Build Your Resume

What’s your favorite story?

Why is it your favorite?

How does that story make you feel?

We challenge you to consider these questions as you approach writing your resume because your resume IS your story. It is a written account of your educational and professional qualifications and experiences that you are sharing with the world. Your job is to ensure that the readers of your resume feel it is a New York Times best seller kind of story. One that gets their attention and stays with them!

The Characteristics of Your Resume 

So, how do you craft a resume that stands out and leaves a mark?

1. Your story should be focused. Select the focal point you want the reader to concentrate on: your qualifications and capabilities. It should be easy for the reader to zero in on this information. Irrelevant content will make it appear as if your story has blanks or white spaces; you’re trying to fill in.

2. It should be organized. Every story has a beginning, a middle and an ending. The information and details presented must be done so in an orderly fashion. Your resume then becomes easy to read and ensures that critical information is not overlooked. Consider the following:

• Objective statement
• Summary of education and clinical training
• Employment or unpaid work experience
• Competencies and capabilities
• Memberships in sonography or other Allied Health associations
• Credentials and licenses

All great stories begin with an introduction which would be the objective statement on your resume. An introduction provides an overview of where a story is taking the reader, as does the objective statement. It clearly states what you want in terms of a position and provides a quick summary of your end goal.

3. Know your readers. Great storytellers know that they must adjust their story depending on who is listening. You want to customize your resume to target the specific job position you are applying for. Experienced reviewers can easily spot a single one-size-fits-all resume.

You Are Building Your Resume Before Graduation – Now Write It

Stories form before they are written. Likewise with your resume. Resume building is happening now, every day. Activities include:

• Volunteer work at health care facilities or community health events
• Professional association memberships and becoming an active participant who networks, sits on committees, or helps with special events
• Development of skills and competencies by wisely choosing experiences that strengthen weaknesses and show initiative
• Personal activities that show creativity, problem-solving abilities and varied interests

Make Your Resume Your Own

Storytelling is an art form. The final product should be stylish, appealing, informative and unforgettable.

If you are a sonography student who recently graduated, you may believe there is little information to put on a resume due to lack of work experience. This perception is far from the truth! Your story should include items that have gotten you to this point. Be sure to showcase your relevant skills, abilities and talents.

For seasoned sonographers, your objective statement should be geared more towards your experience. Craft a summary of your qualifications that provides an overview of your various positions, credentials and successes. Remember, a great introduction is key to keeping your reader engaged.

Whether you are just beginning your career or it is in full swing, your resume is your story to tell. Be proud of your accomplishments and don’t be afraid to share them!