Preparing to Write Your Resume

Writing a resume requires a little time and planning. However, it is well worth the effort. It is a good idea to begin by writing a master resume. Having an attractive resume on hand that stresses your strongest skills, better prepares you to attend job fairs and respond to a large number of jobs advertised in newspapers and on the Internet.

Get organized! Before beginning to write your resume:

1. Gather information on your past employment: employer names and addresses, and dates of employment.
2. Gather information for personal references: names and addresses.
3. Research information on the employer. (See "Research the Employer" under "How to Find a Job.")
4. Select a quiet area to gather your thoughts and begin working on your resume.
5. Decide what type of resume suits you best: chronological, functional, or automated.