Harvard Human Resources Resumes Writing Style

Harvard Human Resources Resumes Writing StyleMany times I get asked if it is possible to break down the Harvard Human Resources resume writing style into categories. That's a good question, and the answer is a resounding yes.First, let's look at that high percentage of people who apply for jobs and then never hear back. It is one of the most common questions I get asked. So, we'll start there.Most college students who attend a four-year school like Harvard are expected to put together a great application when they apply for jobs. Unfortunately, this means that they typically do not spend any time on their resume or cover letter. They take the words on paper and type them in by hand, as much as possible.When you consider the amount of time most people spend on resume writing, it would be easy to assume that the average human resource person is well educated on resume writing. They can get by with taking the basics in an 'advanced' reading. This is probably what most resume writers do, and what they should do. However, there is a big difference between being prepared and being proficient.If you want to excel at resume writing, then you need to learn the advanced techniques that just a few thousand years ago required months of study to be able to master. And I don't mean the theory, either. I'm talking about something more personal and psychological.One of the key lessons learned from hundreds of interviews I've conducted with Harvard applicants is that if a resume covers too many topics, it sounds too generic. While most employers expect to see professional degrees, certifications, and work experience, an abundance of information is not always a good thing.Another lesson I've learned from Harvard applicants is that you should have a very structured approach to your resume, and to the entire application process. You may want to start by writing an email cover letter, which could be used in place of an email resume. In that way, you're covering some of the things t hat will show up on your resume.Once you've applied for a job, the other step to mastering resume writing at Harvard is to keep on top of your profile and keep your background up to date. Do this, and you won't fall behind, because you'll continue to update your resume every so often. So, follow the above resume writing style for Harvard and improve your resume writing skills.