Resumes!

[lilias]

Hi all,

I am possibly going to need to look for another job in the coming months due to hours and availability and childcare (yada yada!). It has been year since I have written, or even updated my resume. So what is it that employers look for in a resume? I am an early childhood teacher if that makes any kind of difference?

[Ruth08]

Hi Lilias,

Somethings to include (and these might be obvious)
Contact details
Qualifications/certification
Relevant awards
Bullet pointed list of key skills and or attritubes with enough detail about how you've demonstrated that skill in the past (I have mine listed in groups under headings that the relevant to my profession (e.g. research skills, client skills, neogotiations skills, professional skills).
Past work experience from most recent to a few years ago, showing dates, employer, role and key duties.
Details of two referees.

I keep mine to 2-3 pages and use headings so everything is very clear.

HTH!

[Marydean]

If your work history is patchy (esp if you've been in and out of positions due to moves, mat leave, etc) it can be best to put your skills up top and then the chronological details of jobs and quals after that.

I like to lead out with an objective at the very top, ie "To secure a part-time position in a workplace that values my xxx, xxx and xxx (most important personal attributes)." It gives your prospective employer an idea of the sort of workplace vibe you are looking for.

[BellaBee]

just thought i'd add my 2 cents worth, as i have interviewed numerous people and it never ceases to amaze me the types of resumes that come in.

Regardless of what the job is you're applying for, I can't stress enough how important it is to change your resume to suit the job application. You should never have just the 1 resume and send it out to all job applications, each application needs to be suited to the role.
So if the job asks for specific experience and qualifications, make sure you list it in your resume. You would be amazed at how many resumes i have received and the person's resume didn't even relate to the role, all because of the way the resume was written!

Good luck with your job search too

[Nai]

All of the above and PLEASE check your spelling, grammer and formatting!

If the first impressions aren't good you will have trouble getting to the next stage no matter how qualified for the job you are.