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IT Resume Thread

I come looking for advice from those who know far more than I. I have read a large number of pages on here and i have taken some advice where i can however i'll admit that i have not done a super job implementing the vast wealth of knowledge listed in these pages!

But alas, i come here for help. My resume is lacking something and to be honest i really dont feel confident in it with how it is. I think i use too many objective statements about myself but i was looking for a bit of filler in some area's since my experiences are not vast.

Thanks in advance for any assistance you can provide. I am looking mostly for jobs in networking and windows domain administration since i am currently taking tests for my MCSE. I tried to get that across in my summary but i also wanted the reader to know that my experience is greater than JUST that area.


SUMMARY
An enthusiastic and versatile computer professional with a wide range of experience with hardware, software, and network configurations.

SKILLS
Software:
-Experience supporting, and deploying the following server and client operating systems:
Microsoft Windows, Client OS (Windows 3.1 through Windows XP)
Microsoft Windows, Server OS (Windows Server 2000 / 2003)
-Microsoft Office
-Microsoft Exchange mail servers
-Oracle 9i and 10g
-Java GUI client for Oracle Databases
-RAID Configurations
-SQL
-Microsoft ISA
-Various End-user firewall Software

Hardware:
-Vast technical knowledge of internal computer components
-Custom PC / Server Building
-Wire management
-Configuration of small office / home networks
-Printer hardware and configuration, Local and Network

ADDITIONAL SKILLS
-Typing speed of approximately 130 WPM
-Excellent customer service ability. Able to quickly establish confidence in any client and provide information quickly and efficiently.
-Valuable contributions to team projects, strong inter-personal skills

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION
-High-school Diploma, Thompson Falls MT
-Johns Hopkins Computer Career Center MCSE and Security+ Classroom Training
-A+ Certified
-Net+ Certified
-Currently Pursuing: MCSE Certification, Security+, CWNA (Certified Wireless Networks Administrator)

WORK HISTORY
CompanyX Inc. Columbia MD
Level Two Support Analyst (09/05 --> Present)
-Software, hardware, and database support for hotels in the greater North American region.
-Use of SQL queries to resolve database corruption
-Restoration of database and/or hard drives from backup. Knowledge of these backup procedures.
-Assisted other employees and helped train them.
-Assigned special projects by managers and supervisors needing immediate attention
-Completed project's or cases assigned in the deadline provided consistently
 
Great start Kreator!! Looks very good from my perspective with just a few modifications to add.

-My main issue is that there is no measurable amount of experience in your skills or summary statement. Don't be worried about having less than 2 years experience if that's all you have. It doesn't sound bad actually. You do have SOME experience and that's a good thing. So your summary statement should have something in there about the level of experience you have OVERALL. Then your skills list should detail that experience in each different category. Also, try and use other methods of experience besides just "years" if you can. So long as it is measurable, it's good. Phrases like "vast technical knowledge" don't cut it if you can't measure it. Also note, you're experience isn't limited to just what you were paid for doing. If you've been playing with PC hardware since you were 6 yrs old, then you have "experience" in my book -just be ready to back that up in an interview when asked! I maintain that experience can come from many things besides just a job. I'd almost count a hobby as BETTER experience in some cases!

-Personally, I'd put your certifications up with your skills list. They can be used to show your level of expertise better than listing them in your education section. Besides, to most HR people, certs count quite a bit so put them towards the top.

-I wouldn't bother with a long work description at the end. If you need to convey some of the skills you have in that job, do it at the top of the resume in your skills list where they'll see it first.

Lastly, have you held any other tech jobs or even closely related positions? How about volunteer work? You type 130WPM? Damn that's fast!! You could be a stenographer!!

Good luck!
 
Wow... Thanks very much for the response i had no expectations of it being so fast!

As always thanks for being honest and once i get home from work im going to put some of your advice into work!!

I type right around 130, sometimes faster and sometimes slower. I noticed that once i got around 110 and over it varies a lot on what i'm typing. Certain long and "hard" words i can pound out really fast whereas other easy ones i mess up on sometimes! But thats what 14 years being on a keyboard will do for you :D

I'll make some modifications and see how it goes, i'll put a better product up in a few days and *hopefully* you'll see I put good use to your advice.

Thanks again
 
Well I'm not usually that fast. It just happens that I'm home sick today! I've been typing for about 12 years (and about 10 of those correctly). I can only do about 45 WPM and I'm damn proud of it! Anyways, glad to know I helped. I look forward to your revisions...
 
JM -

I've been toying around for a while with summary statements. Describing level of experience in the stage i am is hard without using the canned term "entry level." Is this really the best thing to use and the most easily identified term for an employer to recognize? I don't want to "fit in" but i also dont want to "stand out" in a bad way if you understand what i mean by that!

