FIND THE CAREER YOU LOVE Resumes, Cover Letters and Job Applications
FIND THE CAREER YOU LOVE, “THE SERIES” This publication is part of a series of documents designed as a comprehensive tool for jobseekers. Each publication focuses on different important aspects of finding and preparing for a career you love. RESUMES, COVER LETTERS AND JOB APPLICATIONS: P677 JOB SEARCH AND NETWORKING: P678 INTERVIEWING: P679 P677 (6/24)
TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1: CREATING AN EFFECTIVE RESUME.................................................................................1 What Is a Resume?.............................................................................................................................................................................2 Why Is a Resume So Important?...................................................................................................................................................2 Three Types of Resumes.................................................................................................................................................................. 2 Choosing Your Resume Type......................................................................................................................................................... 3 Gathering Information For Your Resume.................................................................................................................................. 3 Action Verbs To Use In a Resume................................................................................................................................................. 6 Transferable Skills..............................................................................................................................................................................8 Addressing Common Job Search Challenges In a Resume................................................................................................9 CHAPTER 2: RESUME TEMPLATES.......................................................................................................11 Combination / Skills Resume.......................................................................................................................................................12 Chronological Resume..................................................................................................................................................................14 Functional Resume.........................................................................................................................................................................16 CHAPTER 3: SAMPLE RESUMES..........................................................................................................18 Sample 1 - Young Worker, Chronological Resume...............................................................................................................19 Sample 2 - Young Worker, Functional Resume.....................................................................................................................20 Sample 3 - Young Worker, Combination Resume................................................................................................................21 Sample 4 - Continuous Work History, Chronological Resume........................................................................................22 Sample 5 - Continuous Work History, Combination Resume..........................................................................................23 Sample 6 - Gap In Employment (Formerly Incarcerated), Combination Resume....................................................24 Sample 7 - Gap In Employment (Mother Returning To the Workplace), Combination Resume.........................25 Sample 8 - Changing Careers, Combination Resume.........................................................................................................26 Sample 9 - Multiple Employers, Combination Resume.....................................................................................................27 Sample 10 - Veteran Entering a Civilian Job, Combination Resume.............................................................................28 Sample 11 - Trade Industry, Chronological Resume...........................................................................................................29 Sample 12 - Industry Specific, Chronological Resume.......................................................................................................30 Sample 13 - Industry Specific, Chronological Resume.......................................................................................................31 CHAPTER 4: COVER LETTERS.............................................................................................................32 Importance of Writing a Cover Letter.......................................................................................................................................33 Deciding the Purpose of the Cover Letter..............................................................................................................................33 Tips For Writing an Effective Cover Letter...............................................................................................................................34 Steps For Writing a Cover Letter.................................................................................................................................................35 CHAPTER 5: SAMPLE COVER LETTERS.............................................................................................36 Sample 1 - Bulleted List Cover Letter.......................................................................................................................................37 Sample 2 - Table Format Cover Letter......................................................................................................................................38 Sample 3 - Email Cover Letter.....................................................................................................................................................39 CHAPTER 6: JOB APPLICATIONS........................................................................................................40 Job Application Preparation........................................................................................................................................................41 Online Applications........................................................................................................................................................................43 Applicant Tracking System (ATS)................................................................................................................................................44 Additional Resources.....................................................................................................................................................................45
