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RESUME
WORKBOOK FOR STAFF
UMANITOBA.CA/ HUMAN_RESOURCES/LDS/CPD
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TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Using this Guide .................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................................................................. 2
BEFORE YOU WRITE YOUR RESUMÉ ....................................................................................................................................... 3
STEP 1: Develop a Specific Career Goal And Target Your Resume ..................................................................................... 3
The Ideal Candidate ........................................................................................................................................................ 3
Identify the Needs of the Unit, Faculty or Firm that is hiring ......................................................................................... 4
How to Analyze a Job Posting ......................................................................................................................................... 5
STEP 2: Choose Your Style ................................................................................................................................................... 6
Resume Type ................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Sections ........................................................................................................................................................................... 6
What Not To Include ....................................................................................................................................................... 7
WRITE YOUR RESUMÉ ............................................................................................................................................................. 8
Step 1: Writing your Profile or Highlight of Qualifications ................................................................................................. 8
What should your profile cover? .................................................................................................................................... 8
Profiles that need more .................................................................................................................................................. 9
Step 2: Developing your Skill Headings (for combination resumes only) ......................................................................... 10
Step 3: Writing your Demonstration Statements ............................................................................................................. 10
How to develop demonstration statements ................................................................................................................... 9
Step 3: Formatting and Setting up Your Resume .............................................................................................................. 10
THE APPLICATION PROCESS .................................................................................................................................................. 11
Step 1: Proofreading Your Resume ................................................................................................................................... 11
Step 2: Applying Electronically .......................................................................................................................................... 11
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) ................................................................................................................................. 12
Appendix A: How to Deconstruct a Job Posting .................................................................................................................... 13
Appendix B: Skill Matching Worksheet ................................................................................................................................. 14
Appendix C – Action Verbs for Resumes ............................................................................................................................... 17
Example 1- Chronological Resume ........................................................................................................................................ 19
Example 2- Chronological Resume ........................................................................................................................................ 20
Example 3 - Chronological Resume ....................................................................................................................................... 21
Example 4 - Chronological Resume ....................................................................................................................................... 22
Example 5 - Combination Resume ........................................................................................................................................ 23
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INTRODUCTION
Using this Guide This guide for U of M staff is designed to be used digitally, with multiple links to resources and websites throughout. At
the same time, it can be extremely helpful for you to write down the information you uncover about yourself and the
jobs that attract your interest as you go. We encourage you to write on or print pages of this guide. Print those pages
and use it as you work your way through the exercises in this book. The skills throughout this book are applicable to all types of job searchers. You have been gaining skills and building your
network throughout your time working before you came to the university and while working here. Searching for work
will require you to reflect on your experiences, use your industry specific knowledge, and rely on people you met.
Learning to speak a language, play a musical instrument or play a sport takes time and practice. You need to develop the
necessary skills to be successful. The very same concept applies to the job search process – it is a learned skill! This guide
will help you recognize and develop the skills necessary to effectively look for work.
Acknowledgements This workbook was developed by staff in Career Services and Learning and Organizational Development, University of
Manitoba. Of particular mention are: Maria Dielmann, Allison Poppel, Gail Langlais, Mark O’Riley and Darlene Smith
along with her team of consultants.
If you are having issues reading this document using a reader software, please contact University of Manitoba Career
Services or Accessibility Services.
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BEFORE YOU WRITE YOUR RESUMÉ
STEP 1: Develop a Specific Career Goal And Target Your Resume What is your occupational focus? This is crucial since your resume must be tailored to embody a career target and focus
on a theme with stories that point to that career target. Your skills and strengths need to relate to your career target so
that your resume stands out in the eyes of the hiring manager (team).
Through your research, you identified how your knowledge, skills and attributes align with the many workforce
opportunities available. In order to market yourself to a hiring manager, you need to ensure that:
Your resume is completed with a specific employment goal in mind so you are able to clearly identify how you
are a match for that specific position.
Your resume shows a clear sense of what it is you have to offer - what skills you have and what skills set you apart from everyone else.
The Ideal Candidate
TIP:
A hiring manager spends an average of 10 to 30 seconds initially looking at a candidate’s resumé. Your resumé should clearly highlight your skills and how they match with needs of the department, faculty or company. Include specific information relevant to the position. This will
make the hiring manager (team) want to read your resumé and potentially give you an interview!
CAN DO THE JOBBased on relevant
experience, skills set and capabilities
FITS THE TEAMBased on personal
attributes and overall impression
WILL DO THE JOB Based on
enthusiasm, eagerness and
initiative
Employability Skills 2000+ Check out the 2000+ skills identified by employers as critical in the workplace.
