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Resources Centre
Résumé Workshops
Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................................3
THE RÉSUMÉ...........................................................................................................................................4
STRUCTURING YOUR RÉSUMÉ.....................................................................................................6
SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL STRENGTHS STATEMENTS...............................................13
SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL STRENGTHS ANALYSIS......................................................14
WHAT SHOULD BE OMITTED FROM YOUR RÉSUMÉ...........................................................16
RÉSUMÉ FORMATS.........................................................................................................................16
REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ.....................................................................................17
SAMPLE - REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ.................................................................18
FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ..................................................................................................................27
SAMPLE - FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ...............................................................................................28
ELECTRONIC RÉSUMÉ TECHNOLOGY.....................................................................................33
SAMPLE - ELECTRONIC RÉSUMÉ...............................................................................................34
FUNCTION VERBS...........................................................................................................................36
DO THESE WORDS DESCRIBE YOU?..........................................................................................37
RÉSUMÉ CHECKLIST.....................................................................................................................49
RÉSUMÉ POSTING...........................................................................................................................50
REFERENCES........................................................................................................................................51
SAMPLE REFERENCE PAGE.........................................................................................................53
THE WHEN AND WHY OF LETTER WRITING..........................................................................55
TIPS FOR WRITING COVER LETTERS.......................................................................................56
TIPS FOR WRITING THANK YOU LETTERS.............................................................................57
EDITING YOUR WORK...................................................................................................................58
COVER LETTER SAMPLE..............................................................................................................59
THANK YOU LETTER SAMPLE....................................................................................................63
ASSESS YOURSELF..............................................................................................................................69
LIST YOUR SUCCESS / NAME YOUR SUCCESS........................................................................71
QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU IDENTIFY YOUR SUCCESS STORIES......................................73
DEVELOP SUCCESS STORIES INTO P/SAR STORIES.............................................................74
SAMPLES OF ACCOMPLISHMENT STATEMENTS..................................................................76
ACCOMPLISHMENT STATEMENTS............................................................................................77
DENTIFY YOUR SKILLS.................................................................................................................80
Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

DENTIFY YOUR SKILLSINTRODUCTION
Welcome to the “Résumé Workshop”.
This workshop and document, the “Résumé”, aim to guide you towards writing and promoting
your competencies. Herein, you will find information regarding the résumés, references, cover
letters and thank you letters. A “Self-Assessment” section is also added to help you structure
your accomplishments and identify your strengths.
Let’s keep in mind what a career development expert1 says:
“The person who gets hired is not necessarily the most qualified person for the
job, but the one who knows the most about how to get hired.”
The résumé is a key element of the career development process. To prepare a résumé, one needs
to take stock of his professional life and career, identifying skills and achievements. In doing so,
knowledge about oneself is improved and dealing with interview questions such as “Tell me
about yourself” and “What are your strengths” becomes much easier.
The career development process is a continuous exercise that involves the employees’ evolution,
as well as the organization’s evolution The “Resources Centre” offers services reflecting the
evolving company-employee relationship.
We also invite you to visit Growing@Bell. This on-line program provides employees with access
to continuous career development skills enhancement. Growing@Bell is designed to provide
tools to help you identify and develop your full potential and take ownership of your career.
We hope that this document and workshop will help you promote your competencies and
develop your full potential.
May you have a fulfilling career!
1 Richard N. Bolles, author of “What Colour is Your Parachute”.

THE RÉSUMÉ
What a Résumé Is.
A résumé is a means of making yourself visible as a valuable asset to a prospective business unit
or employer. In this sense, it is a personal advertisement in which you persuasively present your
capabilities and aspirations with the goal of influencing the decision to interview.
The following is a general overview of what an effective résumé should be and do to effectively
market you:
A résumé should be clear, concise, and visually appealing to the reader.
It should be well written and immediately attract the reader. By this we mean it should be
visually inviting: well organized, easy to follow, with short paragraphs and good use of space
and placement on the page. We will discuss appearance in more details further on in this section.
A résumé should begin with a very specific career objective.
Put yourself in the place of the reader. If you were assessing a hundred résumés for one position,
finding an applicant whose career objective matched your needs and requirements would save
you valuable time.
A résumé should contain a brief summary statement, which supports the career objective
and highlights your special skills and demonstrated competencies.
Regardless of the particular format you select, chronological or functional, your summary
statement should describe your experience, strengths, and accomplishments, clearly reinforcing
and relating back to your stated career objective. Communicate what you have contributed in the
past and will contribute in the future.
A résumé should be targeted to a specific audience.
Successful advertisers know their market and target their communications specifically to that
audience. Your résumé should do the same. Unless you are changing industries or careers, you
know your target audience and how to speak their language. If you are aiming to enter a business
unit or a new industry, you may need to research first before finalizing your résumé.
A résumé should be reflective of the individual behind the words.
Preparing a résumé is a self-evaluative process, which forces you to think about yourself, your
career, and your aspirations. It affords the opportunity to clarify, identify, organize, and
eventually highlight those competencies, which are truly unique to you.

A résumé represents the basis of the interview.
Writing a résumé is a methodical task and is required to prepare for the interview. Answering
interview questions such as “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your strengths” without
preparing the résumé is quite a challenging task. Writing your résumé will help you develop a
new perspective about your work/career and gain more confidence for the interview and in life in
general.
What a Résumé Is Not.
It is also helpful to clarify what a résumé is not meant to accomplish.
A résumé is not an autobiography.
Although it is difficult for most of us to capture our professional career history in one or two
pages, that is exactly what the job ahead entails. As a result, many details of your professional
career will necessarily fall away in the process of elimination.
You will be forced to make difficult choices throughout the process of preparing and writing your
résumé. Certainly, the choices should not be any harder (or any easier) than many decisions you
have made during your professional career. We don't promise that the task ahead is easy. It will take
time, effort, and probably several drafts before you have a finished product.
A résumé is not the only medium of communication.
Though a résumé is vital in most phases of your search, it is only one component of your total
marketing communication effort. For example, a résumé can never and should not be used as
a substitute for personal contact and networking.
While we help you make good use of the sample résumés and wise words provided here, your
résumé should be a document with which you are comfortable.

STRUCTURING YOUR RÉSUMÉ
Structuring your résumé involves deciding how your résumé will look and read. We will discuss
all of these issues in detail in this section, beginning first with the physical presentation of your
résumé.
Length
There is no standard résumé length, although there will always be much discussion as to what is
the most practical. While length is clearly a serious consideration, it is more important that a
résumé be informative, clear, concise, and visually appealing. For some, that can be
accomplished in two pages; exceptionally, three pages is the solution.
Appearance
A résumé, which is not aesthetically pleasing, may not get read. It would be nice to believe that
content is always considered to be more important than form. However, in truth it is very easy to
discard a résumé, which is unattractive, especially when a formidable stack of a hundred or more
others is in front of the interviewer.
To make your résumé visually appealing:

• Use paragraphs that are concise, well spaced, and positioned on the page, set off with bullets,
underlining, or titles when appropriate. Give your résumé "air" make good use of white space
by using sensible margins and indenting.
• Use a paper stock that connotes quality and professionalism. Paper colour should be
conservative, such as white, off-white, ivory, or beige. Letterhead and envelopes should
match your résumé in colour and typeface for a smooth, professional presentation.
Language
Obviously, your résumé should read as well as it looks. Just as your résumé needs to be visually
inviting, what you say has to attract the reader quickly. The average résumé must make its
impression in 20 to 30 seconds. After passing the visual attraction hurdle, the language of your
résumé has about 15 seconds to grab hold of and captivate the reader. Here are some basic
guidelines:
• Use language that is specific, clear, positive, exciting and personal. Avoid first person
references.
• Use action words. Describe your accomplishments and competencies using powerful,
action-oriented words. A sample listing of action verbs is included at the end of this section.
Use past tense to describe all accomplishments.
• Support your career objective throughout. Emphasize the demonstrated competencies,
accomplishments, and experiences which are relevant to your career objective.

• Use words efficiently. Use the minimum number of words to convey exactly what you want
to say. Edit and edit again to whittle your sentences and paragraphs to the shortest, clearest,
most powerful point possible. Eliminate all weak or unnecessary words and sentences.
• Write to your target audience. Use industry jargon only if you are sure your reader will
understand it. If you are entering a new career or a new business unit, or if there is any doubt
as to whether the reader will understand what you are saying, leave the jargon out.
• Ensure accuracy. Proofread over and over again to be sure there are no errors in spelling or
grammar. One misspelled word can overwhelm all of your accomplishments.
• Use facts and figures to emphasize your demonstrated competencies. How much money
did you save the company? What percentage of the market did you capture? How many
employees did you supervise?
Content
There are basic content elements that should be included in a résumé, regardless of the format
chosen. These are:
• Heading
Your name, address, postal code, home telephone number, and email address. If you have a
daytime telephone number that you know will be answered properly, it should also be included.
• Objective
A clear, brief career objective is the key to your résumé since everything else you include will be
in support of it.
No successful marketer would run an advertisement which did not prominently feature what the
product is and what it can do. Similarly, in marketing terms, you are the product. It is important,
therefore, that you be sure to include an objective which clearly states: This is who I am and this
is what I want to do.
From a potential employer's point of view, including an objective shows that you have focus and
clarity and that you are in control of your own career. You might ask yourself: if you were
responsible for filling the position suggested by the objective, would you interview this person?
Without an objective, the burden of who you are and what you want to do is shifted to the reader
who is, frankly, more interested in filling the position than deciphering your goal. In a worse-
case scenario, not including an objective might lead to your résumé being discarded since it is
not immediately obvious to the reader how you would fit into the organization.

