Resume Writing Tips

The foundation of a successful job search is an effective resume.

The purpose of a resume is to get the applicant a job interview by generating the employer's interest in the applicant and their qualifications for the position.

For resume assistance, email your resume to resume@louisiana.edu.

UL Lafayette Career Services presenting to students on Resume Writing Tips.

Resume Writing Resources

Your resume is your opportunity to show what makes you shine! Check out all of our resources below to get started or take your resume to the next level.

A Career Services representative helps a UL Lafayette student with their resume

Resume & Cover Letter Packet

Need a single packet with resume and cover letter checklists, skill identifiers, and a general sample resume? You're in luck!

Download it here!

Electrical Engineering student talking to employers at career fair.

How Do I Say?

Need help wording something on your resume or cover letter?

Download this document!

Basic Categories to Include on Your Resume

Full name
Complete address (both permanent and present, if different)
Phone Number
Email address

Make sure that your voice mail and email address are professional and appropriate for a potential employer.

Gives your resume focus; tailor it to the position you are applying for.
A single phrase expressing the specific type of employment you are seeking and/or the specific skills or abilities you want to use on the job.

List in reverse chronological order with the highest degree or education first
Include university/college/school name and location, degree, date of graduation (or expected graduation), major, related coursework and possibly GPA
May also include honors, awards, scholarships, dissertation, and thesis topics
List licenses earned or training certificates received

Start with your most recent employment and work backward
Includes full-time, part-time, seasonal, internships, co-op, or volunteer work
Provide names and location of employers, dates of employment (month/year to month/year)
Describe your duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments using short, powerful phrases beginning with action verbs. Quantify and qualify data with specific details and statistics whenever possible

List extracurricular activities that demonstrate skills, accomplishments and leadership, teamwork, self-management, and organization
Include computer skills and/or foreign languages
Personal accomplishments
Unique experiences such as travel to a foreign country or study abroad

You should have a separate reference page. Generally, this page will have the same heading as the resume and will list the name, title, employer, business mailing address and phone number of 3 to 5 academic or business references. Obtain permission from each reference before giving to a prospective employer and give each a copy of your resume.