Step Seven: Resume Writing

Discuss resume vs. CV
- main differences are length and content - resume is 1-2 pages, CV is not limited; resume is select information, CV can be everything
- discuss when each are relevant/required
- you should tailor your resume to each job you apply for
- CV can be static and is mostly used for academic positions
Discuss tips for resume writing
- similar to those for LinkedIn
- be specific - add numbers, values, links, full descriptions
- highlight accomplishments instead of duties ("I taught undergraduates with no prior experience how to build a robot" vs "I mentored students")
- add your personalized LinkedIn url - more opportunity for the employer to get to know you
- highlight what YOU can do for THEM (not the other way around!)
- use keywords included in the job posting (budget, data analysis, cancer research, etc)
- NY Times suggests "stress experiences that are most relevant to the position you aspire to hold" - remember you don't have to put everything you've ever done
- think creatively about your experiences - how can they prepare you for the position you are applying for? (one PhD applied for a job as an editor at Nature and explained that she has a broad range of science knowledge because she works on p53, which is involved in so many cellular processes!)
Exercise in personal branding
- in 1-2 sentences explain why you’re passionate about your dream career and what makes you uniquely suited for it
- make sure this carries through your entire resume/CV and over to your LinkedIn profile
Round-table: constructive criticism of resumes/CVs
- and/or encourage participants to go to the campus career center for professional review
Assignment for Step Eight:
- update your resume/CV based on our discussion
- create your elevator speech: 1 minute speech introducing yourself, what you study and what you want to do - great tool for networking