Resumes For Dummies

Whether you're entering the job market for the first time, changing jobs, or changing careers, Resumes for Dummies, 5th Edition will show you the ropes and rules for a new era in recruiting and job finding. With 85% new content added since the previous edition, this up-to-date guide gives you the very latest strategies on how to create, and more importantly, distribute your resume in today's new job search environment. You'll learn:

• Why most generic online resumes fail
• How to customize resumes for each job opening
• New quick ways to find the right jobs
• How to use meta search engines to your advantage
• Why both digital and print versions of resumes are still needed
• How to use resumes interactively
• The resume basics that still knock 'em dead
• How to create resumes for your life's changing phases
• What to do after you send them your resume

With a wealth of sample resumes—organized by industry and career field, experience level and age, and special circumstances—along with tips on choosing professional resume help and other valuable resources, Resumes for Dummies, 5th Edition will help you get noticed in a universe saturated with billions of resumes and more on the way.

Like all "Dummies" books, this one is presented in a simple easy-to-read, well-organized format with large bulleted headlines and plenty of graphics and examples. Whether you read the whole book, or just refer to specific sections, this book has it all, including resume formats; how to present education, experience, skills, activities, organizations, etc.; good attention-grabbing words; getting rid of deadweight in the resume; going digital and distributing the resume; spin control against potential problems, such as too much or too little experience, gaps in employment, demotions, age, etc.

The book is packed with resume tips, and should be one of the first you refer to if you're starting a new job search or just not sure that your resume is representing you fairly.


Not for New Graduates   August 3, 2004
 17 out of 22 found this review helpful

While well-written and superbly organized, this book poorly met the needs of a recent graduate looking for work outside corporate world. A downright depressing read for those looking for a first job (treated as a "special need"), this book seems primarily designed for experienced sales and marketing professionals looking to move up in the corporate world. Those considering government work, having special needs other than "too much experience", or with a short work history should consider a different guide. (Incidentally, while the book left the impression I was unemployable, after ditching Resumes for Dummies, I was called for an interview on the first job I applied for.)


Worth its weight in future paystubs   January 31, 2001
 14 out of 14 found this review helpful

If nothing else, this book is beneficial because it gives the reader lots of ideas to borrow (Ok, steal, but that's why this book was written). I'm not very creative when it comes to laying the resume out, but the different possibilities gives me some options. It's important to not be too wordy in the resume, and Kennedy shows us what to emphasize. Her snappy writing style makes a mundane topic actually interesting. It's nice to know that I have this on my shelf in case I decide to go job-hunting in the future.


Re-vamping the Resume   December 14, 1999
 8 out of 9 found this review helpful

I had never heard of this book until I borrowed it from a friend. I found this book so useful that I intend to buy my own copy! I especially liked the sample resumes. I wish there were more information on CVs instead of just a reference to other books. I would also recommend Cover Letters for Dummies. These books are simple to follow, the tips are relatively easy to find, and great if you want to get that dusty old resume of yours polished up into a snappy, updated version in short order!


Helped my resume greatly!   December 12, 1999
 5 out of 5 found this review helpful

I have a short attention span when it comes to reading so this book is just what the doctor ordered! It has a little of everything for everyone, from basic to advanced. I found the sections pertaining to digital resumes and searching the internet for jobs very helpful and packed full of great web sites! If you only buy one book make it this one and you won't be disappointed.