Also, when you refer to using other ways of showing measureable experience, are you refering to using vague terms to my advantage? i might be missing the boat on this one, but I think your leaning towards using phrases or terms which leave the reader asking questions they want to know more about?

Thanks again
 
All very good questions Kreator, I'll try my best to answer them...

You don't have to use the term "entry level" now since you're not still in that phase. You've not only held positions that are certainly not entry level. Simply put, if you've only got 2 years of experience, fine. There's no shame in being who you are right now. I once only had 2 years experience too. Being vague about it only makes people like me suspicious as to why you're not being specific when you describe yourself. Besides, what are you hoping to accomplish? By not telling someone that you've only got 2 years experience in your summary statement, do you think someone is going to hire you for a upper-level network management position that you're not even close to qualifying for?

It's true that a resume is meant to sell yourself --but it shouldn't do it by duping people into hiring someone that isn't the right match for their position. A resume should convey all your good points as quickly and efficiently as possible without even hinting at your bad points -like the fact that you've served time for indecent exposure, or that you've masturbated at all your last jobs (just to keep things "in perspective")! It won't get you a job you're not qualified for -nor should it. Lastly, think of an objective statement as pretty much the first thing you'll say in an interview when you are asked the question, "So, tell me about yourself." That's all.

Here's an example of alternative methods of showing experience levels without a time reference:

COMMUNICATIONS: Thorough training and proven communications and leadership skills through such positions as: Project Lead, Instructor, Toastmasters Club President, Ushering Coordinator, Martial Arts Instructor, and Color Guard Leader.

Now I know that may be an extreme example but I think you get the drift. You can, in some cases, show your "skill" or "talent" in an area by awards or positions held. Just a thought though, not a reqirement.

A great book to get ideas about resume wording is "Resumes that Knock 'em Dead" Over half of the book is just a bunch of actual resumes that got someone hired. I got most of my understanding of the modern combination resume from that book many years ago. Definitely worth checking out. Hell, it's selling for $0.01 used!
 
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We'll, ive made a few adjustments but it still needs work but heres what i have thus far.


SUMMARY
A diverse computer professional with 2 years experience supporting Server and Client desktop environments and further experience in PC hardware repair, network configuration, diagnosis and troubleshooting. Currently seeking positions related to networking to expand on my career as a network administrator.

SKILLS
Certifications:
-A+
-Net+
-Currently Pursuing: MCSE Certification, Security+, CWNA

Software:
-2 years experience supporting, troubleshooting, and deploying the following server and client operating systems:
Microsoft Windows, Client OS (Windows 3.1 through Windows XP)
Microsoft Windows, Server OS (Windows Server 2000 / 2003)
-Active Directory configuration, troubleshooting, and administration
-Microsoft Office
-Microsoft Exchange mail servers
-Microsoft ISA
-Troubleshooting Oracle 9i and 10g databases
-Java GUI client for Oracle Databases
-RAID Configurations
-SQL
-Various End-user fire wall Software
-Currently Pursuing: MCSE Certification, Security+, CWNA

Hardware:
-Technical knowledge of internal computer components
-8 years of Custom PC / Server Building
-Wire management
-Configuration of small office / home networks
-Printer hardware and configuration, Local and Network

RELATED SKILLS
-Typing speed of approximately 110 WPM
-Excellent customer service ability, able to quickly establish confidence in any client and provide information quickly and efficiently.
-Valuable contributions to team projects, strong inter-personal skills

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION
-High school Diploma, Thompson Falls MT, 2003
-Johns Hopkins Computer Career Center MCSE and Security+ Classroom Training, 2004

WORK HISTORY
Micros-Fidelio Inc. Columbia MD
Level Two Support Analyst (09/05 --> Present)
-Software, hardware, and database support for hotels in the greater North American region.
-Displayed an aptitude for technical knowledge by becoming a Level two technician after only 4 months employment.
-Training of other employees



I thought "related skills" sounded a lot better than additional. I mostly worked on constructing a stronger summary which got my point across. If you could let me know if i have conveyed to YOU a sense of what im trying to accomplish i'd appreciate it :D
 
Skills
Cisco Networking
Microsoft Windows 2000, XP, Server 2000 and Server 2003
Microsoft SQLServer 2000 & 2005
Active Directory
Exchange mail server
C# Programming
Java Programming
JSP Web Development
SQL
Oracle 9i with knowledge of Erwin Modeling Tool
Basic System Architecture
Good Communication and Teamwork Skills

Work History
Company A
Technical Specialist Summer 2006
-Software and Hardware support over four corporate locations
Company B
Technical Customer Service Representative Fall 2005- May 2006
-Provide IT support for Purdue University

Education
Honors Diploma from Valparaiso High School - Graduated May, 2004
Cisco Networking Academy Class
Junior in the College of Technology at Purdue University
Majoring in Computer and Information Technology concentrating in Network Engineering with a minor in Organizational Leadership and Supervision
3.0 Cumulative GPA


Sorry, this was copied from a word document, and lost the formatting.
Question: Do i want to include the cisco networking as a skill even though i decided to not take the CCNA exam when i took the class?
 