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DEGREES / CERTIFICATES
Identify the Needs of the Unit, Faculty or Firm that is hiring You have identified your career goal and what skills set you apart from other candidates, but to get attention, you must
market yourself with a specific and focused resume that responds to the needs of the individual or panel that is hiring.
Looking beyond the job advertisement to understand what their needs are is important. You can do this throughout
your job search process such as through networking, social media, mentorship, shadowing, volunteering, etc. However,
there are always some common needs and problems that most people hiring experience:
Improving morale, productivity, safety, quality, compliance, efficiencies and dependability.
Developing and retaining strong leaders, creative innovators, and hardworking/dedicated workers.
People Hiring Are Seeking Specific Skills
Technical Skills / Hard Skills
These are required to perform a particular task and include things such as possessing a driver’s license, coding or
laboratory skills.
Transferable skills / Soft Skills
These are skills that can be easily transferred from one situation to the next and include things like
communication skills, organizational skills and teamwork.
TIP
Transferable skills are equally, or in some employment situations, more important than technical skills. Managers and supervisors can often train their new employees to develop their technical skills but usually find it hard to train or modify someone’s transferable skills.
You Have Gained Skills Through
In order to market yourself to the person or group doing the hiring, it is imperative you have a very clear sense of what it is you have to offer that meets the needs of the department, unit or faculties.
Need help identifying your skills? Try the Appendix B: Skills Matching Worksheet.
HOBBIES / ACTIVITIES
VOLUNTEER / PAID WORK
PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
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Need help analyzing a job posting? Try Appendix A: Deconstructing a Posting Worksheet.
How to Analyze a Job Posting
1st
Print off the job posting for the position you are interested in. This is critical because often the posting will be taken down which can make it more difficult to create an effective resume or prepare for an interview
No posting?
If the job posting is very minimal, research the skills required for similar jobs:
Look at related job postings Speak with contacts in the field Research professionals on LinkedIn Use the National Occupational Classification (NOC) to obtain a generic duties listing
2nd
HIGHLIGHT
Highlight the required qualifications as well as the skills and abilities (sometimes referred to as competencies). Crosslink them to your relevant competencies. These need to be included in both your resume and cover letter. Colour code to stay organized. For example, yellow may indicate skills.
What’s
important? Managers often list the most important qualifications or skills and abilities higher on the job posting.
3rd
YOU Document where and how you have gained the skills asked for in the job posting, writing them out for your reference.
Focus your
resumé.
You have now identified the skills the manager cares about and how you meet their needs. As you write and update your resumé, focus on the knowledge, skills, and attributes that are of interest to the manager.
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WORK
EXPERIENCE VOLUNTEER
EXPERIENCE EDUCATION
Check out Appendix D: Resumé Examples or find even more at The Resumé Learning Centre.
PROFILE
PERSONAL
LETTERHEAD
STEP 2: Choose Your Style
Different resumé types have advantages and disadvantages. Consider which fits best for you depending on your skills,
experience, and the job you are applying for.
Resume Type Overview Advantages
CHRONOLOGICAL Highlights job experience with most recent experience first.
Good for strong, consistent, relevant work history. Preferred by University of Manitoba Human Resources Department
COMBINATION Allows you to sort and highlight skills
while offering reverse chronological
detail. It showcases your most relevant
skills
Can help people with limited related work experience highlight their skills first by allowing for school, volunteer, work experience, and extracurricular activities to be easily integrated.
Sections Choose section headings which highlight your successes while also targeting your resumé to the needs of the position. There is no one right way to create a resumé. Your resumé should be as individual as you are. However, most managers want to see: Your Personal Letterhead includes your: name (large font and prominent – approximately 16 pt. font size), address, phone number, email (only if professional sounding and checked regularly), LinkedIn URL, and EPortfolio URL (if you have them).
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Possible Resume Headings:
Profile
Highlights of Qualifications
Professional Qualifications
Summary of Qualifications
Technical Skills
Related Skills
Professional Experience
Employment Experience
Work Experience
Experience
Professional Background
Relevant Experience
Additional Experience
Additional Skills
Community Involvement
Community Service
Professional Activities
Extracurricular Activities
Volunteer Activities
Volunteer Experience
Research
University/Campus Activities
Conferences/Conventions
Memberships/Associations
Education
Education & Training
Professional Training
Professional Development
Additional Training
Academic Training
Workshops/Seminars
Personal Achievements
Certifications
Interests and Hobbies
Languages
TIP:
Ordering Your Sections: The most convincing information, tailored specifically to the position you are applying for, should be on the first page. Your strongest selling point could be your education,
your volunteer work, or courses you have taken.
