Resume Elements

Key sections

All resumes must contain the following sections:

• Contact information, displayed at the top of your resume - name, mailing address, telephone numbers, fax (if applicable), and e-mail address
• Employment history
• Education and training - start with your highest level of education, include any awards and do not forget to mention any courses provided by your work

Optional sections

There are many kinds of information that may be included in your resume.

You have to make your decisions about these elements according to your job objective, career history, and the space available after completion the key sections. Try to include optional sections that are relevant to the position you are applying for.

Below are some samples of optional sections:

• Objective - many human resource professionals advise not to include it in your resume, unless you are pursuing a specific, focused job, or your work experience is very limited. It is better to omit this section in order to keep all options open.
• Summary - the most powerful part of any resume; it provides an overview of the information that follows in the body of your resume. It should grab the reader's attention!
• Special skills - computer knowledge (ability to use computer programs, office equipment) or language proficiencies
• Certificates, special training, seminars, workshops
• Associations and affiliations
• Awards and recognition
• Military history