Zo- said:
Sorry, this was copied from a word document, and lost the formatting.
Question: Do i want to include the cisco networking as a skill even though i decided to not take the CCNA exam when i took the class?
Click to expand...
That’s a good question because having the key words "Cisco networking" may be nice words that HR databases likes to flag. However, you leave yourself open for the inevitable interview question of: “So, do you have a CCNA or not?”

It’s up to you, of course, but you might want to say something like: you understand networking basics, or you understand TCP/IP, or you know basic LANs and Ethernet technologies.

Any reason why you’re not taking the CCNA exam?

Also, I noticed you left out the Summary statement. I guess you’ll add that back in later.

That seems like a really cool major/concentration you have at the College of Technology at Purdue University. Good luck!
 
Please help, I would like to get a new job beginning of the new year. So far I applied to Technical Support/IT Support, but have no luck. What other position or jobs can I apply to with my experience? I also bought the book that jm mention.

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

• Diverse experience in computer hardware
• Training non-technical people on different applications
• Fast learner
• Able to work as a team and collaborate on projects
• Strong work ethic and positive attitude
• Attention to detail
• Customer service skill
• Sales experience

EDUCATION

xxx, xxx – xxx, CA (2000-2005)
Major: B.S. Industrial Technology
Minor: B.S. Packaging

SUMMARY OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

OEM Integrator 8/2006 - Present
XXX
- Sales Support
o Give customer recommendations on what parts to buy for a gaming system base on budget, type of games being play, and
o Explaining the advantages of a certain product over another; i.e. NVIDIA 7900GTX or 7950GX2.
o Give order status when customer calls and inquire about their orders.
 If build is on schedule, tell customers that the system will ship in a few days after testing.
 If build is slightly behind schedule, tell customers what happen.
 If build is really behind schedule, explain that the system has issues with memory, motherboard, video card, hard drive, or water-cooling.
 If customer is frustrated, transfer to supervisor.
- Testing
o Run burn-in programs for 72 hrs to stress the system for any malfunctions or defects.
o Burn-in programs include 3DMark loop over-night with Orthos Beta running on the background stressing the CPU, Quake 4 benchmark with Orthos Beta, Memory Test, and MS Windows HCT.
o If testing fail, must figure out if it is the product or the drivers/software. If product fails, need to replace it. If drivers, need to uninstall and update with newest drivers from the manufacture.
o The computer will not ship until passing all burn-in programs.
- Assembling
o Build system with order # and parts.
o Make sure all parts match with quality check list before building.
o Assemble the system and provide cable management if customers order stage 2 cooling.
o Assemble the system in a way that if water-cooling is requested for CPU or video card, the water-cooling specialist will not have to deal with messy wirings.
- Quality Check
o After computer passes all burn-in, final inspection occurs.
o Open case to ensure all parts order is correct and properly secure cables and hardware.
o Clean system with solution to remove dirt and finger print.
o Sign off inspection worksheet.
o After final inspection, package the system and get it ship.
o After computer shipped, write the order numbers that got ship and what items are on backorder.
o Co-develop and edit procedure manual.
- Tech Support
o System comes with 2 year warranty and life-time tech support.
o Email/call customer back about computer issues.
o Provide level 1 and level 2 tech supports for customers.

Account Manager 6/2005 – 8/2006
XXX
- Finding and qualifying prospect
o Getting at least 15 “No’s” from business owners every day.
o About 20 prospects are found each day through cold-calling the Yellow Pages and newspapers.
o About 15 prospects are found through Santa Clara County DBA office every Friday.
o Five are qualified business owners with at least $10,000 monthly volume or $150 average ticket.
- Generating sale
o Saving the owner at least $600 a year after a 4 year lease agreement at $79.95 a month.
o Creating at least an additional $3,000 profit per year with gift cards program.
o Develop 12 customers for company.
- Dealing with rejection
o Setting daily, weekly, and monthly goals to keep mind focus.
o Making daily log to monitor progress.
o Answering questions regarding leases, checking back at another time, and early termination fee.
- Post-sale relationship
o Making monthly call and dropping in to see if the customers need any help or have any questions.
o Asking for referrals after having a conversation with customer.