What Not To Include NO OBJECTIVE HEADING Use a “Profile” or “Highlight of Qualifications” section instead.
NO PERSONAL PRONOUNS
Never use “I, you, their, me, he, she, my”, etc.
NO OUTDATED LANGUAGE
Words such as “responsible for” or “duties included” are no longer used on resumés.
NO REFERENCE SECTION
There is no need to say “References available upon request.” It is implied. Unless the manager requested them in advance, bring a separate sheet with 3 references to the interview.
NO DUTIES LIST
Be sure to write out demonstration statements to highlight your accomplishments. Do not simply write out your duties.
NO PERSONAL INFORMATION, PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS, OR PERSONAL PHOTOS*
*Some arts and entertainment jobs may require a headshot Certain subjects are illegal for a hiring manger (team) to use when making a hiring decision, such as:
Sexual orientation
Family status
Disability
Social insurance number
Health
Marital status
Photograph of yourself
Gender (including pregnancy)
Religion
Race, nationality, or ethnicity
Age
Political Affiliation
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TECHNICAL
SKILLS TRANSFERABLE
SKILLS
IMPACT
BRANDING Use your title
WRITE YOUR RESUMÉ You have determined which of your skills you would like to showcase, chosen your resumé style, and narrowed down your headings. Your next step is to write your resumé.
Step 1: Writing your Profile or Highlight of Qualifications Your profile is a short paragraph or bullet points located at the top of your resumé. This section should be tailored to the
job, clearly communicating what you can do for the Faculty or Unit while driving the content for the rest of your resumé.
It allows you to bring past experiences into the present in a way that catches the attention of the individual or group
making the hiring decision. It can be used in a Combination and a Chronological resume.
Format options:
Narrative with up to 5 sentences
Short narrative with bulleted statements below it
Bulleted statements only
What should your profile cover?
Brand yourself by using your title, indicating level of responsibility if possible and needed (IT Project Leader, Senior
Scientist, H. R. Manager), then touch on the most relevant technical and transferable skills you have to offer. Upcoming
sentences focus on technical and functional skills as well as most relevant and required strengths. Continue with
relevant transferable skills focusing on work style, personal characteristics while emphasizing your unique proven ability
to contribute. Be sure to make a statement that underscores the impact you have made in your previous experiences.
See the final resumé example at the end of this workbook to see appropriate profile placement on your document.
TIP: If you want to add strengths and credibility to your profile sentences, you may consider using words such as:
Proven or demonstrated skills /abilities
Known for being….
Experienced in / at…
EXA
MP
LE Highly motivated and self-directed IT professional with over 5 years of experience meeting
customersy needs. Proven track record of working effectively in a team in highly stressful and demanding environments. Known for being an exceptional communicator, fluent in multiple languages with demonstrated ability to multi-task and prioritize effectively, completing tasks according to timeline.
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EXA
MP
LE
• Electrical Engineer with experience in the field of power and energy systems and primary focus on renewable energy
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills coupled with solid technical skills gained both through on the job experience and academic projects
• Strong critical thinker with proven ability to use creativity to solve problems • Enjoys working as part of team to meet project goals and excels in a challenging work
environment
EXA
MP
LE
Dynamic and strategically minded manager with over 10 years of leadership and technical skills in a customer oriented and result-focused environment. Proven experience in providing guidance, support and training while motivating staff in high stress situations. Known for achievements in the following areas:
Problem solving, consensus and team building Vision and initiative Quality and results oriented
Profiles that need more If you have so much information that your profile would get too long, follow this simple idea:
Create a Career Summary Section or Profile Section that is followed by a section that focuses on key strengths
that are specific competencies required for the job. This is often called Highlight of Qualifications, Key Skills or
Key Strengths. It is usually all bulleted. In these cases, the Profile does not have bulleted items, only a paragraph.
TIP:
Be positive: sell your skills. People do not realize how many great skills come from their varied experiences: from school to volunteer to seemingly unrelated work experience. Do not undersell
yourself! Think creatively of how your skills can be applied to your next position and market yourself accordingly.
Need some inspiration? Check out more profile and highlight examples in our Resumé Learning Centre.
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Step 2: Developing your Skill Headings (for combination resumes only) If you have selected a Combination style resumé, the “Relevant Skills” heading goes on the first page of your resumé, usually beneath your Profile. It is important to base this section on the requirements of the job, tailoring it specifically to what is asked for in the job advertisement. Each skill heading should have two to four demonstration statements.
