Resume Preparation Worksheet

There is a heated argument going on over at LinkedIn about the different styles, uses and formats of resumes. I didn't get involved in that discussion other to express that many times the job seeker is bombarded with too many opinions about the "Right Way To Write a Resume" that it is no wonder why they are so confused and frustrated.

One of the tools that I use in training to prepare for constructing a resume is the Career Assessment Skills plan. This worksheet is divided into five columns and once completed will help create the proper wording for the resume. Please note that this is only one of the tools we use in training or coaching; there are others that further define skills, competencies, strengths and development needs. You can use this worksheet if you are looking for a job within your current field or for a new career interest. The worksheet asks you to define five areas:

Required Job Skills: This section asks you to list all of the skills associated with a particular job. For example, if you are applying for a position as an Administrative Assistant you would list the skills needed for this position. Some of those skills are scheduling, excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to work with a variety of document software packages, prepare reports and routine correspondence, etc. You can find them by reviewing the skills that you currently use in your position or research the skills in the Occupational Handbook from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, or in a reputable job board such as Indeed. You can also Google in the name of the job followed by the words, “job description”.

Tasks Performed: Here you will further define the skills that you listed in the previous column. Using the previous example for Administrative Assistant you would list areas such as the types of scheduling, reports, presentations, correspondence you prepared and performed. An example for scheduling is to list the type of scheduling software program you used as well as the number and positions of the staff you supported. You’d also list the types of reports or correspondence you prepared. This is the data gathering section of the worksheet.

Noteworthy Accomplishments: This is where you look at your specific accomplishments within the above areas and include measurements such as how much, how many, your audience, the results of your performance, number and the level of people you reported to, etc. This detailed information is the key to creating a specific resume.

Training Needed: Looking at the information that you have captured, this is where you would note any training or education that you might need to enhance your performance in this or another position.

Goals/Dates: Finally, it is important to state your performance goals. In this column you should list the steps and dates needed to schedule any training or create and submit your resume.

The information on this worksheet will give you a very good idea of the skills and competencies needed for any particular position and very importantly, your expertise and accomplishments in these areas.