CHAPTER 1 Creating an Effective Resume For additional information or to build a resume online, go to: www.jobzone.ny.gov
WHAT IS A RESUME? The resume’s primary function is to showcase your talents and skills to an employer - clearly, convincingly and quickly. A resume is: • It is a marketing tool, it is going to market your experience, training and skills • A way to tell employers what you have accomplished in the past and what you can do for their company now • Your most important job search tool that can get you an interview, and leaves a lasting impression on a potential employer • A guide for you and the employer during an interview It is critical that you invest your time and effort into creating a resume that meets the employer’s needs and highlights your assets. You should target your resume for specific jobs, and edit and update it according to what job you’re applying for. WHY IS A RESUME SO IMPORTANT? Resumes are expected for almost all types of jobs from clerks to chief executive officers. Even with an employer’s ability to search you on the internet and look you up on social media, a resume is still an essential tool for your job search. • Resumes are needed when attending networking events, such as job fairs • Resumes serve as a guide for your interview, and help you improve it • Resumes keep you organized, making it easier to discuss your assets • The purpose is to get you an invitation to an interview THREE TYPES OF RESUMES Choosing the best resume format is extremely important because there are many factors to take into account. These include the length of your resume and your accomplishments, as well as possible shortcomings. Whichever resume format you choose, make sure to include examples of accomplishments that benefited your previous employers. Three common types of resumes are chronological, functional and combination (skills-based). Keep in mind that businesses prefer either a chronological resume or a combination resume. CHRONOLOGICAL Chronological resumes highlight consistency. This format stresses what you accomplished in each of the positions you held. A chronological resume focuses primarily on the history of your work experience and education. It also shows your progress and advancements in your career. This resume format is popular among businesses. FUNCTIONAL A functional resume focuses on your skills and experience, without including chronological time and job titles. It presents a profile of your experience based on professional strengths or groups of skills. Your work history usually follows, but in less detail than in a chronological resume. It is used most often by people with gaps in their work history, those who are changing careers and individuals with limited work experience. Employers generally do not prefer to receive functional resumes as they do not show your work history or career progress. COMBINATION A combination (or combined) resume combines the best features of the traditional chronological (where the dates are in reverse order) and functional (where skills are listed in the beginning) resumes. A combination resume can also be referred to as a skills-based resume. 2
CHOOSING YOUR RESUME TYPE Use this chart to help you identify what resume format will show your accomplishments most effectively. IF YOU ARE... THEN USE A… A young worker and/or have limited work experience Combination Resume (Chronological or Functional Resume also possible) An older worker with a continuous work history Chronological or Combination Resume Returning to the workforce after a gap in employment (incarceration, parenting, illness, care giving etc.) Combination Resume (Functional Resume also possible) Changing careers or your area of focus Combination Resume (Functional Resume also possible) Someone who has changed jobs frequently or has had a wide variety of jobs Combination Resume (Functional Resume also possible) Veteran entering a civilian job Combination Resume (Chronological or Functional Resume also possible) No matter what resume format you choose, an effective resume is targeted and tailored so that it does the following: • Addresses a business’s specific needs and shows that you are the best fit for the position • Focuses on a specific career objective or job posting within the first 15 lines of your resume • States your value as an employee with results that you produced that benefited your previous employers • Allows employers to easily and quickly read it GATHERING INFORMATION FOR YOUR RESUME No matter what type of resume you choose, you will need to gather specific information in order to write your resume. Use the resume template on pages 12-17 to organize the information you will need to include in your resume. Use the list of action verbs on pages 6-7 throughout this exercise. CONTACT INFORMATION The first section of your resume should include information on how the employer can contact you. Please be sure that your contact information is correct and up to date. The street address, city, state and zip code are optional to include on your resume. • First and Last Names • City, State, Zip • Phone (Cell/Home, include area code) • Email Address • LinkedIn URL OBJECTIVE (OPTIONAL) Job title you’re applying for and reason to hire you. 3