Sample Skill Headings:
Administrative Skills
Analytical Skills
Business Skills
Case Management Skills
Clerical Skills
Communication Skills
Computer Skills
Counselling Skills
Critical Thinking Skills
Design and Planning Skills
Financial Analysis Skills
Helping/Support Skills
Information Management Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Laboratory Skills
Management Skills
Marketing Skills
Program Planning Skills
Project Management Skills
Problem Solving Skills
Organizational Skills
Research and Investigation Skills
Supervisory Skills
Security Skills
Teaching Skills
Technical Skills
Teamwork Skills
Leadership SkillS
Writing Skills
Step 3: Writing your Demonstration Statements Demonstration statements (sometimes referred to as Accomplishment statements) are used to show a hiring manager (team) how you have demonstrated a specific skill. They are used in both types of resumes.
A combination resume will have demonstration statements beneath each skill heading on the first page of the resume as well as under Work Experience (e.g., Employment and Volunteer). Demonstration statements that do not fit under your skill headings but are important and relevant should be placed under the corresponding job in your Work Experience Section.
On a chronological resume, demonstration statements are placed under your Work Experience, sometimes under Additional Work Experience and under Volunteer Work Experience. If you have more than just a few years of experience per employer you may want to consider having no more than 2 demonstration statements per year worked, however do not exceed more than 8 demonstration statements per job.
The most compelling resumes are those that show HOW you have demonstrated a specific skill, not simply telling the hiring manager (team) that you possess a specific skill. One of the best ways to clearly outline a skill in our demonstration statement is to be strategic in our choice of Action Verbs. The Action Verb should clearly indicate the skill that you are trying to demonstrate. Eg. “Collaborated” indicates that you are demonstrating your Teamwork skills.
TIP:
Avoid “passive” action verbs (eg. Provide, assist) that are general in nature and are not directly linked to a specific skill. Be sure to include university specific programs (ex: Banner, VIP) in both
your resume and cover letter
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How to develop demonstration statements
ACTION STATEMENT + RESULT STATEMENT (IMPACT) – see example #1 below
OR
RESULT STATEMENT (IMPACT) + ACTION STATEMENT – see example # 2 below
Good statement: Supported and counselled clients during times of stress. – What is missing?
TIP: Qualify or Quantify with Adjectives and Numbers. Include some of Who? What? Where? When? Why? How?
REMEMEBER: Include your impact or result. – So what if you supported and counselled these clients in times of stress?
How was it helpful to them or their family? How did that impact the organization you worked for? Etc.
Better Statement: Supported and counselled 7 clients daily, ages 7 – 14, by email, phone and in person during times of
extreme stress, providing coping techniques. – What else is missing?
TIP: The manager cared a lot about that result or that impact, so make it count.
Best Statement: Supported and counselled 7 clients daily, ages 7 – 14, by email, phone and in person during times of
extreme stress, building rapport and providing coping techniques resulting in successful transition back to regular daily
activities and schooling.
TIP:
Always start with an action verb in the past or present tense, depending if you are still working there.
Using connecting words such as “in order to” or “to” between the action statement and the result statement,
shows intended results. If you want to show just intent, then using these words is fine (see example #3 below)
Resumes do not read like regular text, therefore, you can omit “a”, “an” and “the” in many sentences, making
the reading flow smoother.
Examples: Supported and counselled 7 clients daily, ages 7 – 14, by email, phone and in person during times of extreme stress, building rapport and providing coping techniques resulting in successful transition back to regular daily activities and schooling.
1. Given service awarded as a result of providing consistent and high level of service to students.
2. Taught complex chemistry laboratory techniques to groups of up to 15 university students requiring additional help in order to improve overall success in coursework.
3. Interacted compassionately with elderly patients when delivering meal trays in a busy hospital environment, providing a cheerful and uplifting experience.
TIP: Use words and qualifications used in the job posting and reinforce keywords throughout
your resumé.
Need some action verb inspiration? Try the Appendix C: Action Verbs for Resumé s List.
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Step 3: Formatting and Setting up Your Resume
REVERSE
CHRONOLOGICAL 1 – 2 PAGES /
EQUAL MARGINS LOGICAL LAYOUT LEFT JUSTIFY READABLE FONT
Describe your most recent experience first and work backwards. Put your dates along the right.
3 pages maximum, if all information is relevant. Margins should be between .75 and 1.0 inch.
Your resumé can differ from the “norm.” Use the format that best demonstrates your suitability.
