RESUME WRITINGSondra Card & Kathy AlbertsSunday, October 9
OverviewPurpose of ResumeReaders perspectiveFormat and style  ObjectivesATS & Showcasing SkillsAssets & LiabilitiesAccomplishments and ResultsResume examplesCover lettersFinishing touchesResourcesQ&A
Purpose of ResumeAssume 70%+ skills/experience match to jobHighlight & showcase skills/experience/assetsMake reader stop and READ your resumeTo be contacted for a phone/in-person interview
Readers PerspectiveRecruiters are scanning hundreds of resumes 5-10 second impression & decisionYES, NO or MAYBE What are they scanning for?EducationCompanies (direct competitor, name brands)Title relevancyEmployment historySkill/experience matchClear understanding responsibilities & accomplishmentsSolid writing/communication skillsSense of direction and advancement
Why did they pass?Irrelevant job tilesLack of required skills (Java, Python, UI, DatabaseHard to reador confusingPoor formatting and use of headings, bolding, spacingWordy, run on sentences, information over loadTypos and grammar errorsLots of frequent & less than 1 year job changesLack of stated accomplishments/resultsNo sign of career advancement (5-10+ years)Lack of stability or forward directionBack and forth changes (Manager to Engineer, Tech Support to Engineering, Frequent relocations, etc.)Educational requirements not a match  Specific Degree, Advanced Degree, GPA
Format & StyleChronological job history or skills summary?Employment dates matterHow long should a resume be?2 pages maxFocus on current and previous job on first pageBeyond 15 years (short, high level summary with quick facts Employer, Title, Dates, 1-2 sentences about responsibilitiesWriting styleSpeak plain EnglishBe concise and to the pointState facts and let results speak for themselvesDo not exaggerate or inflateKeep it simple Avoid excessive use of adjectives to describe yourself or work. FormattingReader wants over view at a glance of your entire career in5-10 secondsLess is moreBe organized visually, use subject headings, proper spacing, bullet pointsAvoid excessive use of superlatives or adjectives
ObjectivesShort, one sentenceStatement of key aspects of what you want1-3 maximum Customize to job/companyCompany CriteriaLarge, public company (stability)Young, dynamic start-upIndustry sectorLevel and functionIndividual Contributor, Manager, ExecutiveClarify function if necessary“Seeking hands-on, technical leadership role in /fast growing Internet software company”
ATS & Showcasing SkillsA quick word on ATSNo laundry listNo fancy graphics, logos or photos Context around your skillsEmbed in text and repeat for each jobShow them was technologies/tools you used and whereDescribe HOW you used that skillsDesigned and programmed in X and YDisplay time factorsBig difference between taking a class in X or programming daily for last 2 years Short skills summary OKList what you are expert and intermediate (solid 6-12 months current use) Do not go back to the beginning of time, focus on last 5 years
Assets & LiabilitiesAssetsBrand name companiesTop UniversityHigh GPAStrong skills/experience matchTrack recordCareer advancementJob TenureLiabilitiesLots of job changes every yearEmployment gapsNo DegreeLow GPA – list 3.6+Geo UndesirableAge factors
Accomplishments/ResultsSkills are something you use to produce resultsDeveloped X application in JavaTasks or Activities are something you DOMaintained web contentResults are visible and measurableThere is a start, middle and end point in timeShowcase the role you played in producing the end resultdeveloped X program that increased database performance by 10XHow did your results contribute to company goalsRedesigned UI for flagship product improving UX satisfaction by 50% First year sales for product X grew by 3X due to UI redesignWon MVP award in 2010 for my contributions to UI/UX innovation
Skills Don’tSummary: -12 +years of professional experience in Quality Assurance with emphasis on testing Web, Client/Server and Database applications in diverse technical/development environments like , Banking, Finance, Insurance, Telecom , Health are and  E-commerce applications.Experience in Analysis of Software Requirements Specifications and development of Test strategies ,Test Plans, Test Scripts, Test CasesAdept in designing test plans, elucidating test strategies, test scope, test environments, test resources, and test calendarsExperience in Functionality testing, Integration testing, Regression testing, Performancetesting, Black-box testing, Automation testing, System Testing, E2E, White box and User Acceptance Testing (UAT)Proficient in using various defect management and source control tools like Mercury Quality center, Clear Quest, CVS,PVCS and Test DirectorExpertise in Manual and AutomatedTesting with adroitness in using Regression testing tools such as SELENIUM and Performance Testing tools like Load Runner. Abilityto work individually and in a team environment in an efficient manner, Inspiring and motivating others to perform well Ability to faster coordination among team members using communication and Interpersonal skills High adaptability to