Page 117 - Complete Idiot's Guide to The Perfect Resume

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Chapter 7 ➤ Step Two: Knock ’Em Off Their Feet

For example, the opening section of Christopher Columbus’s
resume might have read as follows:

Summary of Qualifications
➤ First European to make verified contact with Americans since
the Vikings five centuries before.
➤ Christened six Caribbean islands (whose names now signify Terms of Employment
choice vacation spots).
The Summary of Qualifi-
➤ Noted captain and navigator of four Atlantic crossings who set cations section is a brief set of
contemporary world sailing records. points that say you’re qualified
for your Job Objective. This
Wouldn’t you want this guy to captain your next transoceanic sail- section can also be called:
ing trip?
Highlights of Qualifications
You may not be able to tout mind-blowing achievements like Qualifications
Columbus, but you can look pretty terrific with three or four
Highlights
smashing statements that set you apart from the crowd. Talk about
anything that makes you stand out in your field. That something Summary
could be any of the following: Profile
➤ Your experience There’s room to be creative in
naming this section, so go for it!
➤ Your credentials
➤ Your expertise
➤ Your personal values
➤ Your work ethics
➤ Your background
➤ Your personality

In the Summary of Qualifications, you’re free to make claims, drop
names, and do your best to entice the employer to call you for an Career Casualty
interview. Remember, all claims must be substantiated later when
Don’t make the employer read
you write the body of your resume, so be honest while giving your-
the entire resume to realize that
self full credit.
you’re the perfect candidate for
the job. Hit a home run with
Say It with Style stunning statements in the first
few lines.
Whatever you do in your Summary of Qualifications, don’t use
hackneyed phrases such as “Excellent written and oral
communication skills,” “Outstanding organizational abilities,”
“Goal-oriented individual,” or other overused, vague lines.

Columbus’s resume would have gotten lost in the pack if it had read as follows:
Summary of Qualifications
➤ Exceptional organizational and people skills
➤ Goal-oriented, self-motivated individual
➤ Excellent written and communication skills

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