The job hunt usually begins when prospective workers send out copies of their resume or CV, but the real process starts long before that. Professionals need to have a well-written resume to send to employers, as that one sheet of paper can make or break a job search. Crafting just the right resume is essential to starting a new career, and students looking for information on where to start can take advantage of three simple ideas for beginning the process.
Include the basics
Most resumes will need to include basic information like contact info, a career objective, education and past experience. Education and experience is what most employers put the most emphasis on, so students should be sure to present this information in a clear and well-thought-out manner. Relevant courses and details about specific job responsibilities are good inclusions on any resume, as they demonstrate one's capabilities while also explaining how they have been prepared for a specific career.
Many also provide an overview of special qualifications, honors and activities that can be used to get a leg up on the competition. This section can offer insight as to personal interests, giving employers a look into where a person dedicates their time and what their strengths are within the industry.
Unlike a resume, a CV includes a brief summary statement where candidates can try to capture their personality in skills in roughly 100 words or less. In this section, which should be specific to each job opportunity, students can go over what makes them capable of fulfilling a certain career path.
Supplement skills
A resume is just the beginning when it comes to showing off qualifications. There are many ways candidates can supplement this summary of skills, with most of these opportunities revolving around past experience and coursework. Providing examples of work like models of letters written to clients or showing off a new system of organizing medical files can highlight an individual's initiative and skills. Other viable inclusions can range from travel or cultural experiences, which can help administrators deal with clients or patients, to papers written or certificates earned while studying at a local Alberta college.
No resume is complete without an educational background. Students can round out their resume by taking courses in the Medical Office Assistant program at Reeves College. For more information on the program, fill out the form on the right.