinger explains, "A quick summary paragraph that kind of wraps up what you're about as a professional, what drives you, what motivates you, some things you've done. But real briefly and then we get into the work history."

When writing a resume, Solinger recommends using the active voice, keeping it lean and readable, tailoring it to a specific job position and making sure the font is consistent.

"The look is important but ultimately it's the content that's the key thing that someone's looking at when they read a resume," he says.

Hayley Bergum, a restaurant manager, agrees, "I look for something that sticks out to me. I look for someone who is selling themselves and seems confident and can bring something to the table and also is willing to learn."

Solinger, who owns Great Impressions Resume Service in Stevens Point, is actually offering job hunters in Central Wisconsin a resume makeover for free.

Contestants can submit their resumes on-line by May 29, 2009, and the one that needs the most improvement will be considered the winner.

For more information visit www.greatimpressionsresume.com

Online Reporter: Meg Bonacorsi

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