The company closed down. It was all very civilized. I wasn’t fired or replaced or downsized or made redundant. It had nothing to do with me. They never even bother to consult me on the matter!
But now, all of a sudden, it is my business and I’m right in the middle. I have to find a new job. What I dread and hate the most. I have to get super-organized. I have to open a list of companies I have applied to. I have to list my contacts and their contacts. And I have to update my resume.
Perhaps the most important item in this exercise is the resume. It must be neat and all items and especially names, must be correctly spelled. It must be modern looking and up to date. It must be truthful - don’t forget that the interviewer may check out your information. The format should be simple and plain, but it should highlight your accomplishments.
You need to write a cover letter to go with the resume, and the resume, cover letter and envelope should all be on the same matching paper. The font should be clear and easy to read and in an easily readable font. I make everything in size 12 New Times Roman.
Use positive words to describe your skills. Make the document ‘reek’ of confidence. Your resume should be one page only. Present the information as concisely as possible. There will be a place in the cover letter, and possibly an interview, to elaborate on your skills. Resumes that are too long are often put aside because employers simply don't have the time to read them. The information must be relevant to the position you are applying for. Do not forget to attach your cover letter.
There are sites on the internet where you can find ideas about the format of your resume. Outline your skills to show your best accomplishments. The categories that you include on your resume must be relevant to the position for which you are applying.
Skills: List some of the things you do reasonably well that are relevant to the position. Are you going for a position as a teacher's aid? List the duties you had in baby-sitting or list the duties you undertook while tutoring. If you have worked as a volunteer, list that experience as well.
References: Say that you will furnish these upon request. But be prepared with a list of three to five people that have consented to give you a recommendation. Include those who are familiar with your work as it relates to the position.
Finally the resume is about selling yourself. Give them just enough information to make them call you for more details.