While the importance of a career objective cannot be stressed strongly enough, we acknowledge
that, for some, it is the most difficult component of a résumé to write. We suggest you review the
“Self- Assessment” section before you actually begin your résumé, particularly examining your
strengths and competencies especially as they relate to your career objective. For some,
particularly those making career or industry changes, the objective statement requires more
careful crafting.
To help you generate ideas, sample objectives are included near the end of the section.
• Summary
The summary statement is the first and most visible opportunity you have to emphasize and
support your career objective.
If the objective presents you as the product, the summary equates to how you highlight those
features and benefits which distinguish you as a unique product worthy of further consideration.
The summary declares: Here is why I will be good at what I want to do next.
It is an opportunity to highlight your special competencies and skills, as well as the industries,
functions, and scope of your experience. For the reader, it answers the question: Why should I
bother reading this résumé?
By definition, the summary is a statement which encapsulates your résumé in two or three well-
crafted sentences.
Some people have found it easier to write the summary statement last. In this regard, it could
serve as a self-test to ensure that the summary statement accurately mirrors the competencies and
accomplishments you have highlighted in the experience portion of your résumé.
For your guidance, we have included examples of summary statements near the end of this section.

• Experience
Regardless of the format used, the main message under this heading is what you have done in the
past and, by implication, what you can do in the future in another position.
Now that you have described yourself and the features and benefits which distinguish you as a
unique product in your objective and summary statements, here you substantiate or "prove" your
claims by emphasizing your competencies and/or accomplishments. Your accomplishments need
to pass the "so what?" test so that nothing can be read negatively. For instance, if you state that
you reorganized the entire division, be sure to elaborate on why the division needed to be
reorganized and how the reorganization improved it.
Your competencies  "the major selling points"  need to be readily visible in the headlines or
lead lines. Samples of accomplishment statements follow this section.
Job titles need to be easily understood by your targeted readers and describe correctly the level
and scope of your experiences.
The section on formats which follows will give you specific information on how to prepare the
“Experience” component to suit your résumé format.
• Education
Your educational background should be stated briefly in order of relevance to your objective or
in reverse chronological order. Normally, only college or university schooling is included.
Schooling or training, which you feel is relevant to your career objective, might also be included.
• Other
If relevant to your objective, you might want to include information on professional

memberships, publications, awards or honours, or military service. If not relevant to your
objective and current search, some of these may be best omitted, even though you may feel
attached to them.
Information on patents, licenses, or accreditation related to your vocation should be included.
If you have significant data which you feel is relevant to your career, such as a sizeable list of
patents issued or published papers and articles, you could prepare these separately (on the same
paper stock as your résumé). This additional data sheet could be left behind after an interview, if
appropriate, or sent as an addendum to your résumé when that kind of detailed information is
specifically required.

• Personal Data
Unless there is a specific reason to do so, personal information, such as age, marital and family
status, sex, state of health, citizenship, avocations and willingness to relocate does not need to be
included. For example, if your citizenship status is potentially unclear, you might want to state it.
Or, if civic or community involvement is important in your field, you might want to list the types
of activities in which you have participated.
Personal data can include items, which are interview conversation starters or the beginning of a
response to anticipated objections. You might also include indications of personal preferences,
which may help match you with the company culture and like-minded people, or items, which
are relevant to your objective. Unless you have a specific reason for including an item or section,
it is best omitted.

SAMPLES OF SUMMARY STATEMENTS
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Project Manager
SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL STRENGTHS
A results-oriented professional Engineer who is energized by working in pioneering roles where

creative innovation is a must. A background of developing successful small teams to achieve
results. Investment decisions are driven by a sense of intrapreneurial ownership. Over a 20-year
career with Bell Canada, expertise has been developed in the following areas:
∆ Plans programs and organizes resources to achieve high quality at low cost.
∆ Creates small cohesive teams
∆ Broad knowledge of computer applications and software development
∆ Motivated by opportunities to develop innovative solutions.
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Manager of Training and Professional Development
SUMMARY OF STRENGTHS
A change champion within the Business Market service department who designs and delivers
training programs supporting business initiatives. An enthusiastic and innovative professional
who seizes opportunities to apply techniques and skills through coaching others.
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Administrative Clerk / Office automation
SUMMARY
Solid experience in office automation, database management system and customer service.
Bilingual, dynamic with organizational skills. Learns new responsibilities quickly. Known as a
highly productive, disciplined, responsible, creative individual and team player. Key competencies:
∆ Writing, creating and formatting documents: revision and correction
∆ Maintaining highly confidential files
∆ Data logging and management
∆ Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint

CAREER OBJECTIVE
Administrative Assistant
HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS
Bilingual administrative assistant, conscientious, efficient, with the required expertise to support the
business unit’s objectives, Able to perform effectively in a fast paced changing work environment.
Supportive team worker, committed and responsible. Key strengths include:
∆ Listening skills
∆ Multitasking
∆ Skilled in developing customer loyalty, problems solving and negotiating with vendors
∆ Data entry, word processing and financial statement: typing 60 words/minute
∆ Revising, preparing and formatting spreadsheets and offers of service
∆ Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Corel Draw, SAP
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Manager
PROFILE
Believes high standards, strong ethics and honesty create the best working atmosphere. Has
excellent communication skills and relates well to all staff levels. Enjoys challenges of analyzing
and modifying deficiencies to improve production and efficiency. A flexible and quick learner
who enjoys working in a team or as an individual contributor. The past 12 years have enhanced
skills in:
∆ Planning and scheduling
∆ Analysis and problem solving
∆ Innovation and self-starting
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Account Manager
An energetic and dedicated individual with a marketing and sales background; insightful and
logical approach to analysis, troubleshoots quickly and accurately. Previous work experience has
led to the development of the following characteristics:
∆ Solves problems proactively.
∆ Produces accurate and detailed work.
∆ Organizes systems and prioritizes workload.
∆ Manages information flow effectively.

SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL STRENGTHS STATEMENTS
Thinks independently and resolves problems quickly.
Views problems in a positive way and proposes solution to streamline operations and improve
working conditions.
Background in business modelling and analysis, project development and creation of ad-hoc
reports and graphs.
Able to form an effective partnership with clients, helping them to analyze their requirements
and assisting them in arriving at the best business solutions to their problems.
During a career of _____ years, the following competencies were developed:
Managing people, projects and schedules

Producing practical, accurate and detailed work
Delivering effective orientation/training sessions
Motivating people to work effectively as a team
Learns new systems quickly and takes initiative.
Highly motivated, committed to delivering top quality service.
Thrives in a high-energy environment.
High level of creative energy, combined with strong organizational skills.
Developed a successful, professional approach to providing top quality customer service,

consistently applying these principles:
• Creates an atmosphere that encourages the customer to freely express complaints.

• Thoroughly and tactfully researches potential solutions to their problem.
• Obtains feedback to ensure the customer is in fact satisfied with the results.
Effective communication skills have been demonstrated through:
• Creating productive, highly efficient work environments

• Handling union relations skilfully
• Solving problems tenaciously
• Creating self-sufficient production units.

SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL STRENGTHS ANALYSIS
A results-oriented professional Engineer who is energized by working in pioneering roles where

creative innovation is a must. A background of developing successful small teams to achieve
results. Investment decisions are driven by a sense of intrapreneurial ownership. Over a 20-year
career with Bell Canada, expertise has been developed in the following areas:
Plans programs and organizes resources to achieve high quality at low cost.
Creates small cohesive teams
Broad knowledge of computer applications and software development
Motivated by opportunities to develop innovative solutions.
Job function • Professional Engineer
Personal attributes / work style • Investment decisions are driven by a sense of

intrapreneurial ownership
Special areas of expertise • Results oriented

• Pioneering roles
• Creative innovation
• Developing successful small teams
Years of experience / entry • 20-year career with Bell Canada

expression
Work environment / values / • Energized by working in pioneering roles

motivation
Transferable skills / competencies • Plans programs and organizes resources to achieve

high quality at low cost.
• Creates small cohesive teams
• Broad knowledge of computer applications and
software development
• Motivated by opportunities to develop innovative
solutions.

SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL STRENGTHS WORKSHEET
Job function __________________________________________

__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Personal attributes / work style __________________________________________

__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Specific areas of expertise __________________________________________

__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Years of experience / entry expression __________________________________________

__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Work environment / values / __________________________________________

motivation __________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Entry expression introducing __________________________________________

strengths __________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Transferable skills / competencies __________________________________________

__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________

WHAT SHOULD BE OMITTED FROM YOUR RÉSUMÉ
1. Your present salary or salary requirements
2. Reasons for leaving previous positions
3. Outside activities which are not relevant, such as social clubs, sports activities, church or
political affiliations
4. Information regarding age, marital or family status, sex, state of health, citizenship
5. Your picture
6. Social insurance number
7. Do not write “Résumé” on the first page
8. References
9. It is not necessary to include a statement such as "references provided upon request." There is
more information on References later in this section.
RÉSUMÉ FORMATS
The two most commonly used and accepted résumé formats are the reverse chronological and the
functional. To some degree, however, effective résumés are always a combination of both. A
third style, the Electronic Résumé, is also presented and includes a sample.
The format style applies to the work experience or professional background component of the
résumé. Regardless of which format you use, you will still lead off your résumé with a career
objective and a summary statement, followed by the presentation of your professional
experience.
The following is a discussion of how to prepare each of these formats.

REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ
The reverse chronological format is the more widely used and readily accepted. It is the format
most experienced recruiters and interviewers expect to receive. Your most recent work
experience comes first and then continues backward in time.
This style is used most successfully by managers and professionals who have careers comprised
of an uninterrupted succession of positions and are moving in a direct path toward their current
objective.
In its most basic form, the reverse chronological format lists the company name (and sometimes
location), dates of employment, job title, and a brief synopsis of the position with its primary
responsibilities. Within the synopsis, you might want to include quantifying information, such as
the fact that you had direct supervision for six managers in five departments with a total of 350
employees in four locations.
However, there is a variation to this rather spartan format which can make your résumé more
interesting to read and, more importantly, help focus the reader's attention on your
accomplishments and demonstrated competencies.
Examples of the reverse chronological format with the integration of accomplishments or results
for each position are included in this section.
Using the results of the work you did identifying your past successes, detail your
accomplishments and quantify results with numbers and statistics when appropriate. For
instance, "reduced manufacturing costs by 15% and increased divisional profitability by 6%."
The accomplishments you select should illustrate the full range of your demonstrated
accomplishments, which would be applicable to your target audience.
Follow the same format for each position. The amount of detail for each position can be tapered
as you go further back in your career. Positions you held ten or more years ago, for instance, can
be summarized in a synopsis sentence.
Be careful of gaps in employment dates. For style and ease of reading, the accomplishments
should be set off by bullets or indentations. If there are many accomplishments under a single
paragraph making the list too long, break them down by using sub-headings.
Examples of reverse chronological résumés follow.

SAMPLE - REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ
JOE FRISBEE, C.H.R.P.

1010 Kite Avenue Residence: (519) 894-7586
Faraway, Ontario Business: (519) 259-8956
L0D 8H5 Email: john.frisbee@bell.ca
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Human Resources Consultant
SUMMARY OF KEY STRENGTHS
An experienced manager with staff and line management background. Team player with proven
conceptual, analytical and creative abilities. Considerable experience in the telecommunications
field in accounting and human resources with an emphasis on analysis, compensation, training,
placement and consulting. Proficient in MS Office,PeopleSoft and SAP.
CAREER HISTORY
BELL CANADA 1990 - present
Human Resources Consultant 1998 - present
Providing all aspects of human resources support (e.g. placement recommendations, manpower
planning, compensation) for Bell management employees.
Providing consultative advice on issues such as development of newly hired and promoted
managers and substandard performance and discipline.
Conducting exit interviews with management employees.
Accomplishments:
• Initiated, researched and introduced a résumé workshop which assisted employees in career
planning and re-deployment efforts.
• Involved in the Human Resources Benchmarking Steering Committee. Initiatives resulted in
over $900K savings to the Company.
• Key player in developing and introducing mechanized tools to assist in career planning: Job
Canvas System and Job Information System, both used company-wide.
• Certified instructor of “Managing Personal Growth” (Blessing/White), a two-day self-
assessment workshop which enabled the program to be offered cost-effectively to Bell
employees.

JOE FRISBEE Page Two
Manager, Investment Records 1990 - 1998
Controlled investment records for various telephone assets with investments ranging from $92
million to $3.5 billion. Directed and controlled annual inventories and evaluated details.
Produced a variety of reports detailing statistical, financial and budgetary data used for internal
and external purposes.
Directed the compilation of the business unit operating expense budget.
Championed the use of Quality Circles in the District.
Accomplishments:
• Initiated cost-saving mechanized procedures in several areas, resulting in an annual savings

of $55K.
• Implemented incentives to reduce incidental absence; overtime decreased from 5% to less
than 1%.
• Worked part-time strike duty while covering own job plus that of immediate supervisor and
two peers who were on full-time strike duty.
• Certified instructor of “Working” (Achieve) program for non-management staff. Led over
100 employees through the program.
• Implemented Quality Circle initiatives resulted in a savings of $10K the first year and $35K
the following year. Attendance improved significantly.
• Supervised staff of 17 unionized employees.
ALBERTA GOVERNMENT TELEPHONES 1975 – 1990
Various management positions held within the accounting department
EDUCATION/PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Advanced courses in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access 1995 – 2001

Bachelor in Business Administration, York University 1987 – 1992
Sales and Negotiating & TQ-Quality Advantage, Tom Peters and Covey training 1988 – 1991
Human Resources Certificate, Seneca College 1981 – 1983
Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation
AFFILIATIONS
Human Resources Professional Association of Ontario (HRPAO)

2nd SAMPLE - REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ
JANE DOE
25 St-Jacques St. Residence: (514) 435-2314

Montreal, Quebec Messages: (514) 294-5402
H3G 4N2 Email: jane.doe@sympatico.ca
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Sales Team Leader
SUMMARY
A fluently bilingual, highly motivated self-starter who combines enthusiasm with a strong work
ethic to produce outstanding sales results and provide excellent customer service. An
experienced communicator who thrives on dealing with a variety of people and challenges.
Proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Office 2000. Key strengths include:
♦ Excellent interpersonal and influential communication skills.

♦ Creative and adaptable; learns new responsibilities quickly and takes initiatives.
♦ Tenacious and goal-oriented; anticipates and responds to customer needs.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
BELL CANADA 1996 – present
Sales Representative
Develop and maintain territory (80+ accounts) introducing new programs, promotions and
product lines. Work closely with clients regarding product revisions, expansion of existing
product lines and providing support on increasing sales.
Accomplishments:
• Developed credible, professional relationships with clients and was successful at

implementing new products and selling products.
• Saved a large account (multiple locations; $25K annual sales) as a result of a first encounter,
in spite of limited industry experience, by understanding and addressing concerns
immediately.
• Completed ten-week intensive training period with exceptional scores.

JANE DOE Page Two
ABC COMPANY INC. 1992 - 2000
Sales Representative
Maintain existing client base for the Island of Montreal (200+ clients; $720K annual sales);
developing new contacts to expand market share. Provide ongoing space planning and marketing
support. Represent company at various exhibitions and trade shows.
Accomplishments:
• Assigned to rebuild poorly serviced territory (only 20% of accounts had received regular
calls). Within three months, sales had increased by 30%.
• As first time Sales Representative, successfully assumed management of large territory,

increasing average monthly sales from $30K to $50K.
COMPANY XYZ 1988 - 1992
Consultant 1989 - 1992
Monitor and maintain current client base of major corporations, proposing and negotiating
services to address client needs. Utilize telemarketing to expand market share and increase active
client volume. Work closely with clients/candidates to ensure fit with position requirements.
Recruit, interview and select potential candidates, negotiating pay rates and appropriate
increases. Assess skill levels and assign appropriate training.
Accomplishments:
• Increased sales by 90% within first year.
• Increased weekly scheduled hours by 200% in 1996.
• Worked closely with colleagues, developing strong team spirit and drive, resulting in
obtaining highest sales increase in Canada for 1995.
• Awarded “Top Consultant - 1999” in Quebec (out of nine).
Supervisor - Testing 1988 - 1989
• Screen and direct incoming calls. Assess candidate performance levels and schedule
appropriate testing. Prepare and evaluate test results. Monitor and collect overdue accounts.

JANE DOE Page Three
COMPANY MNO 1985 - 1988
Claims Representative
Investigate automobile and residential claims submitted for payment. Communicate with parties
involved - police, witnesses, Client Service. Evaluate investigative data and settle personal
auto/theft claims ensuring company policies and procedures are adhered to.
Accomplishments:
• Selected to organize/participate “Quality Circle” team, designed to improve/increase

productivity.
• Recipient of 1987 Top Representative Award (20 Claims Representatives).
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Sales and Marketing Management: Sales Institute Inc. 2001 - 2002
MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access: Seneca College 1998 - 1999
Ten-Week Intensive Sales Training 1997
“The Power to Accomplish; The Power to Relate”: Werner Erhard and Associates 1996
Sales Techniques: Roger St.-Hilaire 1995
Bachelor of Commerce, Major in Human Resources Management: 1986

Concordia University
MEMBERSHIPS
Member, Chamber of Commerce

Member, Ambassadors Club

3rd SAMPLE - REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ
JANET STEWART
25 Windermere Crescent Residence: (905) 883-7654

Thornhill, Ontario Business: (905) 781-5678
L3R 1N4 Email: janet.steward@sympatico.ca
OBJECTIVE
Executive Assistant
SUMMARY
Bilingual, highly conscientious and self-starter. Able to perform efficiently in a fast paced
changing work environment. Able to prioritize workload and meeting deadlines on schedule.
Articulated and highly focused on customer needs. Supportive and committed team player.
Proficient in Word, Excel, Power Point, Access and PeopleSoft. Particular strengths include:
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

• Produces practical, accurate and detailed work
• Enjoys the challenge of special assignments
• Organizes information for easy accessibility
• Ability to adapt to different management and leadership styles
WORK EXPERIENCE
Administrative Assistant – Human Resources 1995 - present
Organizing, coordinating and managing agenda and meetings for two Senior Associate Directors.
Communicating with senior management. Producing minutes, distributing information, and
handling confidential material. Processing expenses using ARIBA. Arranging for business trips.
Designing and translating documents and presentations. Organizing special events. Managing
mail and email. Invoicing and preparing quotations and contracts.
Accomplishments
• Played a key role in training twenty colleagues with different softwares.

• Implemented a chronological and alphabetical filing system to improve quality and
accessibility of information.
• Established an email communication system to quickly obtain the assessment of the hiring
interviews.

