Hello to the community. I am currently within a year of my retirement date and I need to get serious about this transition. A job offer has presented itself in my current location, however, I need a resume to apply for it. Is there anyone that can assist me in writing a resume that will "wow" this and other employers?
Answers
Your single-page resume should be written using 12 pt. "bold type" Times New Roman font to facilitate employers using scanning technology "key word" search of it. Use 1/2" margins on the document to conserve space. It should contain the following elements in this order:
1. PROFILE: Use a few sentences summary of your primary occupational skills and experience.
2. EMPLOYMENT: List business name, your title, city/state, years with employer on one line for each job.
Record employment history with the most recent job first, and all others before it.
3. CAPABILITIES: Use a "bullet list" sentence of each job skill or ability you have for the job you seek.
4. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Use a "bullet list" sentence itemizing each major occupational accomplishment.
5. EDUCATION: Indicate all academic achievements, classes, courses, awards, you have obtained.
6. REFERENCES: Available upon request.
Always provide a brief "cover letter" indicating why you desire the position, and briefly state that you have the knowledge and abilities to successfully perform the responsibility. If you are asked for your salary requirements, state it is negotiable contingent upon benefits. Close this letter stating: If my qualifications merit your further consideration, I will appreciate opportunity of an interview.
Hi Wesley-
I am retired after a 40 year career in industry where I hired over 100 people. Now I am helping veterans like yourself by helping with their resumes. If you would e-mail me your resume (drjamesfwatson@gmail.com) I would be happy to comment on it.
Jim Watson
Wesley,
With your military background, you may want to consider federal employment.
1. You receive a preference during the hiring process (for most applications);
2. You can buy back your time towards retirement.
My company provides free resume critiques to all military service members. You can submit your resume to us via email or by using our secure online submission form:
Email: Info@ExpertResumeSolutions.com
Form: http://tinyurl.com/nwz27gc
Please allow 3-5 business days for completion.
We use two different formats for corporate and federal applications. I can send you examples of each to get you started.
Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kellywilliamsmaresca
Thank you for your service.
Warmest Regards,
Kelly Williams
Career Strategist & President
Security Cleared Careers
Expert Resume Solutions
Business: (732) 686-6455
Email: info@expertresumesolutions.com
www.ExpertResumeSolutions.com
Job Board: wwww.SecurityClearedCareers.com
Wesley-
I live and work in Elk Grove. If you want to meet up to go over your resume, pls email me at
glum@willdan.com.
Wesley, Forget about the Objective section of a resume-most employers pay little or no attention to it. Instead, review the job listing carefully, as well as do some research about the company to answer this question: What problem does this employer have that I can solve." It is obviously a manpwer issue or they wouldn't be hiring. But where else do they have an itch? Maybe thsy have highlighted a need for the canadite to understand a specific process. Then use the cover letter to demonstrate how your experience in the resume will fill their expressed needs. The cover letter becomes the Objective section.
Wesley - you already have two great answers to your post. Try and incorporate their tips and then shoot me a draft copy of your resume and I'll provide you wth some additional feedback.
There are so many opinions about resumes that it often creates paralysis for someone not familiar with the process. Resumes serve to create interest on the part of the employer while attempting to match the job seeker's experience/expertise to the job requirements.
The key element of a good resume will show the applicant's accomplishments, highlighted by bullet points and a brief job description. For example:
ABC Company Dallas TX
Lead Supervisor 2012-current
Responsible for the activities and daily supervision of 3 team leaders and my own team in this light manufacturing automotive industry. Handled overtime requests, PTO requests and safety programs.
* Reduced overtime in 2nd quarter of 2012 by 15 % through rescheduling and a slight job change for two skilled laborers.
* Improved shop and shift safety records by stressing more awareness and attention to detail, obtaining more employee buy in on working more safely to create a safer work environment.
* Reduced error rate on one line of parts by .5% through closer supervision of this process:
started an internal contest to promote more accuracy and pride in workmanship.
Repeat this process for your work history in chronological order, beginning with your current or most recent job first. Resume should not exceed two pages as a rule. Do not use " I " in a resume. You do not need to show the months of your employment, years only will suffice. Be prepared to discuss any gaps of time in your resume
Good luck and thank you for your service to the US.
I have found that chronologically formatted resumes work best. Translate the military lingo into civilian terms, do not let the employer decipher as they are clueless. Make sure the resume fits the job description, multiple resumes are normal. The objective section is to be short and to the point, it is not a "brag" section.
Your Answer
Pleaselog into answer this question.