Your Task. Prepare four worksheets that inventory your qualifications in these areas: employment; education; capabilities and skills; and awards, honors, and activities. Use active verbs when appropriate and specific nouns that describe job titles and skills.
a. Employment. Begin with your most recent job or internship. For each position list the following information: employer; job title; dates of employment; and three to five duties, activities, or accomplishments. Emphasize activities related to your job goal. Strive to quantify your achievements.
b. Education. List degrees, certificates, and training accomplishments. Include courses, seminars, and skills that are relevant to your job goal. Calculate your grade point average in your major.
c. Capabilities and skills. List all capabilities and skills that qualify you for the job you seek. Use words and phrases such as skilled, competent, trained, experienced, and ability to. Be sure to include nouns that describe keywords relevant to your career field. Also list five or more qualities or interpersonal skills necessary for success in your field. Write action statements demonstrating that you possess some of these qualities. Empty assurances aren't good enough; try to show evidence (Developed teamwork skills by working with a committee of eight to produce a . . .).
d. Awards, honors, and activities. Explain any awards that the reader might misunderstand. List campus, community, and professional activities that suggest you are a well rounded individual or possess traits relevant to your target job.