JANET STEWART Page Two
Administrative Assistant – Sales and Marketing 1990 – 1995
Typing reports and presentations using Power Point. Preparing monthly expenditures reports,
spreadsheets and financial statements. Implementing new procedures for the day to day running
of the office. Communicating with vendors. Responsible for stationery supplies. Booking
conference rooms and making travelling arrangements.
Accomplishments
• Created a monthly tracking report on Excel spreadsheet to follow-up invoices and expenses,
thus saving time and allowing for a more accurate follow-up.
• Succeeded in the start-up of a newly created position due to tactful communication skills.
FINANCE INC. 1984 – 1990
Administrative Clerk
Compiling complex financial computation and verifying eligibility for “matching funds”. Editing
reports and correspondence. Entering all data for 130 employees contributions.
Accomplishments
• Produced and published a promotional newsletter

• Trained all team members (15) on computing personal expenses
Simply Accounting/Business Vision 32 2000

Advanced courses: Word, Excel, Power Point, Access, ACCPAC, Front Page 1996 - 1999
CPR Training, done annually since 1991
College Degree: Regional Commerce College 1983
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
• Active volunteer for the Canadian Cancer Society. Participated in door-to-door collections
for the March of Dimes for Flanders.
• Participated in 50 km 2000-2001 Cyclothon for Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.

4rd SAMPLE - REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ
JAMES SMITH
45 Chestnut Blvd Residence: (905) 555-7777

Chapel Hill, Ontario Business: (905) 556-8888
L5A 1S5 Email: jamessmith@sympatico.ca
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Associate-Computer Applications Support
PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
• Bilingual with 10 years of customer and excellence oriented working experience.

• Thorough knowledge of systems software, hardware and Local Areas Network packages.
• Ability in programming systems and planning computer jobs.
• Communicates effectively with groups, managers and suppliers.
• Ability in coordinating and negotiating schedules and activities with various groups.
• Proven problem-solving, initiatives and analysing skills.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Client representative – Consumer Market 1999 - present
Ensuring complete customer satisfaction in response to requests and complaints. Assessing

customer problems and needs. Promoting sales and providing customer services. Coordinating
with various departments and outside companies and ensuring service is provided on a timely
basis. Maintaining and reconciling billing and other customer account information.
Accomplishments
To develop customer loyalty and improve service:
• Organized a team to solve complex problems.

• Conceived and gave presentations to internal and external clients.
• Supervised the training of colleagues for implementation of computer systems.
• Organized an innovation committee.

JAMES SMITH Page Two
Associate – Human Resource 1995 – 1999
Explaining company’s policy to job applicants. Providing support and training to system users.
Researching, analyzing, verifying and correcting data discrepancies. Preparing invoice payments.
Accomplishments
• Created and implemented a computerized follow-up system to integrate clients and suppliers
budget.
• Recommended a task reorganization plan which was adopted.
• Received numerous letters for excellent customer service.
ROYAL BANK 1992 – 1995
PC Support Specialist
Providing support for office software applications to administrative employees. Recommending

purchase of hardware and software based upon clients needs.
Accomplishments
• Contributed to improve the client services tracking system.

• Modified the User Manual.
Advanced courses MS Office 95, 98 & 2000 1995 - 2001

Network Support (LAN WAN) 1994 - 2000
Strategies for Effective Listening 1996
Strategic Influence “The Power of Personal Marketing” 1998
College Degree: London Computer College 1991
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Active volunteer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada.

FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ
The functional résumé organizes your work experience by function or competencies, rather than
chronologically.
As we mentioned earlier, the most effective résumés are always a combination of both functional
and chronological formats. Even if you select the functional format, somewhere on your résumé
 we suggest page 2  you will need to include your work experience by company name, job
title (or clear indication of function) and dates of employment in reverse chronological order,
taking care that no gaps in dates appear.
Even if you have an irregular, unconventional or seemingly irrelevant work history, excluding a
chronological work history might make the reader unnecessarily suspicious.
The functional format focuses attention on your competencies or accomplishments and is used
more successfully if you are trying to change careers, business units or industries, or when trying
to downplay gaps or diversions in your career which are better explained in a personal interview
rather than in writing.
This format is also useful because it stresses the scope of experience and can help eliminate
monotonous repetition in similar job situations.
Examples of functional résumés follow.

SAMPLE - FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ
JANET DARLING
16 Truck Avenue Residence: (905) 123-4567
Whitby, Ontario Business: (905) 987-6543
DEF 456 Email: jdarling@sympatico.ca
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Systems Networking
CAREER PROFILE
21 years of analytical and managerial experience in the telecommunications and computer

industries. Skilled in planning, organizing and problem solving. Experienced as a leader and
team player, with emphasis on administration and interpersonal relations. Proficient in MS
Office, SAP. During a varied, challenging career, the following skills and strengths were
established:
• Leadership and interpersonal skills

• Planning and organizing skills
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Total Quality initiatives
Leadership and Interpersonal Skills

• Reduced staff by 24% through successful redeployment to various departments, ensuring
individual career goals materialized.
• Formulated non-standard workforce adjustment plans to satisfy personal goals for 25% of
team.
• Coached, developed, motivated and empowered staff of 14 ensuring maximized team
efficiency.
• Demonstrated high energy level and high personal work ethics on all assignments.
Planning and Organizing Skills
• Planned and organized several successful conferences, e.g. Network Traffic OP - Servicing
Section -- “Mission ... Possible.”
• Streamlined capacity review process, reducing district budget by over $35K in overtime
payments and reducing stress level of management and support staff.
• Organized and planned daily priorities in a fast, ever changing business environment.

JANET DARLING Page Two
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
• Researched, developed and recommended relief plans for all 14 switching centres involved
with the implementation of Ajax-Whitby East.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively coordinate and guide several inter-departmental teams.
• Reduced backlog of errors and database updates by 88%, ensuring a more valid, accurate
database.
Communication and Presentation Skills

• Instructed staff on various automated data collection systems and analytical tools, e.g.
Facility Management System (FMS), DMS IU monitoring.
• Established track record of success in developing training material for several mechanized
processes.
• Presented yearly capacity reviews for all switching centres.
• Compiled and analyzed executive summaries on CPU utilization and computer downtime.
Total Quality Initiatives

• Participated in several total quality and employee involvement initiatives.
• Created an environment that encourages trust, teamwork and empowerment, and allows
freedom in each individual’s job responsibilities.
• Ensured customer satisfaction by implementing extended hour coverage.
• Coordinated with inter-departmental teams to ensure proper intercept treatment for our
external customers.
CAREER HISTORY
Bell Canada 1994 – present

Manager, Network Traffic - Assigning 1987 – present
Manager, Network Traffic - Servicing 1987 – 1994
Associate - Equipment Sales 1983 - 1987
EDUCATION
Strategic Planning, McGill University 1999
Human Resource Management Course, York University 1992-1994
Bachelor of Science, Mathematics, McMaster University 1982
AWARDS
CORE Award (CAMI Coin), TEAM Award (Ajax-Pickering East)

2nd SAMPLE - FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ
SANDRA TENNYSON
177 Apple Way Road Residence: (416) 555-2867
Toronto, Ontario Business: (416) 232-4788
M4R 1C3 Email: stennyson@sympatico.com
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Administrative Systems Analyst
An energetic and educated manager with direct supervisory experiences. Motivates and develops
personnel for promotion and matches qualified employees with managers. Proven experience in
recruiting, training and monitoring performance of secretarial and support staff. During a career of
12 years, the following demonstrated competencies were developed:
• Organizing people, projects and schedules.
• Producing practical, accurate and detailed work.
• Delivering effective orientation/training sessions.
• Motivating people to work effectively as a team.
Organizing People, Projects and Schedules
• Liaised with central and technical committees re: the organization, tracking, completion and
confirmation of a technical paper on operations; presentations were coordinated for timely
delivery at the conference.
• Scheduled staff for relief assignments and forecasted staff need to ensure trained human
resources were in place to provide effective support for clients.
• Researched and wrote procedures for use by 60 secretaries.
Producing practical, accurate and detailed work
• Recorded accurate minutes at committee meetings maintained a database and liaised with
registration committee re: conference schedules, proceedings and arrangements. Also,
received recognition for commitment regarding other special assignments.
• Prepared and monitored section budget. Compiled data, projected on-target figures.
• Developed written procedures for inclusion in Task Book.

Sandra Tennyson Page 2
Delivering effective orientation/training sessions
• Developed and conducted introductory orientations for new staff to delineate organization
structure and role/responsibilities of the position.
• Improved delivery of training program. Implemented practical exercises to integrate with
theory.
Motivating people to work effectively as a team
• Initiated communication meetings with staff to maximize work efforts, maintained awareness
of department's role, conducted open discussion/feedback sessions. Achieved cooperation
and commitment of staff.
• Negotiated with managers to match and recommend staff using a tactful and sensitive
approach.
• Improved communication channels by effectively liaising with managers and department
staff. Coordinated follow-up systems.
WORK HISTORY
Bell Canada 1990 - present

Secretarial Services Supervisor 1996 - 1998
Conference Coordinator 1993 - 1996
Administrative Assistant 1991 - 1993
Technical and Training Services 1990 - 1991
EDUCATION / PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Ryerson Polytechnical Institute & York University 1995 - 2001

Organizational Behaviour, Personnel Administration,
Performance Management, Customer Service Relations, Job Evaluations
Conducting Performance Appraisals, MS Office, Windows 2000
University of Toronto 1987 - 1990

Business Administration program
COMMUNITY COMMITMENT
Treasurer for “Partners in Business” 1990- present

3rd SAMPLE - FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ
STEVE MORRISSON
3 Winston Avenue Residence: (519) 678-9123
London, Ontario Business: (519) 679-8124
D5F 4K6 Email: smorrisson@sympatico.ca
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Associate – Provisioning
PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES SUMMARY
Bilingual, customer focused professional with experience in telecommunications and customer

service. Thorough understanding of the company products and services, the network, its
components and its services. Team player and ability to deal with constant changes in priorities.
Proven skills in - project management
- communication and training
- cost evaluation and budget management
Project Management
• Planned, organized and prioritized tasks and very successfully met clients needs.
• Computerized the tracking of activities for projects involving several internal services and
external firms.
Communication and Training
• Developed procedures manual for repairs and trained all employees within the service. This
manual was adopted in other services.
Cost Evaluation and Budget Management
• Prepared budget estimate and operated within budget allocations.
WORK HISTORY
Bell Canada Since 1995

Client Representative - Repairs Since 1998
Associate – WorkPlace Planning 1995 to 1998
Bachelor in Administration, University of Toronto 1994

MS Office, Windows 2000, MS Project, PeopleSoft, SAP Since 1995
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and Coach 1997
ELECTRONIC RÉSUMÉ TECHNOLOGY
In today’s business world, fewer Human Resources professionals are available to evaluate the
growing number of applicants. As a result, several companies and a number of search firms have
adopted the use of automated applicant tracking systems.