Left justify your resumé and use spaces or dashes to emphasize important content
Use 11-12 point size & a font like: Times New Roman
Calibri Georgia
EMPHASIZE
IMPORTANT INFO BE CONSISTENT YOUR NAME
BRAND WITH
LETTERHEAD NOT TOO “BUSY”
Headings should stand out. Try CAPITAL LETTERS,
larger font, and
bold
With verb tenses, spacing, dates, capitalization, bolding
Your name and page number should be on each page
Create an attractive personal letterhead and also use it on your cover letter
Minimize the use of tabs and highlighting techniques, such as bolding
TIP:
Create a portfolio or master resume that has everything on it that you have ever done in regards to paid work, unpaid work, and education. Do not use this document to apply for jobs but use it as
a profile of all your experiences from which to draw relevant skills.
Take a look at Appendix D: Resumé Examples or find even more at the Resumé Learning Centre.
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THE APPLICATION PROCESS Step 1: Proofreading Your Resume Your resumé should have perfect spelling, flawless grammar, and be easy to read and understand. Have one or two
friends, family members or coworkers take a look at it and asked that they have a keen eye for spelling and grammar.
Step 2: Applying Electronically There are several electronic methods of applying for a job:
Email – attach or embedded in email
Internet – leave your resume on their database
Hardcopy to PC – sent it hardcopy and recipient scans it into PC using Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
Websites – job seekers set it up and make it available to anyone on the Internet
There is potential that you could lose control of the resume format when submitting electronically, therefore the
following tips are useful:
Save your file as text, text only, DOS text, or ASCII. This is especially useful when you have to cut and paste.
You can attach your PDF resume file to the email but also paste it into the body of the email.
Clearly indicate in the subject heading the purpose of your email (e.g. RE: Customer Service Application,
Competition # 34567 Anna Choo).
In the body text of the email, provide a short message to the individual or group hiring indicating what
documents are attached and to which position(s) you are applying. If you need an example, find one in our
Resumé Learning Centre. Be sure to save your Cover Letter and Resumé as one document.
The file name should include your full name and refer to the position you are applying for so it is easy to find.
If you choose to post on the Internet, create a temporary post office box, a voice mail and/or an email account
that you can cancel once you have a job.
Note that for University of Manitoba postings, an application should go through UM REACH and not through
email.
TIP: Send a single PDF. This will ensure your formatting is consistent and all pieces of the application
stay together.
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Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
The University of Manitoba does not use an ATS system. However, if you apply to position outside of the University ATS may be used. ATS is an initial computerized screening tool that has become more affordable and is now being used even by small organizations. When submitting an on-line resumé, especially one you copy and paste into boxes on a website, make sure you follow these guidelines:
PLAIN TEXT REPEAT
KEYWORDS DO NOT
COPY/PASTE
SAY “WORK
EXPERIENCE” WORK
EXPERIENCE Do not bullet, underline, shade, use boxes or italics. Only use characters on your keyboard. Instead of bold text use capital letters or asterisk. Avoid tables, tabs or columns – just left justify. Keep characters per line to around 60 - 72. Fonts can vary – Helvetica and Sans Serif are cleaner and do not run together. Use force return at end of each line.
The system will count repeated words from the job posting.
If you use exact sentences from the ad, the ATS will reject the resumé.
The ATS does not recognize other headings such as “Career Experience.”
This section should say where you worked, your title and the dates along the right side, in this order.
Try these websites for more ATS information! LinkedIn.com and cio.com have great articles on ATS.
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Appendix A: How to Deconstruct a Job Posting
How Do I Make a Tailored Resumé?
Fill out the table and use it as a checklist for what needs to be on your resumé and emphasized.
Since these are the things the employer cares about, take a look at the rest of your resumé and try to remove or take
the focus away from things which are not of interest to the employer
QUALIFICATIONS HOW DO YOU MEET THE CRITERIA?
SKILLS, ABILITIES OR DUTIES HOW DO YOU MEET THE CRITERIA?
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Appendix B: Skill Matching Worksheet
Condense information/produce concise summary notes
accurately with correct grammar, punctuation and spelling.
Write letters and reports that are logically structured and
contain all relevant information.
Adapt writing style in consideration of different audiences.
Ask and answer questions, clarify, and summarize what
others are communicating.
Provide clear explanations and directions while instructing,
educating and providing feedback.
Communicate with others using a variety of communication
strategies to negotiate, mediate, resolve difficult issues and
sell ideas.
Demonstrate respect and care. Is open and supportive of the
thoughts, opinions, and contributions of others.
Actively contribute to team projects/tasks; fulfils required
roles, participates in discussion to improve effectiveness.
