Writing a Resume
General Advice:
- Writing a strong resume may often require several drafts.
- Most resumes will first be screened by computer programs using AI.
- Resumes screened by humans will be scanned quickly and not read in full.
- A generic resume is a good starting point for networking or job fairs, but to pass most employer screening processes:
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- Identify the specific position or career path you’re pursuing (more than one target is fine).
- Tailor your resume to match the requirements listed in the job description.
- Research the company’s website and reflect their mission and objectives in your resume.
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- While AI tools can create a draft, recruiters can often spot AI generated resumes, so personalize it using your own words.
- Check spelling, grammar, and sentence structure using tools like Microsoft Word, ChatGPT, and Grammarly.
Resume Format and Content:
- Appropriate length is 1-3 pages
- The format should be visibly appealing with clear section headings and logical organization.
- Use a bulleted format
- Include all information required by the vacancy announcement.
- 10 to 15 years of work history is generally recommended, unless earlier experience is directly related to the new job.
- Do not use acronyms and federal government terms; use language that is understandable to the private sector.
- Avoid using GS grades and levels – translate titles and duties into private sector equivalents.
- Ensure there are no Red Flags – unexplained employment gaps, vague job descriptions, inconsistencies, and illogical sequencing.
Resume Sections: (also see video links below on how to write a resume)
- Personal Information: name, phone number, email (optional: Linkedin and home address)
- Professional Summary: 2-4 sentences summarizing relevant career goals and achievements specific to the job applying for. (see video links below on how to write a professional summary)
- Education: degree, school name and location, graduation year
Work History:
- Write about your most recent job experience and work backwards.
- Include position title, company name, location, and dates of employment.
- Focus on significant tasks of your job: did you work with customers or lead people?
- Provide a description of your major accomplishments: delivered a project, changed a process, published a paper, reduced costs, etc.
- Use impactful action verbs to start each bullet: led, managed, programmed, wrote, edited, developed, organized, directed, created, implemented, established, etc.
Skills:
- List computer skills such as Microsoft Office, database management, etc.
- List skills such as tax law expertise, auditing skills, budget management, etc.
Other – only include if relevant to the position you’re applying for:
- Internships and volunteer work – role, organization, dates
- Certifications and licenses
- Language proficiencies
- Security clearances
- References – only include if requested
What’s the difference between a resume and a CV: A resume is a concise document, typically one to two pages, summarizing your professional experience and skills for a specific job application. A curriculum vitae (CV) is a more comprehensive and detailed document outlining your complete academic and professional history, commonly used for academic or research-oriented positions.
Following are links to videos on writing a resume and professional summary:
Ex-Google Recruiter Reveals How to Get FAANG Job Offers
By Farah Sharghi https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ck5nw7R1uEs
How To Write an Impressive ATS-Friendly Resume in 2025! A Guide To Applicant Tracking Systems! By Professor Heather Austin https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a43Je1KQY3s&t=84s
How to Make a Resume in Word By Kevin Stratvert
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWHLmdteEhU
The Best Professional Summary Formula for Resume or Linkedin! By Advice with Erin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bip6BXtOQ_I
The Perfect Resume Summary Statement By Red Pen Wench