Employers no longer manually read and sort résumés. Scanning devices are used to record full
résumés into the computer. This computerized system makes it easier for employers to quickly
compare and rank applicants for current and future positions.
Employers use a keyword search to identify applicants in the system who has the qualifications
they want. Computers read résumés differently than people and make the use of keywords an
important feature in electronic résumé writing.
A maximum of keywords are used to highlight competencies, aptitudes, expertise, technical

experience, training, etc.
A few tips for writing a scanable résumé:
1. Your name is the first text on the page

2. The more keywords you can present about yourself, the more likely you will be identified
as a potential candidate. Most people should have a résumé one to two pages in length to
ensure an appropriate number of keywords are presented.
3. Use paragraphs that are concise, well spaced and positioned on the page.
4. Make good use of white space by using sensible margins and indenting.
5. Use standard fonts, avoiding italics and bold.
6. Avoid the use of logos, graphics, and letterheads
7. Never use a decorative typeface or underline passages. These résumés can be garbled and
difficult to read. Keep your résumé format simple and clean.
8. Maximize the use of industry terms or key words. Recruiters will use well-recognized terms
when conducting a keyword search.
9. Minimize the use of abbreviations. This can be left to interpretation and you may not match
those being used by the recruiter. Spell it out if you are not sure.
10. Professional memberships have clout. Make sure to include those relevant to your current
search.
Note: If you need to fax or mail your résumé, use quality white paper, and
original print only.

SAMPLE - ELECTRONIC RÉSUMÉ
KELLY ANDERSON
120 Adelaide Street
Toronto, Ontario
M5H 1T1
Res.:(416) 234-5678
Bus.:(416) 925-9689
Email: kanderson@sympatico.ca
Employee No. A123456
Languages: English, French
Desired Work Locations: Toronto, Montreal
KEY WORDS
Marketing Manager, Buyer, Merchandising Manager, Marketing, Product Development,

Finance, Promotions, Advertising, Graphics Production, Direct Mail, Media, New Product
Introduction, Training, Travel, Wholesale, Bachelor of Arts, The University of Toronto, MS
Office
SUMMARY
A marketing manager with in-depth merchandising and product development experience.

Employers describe me as a moneymaker ... and a creative, high-energy problem solver. Excellent
at defining and meeting market needs.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Bell Canada 1994 - Present
Marketing Manager
Overall creative and financial responsibility to manage and direct key area:
Wholesale and related businesses, promotions, advertising, visual display, merchandising and
graphics production.
Created wholesale division product line and systems.

Initiated and executed in-house graphics production. Saved $150K advertising agency fees
annually.
Executed corporate image change including visual display, retail packaging and promotions.

Kelly Anderson Page 2
MARLA DESIGNS, Toronto 1989 - 1994
Program Manager
Developed original artwork in fine porcelain, bronze and pewter from initial concept to direct
mail and media promotion. 26 programs plus Christmas catalogue each in excess of $2 million in
sales. Travel 50% of job.
SPINA CORPORATION, Toronto 1986 - 1989
Buyer for leading giftware importers
Purchased 20% of company volume. Developed products from idea conception to market
placement. Selected product assortments for catalogue. Trained national sales force in marketing
new product introductions. Travelled extensively overseas to 5 countries working with 28
suppliers.
CREATIVE CRAFTS, Toronto 1984 - 1986
Buyer for 52 stores
Responsibilities included annual budget programs for sales, inventory and profit. Created total
concept including product assortments and display systems. Member of New Store and
Operating Committee. Lots of travel.
CRAFTY CRAFTS AND HOBBIES, Kitchener 1980 - 1984
Merchandising Manager and Buyer for chain of 12 stores
Turnkey responsibility to open 7 stores. Selected products for institutional catalogue. Lots of
travel.
EDUCATION
MS Office 1998-2000
Bachelor of Arts, The University of Toronto 1980
Numerous professional seminars and conferences
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
American Management Associates International

Interior Designers of Canada
Canadian Craft & Hobby Association

FUNCTION VERBS
Accelerated Consulted Guided Participated Screened

Achieved Contracted Handle hired Performed Selected
Accomplished Controlled Identified Persuaded Served
Acted Cooperated Implemented Piloted Simplified
Adapted Coordinated Improved Planned Sold
Adjusted Counselled Improvised Predicted Solved
Administered Created Increased Prescribed Spear-headed
Advertised Decided Indexed Presented Spoke
Advised Decreased Influenced Projected Stabilized
Affected Defined Informed Problem-solved Staffed
Analyzed Delegated Initiated Processed Standardized
Anticipated Delivered Innovated Produced Started
Approached Demonstrated Inspected Programmed Stimulated
Approved Designed Inspired Promoted Streamlined
Arranged Detailed Installed Proposed Strengthened
Ascertained Detected Instituted Provided Structured
Assembled Determined Instructed Publicized Succeeded
Assessed Developed Integrated Published Summarized
Assigned Devised Interpreted Purchased Superseded
Assisted Diagnosed Interviewed Recommended Supervised
Attained Directed Introduced Reconciled Surveyed
Budgeted Dispensed Investigated Recorded Synergized
Built Distributed Invented Recruited Synthesized
Calculated Diverted Launched Rectified Systemized
Catalogued Drafted Led Redesigned Taught
Chaired Edited Maintained Reduced Team-built
Charted Educated Managed Rehabilitated Terminated
Clarified Eliminated Manipulated Related Trained
Classified Enlarged Marketed Renewed Transacted
Coached Established Mediated Reorganized Transcribed
Collaborated Evaluated Merchandised Reported Transferred
Compiled Examined Moderated Represented Transmitted
Completed Exchanged Modified Researched Trimmed
Composed Executed Monitored Resolved Uncovered
Communicated Expanded Motivated Restored Unified
Conceived Extracted Navigated Retrieved Upgraded
Conceptualized Facilitated Negotiated Reviewed Utilized
Conciliated Familiarized Obtained Revised Unravelled
Conducted Formulated Operated Risked Widened
Conserved Fund-raised Ordered Saved Won
Consolidated Generated Organized Scanned Withdrew
Constructed Governed Originated Scheduled Wrote

DO THESE WORDS DESCRIBE YOU?
Activity-oriented Expedient Quick

Adaptable Expressive Realistic
Adaptive Factual Reliable
Adventurous Fair Reserved
Alert Firm Resourceful
Analytical Friendly Responsible
Applied Fun-loving Responsive
Autonomous Gentle Restless
Caring Global Reticent
Challenging Harmonious Self-determined
Clever Holistic Sensible
Cognitive Idealistic Sensitive
Committed Imaginative Service-minded
Compassionate Impersonal Sceptical
Conceptual Independent Sociable
Concerned Intense Speculative
Congenial Logical Spontaneous
Conscientious Loyal Steadfast
Controlled Meticulous Straightforward
Cooperative Modest Strategic
Creative Objective Structured
Critical Observant Supportive
Curious Organized Sympathetic
Decisive Original Systematic
Deep Outgoing Systems-minded
Demanding Outspoken Tactful
Dependable Painstaking Talkative
Detached Patient Theoretical
Detailed Perceptive Thorough
Determined Personable Tolerant
Devoted Persuasive Tough
Diplomatic Planful Traditional
Direct Playful Trusting
Duty bound Pleasant Understanding
Easygoing Protective Verbal
Efficient Practical Versatile
Empathetic Pragmatic Virtuous
Energetic Precise Visionary
Enterprising Private Vivacious
Enthusiastic Questioning

REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ OUTLINE - WORKSHEET
Name:
Address:
City, Province:
Postal Code:
Residence Phone:
Business Phone:
Email
Career Objective
Summary of Professional Strengths
Demonstrated Strengths include:

Career History
Job Title Business Unit / Company Dates
Responsible for:
Special Accomplishments:

Career History
Responsible for:

Career History
Responsible for:

Education
Degree or Course Institution City Date
Career Development
Course Date
Interests/Community Activities/Volunteer Work
Associations/Publications/Honours

FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ OUTLINE - WORKSHEET
Name:
Address:
City, Province:
Postal Code:
Residence Phone:
Business Phone:
Email
Career Objective
Summary of Professional Strengths
Demonstrated Strengths include:

Strength

Strength

Strength

Strength

Career History
Job Title Company/Business Unit Date
Education
Degree or Course Institution City Date
Career Development
Course Date
Interest/Community Activities/Volunteer Work
Associations/Publications/Honours

RÉSUMÉ CHECKLIST
Appearance
• Is your résumé visually appealing?
• Is it short, well-organized with attractively spaced paragraphs?
• Does it have "air"?
• Is it easy to read?
• Is it longer than two pages?
• Is it error-free?
• Are you comfortable with the typeface and paper stock?
Content
Heading
• Are your name, address, telephone numbers and email included?
Objective
• Does it say: This is who I am and this is what I want to do?
• Is it clear? Specific? Brief?
• Too broad? Too narrow?
Summary
• Does it support and emphasize your objective?
• Does it clearly express why you are good at what you do?
• Does it say: Here is why I will be good at what I want to do next?
Experience
• Is the format consistent?
• Is it logically organized?
• Are there any gaps in dates?
• Do your competencies and accomplishments match your objective and summary statements?
• Do your accomplishments pass the "so what?" test?
• Are your competencies visible?
• Are the job titles understandable?
If a functional format, have you included your chronological business experience as well?

