Today’s Sound Off is about writing and submitting a resume:
Dear Heloise: For the past 12 years, I’ve worked in human resources for a Fortune 500 company. We receive resumes every day from college graduates who seem to think a resume is unnecessary or old-fashioned, or that they don’t need one because their sparkling wit and charm will see them through.
A resume is our first impression of an applicant, and I can’t stress enough how much a good resume makes a person stand out from the crowd. Sometimes, a resume is all that’s needed to get an interview. I thought I’d pass along some important hints on resume writing:
1. Choose good quality paper in white, offwhite, and pale gray colors. There should be no white-out, crossed-out words or fingerprints. Your resume should not be messy. Keep your resume to a maximum of one to two pages.
2. A brief summary or objective can be added at the top. This should not be at the bottom of your resume.
3. You can tailor your resume to suit the job you want.
4. List your education and any volunteer work you’ve done.
5. You can also list any other languages that you speak.
6. List all awards and projects that you have been a part of.
7. Don’t forget to list your contact information. You may be shocked at how many people forget to give us contact information.
8. Your resume can be printed in a print shop. Handwritten resumes are not allowed. Handwritten resumes, bad spelling, careless grammar, and sloppy formats will be thrown in the trashcan.
9. Online templates can be used to organize your thoughts and help you design your resume. Simply type “how to create a resume” into the search box.
10. A good resume is the first step in securing the job you desire. Don’t be shy. Instead, be proud. But be honest, because we do check everyone’s background.
Best of luck in your job search.
San Francisco – Deanna R.
KEEP CLOTHES FRESH
Are you tired of that mothball smell in your clothes? These are some tips to keep wool clothes from smelling like mothballs.
Cedar blocks can be used in closets to store wool items. However, cedar should not be laid on clothing. It can stain clothing.
Cloth garment bags can be used to store blankets or clothing.
Place blankets, scarves, and other wool items in large, clear plastic tubs. Make sure to secure the lid.
COUPON EXPIRATION DOTES
Dear Heloise, I had a problem finding expiration dates for coupons. I finally decided to use a yellow or pink marker to mark the date. This saves me embarrassment at check-out when I discover I have an expired coupon.
Next, I stack my coupons month-by-month, paperclip them all together, and then place them in a small zippered pouch within my purse.
– Karen B., Odessa, Texas