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You’re hired! Writing an impressive resume

Having excellent English can be the key to landing your dream job, but you have to get through the job application process first. Make sure your resume stands out from the rest with these terrific tips!

resume or CV?

A resume is a summary of the job applicant’s qualifications, skills and experience. In Britain this is called a CV or curriculum vitae.

Executive or entry-level?

A resume can be divided into different sections depending on the type of position you are applying for. An executive (management level) resume will also look very different from an entry-level (first job) one.

Objective

This is sometimes included at the beginning of a resume to describe the applicant’s employment goal: the specific position that he or she is aiming for.

Personal profile

This is a summary of the applicant’s main skills, personal qualities and achievements, and provides a brief overview at the beginning of the resume.

qualifications or education

This section describes your education and training: which university you attended, your major subjects, as well as other qualifications that you have completed.

academic awards

This section lists any academic honors (prizes) you may have received. It can also include financial awards like fellowships, scholarships and grants.

work experience or employment history

This part of the resume describes your previous jobs, including the job title, responsibilities, dates of employment, and your major accomplishments.

certifications and publications

A professional resume may also include your certifications (professional examinations or licenses), publications (books or articles you’ve had printed) or affiliations (membership of professional organizations).

references

This section lists the names of people who are willing to recommend you for a position, such as teachers or previous employers.

cover letter

A resume on its own does not make a very good impression. It must be accompanied by a letter that introduces the applicant and explains why they are applying for the job.