Education
• Briefly stated?
• Have you eliminated all irrelevant information?
Format
• If functional format, is your work experience included in reverse chronological order?
• Are there any gaps in dates?
• If chronological format, have you made your responsibilities clear?
Other/Personal
• Is there a good reason for including this section?
Overall
• What is the overall image created by your résumé: dynamic, over-the-hill, fast track, very
senior, inexperienced?
• What salary level will the reader assume from reading it?
• What kind of impression does it make in the first 15-20 seconds?
• Does everything support your objective?
• If you were responsible for filling the position, would you interview this person?
RÉSUMÉ POSTING
To post your résumé on-line, please visit the Bell Canada HR web site and access:
Jobs@Bell/managers
or
Jobs@Bell/CTEA
And simply follow the instructions.

REFERENCES
Professional and Personal
Employers will require several references (3 to 5) both professional and personal. Obviously, the
more senior the position, the more thoroughly will the references be sought and questioned.
Professional references may be requested from former leaders, managers, colleagues, peers,
subordinates, clients and customers who can speak about your strengths, responsibilities, work style,
character and personality. Personal references should be those who know you well and have
observed you for several years. Use influential people as references only if they can speak first-hand
about you and know you well enough to answer personal questions.
Permission, and Communication
Before listing people as references, check with them before hand to make sure they are willing to
provide a reference. Most will be happy to accommodate you. Don't be afraid to take an active,
direct approach with your references. Give them a copy of your résumé and explain the type of
position for which you are looking. Review the résumé with them so there will not be any
discrepancies between what they say about you and what you say about yourself. You can also
invite your references to provide more information about your skills, career objective and work
history.
Never on a Résumé
References should virtually never be listed on a résumé, even when those references are well-
known people. Some people, however, like to write at the bottom, "Personal and Professional
References Available Upon Request", based on the rationale that even though all employers
know they can get references if they want, seeing it printed at the bottom of the page is
psychologically reassuring. Leave this information off for the same reason you don't type
"Résumé" at the top of page one. The information simply is not needed since the reader already
knows or assumes it.
List of References
When you begin the interview process, we recommend that you have a separate list of references
typed in a very professional manner. Your name, address, city, province, postal code and
telephone numbers should be at the top of the page. Each reference should include the person's
name, title, and name of the organization, address, telephone number and email. Ask your
references if it is all right to contact them at work or at home. It is best to make several copies of
your reference list.

Prior to a Warm Opportunity
All references should be telephoned immediately when you know that they will be contacted by
a potential employer. During this telephone conversation you can show your enthusiasm for the
position, explain the job fit and the selection criteria so that your reference will be fully prepared.
This is only common sense and considerate.
The Potentially Negative Reference
Your most important references are your previous leaders. Be aware that everyone, including
your interviewers, have had at least one difficult working relationship in the past. You could
handle the situation in one of two ways. Diffuse the situation by mentioning to your prospective
employer that you differed from your previous leader on organizational strategy, work style or
business objectives. But never run down your previous employer nor say that you had a
personality conflict. Another alternative is to contact your previous leader, explain the exciting
potential opportunity and ask for his/her assistance and co-operation. Most managers are
delighted to help no matter what the previous work situation was like. Very few are
uncooperative.
During the Interview
The general rule is don't give out your references until an employer requests them. Usually they
will call references only when you are one of the top candidates. Also, you don't want your
references called any more often than necessary. Yet keep them updated on your search.
After Accepting a New Position
After a new position has been accepted, all your references and your network should be
contacted in writing with a thank you letter for their time, assistance, co-operation and support.
Also, it is a good idea to keep in touch with your references throughout your new career.

SAMPLE REFERENCE PAGE
Your Name Telephone number

Address
City, Province Message
Postal Code Email
REFERENCES
Update information on references’ Short paragraphs explaining your

whereabouts and the number where they relationship with each reference.
can be reached.
Person’s Name Mr. Jones was hired in 1991 and was my

Official Title immediate supervisor. He has an excellent
Full Company Name understanding of my most recent work
City responsibilities and performance.
Phone Number
Email
Person’s Name Ms. Reed hired me and was my supervisor

Official Title for my first seven years at ABC company.
Full Company Name
City
Phone Number
Email
Person’s Name I worked with Ms. Barnes for several

Official Title years, reporting directly to her for two
Full Company Name years. She has since left Bell Canada.
City
Phone Number
Email
Person’s Name I worked with Mr. Smith to improve

Official Title internal communications at AAA
Full Company Name Company.
City
Phone Number
Email

REFERENCE PAGE – WORKSHEET
_________________________________
_________________________________ Residence : ____________________
_________________________________ Messages : _____________________
_________________________________ Email: _______________________
REFERENCES
____________________ • ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ • ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ • ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ • ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
____________________ ___________________________________________________
THE WHEN AND WHY OF LETTER WRITING
All work search correspondence is important. In fact, your cover letters (also referred to as your
sales and marketing letters), when accompanied by telephone or in-person follow-up, can be the
quickest, surest way to reach decision-makers. Your written communications provide you with
an opportunity to convey your personality, style and taste. Your ideas, phrases and choice of

words can play a key role in helping your letter – and consequently in helping you – stand out
from the crowd and get noticed.
Letters and follow-up notes also provide you and your reader with an excellent method of
summarizing and tracking your communications with each other. The correspondence you
choose – from formal letters to informal faxes, email and thank you notes – is dependent on the
nature of your relationship with your reader.
The following pages provide some specific tips and suggestions for letter writing.

TIPS FOR WRITING COVER LETTERS
1. Use a short, typewritten, standard business-style letter. Make it brief and to the point, one
page maximum.
2. Letters must be original. Photocopies are unacceptable.
3. Make sure each letter is addressed to a specific person by name. Take the time to determine
the name of the leader.
4. Link yourself to the leader by naming your referral if possible. (Joe Davis, V.P. of
Marketing, suggested I write to you) or indicate where/when you saw or heard about the
position opening. Show your awareness of the types of things the Business Unit/Group is
doing and wants to achieve.
5. Use simple and direct language. Let your letter reflect your personality, but avoid appearing
too pushy, overbearing, familiar or humorous. It’s probably the first sample of your work
the prospective leader will utilize to form an opinion about your attitudes and abilities.
6. Indicate how your background and past accomplishments fit the position and match the
requirements of the group; give proof by stating one or two relevant accomplishments.
7. Be sure to indicate that you are enclosing your résumé.
8. Request an interview. Indicate that you are available immediately to meet with the leader at
his/her convenience, and that you will follow-up with a telephone call.
9. Check your letter carefully for any spelling, punctuation, grammar, or typing errors. Have
someone who is a good editor check your letter.
10. Sign the letter, in your best handwriting.

TIPS FOR WRITING THANK YOU LETTERS
Following-up on Meetings and Interviews
Every meeting introduces the possibility for further progress. Your follow-up letters should aim
to move the situation forward. Writing effective follow-up letters points out the need to make
careful notes immediately after a networking consultation or employment interview which
capture:
• What happened during the meeting.
• The areas of your experience which seemed to be of most interest.
• Your proposal in relation to the principal areas of expressed needs and interest.
• The things you feel you should have talked about, bud did not.
Guidelines for Follow-up Letters
1. Write the contact or interviewer as soon as possible after

the meeting.
2. Express appreciation for what the contact or interviewer

did or promised to do.
3. Where there is an expressed or apparent need, re-state your

proposal or qualifications relating to those particular needs
or interests.
4. Reiterate the highlights of the meeting.
5. Re-emphasize those areas which impressed the contact or

interviewer.
6. Add emphasis or additional insights on areas where you

may have initially undersold yourself.
7. Include new information which occurred to you after the

meeting or interview.
8. Ask for or confirm action.
9. If you promised an article or a name, fulfill the promise.
10. Wherever possible, confirm or suggest the next action step

to maintain progress.

EDITING YOUR WORK
Review Your Tone
Hot… Warm… Neutral… Cool… Cold…

Abrasive? Arrogant? Friendly? Dull? Canned?
Self-centered? Self-confident? Pleading?
Review Your Message

• Have you said what you meant to say?
• Have you identified with and connected with your reader?
• Have you clearly spelled out your purpose for writing?
• Have you taken responsibility for the next action?
Review Your Writing
Have you:
• Avoided clichés?
• Eliminated unnecessary words?
• Varied sentence length?
• Used active, rather than passive voice?
• Used colourful verbs?
• Spell-checked entire document?
• Double-checked recipient’s name, address and postal code?
• Removed all typos?
• Made use of white space – avoided clutter?