Accept and share responsibility. Learn from constructive
criticism and give positive and constructive feedback.
Accept responsibility for decisions and display a positive
attitude and perseverance.
Models a strong desire to succeed by demonstrating
adaptability to achieve goals.
Take initiative in leading, supporting and motivating others
in developing individual skills or tasks to achieve goals.
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… ORAL COMMUNICATION
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… TEAMWORK
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… LEADERSHIP
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Effectively apply organizing and planning skills to manage
work.
Work effectively to complete deadlines when under
pressure.
Proactively plans and manages work; monitors results
through to successfully complete plans.
Make decisions in accordance to accepted practices and
guidelines.
Use problem-solving strategies to identify and resolve
problems, issues and determine solutions.
Recognize inconsistencies in reasoning. Makes decisions in
situations that fall outside established guidelines or where the
choice among options is less obvious.
Gather relevant secondary data and organize information
in a logical manner.
Collect primary data and/or assist in carrying out surveys,
focus groups, and lab analysis.
Analyze samples/surveys for quantitative/qualitative
research.
Perform calculations for adding, subtracting, multiplying
and dividing, and converting between fractions and
decimals.
Perform complex calculations and operations that require
using advanced multi-step mathematical strategies.
Analyze or compare numerical data to identify trends or
compare statistics.
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… PLANNING AND ORGANIZING
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… ANALYSIS AND RESEARCH
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… NUMERACY: able to carry out arithmetic operations/understand
data
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Performs basic computer tasks, such as creating
documents, saving files, and sending email.
Design web pages and a wide range of software skills.
Demonstrate in depth knowledge of computer software
and information technology systems.
Present basic information to one or more people using
appropriate resources, vocabulary, and non-verbal
language.
Prepare and present advanced information with clarity
with the ability to respond to questions in a timely manner.
Facilitate interactive presentations of advanced
information customized to the interests and needs of the
audience.
Demonstrate professionalism in recognizing expectations
in work culture to maximize success in the workplace.
Embrace new opportunities, learn continuously, and
identify importance in every job/task.
Anticipate the unexpected and respond quickly to sudden
changes in circumstances.
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY SKILLS
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… PRESENTATION SKILLS
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… PERSONAL MANAGEMENT
I USE THIS SKILL WHEN… OTHER
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Appendix C – Action Verbs for Resumes ANALYTICAL SKILLS: Analyzed Answered Appraised Assembled Assessed Clarified
Classified Collected Compiled Critiqued Estimated Evaluated
Expedited Extrapolated Forecasted Interpreted Investigated Processed
Recommended Reconciled Resolved Reviewed Specified Structured
Studied Surveyed Synthesized Systematized Validated
COMMUNICATION/PEOPLE SKILLS: Addressed Authored Collaborated Composed Contacted Convinced
Corresponded Directed Drafted Edited Elicited Explained
Formulated Influenced Interpreted Lectured Mediated Moderated
Negotiated Persuaded Promoted Publicized Reconciled Recruited
Resolved Spoke Translated Wrote
CREATIVE SKILLS: Acted Adapted Composed Conceptualized Created Customized
Designed Developed Devised Directed Established Fashioned
Founded Ilustrated Initiated Instituted Integrated Introduced
Invented Modified Originated Performed Planned Revised
Revitalized Shaped Solved
DATA/FINANCIAL SKILLS: Administered Allocated Analyzed Appraised Applied
Audited Budgeted Balanced Calculated Computed
Developed Estimated Forecasted Managed Marked
Planned Projected Purchased Quantified Reconciled
Reduced Researched Tabulated Tracked
EDUCATION SKILLS: Advised Adapted Corrected Coached Communicated
Demonstrated Designed Developed Enabled Encouraged
Evaluated Familiarized Facilitated Fostered Graded
Guided Informed Instructed Persuaded Solved
Supplemented Taught Trained Tutored
HELPING SKILLS: Advocated Aided Assessed Assisted Clarified
Coached Counseled Demonstrated Diagnosed Educated
Encouraged Expedited Facilitated Familiarized Guided
Informed Instructed Intervened Motivated Referred
Rehabilitated Represented Resolved Supported Taught
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ACTION VERBS FOR RESUMÉS
MANAGEMENT/LEADERSHIP SKILLS: Administered Analyzed Approved Assigned Attained Chaired Consolidated Contracted
Coordinated Delegated Directed Enhanced Engineered Established Evaluated Executed
Increased Improved Initiated Inspected Instituted Led Managed Modeled
Motivated Organized Overhauled Oversaw Pioneered Planned Prioritized Recommended
Reorganized Reviewed Scheduled Spearheaded Supervised Troubleshot
ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS: Accomplished Achieved Administered Arranged Assigned Attained Collaborated Communicated
Consolidated Controlled Coordinated Cultivated Delegated Demonstrated Dispatched Encouraged
Ensured Expanded Facilitated Formalized Generated Guided Implemented Integrated
Launched Monitored Orchestrated Overhauled Persuaded Prioritized Redesigned Reshaped
Revitalized Secured Streamlined Surpassed Synchronized Targeted Transformed Upgraded
RESEARCH SKILLS:Analyzed Clarified Collected Compared Conducted
Critiqued Diagnosed Evaluated Examined Gathered
Extracted Identified Interpreted Interviewed Investigated
Located Organized Researched Reviewed Solved
Summarized Surveyed Synthesized Systematized Tested
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Example 1- Chronological Resume Ayla Clarin
21 Plaza Drive, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 2N2
Phone: (204)555-1234 Email: [email protected]
SUMMARY OF SKILLS
Detail-oriented professional with knowledge of University of Manitoba student focused policies and procedures.
