How to build an effective CV for Job (CV + JOB TIPS) "D"

1. Your resume should accurately reflect who you are, but it should do
so in a certain format and cover specific areas.

2. It is very important to adhere to resume standards.
The document should be clear, succinct and mistake-free. It is always
good to have a few people review it before it is distributed. After
you’ve seen it time and again, the tendency is to gloss over typos or
grammatical errors that a fresh pair of eyes might catch. It may seem
insignificant, but using white or off-white paper for your resume is
essential. Also, laser-generated or commercial printing gives any document
a professional look.

3. What you choose to include — the “meat” of your resume is, of
course, essential.
I strongly believe that honesty is the best policy. (A recent survey notes
that 14 percent of professionals fabricate some parts of their resumes.)

4. There are clearly tactics that you can and should use to illustrate who
you are and what you have accomplished while in pharmacy school.
All pharmacy, students will have done some amount of clinical activity.
Try to point out unique activities that other candidates may not have
done. Perhaps there’s a research experience you’ve had. Or perhaps
you’ve been involved in obtaining some type of grant. Maybe you’ve
published something in a peer review journal. There is nothing wrong
with describing these or any awards you have received. Also, it’s
helpful when describing yourself to weave in words like “quality”
or “resourceful.”

5. Get involved early on with student pharmaceutical associations.
Beyond the immediate collegiality, there’s the long-term benefit: this
should be a real asset and a critical distinguishing aspect. Being an officer
in a student group demonstrates leadership ability and commitment to
your profession.

6. Place the most important information about yourself first, but make
sure your honors and awards are near the top of the list as well.
Describe anything that will allow the reader to see your personal side
because it can make you stand out in the crowd.

7. If you’re applying for a specialty field and you have had experience
in that field, you can certainly bold any items related to it.

8. Your cover letter should be short and to the point.
It should emphasize those unique features that make you a superior
candidate, and should briefly tell why you want this position.

9. The length of your resume varies depending on an individual’s
experiences, but for most students it should be a page or two.
Keep the “fluff” to a minimum, or leave it out. Readers prefer to read
only the succinct points.

10. While most people indicate that references are available upon
request, list the names along with the addresses and phone numbers
of people you think will be helpful if they have agreed to vouch
for you.