dynamic project environments that entail constantly changing business requirements and demand high professional and technical commitments Coordinated and prioritized outstanding defects and system requests based on business requirements.Designing and scripting strategies (plans) for various phases of data analysisHands on experience with all phases of Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)Developed and executed SQL queries on Oracle database to validate data results Experience Testing AMDOCS OMS/Clarify(CRM) eCare/ AMSS/Enabler Telegence/BillingExcellent documentation skills and conversant with CMM level 5 Quality Procedures.Excellent organizational and inter-communication skills.Good analytical skills, presentation skills with strong communication skillsDiligent worker, self-starter and consistent performer 
Resume A APPLE INC May 2007 - January 2011Senior Software Engineer• Principle author and sole maintainer of X applicationsUNIVERSITY of CALIFORNIA at BERKELEY August 2005 - May 2007Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Major• Fall 2005 courses focused on system design and signal analysis, microelectronic circuit design,programming methodology, and introductory Cocoa programming in Objective-C.• Spring 2006 courses focused on further study of signals and systems; network design,operation, and simulation; machine structures; and philosophy of mind.• Fall 2006 courses focused on technical communication, operating system programming,probability and random processes, and cultural psychology.• Spring 2007 courses focused on neural and nonlinear information processing, digital hardwaredesign, UNIX administration, and overviews of Biotechnology and Bioengineering.APPLE INC Summer 2006Software Engineering Intern, Mac OS X Server Group• Developed server-side software for the “Teams” system on early builds of OS X Leopard.• Built and demonstrated a proof-of-concept for a significant new feature for OS X Client. Allobjectives met; management advanced the project to the next stage of development.• Received Apple’s highest performance review and an offer to return next summer.THE APPLE GUY (A Macintosh consulting, tutoring, and repair business) 2002 – 2005Founder and Chief Technologist• Customer base of over 100 included both businesses and individuals.• Pro bono work for Berkeley students and certain elderly clients.DIPLOMASBachelor’s of Science in EE/CS (UC Berkeley), 3.9GPA May 2007, Age 18California High School Proficiency Certificate January 2003, Age 14(Legal high school diploma, not GED)
Resume B EDUCATIONBSEE/CS, University of California at  Berkeley,  3.9 GPA                                                                  May 2007,  Age 18EXPERIENCEApple  May 2007 - January 2011Senior Software Engineer• Principle author and sole maintainer of X applications• Team lead for X application• Added important features and improvements to Maps (public transit, better directionsinteraction) and YouTube (account support, reading and posting comments)• Implemented drawing code and sophisticated animations in many applications. Considered ago-to engineer for questions on dynamic user interfaces• Optimized performance across the system, both in UIKit and many individual applications• Collaborated with Human Interface team to design and specify UI appearance and animations• Designated “iBuddy” for numerous new hires and interns, often mentoring several at a time• Received consistently outstanding performance reviews, with off-cycle raises and bonuses Apple      2006  SummerSoftware Engineering Intern, Mac OS X Server Group• Developed server-side software for the “Teams” system on early builds of OS X Leopard• Built and demonstrated a proof-of-concept for a significant new feature for OS X Client. Allobjectives met; management advanced the project to the next stage of development• Received Apple’s highest performance review and an offer to return next summer The Apple Guy (A Macintosh consulting, tutoring, and repair business)                         2002 – 2005Founder and Chief Technologist• Customer base of over 100 included both businesses and individuals• Pro bono work for Berkeley students and certain elderly clients  
Cover LettersYes, write oneCustomize for each job Short (1/2 page) and to the pointMention specific job and companySay why you are interested1 sentence summary stating why you are qualifiedPique interest
Finishing Touches Great resumes take timeOngoing work in progressRead out loud to yourselfIf you are confused, stumbling, rereading – red flag, needs workHave 3rd party editGet feedback from multiple trusted colleaguesIdeally hiring managers, recruiters, senior peopleReady for prime time?Sense of pride and satisfactionExcited about putting yourself out thereKeep currentReview & refresh once a yearEvery time you change roles/projects at same company, update
ResourcesTheLadders.comJob Search EssentialsResume AdviceLinkedIn Same as online resumeSame care and feedingShow case referencesKeep up to date
Q&A

Powerful Resume & Cover Letter Writing.

  • 1.
    RESUME WRITINGSondra Card& Kathy AlbertsSunday, October 9
  • 2.
