Resume Assistance

The Career Services and Counseling Center offers a variety of services to help you develop a resume.
  • Individual Assistance:  We are happy to meet with you individually to help you get started or improve a resume you already have written. If you would like to discuss your resume, call Career Services and Counseling at 697-4421 or stop by the IMC Library Building Room 139 to schedule an appointment.
  • Resume Doctor: Give your resume a check-up! For a quick resume critique drop a copy of your resume off at the reception desk in the IMC Library Building Room 139 . It will ready for you to pick up the next day with written "prescription" of suggestions on how you can improve your resume. Resume drop off and pick up may be conducted during regular business hours.
  • Email:   You may also email your resume to resumedoc@chattanoogastate.edu. You will receive a response during regular business hours the following day.
The resume is the first step in providing employers with information about your abilities and experiences so they can assess your potential for a successful job match. You should view your resume as a marketing document designed to catch the interest of an employer. First impressions are critical since hiring officials may use as little as 30-45 seconds to view each resume. The focus of the resume must be on the needs of the employer, not on the needs and desires of the job seeker. Click on the links below for important information to help you get started on writing a winning resume!

Resume Writing Tips

Resume Worksheet

Resume Formatting Example

Quality Attributes For Resume

Action Words For Resume

Joe College Sample Resume

All resumes that are mailed, faxed or emailed need to be accompanied by a cover letter. Cover letters are specifically tailored to the organization and/or individual to whom you are writing. Their purpose is to establish your reason for being interested in that particular company and what you believe you can contribute to the company. The cover letter is also the place to request an interview.

Cover Letter Guidelines
Cover Letter Sample

In addition to your cover letter and resume, be prepared to provide a list of at least three professional references when applying and interview for a job. Your references should be listed on a separate page from your resume. Be sure to include your name and contact information at the top of your reference page (the same as you have it at the top of your resume)

When listing references:
  • First ask each individual reference if you may use them as a reference for employment purposes. Keep in touch and inform them about jobs you apply for and provide a copy of your resume for their review.
  • On your reference page provide the names, job titles, name of the company, work address and telephone number of each individual reference.
Reference Page Sample