Independent Consultant 6/1998-6/2005
Self-Employed
- Building
o Asking customers what they want to do with their computer and what their budget is?
o Depending on what the feedbacks are, recommendations are made for components of the computer.
o An estimate will be given for the current market price of various components.
o Research retailers and e-tailers prices for the computer.
o Present findings to customers
o Customer will then decide to go on, make some changes, or discard the build.
 If customers decide to go on with the build,
• Buy the components and start building
• Build time is 1 week with shipping for components already accounted for.
• Once computer is finish, deliver to the customers.
 If customers decide to make some changes,
• Ask what changes are needed?
• Build the computer
• Once computer is finish, deliver to the customers.
 If customers decide to discard the build,
• Ask what happen?
o Ask for referrals on the spot or a later date depending on situation.
- Troubleshooting
o Once computer is finish building, various rates are given for technical support.
o Some customers only need technical support
 Rates vary on problems being tackled.
o Ask for referrals

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Software – Setup, support, installation, and troubleshooting of the following products:
• Microsoft Office 97, XP, 2003 (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, FrontPage)
• Windows Platform (98, 2000, and XP)
• Security/AV (Norton, McAfee, AVG, Avast)
• Partition (Partition Magic)
• Adware/Spyware (Spybot Search & Destroy, Adware SE Personal)

Hardware – Extensive hardware repair/build/upgrade experience with desktops and laptops.

Networks – Basic experience with setup, support, and troubleshooting of the following:
• Ethernet cable (Cat 5/6)
• Router (Wire and Wireless with web encryption; Netgear and Linksys)
• File/printer sharing
• Cable/DSL connections

SKILLS

• Bilingual – Vietnamese/English
• Presentation
• Sales
 
warbird said:
That’s a good question because having the key words "Cisco networking" may be nice words that HR databases likes to flag. However, you leave yourself open for the inevitable interview question of: “So, do you have a CCNA or not?”

It’s up to you, of course, but you might want to say something like: you understand networking basics, or you understand TCP/IP, or you know basic LANs and Ethernet technologies.

Any reason why you’re not taking the CCNA exam?
Click to expand...

I took the class as a senior in high school, the last curriculum before VoIP was added to the CCNA exam. My CCNA would have expired 3 years later when I was still a junior in college, and well, I would have had to renew it on the newer curriculum. In the ended I decided to save my time and money and just wait, since that is what I am currently majoring in.
 
I am just getting into the IT field (or at least trying to). Transitioning from the Air Force soon, but here is what I have. I plan to finish a B.A. at Arizona State in Comp Sys Administration or something similiar. Without further rambling...


OBJECTIVE: Seeking an opportunity to utilize my expertise in a technical operations
position
HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS: Highly skilled in MS Windows XP operating system, MS Office applications, computer systems hardware and troubleshooting. Experience with MS Server 2003 operating system, network systems, network hardware, MS FrontPage, website maintenance and development.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Staff Sergeant, United States Air Force, Whiteman Air Force Base, 2003- present
Network Administrator/ Equipment Custodian
• Performed user account creation and maintenance utilizing “Active Roles” directory graphical user interface
• Assisted personnel with initial configuration of their user accounts including Exchange Server access
• Updated and patched software not covered by Systems Management Server
• Upgraded and repaired computer systems and hardware for a squadron of 150 personnel
• Troubleshot and repaired local area network connectivity problems for 250 workstations
• Maintained user awareness of changes to the network and computer systems by developing weekly bulletin and message system
• Maintained and accounted for numerous workstations and equipment valued at approximately $30,000 total
• Managed purchases, upgrades, and receipt of new equipment
Website Maintainer
• Created, maintained, and upgraded five original websites for related offices
• Incorporated user feedback and inputs into for an audience of 5000 + military officers and enlisted personnel
Data Analyst
• Extracted various data types from Integrated Maintenance Data System for analytical use and provided daily reports to senior staff members
• Imported data types into MS Excel providing productivity visibility during daily command briefings
• Produced weekly and monthly utilization and maintenance slides for presentation to higher leadership
• Analyzed, identified and reported negative trends found in data for annual improvement programs
Avionics System Technician
• Performed on aircraft maintenance of control, displays, radar, radar altimeter, navigation, autoflight and communications systems
• Identified, isolated, and repaired malfunctions utilizing on-board test systems, support equipment, test/measurement/diagnostic equipment, built-in test, ground readiness test functions and hand tools
• Removed, installed and tested line replaceable units
• Recorded aircraft maintenance in aircraft forms and online maintenance database system
Additional Experience, Skills & Training
• Thomson/NET-G A+ Training
• Air Force IT E-Learning Introduction to Networking
• Air Force Client Support Administration Certification Program
• Network Administration, ExtremeLANKC LLC Computer Gaming Group
EDUCATION:
• A.A., General Studies, State Fair Community College, 2006
• A.A.S., Avionics Systems Technology, Community College of the Air Force

Formatting looks much better in word with bold on the section headings. Looking more for content review.
 
