Create a Resume

Whether you want to build a resume from scratch or update an existing one, creating a new resume is much easier if you utilize handy tools like templates and resume builders and resources like websites and books. And if you need more help, there are also online classes that you can take.

1. MAKE A LIST

Before you start creating your resume, take some time to jot down not only your work history and dates of employment, but also your specific skills or specialty areas, certifications, licenses, relevant training, education, published works, awards, volunteer or community service work, salary history and references. These are things you will want to keep in mind while building your resume and having a list ready will help simplify the process.

2. CHOOSE A METHOD FOR CREATING YOUR RESUME

Decide if you want to build a resume from scratch or use a template or online resume builder. With word-processing software, such as Microsoft Word, you can set up your own format or download a resume template.

• If you use Microsoft Word (available on all library computers), you can start with a blank document or choose from numerous templates by clicking on the File menu, selecting “New” and choosing keyword “Resume” or typing it in the search box. Once you decide on a template, you tab through the layout and replace existing type with your own information.

3. SAVE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT AND MAKE A PDF

When you have completed your resume, be sure to save it in its original format in case you need to edit it in the future. It is also a good idea to make a PDF of your resume since this is often the preferred format for uploading it to an online job application. NOTE: PDFs generally are not editable, so it is important to keep your original document in addition to the PDF.

4. FIND HELPUL INFORMATION FROM VARIOUS RESOURCES

As you write your resume, you may need some additional resources such as websites and books. Two popular sites are listed below, and for books, go to the 650.142 non-fiction area of the library:

• LiveCareer at LiveCareer.com. All sorts of career and job-seeking information is available at this website, but you can also find links to action verbs by skill set and how to use keywords in your resume.

• Resumeminers.com has specific information on writing resumes as well as how to use keywords in your resume for searching.

5. NEED MORE HELP?

If you are having trouble writing a resume, you might benefit from one of the online classes listed below, which you can access via the Elmhurst Public Library website (EPL library card and associated PIN required). To access full content, you must fist login using our organization portal found here: LinkedIn Learning

• Designing a Resume (LinkedIn Learning)
• Resume Makeover (LinkedIn Learning)

FOR MORE JOB-RELATED RESOURCES, VISIT THE FOLLOWING LINK:

elmlib.org/careers