Experience providing support with general coping skills to students with disabilities in university environment.
Proficient in maintaining confidentiality of information in conformity with FIPPA/PHIA regulations.
Developed knowledge of Aurora Student, Case Management Software and Microsoft Office while demonstrating
excellent typing skills.
Experienced at utilizing both verbal and written communication skills, including active listening skills.
Proven ability to provide Mental Health First Aid and basic American Sign Language.
Known for providing excellent service to faculty, staff and students through university level work experience.
RELATED WORK EXPERIENCE
University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB April 2015 – Present
Confidential Intake Assistant (Dec. 2015 – Present)
Student Counselling Centre
Provide centralized, confidential, and student-centered intake procedures to former, current and prospective
students (both graduate and undergraduate level), meeting needs of students.
Manage over 300 student case files per year, following established case file protocol.
Respond to general enquiries about services provided by respective units and effectively refer to appropriate
services and supports within and outside the university community.
Liaise between unit staff, students and the university community and provide confidential reception assistance
including scheduling and maintaining daily calendars.
Student Office Assistant (April 2015 – Dec. 2015)
Student Advocacy and Accessibility Services
Acted as first point of contact to students and faculty members (in-person, telephone, and email inquiries),
providing information on accessibility and benefits of program.
Screened students’ concerns and advise appropriate course of actions.
Maintained discretion when dealing with sensitive issues, observing FIPPA and PHIA in collection and
management of confidential information.
Provided administrative support (filing, photocopying, faxing, data entry, managing incoming and outgoing
mails), maintaining streamlined services while supporting staff.
Facilitated frontline training to new staff as well as refresher training to existing staff.
EDUCATION BA, Major in Psychology Sept. 2007- Sept. 2011
University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Volunteer Jan. 2009-May 2009
University of Manitoba Students Union, Winnipeg, MB
Actively participated in the UM Live Well at Work Campaign
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Example 2- Chronological Resume
Ali Gondal 123 Linden Way ● Winnipeg, Manitoba ● R3B 3A5
(204) 287-1313 ● [email protected]
Profile
Efficient and organized Administrative Assistant with 3 years of experience providing excellent customer service in a
fast-paced environment. Proven ability to communicate tactfully in difficult situations, maintaining strong relationships
with stakeholders. Known for working collaboratively with diverse teams, completing tasks promptly and accurately.
Demonstrated familiarity with university policy and procedures as well as VIP. Proficient in Microsoft Office with a
typing speed of 55 wpm; experience operating various office machines and equipment.
Work Experience
Receptionist/Administrative Assistant September 2015 – Present
University of Manitoba – Extended Education, Winnipeg, MB
Provide excellent customer service by answering phones, greeting visitors warmly and directing them to
appropriate services.
Retrieve files and documentation to verify that appropriate action had been taken, ensuring accuracy of student
records.
Create documents and reports using Microsoft Office and VIP, providing accurate materials to management.
Managed workload in a timely and efficient manner such as handling messages on behalf of staff, receiving and
sending mail on a daily basis, and performing other office related duties.
Customer Service Representative September 2014 – September 2015
24 – 7 Intouch, Winnipeg, MB
Recruited customers and managed complaints in an empathetic way, meeting customer excellence standards.
Relayed concerns to management when customers required escalation, managing difficult situations tactfully.