Ok, here's my thoughts on the last few resumes that have been posted. Mind you, I'm stuck home with some lower back pain so I'm going to try and put up a resume FAQ or something this week...

As it stands at this moment, the best thing you could do is read through this entire thread for most of my comments as I will most likely be simply repeating what I've already suggested for someone else in the past here. I know it's a ton of reading but it's the best we have now. Sorry.

DragoonTD:
Your resume is too long. It would be better organized if it was a categorized skills list as opposed to a "detailed work history". I understand what you're trying to do though. You're hoping to convey the fact that you've done a lot of work in the few jobs you've held but it gets lost in all the detail. A well-worded skills description would save you a lot of typing! Also it will allow you to put your strongest selling point at the very top of the page -you'll have that choice as opposed to a chronological format a work history requires. Also, I'd change your "summary of qualifications" list into a "summary statement". I'm sure you've seen a few of them in this thread.

Gibby82:
I'd say you have a perfectly fine "traditional" resume -which I think is pretty much a waste of good paper space. I have explained the benefits of a "combination" resume several times in this thread so it would be a good idea to look that up. Especially in your case (transitioning out of the USAF --thank you for your service to my country BTW). Most employers sadly do not appreciate your time served -no matter what you did there. With a combination resume, you will better convey your rather impressive list of technical skills to someone that isn't used to sifting through the information looking for the meat.

COKE CAN:
First of all, I wouldn't worry that much about formatting or making the resume look "snappy" with a good Word document. Most of the time, the text will be extracted and put into a database where it will never be appreciated (nor should it get any consideration anyways -your qualifications are all that matter). In the IT world, how impressive your resume "looks" matters little (unlike say, a design or art field). With that said, here's my thoughts:

-I'd add your secret clearence to the tail of your summary statement just for space savings.

-If education is your best selling point, then keep it at the top of the page, otherwise, put your skills right after your summary statement. When listing currently enrolled programs, i'd say something like "35 credits completed toward BS degree in bla bla bla" so they know how far along you are in your classes. Get rid of "Took courses in " and just list what you studied. Don't worry if it wasn't your major.

-I'm having a hard time with your "hardware" description. I understand from it that you can take a PC apart and put it back together. "Design and implement techniques that best fit the needs of the Network and Local User" is even more confusing. Just work on the wording on this skill

-I'd trim down your work experience to just your title, company name, location, time worked. If you feel there's something there that's too important to miss, then make sure it's in your skills description. This way, your resume should fit on a single page too!

-Your certifications should also go with your educaion area. Also, the same sort of description as your incompletel education descriptions: you need to indicate how far along you are in the programs your working towards. I've seen cases where "presently pursuing" on a resume really meant "thinking about taking a class sometime soon" so be specific. If you just started, don't feel bad. We all start somewhere!
 
Thank you for taking the time to review my resume, it is greatly appreciated. I will begin reading through the thread and also use the handbook the AF TAP class gave me to work on the combination resume. Also, thank you for your appreciation of my time served, it means a lot!
 
Ok, here is what I came up with after your insights. I wasnt sure how to write a well-worded skills description...so I categorize skills and wrote briefly about them. Please help me make it better. Here is the updated version. The resume is 1.5 pages.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY

Individual with 2 yrs diverse experience relating to assembling and troubleshooting PCs and basic network knowledge. One year work experience with sales and customer service skill. Attention to detail, strong work ethic, and a positive attitude.

EDUCATION

Xxxx, xxx (2000-2005)
Major: B.S. Industrial Technology
Minor: B.S. Packaging

SKILLS

Sales / Sales Support
- Company A
o Give customer recommendation on what parts to buy for a gaming system base on budget and type of games being play.
o Provide status check through the phone by giving customer what phase of the system is in.
- Company B
o Going out to the field and finding potential customer for merchant services.
o Answering questions relating to leases vs buying, early termination fee, and paperwork.
o Making monthly call and dropping in to see if the customers need any help or have any questions.
o Asking for referrals.
Technical Support
- Company A
o Email/call customer back about computer issues.
o Provide level 1 and level 2 tech supports.
Testing
- Company A
o Stress memory for 24 hrs with MemTest.
o Stress system for 72 hrs with 3DMark loop overnight with Prime 95 running in the background.
o If stress test fails, need to find out why and replace parts if needed.
Assembling
- Company A
o Verify to see if all parts are there and match B.O.M.
o Build system with B.O.M.
o Wire Management
Quality Check
- Company A
o Sign off final inspection worksheet.
o Clean system internally and externally.
o Write down system that shipped in daily log.