    OverviewPurpose of ResumeReadersperspectiveFormat and style ObjectivesATS & Showcasing SkillsAssets & LiabilitiesAccomplishments and ResultsResume examplesCover lettersFinishing touchesResourcesQ&A
  • 3.
    Purpose of ResumeAssume70%+ skills/experience match to jobHighlight & showcase skills/experience/assetsMake reader stop and READ your resumeTo be contacted for a phone/in-person interview
  • 4.
    Readers PerspectiveRecruiters arescanning hundreds of resumes 5-10 second impression & decisionYES, NO or MAYBE What are they scanning for?EducationCompanies (direct competitor, name brands)Title relevancyEmployment historySkill/experience matchClear understanding responsibilities & accomplishmentsSolid writing/communication skillsSense of direction and advancement
  • 5.
    Why did theypass?Irrelevant job tilesLack of required skills (Java, Python, UI, DatabaseHard to reador confusingPoor formatting and use of headings, bolding, spacingWordy, run on sentences, information over loadTypos and grammar errorsLots of frequent & less than 1 year job changesLack of stated accomplishments/resultsNo sign of career advancement (5-10+ years)Lack of stability or forward directionBack and forth changes (Manager to Engineer, Tech Support to Engineering, Frequent relocations, etc.)Educational requirements not a match Specific Degree, Advanced Degree, GPA
  • 6.
    Format & StyleChronologicaljob history or skills summary?Employment dates matterHow long should a resume be?2 pages maxFocus on current and previous job on first pageBeyond 15 years (short, high level summary with quick facts Employer, Title, Dates, 1-2 sentences about responsibilitiesWriting styleSpeak plain EnglishBe concise and to the pointState facts and let results speak for themselvesDo not exaggerate or inflateKeep it simple Avoid excessive use of adjectives to describe yourself or work. FormattingReader wants over view at a glance of your entire career in5-10 secondsLess is moreBe organized visually, use subject headings, proper spacing, bullet pointsAvoid excessive use of superlatives or adjectives
  • 7.
    ObjectivesShort, one sentenceStatementof key aspects of what you want1-3 maximum Customize to job/companyCompany CriteriaLarge, public company (stability)Young, dynamic start-upIndustry sectorLevel and functionIndividual Contributor, Manager, ExecutiveClarify function if necessary“Seeking hands-on, technical leadership role in /fast growing Internet software company”
  • 8.
    ATS & ShowcasingSkillsA quick word on ATSNo laundry listNo fancy graphics, logos or photos Context around your skillsEmbed in text and repeat for each jobShow them was technologies/tools you used and whereDescribe HOW you used that skillsDesigned and programmed in X and YDisplay time factorsBig difference between taking a class in X or programming daily for last 2 years Short skills summary OKList what you are expert and intermediate (solid 6-12 months current use) Do not go back to the beginning of time, focus on last 5 years
  • 9.
    Assets & LiabilitiesAssetsBrandname companiesTop UniversityHigh GPAStrong skills/experience matchTrack recordCareer advancementJob TenureLiabilitiesLots of job changes every yearEmployment gapsNo DegreeLow GPA – list 3.6+Geo UndesirableAge factors
  • 10.
    Accomplishments/ResultsSkills are somethingyou use to produce resultsDeveloped X application in JavaTasks or Activities are something you DOMaintained web contentResults are visible and measurableThere is a start, middle and end point in timeShowcase the role you played in producing the end resultdeveloped X program that increased database performance by 10XHow did your results contribute to company goalsRedesigned UI for flagship product improving UX satisfaction by 50% First year sales for product X grew by 3X due to UI redesignWon MVP award in 2010 for my contributions to UI/UX innovation
  • 11.