COVER LETTER SAMPLE
April 3, 2002
[Name]
[Title]
[Business Unit]
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
Dear [Name]:
I am interested in working as a [name the position] for your business unit. I am an expert [name
skill e.g.: analyst/programmer] with over [10] years of experience to offer you. I enclose my
résumé as a first step in exploring the possibilities of employment with [your group].
My most recent experience was [be specific and name the experience/project]. I was responsible
for the [list the results you produced]. In addition, [add another story that relates the critical
skills].
As a [name the position] with your organization, I would bring [list your key accomplishments
that match the critical skills e.g.: focus on quality and ease of use to your system development].
Furthermore, I work well with others and I am experienced in [list key skill e.g.: project
management].
Should you wish to reach me directly, please call me at [office number], or [home number] or
[email].
Sincerely,
[Name]
Enclosure

2nd COVER LETTER SAMPLE
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email]
April 3, 2002
[Name]
[Title]
[Business Unit]
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
Dear [Name]:
Re: [Name Job]
To help you evaluate the attached résumé, I have performed this summary report. It itemizes
your requirements on the left and my skills on the right. The résumé gives you additional details
of my background and experience.
Your Requirements My Qualifications
• Three years in telecom. • Nearly five years experience as an internal

consultant and as a project manager.
• Superior communication skills. • Communicate well with all levels of
management and current client base.
• Two years as a disk jockey on a campus
radio.
• Ability to travel extensively • I would welcome the opportunity for
frequent overnight travel.
• College degree preferred. • Working on a Master of Arts degree in
Mass Media and hold a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Mass Media.
I believe these qualifications will fit your requirements exceptionally well. I look forward to
speaking with you further to discuss my background in more detail.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Name]
Enclosure

3rd COVER LETTER SAMPLE
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email]
April 3, 2002
[Name]
[Title]
[Business Unit]
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
Dear [Name]:
Your letter of March 27 for Information Systems Manager attracted me because I have the skills
and potential to fill the position. My strong planning, design and installation background would
enable me to make a significant contribution to your team. Some highlights of my
accomplishments include:
• Planning:
Developed first long-range systems plan providing secure, integrated and portable systems
and eliminated costly piecemeal approach to development and dependence on one vendor.
• Installation:
Established innovative «free enterprise» charge-back method for computer resources. This
system provided efficient use of resources while educating users of effective utilization of
computer components and developed central control for computer service requests that
involved prioritizing requests to best serve the corporation.
• Design:
Developed on-line data collection system to accept error-free, nationwide operating unit
financials as input into a corporate database. This reduced time needed to access data for
corporate consolidations from 2 days to 1 hour. Also provided training and documentation.
I will call you in the following week to discuss in more detail how my background and
qualifications can be of benefit to you. In the meantime, you may reach me at (613) 367-5555 or
by email at h.harry@sympatico.ca
Yours truly,
[Name]
Enclosure

4th COVER LETTER SAMPLE
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email]
April 3, 2002
[Name]
[Title]
[Business Unit]
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
Dear [Name]:
Re: Senior Services Assistant
Your need for a Senior Services Assistant is of high interest to me because it appears to match
closely with my qualifications.
With ten years experience in Operations Administration and Human Resources, I have had
overall responsibility for coordinating and scheduling of training and orientation sessions,
creation and design of training materials, as well as responsibility for communication with, and
liaison to, all departments within the organization.
I have an Honours Diploma of Applied Arts – Secretarial Arts, as well as a Personnel

Management Certificate from the University of Calgary.
I would bring to this position a strong computer background, including a variety of software
packages and experience with varied computer systems. Other strengths would include
adaptability to learn quickly and work independently or as a team member, and enjoy taking on
increased responsibilities and challenges.
In anticipation of an opportunity with your business unit, I have enclosed my résumé. I will call
you next week in the hope that a meeting can be arranged.
Sincerely yours,
[Name]
Enclosure

THANK YOU LETTER SAMPLE
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email]
April 3, 2002
[Name]
[Title]
[Business Unit]
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
Dear [Name]:
Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the Communications position you have opened
in your group. I enjoyed meeting with you and I am confident we could have an excellent
working relationship.
Especially after meeting with you, I feel my background and expertise are a very good fit for the
job and its requirements.
Recapping my strengths and «fit» with the position:
• My previous short-term shifts as Staff Writer with two suburban Toronto colleges.
• My newspaper editing background would be an enormous asset because I have the inside
track on what editors are looking for.
My excellent «people skills» would enable me to fit into your congenial atmosphere, as well as
work well with the media and the Bell community.
Thank you again, [Name], for your time and consideration. I will call you the week of April 15th
to answer any additional questions you might have.
Sincerely,
[Name]

2nd THANK YOU LETTER SAMPLE
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email]
April 3, 2002
[Name]
[Title]
[Business Unit]
[Address]
[City, Province]
[Postal Code]
Dear [Name]:
I enjoyed having the opportunity to meet with you regarding the position of New Product
Development Coordinator. I found our meeting interesting and beneficial. Thank you for
acquainting me so thoroughly with the goals and objectives of your business unit. I was
extremely impressed by the dynamic, professional and results oriented environment.
As a highly motivated, experienced, organized individual with strong interpersonal and

communication skills, I believe that I can make a valuable contribution to your organization.
Thank you again for meeting with me. I look forward to hearing from you within the next few
days and would welcome the opportunity to be a contributing member of your team.
Yours truly,
[Name]

OUTLINE OF A COVER LETTER
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms./Miss Person’s Name :
Opening Paragraph
• Show interest in the person or company.
• If you have researched, share your findings.
• Identify who referred you or how you heard of the organization or position which was
advertised.
Middle Paragraphs(s)
• Make clear your purpose for writing.
• Make clear your purpose for writing (if you haven’t done so in opening paragraph.)
• Show the relevance of one or two of the following to the organization or to the position:
• Work Experience • Interests
• Education • Skills
• Abilities • Technical Training
Closing Paragraph
• Spell out your action: whenever possible, take responsibility for the next step.
• Indicate your willingness to meet with the employer and say how or when you may be
contacted. You can say you will call or you can give your telephone number and hours to
call.
• Identify any closure attached to the letter.
Sincerely/Yours truly,
Sign Your Name
Your Name
Enclosure (Should be added if you are enclosing a résumé.)

COVER LETTER - WORKSHEET
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
Dear _______________________:
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________

Self-Assessment
Note: This “Self-Assessment” section is taken from the “Career Decision Workshop”
participant’s workbook.
The “Career Decision Workshop” is intended for CTEA employees (H003 workshop) and for
managers (H001 workshop). You can register through ILE (Integrated Learning Environment).
This “Self-Assessment” section is added to help you structure your accomplishments and
identify your strengths.

ASSESS YOURSELF
THE BENEFITS?
For you
⇒ puts you in the driver's seat
⇒ identifies your strengths and development areas
⇒ creates a personal skills inventory
⇒ allows you to make an informed decision
⇒ guides you to the next step in your career path
For the company
⇒ puts the right person in the right job
⇒ allows employees to use their strengths which leads to higher performance with less effort
⇒ employees ENJOY what they are doing!
How's that for a WIN-WIN!!

PROGRESSION AND PURPOSE OF SUCCESS STORIES
Progression of Success Stories Purpose of Success Stories
• Raise self-esteem
Success Stories • Produce an awareness of
accomplishments and achievements
• Provide structure for

P/SAR Stories* remembering telling and writing
stories
• Demonstrate professional
competencies, strengths and skills
Proof Stories
• Engage and activate a spirit of

Power Stories empowerment; connect participants
to new career interests and business
units
* Definition of P/SAR:
P/S Problem or Situation in which events occurred.

A Actions taken.
R measured Results.

LIST YOUR SUCCESS / NAME YOUR SUCCESS
Purpose of the exercise:
To identify ten Success Stories and attach a significant and memorable name to each story.
Benefits of the exercise:
• Memorable names enable you to recall ten significant achievements in a short period of time.
• Significant names enable you to own and remember the story and take control over its content.
• You experience an immediate overview of the most significant achievements of your career.
These success stories resemble career markings, steppingstones and highlights.
1. Improved relations between St. Niagara

Catharines I & R and ABM Sales
2. Self-taught computer skills Computer Skills
3. Designed and implemented new billing Bell

system
4. Trained employees on new Meridian Kelsey’s

Norstar system
5. Facilitated seminar on latest network Roadshow

portfolio
6. Produced newsletter for all Bell Info Bell

employees.
7. Co-ordinated with several departments Hunter

to meet short due date on Option II
install.
8. Initiated career development plans with Promotion

my employees and followed through on
all plans
9. Built shed with flower boxes. Gardener
10. Renovated kitchen. Queen Street

1. List your success stories from 1 to 10 on the left hand column.
2. Give each success a significant memorable name on the opposite right column.
1. ........................................................ 1. ........................................................................
........................................................
........................................................
2. ........................................................ 2. .........................................................................
........................................................
........................................................
3. ........................................................ 3. .........................................................................
........................................................
........................................................
4. ........................................................ 4. .........................................................................
........................................................
........................................................
5. ........................................................ 5. .........................................................................
........................................................
........................................................
6. ........................................................ 6. .........................................................................
........................................................
........................................................
7. ........................................................ 7. .........................................................................
.......................................................
........................................................
8. ........................................................ 8. .........................................................................
........................................................
........................................................
9. ........................................................ 9. .........................................................................
........................................................
........................................................
10. ........................................................ 10. .........................................................................

........................................................
........................................................

QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU IDENTIFY YOUR SUCCESS STORIES
1. Did you suggest any new products or programs for your company that were put into effect?
2. Did you institute a new system or procedure in your company?
3. Did you identify a problem in your company that had been overlooked?
4. Were you ever promoted?
5. Did you train anyone?
6. Did you help to establish any new goals or objectives for your company?
7. Did you change in any way the nature of your work?
8. Did you have any important ideas that were not put into effect?
9. Did you save your company money?
10. Did you do anything in your position you thought you couldn’t do?
11. Did you ever undertake an assignment or project that wasn’t part of your position just because
you were intrigued with the problem?
12. Did you ever do anything simply to make your job easier?
13. Did something so good ever happen at the office that you had to come home and tell somebody
about it?
14. Did you help to increase productivity?
15. What would you say would be the most important qualities of the “ideal candidate” for the
position you seek?

DEVELOP SUCCESS STORIES INTO P/SAR STORIES
Definition of P/SAR:
P/S. Problem or Situation in which events occurred.

A. Actions taken.
R. measured Results.
Purpose of the exercise:
To develop success stories based on the special accomplishments and achievements of your career
and personal life; to gather specific data about each story in a structured format.
• Success stories enhance self-esteem and produce an awareness of achievements and

accomplishments.
• Success stories in a P/SAR story format provide structure for remembering, telling and
writing career achievements.
• Success stories become proof stories to demonstrate professional competencies, strengths and
skills which are a key to successful employment interviewing and resume writing.
• Success stories engage and activate a spirit of empowerment. They connect you with new
markets and industries and identify network contacts.

Name of Success: Niagara
Problem or Situation: When I was promoted to section manager of the installation and
Describe the arena, repair crew, there was a three week delay between the date we
situation or received an order for a PBX installation to the actual due date. There
circumstances in which was too much overtime, and 50% of orders were late.
events occurred and why
actions were taken.
Actions: I interviewed each of my workers to find out their opinions with

Briefly organize the respect to the situation. I approached the sales group and the business
actions you took in office to look at the methods in which we received the orders.
logical sequence.
Results: Within four weeks, the time between receiving the order and sending
Think results; measure a crew out for installation was reduced to 10 business days. Overtime
the results, quantitatively decreased by 50% and the on-time accuracy of installation increased.
or qualitatively.
Written Success Reorganized the installation and repair scheduling department

Story: resulting in decreased overtime by 50%.

SAMPLES OF ACCOMPLISHMENT STATEMENTS
Well-developed accomplishment statements tell what you did and state the results clearly.
Without results, the statement has little punch or impact on the reader.
1. Upgraded preventive maintenance procedures, which reduced equipment down time and
costs by one-third.
2. Developed channels for exchange of expertise, resources and information, which generated
a co-operative team spirit.
3. Resolved chronic payment difficulties with an account. Initiated new procedures responsive
to their systems, which improved relations and resulted in an increase of advertising activity
of more than 50%.
4. Interpreted data from exit interviews, salary surveys and input to redesign compensation
programs consistent with the company’s performance in the market place.
5. Implemented a new relational database, thus improving information retrieval time.
6. Reorganized the business unit after having interviewed staff for suggestions and reassigned
work. Within 6 weeks, delivery time was cut to 10 business days, overtime was reduced by
30%.
7. Processed travel tickets, hotel arrangements, car rentals, and cash advancements for 20
managers per week. Constant double-checking and interfacing with accounts department
insured best flights, cost effectiveness, and timely delivery of tickets and cash.
8. Conducted the recruiting and training of 20 employees for telemarketing services. In less
than a year, their objectives were exceeded.
9. Organized speakers, papers, advertising and registrations for First International

Telecommunications Conference in Montreal. 10 of the 15 presenters became on-going
speakers and attendance increased from 200 to 800.
10. Elected as president of P.T.A. and organized the school band competition trips. Chaired a
committee and directed three fundraising events amounting to $4,000. Every student
participated, and there were no discipline problems.

ACCOMPLISHMENT STATEMENTS
Some Accomplishment Prompts:
Reduced... which resulted in....
Planned, developed and implemented....
Planned, recruited staff and managed department....
Established and communicated....
Took corrective action.... resulting in....
Provided leadership in....
Conceived of.... for.... This resulted in....
Planned and executed....
Provided technical direction… which enabled....
Recommended and developed proposal for.... As a result....
Developed a procedure to.... resulting in....
Budgeted.... resulting in....
Promoted to.... because of....
Developed a working relationship with.... to....
Supervised the.... reducing....
Introduced methods to.... which increased efficiency by....
Established guidelines for.... which brought about....
Sold concept of....
Through effective.... was able to....

P/SAR STORY
Name of Success: ...........................................................................................................

.
...........................................................................................................
Problem or Situation: ...........................................................................................................
Describe the situation or
circumstances associated ...........................................................................................................
with the events. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Actions: ...........................................................................................................
Briefly organize the
actions you took in ...........................................................................................................
logical sequence. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Results: ...........................................................................................................
Measure the results,
quantitatively or ...........................................................................................................
qualitatively. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Written Success ...........................................................................................................
Story: ...........................................................................................................
Name of Success: ...........................................................................................................

.
...........................................................................................................
with the events. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Actions: ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Results: ...........................................................................................................
qualitatively. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Written Success ...........................................................................................................
Story: ...........................................................................................................

I P/SAR STORY
Name of Success: ...........................................................................................................

.
...........................................................................................................
with the events. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Actions: ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Results: ...........................................................................................................
qualitatively. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Written Success ...........................................................................................................
Story: ...........................................................................................................
Name of Success: ...........................................................................................................

.
...........................................................................................................
with the events. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Actions: ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Results: ...........................................................................................................
qualitatively. ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Written Success ...........................................................................................................
Story: ...........................................................................................................

DENTIFY YOUR SKILLS
Purpose of this exercise:
To analyze content of P/SAR stories according to six clusters of ten related competencies. Such
an analysis clearly identifies major competencies that enhance self-esteem and highlight
professional skills both for resume development and marketing strategy.
The most significant skills are identified and the top 4 skills are prioritized.
Focus on your skills. These skills have enabled you to contribute to the workplace.
They answer the question “What are you good at?”

Now that you have developed 10 P/SAR stories, we will analyze each of them.
1. List your stories across the top ten lines of the spreadsheet.
2. Place an X in the square where a skill contributes to the success of the story.
3. Shade-in up to 3 boxes where the skill is most enjoyed.
4. Give 1 point for each X. Give 3 points for each shaded box.
5. Total horizontally.
6. Choose the top 4 numerically.
NAME YOUR
SKILLS
NAME OF SKILLS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Total Score
Decision making X X X X X 9
Supervising X X 2
Delegating X X X 3
Initiating X X X X X X 12
Co-ordinating X X X X X X X X X 13
Negotiating X X X X X 5
Leading groups/teams X X X 9
Selling/persuading 0
Scheduling workloads X 1

IDENTIFY YOUR
STRENGTHS
Name of Skills 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Total
Decision making
Managing
Delegating
Initiating
Coordinating
Negotiating
Leading groups/teams
Selling / persuading
Accuracy
Attention to detail
Editing
Keeping records
Handling money
Working with numbers
Scheduling workloads
Building / constructing
Assembling
Installing
Operating office
Equipment
Operating machinery /
Tools
Maintaining / Repairing
Using craftsmanship
Working with hands
Using physical skills

IDENTIFY YOUR
STRENGTHS (cont’d.)
Name of Skills 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Total
Problem solving
Researching
Analyzing / evaluating
Estimating
Organizing information
Prioritizing
Planning projects
Strategizing
Troubleshooting
Resourceful / Enterprising
Explaining
Coaching / motivating
Counselling
Facilitating
Listening actively
Presenting / Performing
Probing for understanding
Writing
Designing / developing
Improvising / adapting
Inventing
Visualizing
Creating
Composing
Innovating

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Resources Centre

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

Welcome to the “Résumé Workshop”.

Let’s keep in mind what a career development expert1 says:

May you have a fulfilling career!

1 Richard N. Bolles, author of “What Colour is Your Parachute”.

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

What a Résumé Is.

A résumé should be clear, concise, and visually appealing to the reader.

A résumé should begin with a very specific career objective.

A résumé should be targeted to a specific audience.

A résumé should be reflective of the individual behind the words.

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

What a Résumé Is Not.

It is also helpful to clarify what a résumé is not meant to accomplish.

A résumé is not an autobiography.

A résumé is not the only medium of communication.

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 2

To make your résumé visually appealing:

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

If relevant to your objective, you might want to include information on professional

Information on patents, licenses, or accreditation related to your vocation should be included.

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

A results-oriented professional Engineer who is energized by working in pioneering roles where

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

Thinks independently and resolves problems quickly.

During a career of _____ years, the following competencies were developed:

Managing people, projects and schedules

Learns new systems quickly and takes initiative.

Highly motivated, committed to delivering top quality service.

Thrives in a high-energy environment.

High level of creative energy, combined with strong organizational skills.

Developed a successful, professional approach to providing top quality customer service,

• Creates an atmosphere that encourages the customer to freely express complaints.

Effective communication skills have been demonstrated through:

• Creating productive, highly efficient work environments

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

A results-oriented professional Engineer who is energized by working in pioneering roles where

Job function • Professional Engineer

Personal attributes / work style • Investment decisions are driven by a sense of

Special areas of expertise • Results oriented

Years of experience / entry • 20-year career with Bell Canada

Work environment / values / • Energized by working in pioneering roles

Transferable skills / competencies • Plans programs and organizes resources to achieve

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

Job function __________________________________________

Personal attributes / work style __________________________________________

Specific areas of expertise __________________________________________

Years of experience / entry expression __________________________________________

Work environment / values / __________________________________________

Entry expression introducing __________________________________________

Transferable skills / competencies __________________________________________

Résumé Workshop – Resources Centre – 2002 1

1. Your present salary or salary requirements

2. Reasons for leaving previous positions

6. Social insurance number

7. Do not write “Résumé” on the first page