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS/PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY (OPTIONAL) List key achievements, skills, strengths and experiences that are relevant to the position for which you are applying. By highlighting your important experiences, the prospective employer sees that you have taken the time to create a resume that shows how you are qualified for the job. WORK EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS This section of your resume includes your work history. Include the businesses you worked for, the dates of employment, the positions you held, a bulleted list of major responsibilities, accomplishments or achievements and a list of your skills. Use past tense for past jobs. Use keywords from the job description you are applying to and the research you did on the job and the employer. Job Title | Company City, State | Dates Work Responsibilities, Special Skills This Job Required, Accomplishments Job Title | Company City, State | Dates Work Responsibilities, Special Skills This Job Required, Accomplishments Job Title | Company City, State | Dates Work Responsibilities, Special Skills This Job Required, Accomplishments 4
EDUCATION/TRAINING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT The education section of your resume should appear near the top of your resume if it is your strongest selling point. If your work experience is your strongest selling point, education will be placed near the bottom. In general, your resume should present your strongest assets and qualifications first to employers to gain and hold their interest. List the schools you attended, the degrees or credentials you attained, graduation year and any special awards and/or honors you earned. If you did not complete a degree or are working towards a degree, indicate the number of credits obtained or semesters completed. Degreee/Credentila | School City, State | Date Earned Awards/Honors Degreee/Credentila | School City, State | Date Earned Awards/Honors VOLUNTEER WORK MEMBERSHIPS Mention any volunteer work or professional organizations you might be a member of that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Hobbies, clubs or church groups that are not relevant to the job you are applying for should not be included. You can make this section heading “Miscellaneous” or “Relevant Activities” in order to include publications, presentations or unique talents related to the job. Job Title | Agency City, State | Dates Work Responsibilities/Activity, Special Skills This Job Required, Accomplishments Job Title | Agency City, State | Dates Work Responsibilities/Activity, Special Skills This Job Required, Accomplishments 5
ACTION VERBS TO USE IN A RESUME Action verbs describe what you did at your job. Remember to use these verbs to describe your work experience when writing your resume and drafting cover letters. This will increase the impact of your writing and make potential employers take notice! Below is a sample list of action verbs that you can use to highlight your background: ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS Approved Arranged Catalogued Categorized Charted Classified Coded Collected Compiled Corrected Corresponded Distributed Executed Filed Generated Incorporated Inspected Logged Maintained Monitored Obtained Operated Ordered Organized Prepared Processed Purchased Recorded Registered Reserved Responded Reviewed Routed Scheduled Screened Submitted Supplied Standardized Systematized Updated RESEARCH SKILLS Analyzed Assessed Balanced Clarified Collected Compared Conducted Considered Critiqued Detected Determined Diagnosed Evaluated Examined Experimented Explored Extracted Formulated Founded Gathered Handled Inspected Interviewed Invented Investigated Located Measured Organized Provided Researched Reviewed Searched Solved Summarized Surveyed Systematized Tested TECHNICAL SKILLS Adapted Applied Assembled Built Calculated Computed Conserved Constructed Converted Debugged Designed Determined Developed Engineered Fabricated Fortified Installed Launched Maintained Operated Overhauled Printed Programmed Rectified Regulated Remodeled Repaired Replaced Restored Solved Specialized Standardized Studied Upgraded Utilized DATA FINANCIAL SKILLS Achieved Administered Adjusted Allocated Analyzed Appraised Assessed Audited Balanced Budgeted Calculated Computed Conserved Corrected Determined Developed Estimated Forecasted Managed Marketed Measured Netted Planned Prepared Programmed Projected Qualified Reconciled Reduced Researched Retrieved Sold 6
COMMUNICATION/PEOPLE SKILLS Advertised Arbitrated Arranged Articulated Authored Clarified Collaborated Communicated Composed Condensed Consulted Contacted Conveyed Convinced Corresponded Debated Defined Developed Directed Discussed Drafted Edited Elicited Enlisted Explained Expressed Formulated Furnished Incorporated Influenced Interacted Interpreted Interviewed Involved Joined Judged Lectured Listened Marketed Mediated Moderated Persuaded Presented Promoted Proposed Publicized Reconciled Recruited Referred Reinforced Reported Resolved Responded Solicited Specified Spoke Suggested Summarize Synthesized Translated Wrote MANAGEMENT/LEADERSHIP SKILLS Administered Analyzed Appointed Approved Assigned Authorized Chaired Considered Consolidated Contracted Controlled Converted Coordinated Decided Delegated Developed Directed Eliminated Emphasized Enforced Enhanced Established Executed Generated Handled Headed Hired Hosted Improved Incorporated Increased Initiated Inspected Instituted Led Managed Merged Motivated Navigated Oversaw Planned Presided Prioritized Produced Recommended Reorganized Replaced Restored Reviewed Scheduled Secured Selected Streamlined Strengthened CREATIVE SKILLS Acted Adapted Began Combined Composed Conceptualized Condensed Created Customized Designed Developed Directed Displayed Drew Entertained Established Fashioned Formulated Founded Illustrated Initiated Instituted Integrated Introduced Invented Modeled Modified Originated Performed Photographed Planned Revised Revitalized Shaped Solved TEACHING SKILLS Adapted Advised Clarified Coached Communicated Conducted Coordinated Critiqued Developed Enabled Encouraged Evaluated Explained Facilitated Focused Guided Individualized Informed Instilled Instructed Motivated Persuaded Simulated Stimulated Taught Tested Trained Transmitted Tutored 7
