Temple University in Japan

Academic English Program; Evening & Weekend Students

Workshop: "How to Write an Impressive Resume"


1) Welcome

2) Introduce myself

3) Icebreaker Activity: Participants meet in pairs. Tell name, where from, status and dream job. Introduce the partner to the group.

Resume: meaning

CV: meaning

Ask for differences between them, when are they used.

Different in US and Europe

- What is the objective of a resume?

Arrange students in small groups.

Distribute large post-it notes and markers to each group.

Write down as many Do's and Don'ts for resumes as they can come up with in 3-5" (depending on time, activity).

Arrange them on white board.

Add any missing ones.

Refer to previous excercise...

Elicit more from students

- clean layout
- no wasted space but not cramped
- easy to read font; not multiple fonts
- no colors
- go easy on bold, italics, underlining
- no graphics
- picture/ mostly no.
- 1-2 pages for students, new grads
- 2-3+ for mid-career / more on a CV.

Elicit ideas from students:

- Proof read and have someone double-check
- NO spelling, grammar or typo mistakes
- Check verb tenses
- No 3rd person
- Not a job description
- Who, When, Where, Why & How
- Quantify and Qualify
- Number of people managed; scope of projects
- Precise titles, company names
- Include precise dates
- Be sure to put locations
- Add URLs for less famous companies

Be sure to write down accomplishments!

Extremely important - imagine you are introducing yourself at a networking event to a potential employer.

Key factor to help someone decide to keep reading your resume.

- 3-6 bullet points that sum up "who" and "what" you are professionally
- highlighting key points
- consider experience, certifications, language, education

- tailor it for the specific role, company and industry you are applying for

Highlight particularly relevant skills / not a huge list / not things you are vaguely familiar with.

Education near top for students or new grads, near the end of the resume for mid-career.

Detail pertinent professional certifications and awards / not drivers license or SCUBA cert.

Language(s): Under sell and over deliver; add any test scores.

Foreigners should include visa status or ability to get one (spouse visa, etc).

Contact information: not always necessary to include address. Email and phone are key.

Be sure email address is professional sounding.

Objective - leave off, normally a waste of space.

Reference - leave off. Of course, supplied if needed.

Anything unclear?

More examples?

Review key points

- Format

- Content

- Proof Reading!


Lastly, please take care with your resume and where you send it.

Thank participants....

Best of luck with your careers.