Presentation
Bilingual – Vietnamese/English

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Software – Setup, support, installation, and troubleshooting of the following products:
• Microsoft Office 97, XP, 2003 (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, FrontPage)
• Windows Platform (98, 2000, and XP)
• Security/AV (Norton, McAfee, AVG, Avast)
• Image (Terabyte Unlimited)
• Partition (Partition Magic)
• Adware/Spyware (Spybot Search & Destroy, Adware SE Personal)
Hardware – Extensive hardware repair/build/upgrade experience with desktops and laptops.
Networks – Basic experience with setup, support, and troubleshooting of the following:
• Ethernet cable (Cat 5/6)
• Router (Wire and Wireless with web encryption; Netgear and Linksys)
• File/printer sharing
• Cable/DSL connections
 
Killermac said:
This seems like a good thread to keep up can we get a sticky on this?
Click to expand...

Actually I thought it was! Maybe it was a while ago? Probably a good idea. I've already purchased the domain name I want to start writing my resume writing guide. Most of the information comes from this thread over the years in a more organized fashion. Sometime soon, you guys won't have to read through this entire thread just to get some resume writing tips from me!
 
jmroberts70 said:
Actually I thought it was! Maybe it was a while ago? Probably a good idea. I've already purchased the domain name I want to start writing my resume writing guide. Most of the information comes from this thread over the years in a more organized fashion. Sometime soon, you guys won't have to read through this entire thread just to get some resume writing tips from me!
Click to expand...
Great for you just don't forget where you came from :eek: . Yes I also thought this was a sticky.

KM
 
I never actually posted my resume here but I thought this would be a good place to post..

Today I got my first real job as a Linux Systems Administrator for a nationl dialup ISP! :)

Im pretty pumped and just wanted to share my excitement!
 
Finish final round of interview today. The president of company will meet up with manager to discuss and will let me know Tuesday. Weirdest part is...they posted an ad for "Technical Support HelpDesk Specialist." When I interview with the manager, when he told me the responsibilities, it's a position for a System Adminstrator :eek: I ask for high $40k-mid $50k. I just hope I get the position. I think it's going to be a steep learning curve...

OT: If any of you are System Admin or some kind of Admin, please PM me some thoughts and insights. Like do you have a book that you use for reference? How about websites that you visit often for information or help with certain problems? I'm gonna post in the appropiate forum in a bit. I appreciate any help and happy holiday to everyone!
 
Congrats you guys! I've had some of that happen too. I remember going in for an interview for a CAD drafting position and wound-up interviewing for a helpdesk job (since I somehow managed to mention that I worked on PC's as a hobby). Made a complete career change that very moment!

Related news: Since I've been stuck at home for the past 3 weeks with lower back pain, I've been working on getting that "resume tips" website up and running. I should be ready to go live here in a day or two -probably right before the new year... Wish me luck. I'm trying to get something up that will help you guys out that won't require reading this entire thread to glean the help.
 
DragoonTD said:
OT: If any of you are System Admin or some kind of Admin, please PM me some thoughts and insights. Like do you have a book that you use for reference? How about websites that you visit often for information or help with certain problems? I'm gonna post in the appropiate forum in a bit. I appreciate any help and happy holiday to everyone!
Click to expand...

If I had some thought and insights I sure would share. This is just an entry level sysadmin and they are going to train me most of the way. I have an idea of what Im doing but not to the level where I could train someone myself :)
 
DragoonTD said:
Finish final round of interview today. The president of company will meet up with manager to discuss and will let me know Tuesday. Weirdest part is...they posted an ad for "Technical Support HelpDesk Specialist." When I interview with the manager, when he told me the responsibilities, it's a position for a System Adminstrator :eek: I ask for high $40k-mid $50k. I just hope I get the position. I think it's going to be a steep learning curve...

OT: If any of you are System Admin or some kind of Admin, please PM me some thoughts and insights. Like do you have a book that you use for reference? How about websites that you visit often for information or help with certain problems? I'm gonna post in the appropiate forum in a bit. I appreciate any help and happy holiday to everyone!
Click to expand...

really it depends on the type of environment you're going to be working in. active directory, edirectory, linux, unix, netware, oes, as/400, etc. then it also comes down to your responsibilities. are you gonna be the e-mail guy, the windows guy, or the jack of all trades.

but for sites, check out the newsgroups, ars forum, msexchange.org, isaserver.org, etc forums, and [h] of course.
 