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS Transferable skills are universal skills that you can easily take with you from one business or job to another. They are skills you have used in the past that may relate to future jobs. Jobseekers often feel they must look for the same job or title they last held. This puts limits on the types of jobs you look for. By identifying your transferable skills, you will open up more job opportunities. Below is an example of how a single skill (organization) is transferable across different occupations. Keep in mind, if you are able to use a skill in one work situation, you should be able to use it in another, even if the work appears completely unrelated to your past employment or educational experience. At least 50% of what may be expected of you in a new job can often consist of transferable skills. EXAMPLES OF TRANSFERABLE SKILLS IN PROFESSIONS These are just a few examples of how transferable skills you already have and use will serve you and your new employer in a different occupation. Work with your Department of Labor workforce professional to identify additional transferable skills and job opportunities specific to you. TITLE SKILLS TARGET OCCUPATIONS SECRETARIAL/CLERICAL Helen has 15 years of experience in a job with diverse tasks. She is skilled at answering multi-line phone systems, greeting customers, typing correspondence, and transcribing in minutes. She uses the latest computer system for correspondence and databases. She also maintains electronic appointment books, prepares materials for meetings, orders office supplies, and makes travel plans. Communication Customer service Active listening Organization Management of multiple projects Attention to details Prioritize tasks Time management Event manager Purchasing agent Manage repair or service calls Customer service Intake worker in human service or medical field Insurance clerk MATERIAL HANDLER/LABORER Joseph is a worker who uses his physical strength all day to move heavy objects. In his job, he needs to detect product problems by visual inspection. He fixes these problems by using hand and power tools. It is important that he is punctual, follows safety procedures, and meets production levels. Knowledge of how to use hand and power tools for repair Understanding of how materials are assembled Plan when storing or loading materials Assistant carpenter Shipping and receiving clerk Delivery person Moving and storage worker RETAIL SALESPERSON Joan worked for 10 years as a cashier in one organization, achieving a high salary for her skills. She has knowledge of many functions of the retail business because she floated among several departments over the years. Joan’s co-workers often praise her for her ability to step in during tense situations and calm people down. Customer service High accuracy and ability to learn new information Relaying information to others Customer service Insurance agent Receptionist Banker or teller Outside or inside sales Sales People ORGANIZE sales calls Warehouse Workers ORGANIZE inventory Administrative Assistants ORGANIZE information 8
ADDRESSING COMMON JOB SEARCH CHALLENGES IN A RESUME There are several different challenges you could face when re-entering the labor market based on your background and experience. There are ways that you can address these challenges in a positive way to ensure your resume will be noticed by employers. Read through the challenges you may face and learn how to address them in your resume. Refer to the Resume Selection Chart on page 3. RETURNING TO THE WORKFORCE/GAPS IN EMPLOYMENT You might be returning to the workforce after a gap in employment for a variety of reasons. If you do have gaps in your employment a functional or combination resume can be effective. The key is to highlight the positive (required skills) while you minimize the negative (gaps in employment). Using volunteer or short-term positions can help fill in the dates while providing current and important skills. Do not indicate if the job was voluntary, full-time or part-time and use years for dates instead of months. Years of service can be substituted for date ranges. It is often beneficial to indicate when jobs are temporary as it helps reduce the appearance of job-hopping. CRIMINAL RECORDS When incarcerated, you might have learned marketable trades and held jobs. Use this to your benefit by creating a combination or functional resume. Focusing on skills and qualifications allows you to highlight “the positive” and focus on strengths while reducing the emphasis on employment gaps. You can list your employer as New York State, the department worked in (such as the Carpentry Department) or the company that holds the prison contract such as Corecraft. Don’t forget to include skills learned through volunteer work, hobbies and involvement in teams or organizations. Ask Career Center staff for a copy of “The Prime Objective” for additional assistance with re-entering the job market after incarceration. PERCEIVED LACK OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS OR SKILLS We all have accomplishments. The challenge is to recognize and present them in a positive way. Highlighting accomplishments, instead of responsibilities, helps your resume stand out among the competition. Think about employment or relevant volunteer experiences, hobbies, teams or organizations in which you have been involved. Ask yourself questions to help identify your accomplishments: What have you accomplished that you feel was a job well done? Have you been selected, appreciated or recognized for something by an employer? What problems have you solved? YOUNG WORKERS If you are a young worker, you should include all work experiences that helped you gain experience and knowledge, including positions as a part-time employee and/or volunteer. If you lack a traditional employment history, organize your resume by qualifying skills instead of by employer. EXPERIENCED WORKERS More experienced workers should not include their entire employment history. Include the most recent employment history for about 15 years and remove older dates from the “Education” section. When related experiences go back further than 15 years, include them in the “Summary of Qualifications” section. This allows you to showcase qualifications you may have started developing decades ago. In your resume, don’t promote your age; avoid phrases like “Seasoned Professional” and “Wealth of Experience.” Consider removing your birth year out of your email address (ex. JimBeam1951@mail.com) as this could indicate your age to your potential employer. 9
HIGHLIGHT YOUR TECHNOLOGY SKILLS Show you’re connected – jobseekers should have an electronic footprint and be searchable on social and professional networking sites. Leave outdated technology out of your resume. MILITARY TO CIVILIAN SKILL TRANSLATORS Use information from the following websites to convert skills acquired in a military career into skills that can be utilized in civilian jobs: Cool Army website and ONET Crosswalk (www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/). Transferring your skills will help civilian employers match your skill sets to their needs. However, be aware that the skills described by these websites may not accurately describe your military experience. For additional assistance with identifying your transferable skills, talk with a workforce professional at your local Career Center. LACK OF TECHNICAL SKILLS If you are unsure about how to post a resume on a website or create a website resume, ask for help at your local Career Center, local library or the career advisement center at your school to resolve your technical challenges. Workshops and classes might be offered at all of these locations to advance your skills. CHANGING INDUSTRIES OR CAREERS Develop a list of transferable skills (skills used in previous jobs that are necessary for your target occupation) and then organize your resume to highlight those skills. LACK OF A SOLID CAREER FOCUS If you do not know what you are looking for, how will you know that you found it? A job search can be overwhelming, but not knowing what you are looking for makes it even more difficult. Learning about careers and taking Career Interests and Work Values Assessments will result in less frustration, increased success and an eventual time savings. Complete self-exploration and career exploration assessments by visiting the New York State Department of Labor’s JobZone (www.jobzone.ny.gov) and My Next Move (www.mynextmove.org). MULTIPLE CAREER OPTIONS Sending a generic resume to a potential employer is not the best approach for a job search. Minor adjustments to how you describe your skills and qualifications will be needed as your targeted position changes. Begin by ranking targeted occupations according to your priorities, such as job opportunities, salary ranges, your interest and possible ease of entering the potential workplace. Craft a resume and conduct a job search for the occupation you want the most. 10
CHAPTER 2 Resume Templates You can access these fillable resume templates on the New York State Department of Labor website: https://labor.ny.gov/careerservices/findajob/res_fun.shtm
COMBINATION/SKILLS RESUME TEMPLATE A combination (or combined) resume combines the best features of the traditional chronological resume (where the dates are in reverse order) and the functional resume (where skills are listed in the beginning). A combination resume can also be referred to as a skills-based resume. Name Address (optional) • Phone Number • Email Address Professional Profile • Example 1: Number of years experience in work relevant to job applying to • Example 2: Credentials, education or training relevant to job applying to • Example 3: A key accomplishment that shows your qualifications for the job • Example 4: Personal characteristics or traits that you possess that are relevant • Example 5: Computer skills/list computer skills Summary of Skills • Relevant skill • Relevant skill • Relevant skill • Relevant skill • Relevant skill • Relevant skill • Relevant skill • Relevant skill • Relevant skill Work Experience One Major Skill (directly relevant to the job) • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill Another Major Skill (directly relevant to the job) • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill Another Major Skill (directly relevant to the job) • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill • A job task or accomplishment that illustrates this skill Work History • Job Title, Company Name, City, State • Job Title, Company Name, City, State • Job Title, Company Name, City, State month / year - month / year month / year - month / year month / year - month / year Education / Training • Name of degree or Credential, School / University Name, City, State • Name of degree or Credential, School / University Name, City, State Military Experience (optional heading) Military Branch – Position Held Volunteer Experience (optional heading to include if relevant to the job) Organization – Position Held 12
COMBINATION/SKILLS RESUME SAMPLE James O’Connor Bu alo, New York • 716-555-5555 • JamesOConnor@mail.com Professional Profile • Skilled professional with over five years of customer service experience • High School Diploma with training in dealing with di cult customers • Manage a high-volume workload; resolve an average of 100 calls per day • Positive and helpful individual; determined to increase customer satisfaction • Proficient in Microsoft O ce Word, Customer Service Software and can type 50 words per minute Summary of Skills • Communication skills • Conflict resolution • Manage a multi-line phone • Positive attitude • People oriented • Empathy • Active listening • Analytical thinking • Patience Work Experience Customer Service • Successfully multi-tasked in a fast-paced environment; managed a multi-line phone, difficult callers, and built trusting relationships with customers • Resolved customer complaints by listening, identifying problems and taking corrective actions • Earned the highest customer satisfaction rating in 2021 at Memories Inc., information based on customer surveys compiled over a year’s span • Helped achieve the company’s retention goal of 85% by achieving a personal goal of 95% retention of customers • Assisted with an on-the-job training program that reduced training time from 10 weeks to 8 weeks Sales • Consistently generated additional revenue utilizing thorough product knowledge and friendly sales techniques to up-sell products and services • Developed a unified sales pitch used by Customer Service Representatives across the company to increase overall sales (After implementation, sales increased 25%) Banking • Continuously met sales quotas by providing information and recommendations to customers on appropriate services and products after assessing their needs through conversation and account analysis • Exceeded production goals by serving an average of 10 customers per hour with e ciency and accuracy • Received the ‘Employee of the Month Award’ for outstanding customer service and transaction accuracy Work History • Customer Service Representative, Memories Inc., Bu alo, NY • Customer Service Representative, ABC Co., Bu alo, NY • Bank Teller, MKB Bank, Lancaster, NY February, 2021 - Present May, 2018 - February, 2021 March, 2015 - May, 2018 Education / Training • Certification in ‘How to Deal with Difficult Customers’, CSR Training Inc., Lancaster, NY • Notary Public, New York (Commission expires December 2025) • High School Diploma, Buffalo High School, Buffalo, NY Volunteer Experience Business Professionals of Bu alo – Member 13
CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME TEMPLATE Chronological resumes highlight consistency. This format stresses what you accomplished in each of the positions you held. A chronological resume focuses primarily on the history of your work experience and education. It also shows your progress and advancements in your career. This resume format is popular among businesses. Professional Profile Describe your work experience and strongest skills Work History Company Name City, State Dates of employment Job Title • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement Company Name City, State Dates of employment Job Title • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement Company Name City, State Dates of employment Job Title • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement Company Name City, State Dates of employment Job Title • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement Education School Name City, State Dates of attendance Degree Obtained Special award / accomplishment or degree minor 14 Name Address (optional) • Phone Number • Email Address
CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME SAMPLE Professional Profile Over ten years of experience in the Customer Service industry with career progression from customer service representative to department manager. Proven accomplishments in service delivery, office management, program planning, project management, policy development and problem resolution. Recipient of multiple Quality Service awards. Work History USA Mobility Albany, NY 2020 - Present Quality Control / Training Representative • Reviewed in-place processes and determined solutions for streamlining eectiveness, resulting in 20% increase in production • Assisted Training Director in the preparation of numerous documents • Team leader for the identification and implementation of changes designed to increase the quality and quantity of production; received salary bonus for superior work Superior Marketing Rensselaer, NY 2015- 2020 Senior Rep / Team Leader • Identified and promoted the need for further employee development and training in an eort to reach the highest possible performance standards • Provided feedback and support concerning customer service procedures to sta of 25 • Implemented interpersonal and communication skills when assisting sta with dicult callers Advance Telecom Troy, NY 2007 - 2015 Customer Service Representative • Continuously exceeded company mandated quota for calls answered per shift • Utilized communication and problem solving skills with clients • Provided problem resolution for approximately 500 calls each week Education School of Business Albany, NY Associate of Arts in Business Administration Dean’s list for last two semesters 15 Penny Johnson Pleasant City, NY • 555-555-1234• Email Address
Profile Describe your work experience and strongest skills Professional Highlights Field or Area of Achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement Field or Area of Achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement Field or Area of Achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement • Job responsibility / achievement Skills • Professional or technical skill • Professional or technical skill • Professional or technical skill • Professional or technical skill • Professional or technical skill Employment History Job Title Company Name – City, State Job Title Company Name – City, State Education Degree – School Name, City, State FUNCTIONAL RESUME TEMPLATE Functional resumes focus on your skills and experience, without including chronological time and job titles. It presents a profile of your experience based on professional strengths or groups of skills. Your employment history usually follows but in less detail than a chronological resume. It is used most often by people with gaps in their work history, those who are changing careers and individuals with limited work experience. 16 Name Address (optional) • Phone Number • Email Address
FUNCTIONAL RESUME SAMPLE Phillip Kelley Pleasant City, NY • 111-112-9181 • Phillip@mail.com Profile Experienced warehousing and logistics employee accustomed to working in a high-volume facility and licensed for pallet jacks and fork trucks. Experience includes training and supervision. Professional Highlights Supervision • Maintained schedule for cleaning crew of 8-10 members assigned to warehouse (32,000 square feet) • Trained new employees on all products and processes for nightly cleaning • Maintained daily production logs and set goals to address areas in need of special consideration Shipping and Inventory • Ensured an average of 400-600 items were ready for shipment each month • Eciently operated and trained three other sta how to operate a commercial laminator • Earned “Rookie of the Month” award for learning jobs quickly Material Handler • Ensured more than 800 products were loaded on correct trucks each week • Operated pallet jacks and fork trucks • Loaded and unloaded 15-20 48’-53’ trailers (weekly) Skills • Inventory management • Safety team member • Preventive maintenance • Dry and refrigerated storage techniques • Packaging and bill of lading preparation Employment History Inventory and Shipper Huntersville Corporation - Huntersville, NY Material Handler City Distribution - Amsterdam, NY Education High School Diploma – Prairie Town High School, Prairie Town, NY 17
