Chron. vs. Skills Resume Review
I am thinking about switching to a skills-style resume to de-emphasize the fact that I am switching to an unrelated profession and hopefully highlight what I can do. In an interview, I know I actually could relate my experience, but I haven't gotten the opportunity to do so yet. I am also looking into applying for some business strategy consulting jobs, but I think the same may hold true for that field.
Any and all critiques and suggestions welcome. Thanks in advance!
| My Name | 123 Anywhere Dr Sometown, USA | Home phone: Cell Phone: Email: | 555.555.5432 555.555.1122 yourname@isp.com |
Education:
My University / Collegetown, USA
· Bachelor of ArtsInformation Systems
o Multimediaconcentration
o BusinessAdministration Core
· 3.9 CumulativeGPA
· Coursework:Management Information Systems, Systems Analysis, Networking Essentials, ITSoftware/Hardware, Multimedia, Advanced Multimedia, Principles of Management
·Oh...you gotta change it, definitely...
My first impression was that the resume was incomplete....no resume career objective, no relevant info area, no skills area and so on. I have two pieces of advice for you. It doesn't matter you're a career swtitcher as long as you reword your resume and tailor it to the specific of the job you are searching for at present. Also, have a categorisation of your skills (foundation, relevant etc). I've seen you have thought of that yourself. On the same site I have you, search for "skills" in the search bar. It should be easy.
Section of post does not conform with Monster TOU
Thanks!
Name
Address
Phone and Email
Summary:
I am a logical, analytical,and creative professional with the ability to work with technology and peoplewith equal ease. I have exceptional written and verbal communication abilities,an intuitive learner, and eager to take on new challenges. I can face thosechallenges on an individual level or in a team environment as the situationdemands. I strive for excellence in everything I do, and am result-oriented.Customer satisfaction is my ultimate goal, whether those customers are internal,external, or both.
Skills:
Computer/Software
- Software experience in a support role: Windows 98/2000/XP, MS Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop, McAfee/Norton/Command Anti-Virus software
- Other software experience: MS Project, MS Visio, Mac OS, Linux, Flash, Fireworks, HTML, PHP, Norton Ghost, various proprietary software (local, network, and web-based)
- Administration and programming of electronic door access system securing physical plant valued at $21,000,000. Included scheduling, user access levels, and security investigations.
- Responsible for updating software installed on all department computers, general department support issues, scheduling replacement of outdated hardware, and escalating necessary issues
- Research, design, and assembly of new computer systems, including home/home office network setups and integration for independent clients
Training and Organization
- Initiated driver training program, including: recruitment, development and implementation of training materials, on-the-bus training, annual in-service training programs, and recertification.
- Prepared and presented annual in-service presentations for more than 100 attendees. Sessions included classroom lecture, presentations, hands-on training, and break-out workshops
- Administrative duties including: scheduling, accounts receivable, inventory management, record management, and customer relations.
- As an assistant varsity soccer coach, specialized in 1-on-1 training of the program’s goalkeepers. Voted Division II State of Ohio Assistant Soccer Coach of the Year, 2006
Creativity and Communication
- As a recording engineer, developed client’s creative vision in a technical environment to create a finished, marketable product
- Worked on many initiatives as part of a self-directed, ambitious, and creative team that improved efficiency, quality, and the overall experience of our clients
- Designed professional recording studio’s logo and business cards
- Design and creation of several personal websites, internet message boards, and e-commerce sites.
- Prepared quarterly and annual summary reports for the transportation department using Excel and Access
Education:
Objective: an entry level position in Information Technology.
Makes life so much simpler for the reader.
2. Ten or twelve resumes is not a lot. I assume that I will get anywhere from a 1% to a 20% response rate to my resumes. Send more out.
I don't think those five sentences are vague, and they address some of the most common attributes employers are looking for in business analysts. The following list is from the most recent job I applied for:
• Technically oriented but able to handle periodic business systems consulting
• Strong written communication skills.
• Strong oral communication skills.
• Work independently and in a team environment
• Committed to quality.
• Think like a Customer/End User.
Sounds kinda like my summary, no?
Having said that, I actually agree with you. I went to a career event today, and I watched how fast the recruiters I talked to scanned my resume. They were on the second page in less than 5 seconds, so there is no way they can get all of that information while scanning. I think I am going to replace the summary section with an Objective section that is much shorter, but more specific than "seeking an entry-level IT position". Those first five sentences will probably find their way into my cover letter instead of resume.
I am also going to try and thin out the Skills section and also the Experience section to make it easier to scan quickly. I may also put the Education section first since it is proabably the most relevant.
I've been pretty selective what I apply for. Since I'm career changing and have a fairly good job (just not one that chalenges me), I don't HAVE to go anywhere, so I only apply for those jobs that interest me, are in my area, and I'm qualified for.
Thanks for taking the time to respond. Good luck in your search. Any other comments/criticism welcome.