Resume FAQ’s
Q: Do I have to include both my home/permanent and school/current addresses?
A: While it is not mandatory, you should consider including both if it makes it easier for the employer to reach you.
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Q: Can I use abbreviations?
A: Yes. If you abbreviate the state, or any other words, (Street, Avenue, etc.) make sure your style is consistent, and you abbreviate those items throughout the document. It is often preferable to abbreviate these items rather than cluttering up the page with unnecessary printing.
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Q: Should I include an objective on my resume?
A: Objectives are useful when providing your resume to a large general audience, for example, a Career Expo. If you are applying for a specific job and have an accompanying cover letter, an objective is not necessary.
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Q: Should I include a summary or a profile on my resume?
A: Summaries or profiles can be very effective when applying for a job. They can be specific and highlight key skills that are needed in the job.
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Q: What if I am interested in more than one type of job?
A: You might consider creating more than one resume, and using the most appropriate version when applying for a given job. If you are applying for more than one job within the same company, it is best to use the same resume; make your Objective broad enough that it would cover the kinds of jobs in which you have an interest.
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Q: How general can my Objective be?
A: A targeted objective, supported by information in the resume, clearly communicates your career goals to an employer and is more likely to result in an interview.
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Q: Should I include my high school information?
A: Generally, juniors and seniors do not include their high school information unless it strongly supports their career objective.
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Q: How do I determine which job duties to describe first?
A: Begin with the tasks most relevant to the job you are seeking and which demonstrate the highest level of skill.
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Q: How detailed should my descriptions be?
A: Be thorough but concise. Include information that demonstrates a level of responsibility and/or are related to your Objective. Omit information that is an obvious part of the job (such as “used the cash register” for a store clerk).
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Q: I am involved with political and religious organizations; should I include them?
A: This is a personal decision. There might be a risk that this information could hurt your candidacy, although we would hope not. It is important, however, to be true to yourself, and proud of your affiliations. Ultimately, it is up to you. Of course, if the information clearly supports your objective and career goals, you would include it.
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Q: I am an international student with permission to work in the U.S. Should I include that information on my resume?
A: If you are a foreign-born U.S. citizen or have permanent residency status, that information should be included on your resume. If you are here on a student visa, it is more appropriate to discuss your visa status in the interview.