    Skills Don’tSummary: -12+years of professional experience in Quality Assurance with emphasis on testing Web, Client/Server and Database applications in diverse technical/development environments like , Banking, Finance, Insurance, Telecom , Health are and E-commerce applications.Experience in Analysis of Software Requirements Specifications and development of Test strategies ,Test Plans, Test Scripts, Test CasesAdept in designing test plans, elucidating test strategies, test scope, test environments, test resources, and test calendarsExperience in Functionality testing, Integration testing, Regression testing, Performancetesting, Black-box testing, Automation testing, System Testing, E2E, White box and User Acceptance Testing (UAT)Proficient in using various defect management and source control tools like Mercury Quality center, Clear Quest, CVS,PVCS and Test DirectorExpertise in Manual and AutomatedTesting with adroitness in using Regression testing tools such as SELENIUM and Performance Testing tools like Load Runner. Abilityto work individually and in a team environment in an efficient manner, Inspiring and motivating others to perform well Ability to faster coordination among team members using communication and Interpersonal skills High adaptability to dynamic project environments that entail constantly changing business requirements and demand high professional and technical commitments Coordinated and prioritized outstanding defects and system requests based on business requirements.Designing and scripting strategies (plans) for various phases of data analysisHands on experience with all phases of Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)Developed and executed SQL queries on Oracle database to validate data results Experience Testing AMDOCS OMS/Clarify(CRM) eCare/ AMSS/Enabler Telegence/BillingExcellent documentation skills and conversant with CMM level 5 Quality Procedures.Excellent organizational and inter-communication skills.Good analytical skills, presentation skills with strong communication skillsDiligent worker, self-starter and consistent performer 
  • 12.
    Resume A APPLE INCMay 2007 - January 2011Senior Software Engineer• Principle author and sole maintainer of X applicationsUNIVERSITY of CALIFORNIA at BERKELEY August 2005 - May 2007Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Major• Fall 2005 courses focused on system design and signal analysis, microelectronic circuit design,programming methodology, and introductory Cocoa programming in Objective-C.• Spring 2006 courses focused on further study of signals and systems; network design,operation, and simulation; machine structures; and philosophy of mind.• Fall 2006 courses focused on technical communication, operating system programming,probability and random processes, and cultural psychology.• Spring 2007 courses focused on neural and nonlinear information processing, digital hardwaredesign, UNIX administration, and overviews of Biotechnology and Bioengineering.APPLE INC Summer 2006Software Engineering Intern, Mac OS X Server Group• Developed server-side software for the “Teams” system on early builds of OS X Leopard.• Built and demonstrated a proof-of-concept for a significant new feature for OS X Client. Allobjectives met; management advanced the project to the next stage of development.• Received Apple’s highest performance review and an offer to return next summer.THE APPLE GUY (A Macintosh consulting, tutoring, and repair business) 2002 – 2005Founder and Chief Technologist• Customer base of over 100 included both businesses and individuals.• Pro bono work for Berkeley students and certain elderly clients.DIPLOMASBachelor’s of Science in EE/CS (UC Berkeley), 3.9GPA May 2007, Age 18California High School Proficiency Certificate January 2003, Age 14(Legal high school diploma, not GED)
  • 13.
    Resume B EDUCATIONBSEE/CS, Universityof California at Berkeley, 3.9 GPA May 2007, Age 18EXPERIENCEApple May 2007 - January 2011Senior Software Engineer• Principle author and sole maintainer of X applications• Team lead for X application• Added important features and improvements to Maps (public transit, better directionsinteraction) and YouTube (account support, reading and posting comments)• Implemented drawing code and sophisticated animations in many applications. Considered ago-to engineer for questions on dynamic user interfaces• Optimized performance across the system, both in UIKit and many individual applications• Collaborated with Human Interface team to design and specify UI appearance and animations• Designated “iBuddy” for numerous new hires and interns, often mentoring several at a time• Received consistently outstanding performance reviews, with off-cycle raises and bonuses Apple 2006 SummerSoftware Engineering Intern, Mac OS X Server Group• Developed server-side software for the “Teams” system on early builds of OS X Leopard• Built and demonstrated a proof-of-concept for a significant new feature for OS X Client. Allobjectives met; management advanced the project to the next stage of development• Received Apple’s highest performance review and an offer to return next summer The Apple Guy (A Macintosh consulting, tutoring, and repair business) 2002 – 2005Founder and Chief Technologist• Customer base of over 100 included both businesses and individuals• Pro bono work for Berkeley students and certain elderly clients  
  • 14.
    Cover LettersYes, writeoneCustomize for each job Short (1/2 page) and to the pointMention specific job and companySay why you are interested1 sentence summary stating why you are qualifiedPique interest
  • 15.
    Finishing Touches Greatresumes take timeOngoing work in progressRead out loud to yourselfIf you are confused, stumbling, rereading – red flag, needs workHave 3rd party editGet feedback from multiple trusted colleaguesIdeally hiring managers, recruiters, senior peopleReady for prime time?Sense of pride and satisfactionExcited about putting yourself out thereKeep currentReview & refresh once a yearEvery time you change roles/projects at same company, update
  • 16.
    ResourcesTheLadders.comJob Search EssentialsResumeAdviceLinkedIn Same as online resumeSame care and feedingShow case referencesKeep up to date
  • 17.