The next item on your resume - an important one - is the Objective or Job Target, which tells the reader the job you want. This should be a clear and concise statement no longer more than three lines.
Next comes - the Summary of Qualifications or Capabilities.
Under this heading list single-line sentences preceded by a bullet or a brief two- or three-sentence paragraph. These headings can be used with both the chronological and functional resumes. The targeted resume should state your job goal in one brief sentence.
The sample resumes available freely on the internet can be used to tailor your resume to your particular needs. No matter what type of resume format you use, the information you incorporate into it will essentially be the same.
Beneath the work history at the bottom of each resume include one short line that reads: "References available on request." A college graduate seeking that first job might list several references with telephone numbers for the interviewer to call. But a 50-plus professional should be more circumspect.
Regardless of whether or not you are working, you don't want another employer or interviewer calling your references to ask about you unless you have the job in hand. Tell the interviewer not to call your references until he or she okays it with you. People make mistakes and more than one job hunter has been hurt by indiscriminate telephone calls that caused problems with his or her boss, especially in situations where the applicant has decided not to switch jobs.
Another reason: You don't want your references to be subjected to a stream of phone calls. When you include "References available on request," you control who gets called when. On each of the different types of resumes you can incorporate your own format to suit your needs as long as it is well designed and presents the information in a structured format geared to interest the potential employer. The resumes shown here should be used as guides. Don't be afraid to experiment and create a resume that you are comfortable with and serves your needs.
In conclusion, your resume should feature a job objective and a summary of your qualifications - or both. It should highlight your skills and your relevant work experience. It should contain a work history and include your educational background. And it should offer the interviewer references on request.
Once you've prepared your resume, keep several copies available in the event you have to change or upgrade it to meet a new job situation. It is recommended that you update your resume at least once a year. Save all your worksheets, too. You may have occasion to use them again.