CHAPTER 3 Resume Samples View these sample resumes for additional examples of chronological, functional and combination resumes. 18
SAMPLE 1 - YOUNG WORKER, CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME Nina is a young worker with consistent work experience. She lists her work experience in reverse chronological order to show her history of steady employment. She also lists her education in the top portion of her resume to draw attention to her recent degree. NINA A. SMITH 518-222-2222 • nsmith11@mailbox.com • www.linkedin.com/ninasmith Profile A self-motivated worker who is seeking an entry level accounts payable or accounts receivable position. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills. Driven to succeed with a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Education Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, 2022 Carter College, Carter, ME Work Experience Integrity Publishing (a multi-newspaper group) Pleasant, NY Bookkeeper/Administrator, May 2022-Present Oversee operations of the office’s front end, servicing an average of 75 customers. In charge of all bookkeeping. Verify monthly bank statements against checkbook. Work with QuickBooks, Microsoft Office and other software programs. Process account payables and receivables. Process payroll for up to 20 employees. New York Nursery and Landscaping Piper, NY Administrative Assistant, Summer of 2017-2022 Completed multi-faceted office tasks while managing a four-line phone system for a non-profit organization. Assisted the Director with banking, mail, conference calls and appointment scheduling. Communicated with hundreds of vendors on a weekly basis. Processed daily postings of receivables of member’s yearly dues. Miller’s General Store Piper, NY Cashier, May 2014-June 2017 Greeted customers in a friendly and professional manner. Operated register, accepted payments, provided change and receipts. Extensive knowledge of store promotions and products. Volunteer Experience Tanya’s Soup Kitchen Pleasant, NY Station Leader, 2017-2022 Assisted with serving meals to an average of 80 participants daily. Provided oversight for proper sanitation of work area. 19
SAMPLE 2 - YOUNG WORKER, FUNCTIONAL RESUME Alex is a young worker who worked odd jobs throughout his high school years. He highlighted the skills he learned during his employment, but did not include dates of employment as they were not consistent. Alex Brown 516-458-1111 | Alex.Brown@email.com Pro le Experience caring for children, animals and property. Excellent project management, time management and communication skills. Works well independently or as part of a team, able to multi-task. Professional Highlights Property Care (Lawn and Landscaping Care) Provided lawn and landscaping services for grounds that spanned an average of 5-7 acres, including: mowing, edging, leaf removal and mulching piles Performed treatment to remove unwanted weeds and plants Shoveled driveways and sidewalks (2,000 to 5,000 square feet) Child Care Supervised children (ages 2-12) for three families after school and on weekends Ensured safety and care of children by establishing appropriate boundaries and rules Prepared meals and snacks Assisted children with homework Pet Care Managed care for animals of five families while they were away from home Provided pet sitting services, including: dog walking, feeding and yard care for 8-12 animals per week Employment History Lawn Care Specialist Green Care Company, Hicksville, NY Child Care Specialist Wee Care, Hicksville, NY Caretaker Dog Walkers of America, Hicksville, NY Education Advanced Honors Diploma, Hicksville High School, Hicksville, NY Certi cates and Awards CPR Certi cation Red Cross "Most Innovative Sales Idea" Award Hicksville High School Activities Varsity Soccer 20
SAMPLE 3 - YOUNG WORKER, COMBINATION RESUME Larry Grant is an entry-level worker with limited work experience. This resume format highlights his skills: Landscaping, Groundskeeping and Custodial. LARRY GRANT Pine, NY 19192•518-305-9243•lgrant@mail.com SKILLS AND ABILITIES •Communication •Computer skills •Work independently •Power equipment •Landscaping •Customer service WORK EXPERIENCE LANDSCAPING AND GROUNDSKEEPING •Landscape and maintain grounds and property of 75-acre golf course •Use hand or power tools and equipment for hedges, lawns and snow removal •Lay sod, dig and rake •Mow and trim •Plant, water and fertilize trees, shrubs and flowers on 75-acre golf course CUSTODIAL •Service, clean and supply 20 restrooms •Clean four-story building floors by sweeping, mopping and vacuuming •Gather and empty trash including hazardous medical waste •Follow procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power equipment •Prepare cleaning solutions according to manufacturer and DOH specifications WORK HISTORY PINE TREE GOLF COURSE 07/2022 - 10/2023 Pine, NY RURAL MED HOSPITAL 05/2021 - 08/2021 Clear Springs, NY EDUCATION High School Diploma - 2023 Pine, NY 21
SAMPLE 4 - CONTINUOUS WORK HISTORY, CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME If you have been promoted within the same company, list the business once. List the job titles and accomplishments below the business name. Look at Barbara’s employment background to see how she successfully organized her employment history to show her progression through the business. Barbara Pace - 585.555.1234 - barb@mail.com - www.linkedin.com/in/barbarapace Career Summary Customer service industry professional with career progression from customer service representative to department manager. Proven accomplishments in service delivery, office management, program planning, project management, policy development and problem resolution. Recipient of multiple Quality Service awards. Strengths - Logistics - Cost control and reduction - Microsoft Office Suite - Staff training and supervision - Customer complaints resolution - Quality and productivity improvement Employment Background USA Mobility (2016-Present) Quality Control/Training Representative (2021-Present) - Promoted due to extensive knowledge of departmental logistics and personnel - Reviewed in-place processes and determined solutions for streamlining effectiveness, resulting in 20% increase in production - Inspect personnel activities to ensure compliance with policies and directives - Assist Training