You need a road map when writing a resume and the outline of a resume is just that kind of map.

Could you imagine a tourist trying to find their way around New York City without a map?

It would be virtually impossible!

The same is true with trying to write a free resume - you need a resume outline.

Think of the outline as your organizational tool, because that is exactly what it is. It will be the one document you will return to over and over again as you write your resume.

All resumes contain basically the same information - it's how that information is displayed that makes them unique to the individual.

Resume Outline

Heading

• Name
• Address
• City, State, Zip
• Phone (Home, Business, or Cell) It's usually good to have 2 numbers listed.
• Email Address (don't use nicknames or anything unprofessional like candyguy@blank.com)

Objective (optional)

• Focused on the desired position you are seeking
• What benefit do you bring to the organization?
• Use phrases to describe what you are seeking - "To obtain a check wrapping supervisory position"

Education

• List colleges or universities you attended
• List any other training or certifications received
• Degrees completed or classes taken relevent to the position you are seeking
• Include GPA if 3.00 or higher

Experience

• List your work history in reverse chronological order from most recent to oldest
• List job title or position, name of organization, location, & dates of employment
• Use an active, descriptive summary of all your job duties and accomplishments
• List any skills developed or awards won (employee of the month) etc.

Activities / Associations

• Professional & Community associations
• Volunteer positions
• Leadership or other offices held within these organizations
• Coach little league or other sport

Other Skills

• Computer skills (Microsoft Office etc.)
• Language (Spanish, French, etc.)
• Certifications 

Step Two: Choosing the resume format