Hello,

Here is my resume, please critique. I am particularly interested in jmroberts input. I have read the thread a few times and tried to use your ideas as much as possible.

As with many of the resumes I have seen on here, there always seems to be a catch. Well I have a couple of “catches”. I recently moved and I have only partly worked in the past year, though I have extensive experience prior to this time period. The truth of the matter is that I have been working on flipping a house, while doing some consulting part time.

Also, I do realize that it was recommended not to put so much detail in the experience section, but I really feel I need to get some of these points conveyed… I dunno, let me know what you think.

Oh, I believe that I need to work on the past and present tense of some of my statements. If any of you could shed a little light on this, that would help.

This come out to 3 pages in Word.

Thanks

Link removed, If I get the job, I will put it back up.
 
Ubuntop said:
Hello,

Here is my resume, please critique. I am particularly interested in jmroberts input. I have read the thread a few times and tried to use your ideas as much as possible...
Click to expand...

Well I don't know how the hell I missed this post but here's my quick thoughts after reading through it:

Summary:
-What does "key experience" mean? Need a time qualifier or something measurable there.
-I'd also trim down your summary to something like "all aspects of network engineering" or something more encompasing than your quick list. I think the reader gets lost. Besides, you're just about to flesh this out in the next paragraph!

I'm thinking of a summary like "Server Systems Engineer with 8 years experience in all aspects of server / client systems." Maybe it's a little too bold but I kinda' think it fits your background to a tee.

Qualifications:
-perfect! wouldn't change a thing.

Experience:
-too long (as expected from me). What I'd suggest is trimming this down to the single-line format I've mentioned before and just offer a "detailed work history" paper if you feel it's needed (I don't).

-No education?
-No certifications?

I understand your thinking regarding the desire to include your work history. You've done a LOT of major stuff over the years. The thing is, most of it gets lost in the flood of information. I think most of your accomplishments will probably come out in your interview. You're list of qualifications alone is impressive IMO and stands on its own.
 
Thanks for the prompt response. I agree that it seems a bit of an overload with 800 or so words. That article that someone posted on here about writing your resume quickly then taking a long break and looking at it again later is a great suggestion. I had already started thinking about getting rid of some of the bullets this morning.

As for certifications and education, well I guess you could say that I am lucky and self taught. I got some big breaks after proving my self in other areas. I do have some college, but at my age I would rather not misrepresent the notion that I may complete my degree. I plan not to. I was in college for CS, while running my business, then got pulled into a dot.com and never turned back.
Certifications, well I never had a need for them. Most of my employers when it was found that the answers to cert tests are easily found on the net, just ignored them. In the bay area we found that a lot of people had the certs but in reality had no skills to show for it (mainly MCP certs). Its an option, but essentially I am going to be presenting this resume without certs and education, is this going to be a problem? I am prepared to explain just what I said here in the interview.

PS: here is one more vote for you to get your resume site going!

Thanks again
Ubuntop
 
Ok. Sounds good to me. I think your experience trumps your lack of certs or education anyways.

And regarding the resume tip site, I've got the domain and the hosting going and a design completed. I'm about 50% through the content right now. It should go live in about 3 weeks.
 
JM, I got the resume book you mentioned and wrote another resume. I would like some help with this new resume. In about 1 month there will a job fair (not particular fond of job fair, but worth taking a shot) @ the school I graduated from. What things need to be change to adapt to the job fair?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OBJECTIVE
To obtain employment at the entry-level technical support position with a company offering opportunities for advancement.

SUMMARY
Hard-working, organized, reliable, strong work ethics and friendly individual. One year experience in technical support; four year experience in computer consulting during college. Computer enthusiasts over the years that visit hardware review sites, notebook forums, and other IT related websites to further knowledge.

EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science, 2005
Major: Industrial Technology Minor: Packaging GPA: 3.5
xxx, xxx

WORK HISTORY
xxx, xxx 2006-2007
Technical Support
- Hired to quickly solve technical support issues;
- Make sure all systems get tested by the end of the day;
- Systems get shipped as soon as possible.

ACHIEVEMENTS
Decrease company return service by 10%
90% of all technical support issues solved within the hour
All outstanding technical support issues solved the following business day
Increase sale by 10%
95% of all systems get ship 2 business days after assembly

ADDITIONAL WORK HISTORY
NICA Business Solutions, Tucson, Arizona 2005-2006
Account Manager

ENDORSEMENT
“Exhibited textbook troubleshooting skills when diagnosing our gaming problems.”
“Praised as 'most hard-working and determined associate in sales team'.”