Director in the preparation of numerous documents (budgets, schedules, correspondences and reports) used to train more than 50 newly promoted employees - Act as the Team Leader for the identification and implementation of changes designed to increase the quality and quantity of production; received salary bonus for superior work Senior Representative/Team Leader (2018-2021) Education Personnel Management, USA Mobility Computer Training Classes including database and spreadsheet applications Associate of Arts; Social Sciences, Junior College of Pleasant City, Pleasant City, NY Professional Memberships Customer Service Management Magazine, Subscriber (2016-Present) National Customer Service Association, Chapter Member (2017-Present) 22 - Detected and promoted the need for further employee development and training to help each Customer Service Representative reach the highest possible performance standards - Provided feedback and support concerning customer service procedures to staff of 25 - Implemented interpersonal and communication skills when assisting staff with difficult callers Customer Service Representative (2016-2018) - Continuously exceeded company mandated quota for calls answered and number of calls worked per shift by 10% - Utilized communication and problem-solving skills with clients; awarded “Rookie of the Year” (2017) - Reviewed and resolved discrepancies of approximately 500 documents each week
SAMPLE 5 - CONTINUOUS WORK HISTORY, COMBINATION RESUME John’s resume highlights three main skills he gained in his previous position as an Office Manager. He highlights awards and accomplishments under each skill. John Williams 518-222-2222 / John.W@mailbox.com / www.linkedin.com/in/johnwilliams Performance driven office manager. Solid achievements in production planning and management, cost control, employee morale building and grant oversight. • Strategic Planning and Execution • Analysis and Problem Resolution • P&L Management • Staff Supervision • Staff Development • Multi-Site Operations Office Management Achievements Inventory Control Supervised pre-packing in the Product Management department, including the mailroom that processes an average of 1,400 items daily. Matched or exceeded standards by 20% and was the 2nd highest producing employee in 2016. • Pre-packing area: Followed-up and maintained records and data entry. Received “Rookie Management Award” for best team morale and productivity; led team to deliver an average of 66 more units a year. • Mailroom: Stocked, shipped, received and resolved shipment troubles and picked up specific order requests. Received five annual commendations for exemplary efficiency and accuracy, the most recent in 2017. Quality Control Oversee the Product Returns unit, processing an average of 3,000 items each month. • Spearheaded the effort to create an Access 2021 database to maintain the division’s records and Standard Operating Procedures • Received the regional “Innovation Award” in 2023 for Access 2021 database implementation and decreasing the workload by 15% in 2021 and 2023 Technology Skills Operated Microsoft Office software, Warehouse Management System and the Daly and Wolcott inventory system. • The Auditing Department reported 97.5% accuracy. This was achieved by implementing a process of testing for system discrepancies and monitoring the inventory of more than 50,000 items Employment History Office Manager, Instant Corporation Pleasant City, NY / 11/2017 - Present Assistant Production Manager, Sampson Inc Pleasant City, NY / 10/2012 - 11/2017 Additional Experience Karate Instructor, KTD Academy Pleasant City, NY / 11/2017 - Present Share management and instruction responsibilities (in Spanish and English). • Complete class scheduling and provide supervision for seven classes that average 20 participants • Process monthly payroll, student transactions and in-school sales of more than $280,000 each year Education Associate of Art: Business Management; Kent College, Promotion, VT 23
SAMPLE 6 - GAP IN EMPLOYMENT (FORMERLY INCARCERATED), COMBINATION RESUME Raymond Carls was formerly incarcerated and has two gaps in employment. He earned his credentials while incarcerated and listed them under the Education and Certifications heading. Raymond J. Carls RaymondC@mail.com Home: (111) 222-3333 Mobile: (111) 333-4444 Material moving professional with experience operating standing and seated forklifts. Dependable bilingual (Spanish) individual who consistently seeks challenging work. Safety conscious; effective in multitasking in fast-paced environment. Able to work independently or on a team. Work Experience Forklift Operator • Operated forklift to pick orders per work sheet directions • Organized on pallet and wrapped for shipping • Maintained safety and cleanliness of areas at all times Unloader • Followed work orders via written and verbal instructions • Unloaded freight from train cars • Attached identifying tags to containers and stocked cargo in specified locations Construction Laborer • Cleaned and prepared construction sites to eliminate possible hazards • Signaled operators to facilitate alignment, movement or adjustment of machinery and equipment • Read plans, instructions or specifications to determine work activities • Loaded and unloaded building materials and tools, distributing them to the appropriate locations Roofer • Experienced in standing-seam, rubber, asphalt shingles, cedar shingles, slate and synthetic slate • Cemented or nailed flashing strips of metal or shingle over joints to make them watertight • Installed, repaired and replaced single-ply roofing systems using waterproof sheet materials, such as modified plastics, elastomeric or other asphaltic compositions • Cut roofing paper to size using knives. Nail or staple roofing paper to roofs in overlapping strips to form bases for other materials 2020 – 2024 2017 – 2018 2016 – 2017 2007 – 2014 Overton, NY North Place, NY Employment History Building Materials - North Place, NY Freight Pros - Overton, NY Begone Demolition - North Place, NY Dry Time Roofing and Sheet Metal, Inc. - Hometown, NY Education & Certificates Certificate NYS Welding School Certificate NYS Custodial Maintenance High School Diploma NYS Department of Education North Place, NY 24
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