Do you have a current resume? I’ve always been big on creating an awesome resume. I even took a class at community college that consisted entirely of creating resumes. It’s really important to make sure you showcase all that you have to offer. It’s important that the resume is organized and easy to follow. Meaning that there needs to be clear, concise headings that are easily identifiable. Such as: education, work history or work experience, interests/awards, and whatever else you find essential.
Most important thing? It needs to fit on one page. Why? Because if a potential employer has to weed through hundreds of resumes in one afternoon yours needs to be simple, eye catching, and to the point. A 2-3 page resume is simply too much. It will be overwhelming to have to sort through pages of information when everyone else’s resume has been simplified. Wondering about references? Never include them on your resume or with your resume. If they are interested in you they will call you and ask for your references, then you will know of their interest. I wouldn’t feel comfortable knowing that someone was checking up on me and calling my references and have no knowledge of it. Always include a bottom line on your resume that says: References available upon request. Leave it at that.
That got me thinking, why not create resumes for my kids? Why not showcase their special skills, accomplishments and achievements? Are you wondering what you’d include? You need to get this book:
Resumes for Children is created by Donna Kristine Manley (Kris). Here is a snippet of what the books about:
Choosing activities that provide your child with life skills as well as build character is a key element to their success. Documenting those activities is also a key element to their success. Why? Keeping before them a present visual reminder of their activities, accomplishments, etc., gives encouragement, pride in what they do and have done. It also allows them to see how well they have progressed over the years. In other words, you will assist your child in “behaving” their way to success.
A resume for a child:
- Boosts self-esteem
- Presents a child in such a way that others will want to invest in that child
- Shows that a child’s accomplishments go beyond his or her report card
- Affirms the importance of what a child does
Kris Manley wrote this wonderful guide, Resumes for Children – 17 Years Old and Under, because she saw a missing piece. Parents talk about their children’s activities, accomplishments, awards, and challenges, but most parents don’t document them. Resumes for Children – 17 Years Old andUnder gives parents a great start because a child will someday need a resume. So let’s be proactive and begin early.