Education
Administrative Assistant Certificate 2014
Red River College, Winnipeg, MB
Volunteer Experience
Administrative Assistant 2015
Manitoba Association of Rights and Liberties, Winnipeg, MB
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Example 3 - Chronological Resume Olubunmi Oluwole
201 – 110 Job Search Road
Small Town, MB R7N 2C4
(204) 555-0989 [email protected]
Highlight of Qualifications
Effective Business Analyst with 3 years’ experience managing projects and building positive relationships with
stakeholders and using Prosci ADKAR methodology
Known for being an innovative problem solver with proven ability to negotiate difficult situation and guide
stakeholder involvement
Strong communicator in both English, French and Yoruba; skilled at communicating and providing leadership to
diverse teams
Demonstrated ability to be highly organized and capable of multitasking while working under multiple deadlines
Work Experience
Business Analyst March 2014 – Present
Supreme Group, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Facilitate business process reviews and identify organizational efficiencies, improving project metrics
Create project plans and define milestones, resources and budgets, ensuring projects met company standards
Translate business problems into models through process maps and Gant charts
Project Support Coordinator December 2010 – March 2014
North West Company, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Formatted and reviewed project documentation, ensuring mistakes and oversights were identified prior to
publication
Coordinated and scheduled meetings with stakeholders and project partners
Created professional presentations and promotional materials, providing partners with information on project
progress
Coordinated all administrative functions as requested by project manager, ensuring proper documentation
Education and Certifications
Project Management Professional December 2015
Project Management Institute, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Masters of Business Administration April 2014
University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Bachelor of Arts – Economic April 2010
University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba
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Example 4 - Chronological Resume Ricardo Barragan
44 Swifton Way
Winnipeg, MB, R3B 3A5
(204) 555-5555 [email protected]
Summary of Qualifications
Friendly and efficient Food Server with experience handling transactions and providing prompt service in a
busy environment
Demonstrated ability to maintain a safe work and food preparation environment with a current Food Handlers
Certificate
Known for communicating effectively with team, taking initiative and functioning well under pressure
Physically fit and able to constantly stand and occasionally do heavy lifting up to 23 kg
Relevant Work Experience
Team Member September 2015 – Present
Tim Hortons, Winnipeg, MB.
Greet customers warmly and provide information of ongoing promotions and specials, bolstering sales and
provide excellent customer service
Prepare various food and beverage items according to customer preferences quickly, minimizing wait times
Maintain sanitary work environment and food handling conditions, minimizing risk of foodborne illness
Process transactions of cash, debit and credit, and organized receipts and documentation, ensuring accurate record
keeping and sales records
Notify management of shortages of supplies, avoiding critical shortages of product and stock
Customer Service Representative September 2014 – September 2015
24 – 7 Intouch, Winnipeg, MB
Recruited customers and managed complaints in an empathetic way, meeting customer excellence standards
Relayed concerns to management when customers required escalation, managing difficult situations tactfully
Education
High School Diploma 2009
Kelvin High School, Winnipeg, MB
Volunteer Work Experience
Food Server 2015 - Present
Folklorama – Portuguese Pavilion, Winnipeg, MB
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Example 5 - Combination Resume Lovepreet Singh
14 River Avenue ᴥ Winnipeg ᴥ Manitoba ᴥ R4T 3M5
(204) 555-7676 ᴥ [email protected]
Profile
Detail-oriented Laboratory Professional with 3 years of experience with food chemistry. Proficient in various analysis
techniques including liquid chromatography. Skilled at collaborating with team, completing tasks and reaching goals in a
timely manner. Proven ability to keep accurate records and communicate results clearly with team. Known for being
dedicated, focused and committed to goals of organization.
Skills
Laboratory Skills
Completed column chromatogphrahy and enzyme kinetics assay as well as protein purification accurately.
Maintained sanitation of laboratory by cleaning work area, washing tools and equipment, minimizing chance of
invalid results.
Interpersonal and Communication Skills
Communicated with lab partners and external stakeholders regarding proper processes and procedures, ensuring
compliance and valid results.
Collaborated with other research teams on larger projects in order to measure scalability of various projects.
Presented findings to lab teams and created reports displaying final results to management.
Work Experience
Research Assistant 2014 – 2017
Monsanto, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Prepared reagents in bulk for experiments, minimizing preparation time within individual experiments.
Created progress reports and data summaries within Microsoft Office, communicating results to various other
research teams.
Maintained experiment records within database, ensuring future procedures could be compared to previous
attempts.
Education
Leadership Development Series 2016 – 2017
Life Sciences Association of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Bachelor of Science – Biology 2010 – 2014
University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Volunteer Experience
Laboratory Technician 2012 – 2014
University of Winnipeg – Biological Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba
