Resumes and CVs
Basic tips for writing a resume
- Do not exceed one page (does not apply to CVs)
- Double and triple check for spelling/grammar error.
- Make sure your verb tenses match up.
- Stay away from referring to yourself in the first person.
- Sending your resume as a PDF insures that the receiver sees the same formatting that you do.
- Label your resume file name clearly with your first and last name.
- Format logically – chronologically is the standard.
- Stay above or at a 10-point font. Resist the urge to shrink your font more.
- Make sure the formatting is easy to read and separated into clear sections.
- Consistently format sections.
- Remember the contextual details – cities, dates, time periods, etc.
- Don’t include references.
- Only list the work experience relevant to the job you want.
- Put yourself in the shoes of the person reading your resume.
- Don’t be afraid to express a little personality.
- Find ways to subtly incorporate parts of the job description into your resume.
- Remember that this is the story of who you are.
Pro Tip
- There are many helpful online tools for crafting a resumeor CV. Try these useful resume/CV builders:
- https://www.livecareer.com/resume-builder (resume only)
- https://www.visualcv.com/ (CV and resume)
- Don’t forget to name drop – reference things like the Japanese Ministry of Education, Gifu prefecture/regions, and boards of education
Word Lists
Action words: List of action words you can use to describe your previous job’s responsibilities and duties.
Transferable Skills: Check list of the skills you used in your previous work experience that can easily be transferred to the job you’re applying for.
Transferable Skills: Check list of the skills you used in your previous work experience that can easily be transferred to the job you’re applying for.
References
- Choose wisely
- Do not include on resume
- Contact them first
- Tell them what to say about you
Using Your JET Experience
Selling your JET experience to potential employers is easier than you think. Below are some helpful links targeted to resume/CV building for JETs.
- Marketing Skills from JET – Contributed by Nick Jones (ALT Furubira-cho, Hokkaido, 2009-2011), Co-Chair of Toronto JETAA.
- Writing Resumes to Get Results... and Playing up Your Jet Experience – by Clair Solomon (CIR Tottori-ken, 1999-2001), who is now the Director of Career Services at NYU Law School.