Languages
Fluent in Vietnamese
 
dragoon,

the first thing i see is your resume is very minimal. you don't really go into detail about any of your work, education, or cert history. you could be the best in the world at a particular tech, but i would never have a clue by looking at your resume. give it some more content, specific content about what you did, what you know, and what you've learned.

Does anyone know of a website or a recent article that shows the top job markets for IT in the US. I'm gonna be done with college soon and i'm pretty sure i'm not gonna be staying in cincinnati. my choices are either back to nyc, chicago, or maybe out west.

thanks
 
ne0-reloaded said:
dragoon,

the first thing i see is your resume is very minimal. you don't really go into detail about any of your work, education, or cert history. you could be the best in the world at a particular tech, but i would never have a clue by looking at your resume. give it some more content, specific content about what you did, what you know, and what you've learned.

Does anyone know of a website or a recent article that shows the top job markets for IT in the US. I'm gonna be done with college soon and i'm pretty sure i'm not gonna be staying in cincinnati. my choices are either back to nyc, chicago, or maybe out west.

thanks
Click to expand...

Dept of Labor Statistics
 
schizo said:
And the other guy, listing that he was in the boy scouts... yeah leave that out.
Click to expand...

I'd have to disagree here; I got my first job out of college because the recruiter saw on my resume that I was an Eagle Scout. He happened to be familiar with scouting and understood the accomplishment. Of the 70-ish people who met with him, only 5 were selected were for an on-campus interview. Of those 5, only 2 were selected to be invited to the company an on-site interview. Of those two, I got the job. I know for certain that a few others in the group of 70 had better grades than me, but the fact the recuiter and I talked for a good 5 minutes regarding scouting help gave me that extra inside.

I'm not saying being an Eagle Scout will get you a job, but that you never know what you and the recruiter/HR person/ or hiring manger will have in common.
 
Yea, putting Eagle Scout on your resume is pretty impressive to those that know. I personally believe, if you haven't gotten that far in the Boy Scouts, I wouldn't mention it at all though.

Ok, DragoonTD, here are my thoughts on your resume...

First off, lose the Objective statement. It's not necessary when handing in a resume. You've pretty much made your objective pretty clear. Concerns about the resume getting lost by the employer not knowing which job you're handing in this resume for, just make sure your cover letter is pretty clear on that (as it should be). Beyond that, the Objective statement offers no valuable information whatsoever. The fact that you're entry-level will become apparent when you divulge your experience level. The fact that you want "opportunities for advancement" is also obvious (as most people are looking for advancement no matter what) so why mention it?

Your Summary is a good start. Here's how I would change it. The first sentence is purely subjective. If you can't back up your statement with something measurable, it's not worth pointing out. Stating that you're "Hard-working, organized, reliable, strong work ethics and friendly individual" is simply a matter of opinion without something measurable. YOU may think these things about you but a resume is not the place for that if you can't back it up. I wouldn't mention where your experience comes from (say, from working in college for instance). Experience is just experience. Where it comes from is not important in a Summary statement. I would just mention that you have 5 years tech support experience. The fact that you weren't paid for it doesn't make it not count! Lastly, the fact that you hit up tech websites and the like is really not worth mentioning here though.

The fact that your work experience is a bit short and your only a year out of school, I would probably revise your resume to add a Skills section right after the Summary statement. This will give you more freedom to highlight your abilities without being forced to attach them to a "job" entry -since it sounds like a lot of your experience was "off the books" anyways (not that that's bad). Go back through this thread for some examples of how to write up a skills section.

With the inclusion of a Skills section, I'd trim down the rest of your resume as it stands right now. Since you will be fleshing out most of this information elsewhere, there is no need for it a second time. The Achievements section, the same thing.

Your Endorsements section, although interesting (and something I've not seen on a resume before) probably either should go away or be qualified by the person who said it (and their position). Having a coworker mention that you're a swell guy is one thing, but having the Project Manager mention how excellent you are, not that's a big deal. Still, I'm not sure I would be too impressed with this on a resume. Maybe a few "letters of recommendation" may be where this is more appropriate.

Lastly, regarding your Language statement, I'd add that to your Skills section but I'd word it differently. Something like "Bilingual: Fully fluent reading and speaking both English and Vietnamese"

Hope this helps. Good luck!
 
I use the format from your website. I change the summary.The endorsement section was from the book that you recommended. I felt that it would help me because I dont have that much work experience. I started going through the thread again, but only got to page 10. I believe my skills section is very weak...maybe I havent dig deep enough in my brain.

Round 2:


SUMMARY
A computer professional with 3 years of experience in tech support. In addition, 3 years experience in building and troubleshooting Windows based pc.

EDUCATION
B.S. Industrial Technology (2005) Minor: Packaging GPA: 3.5
XXX,XXX

SKILLS
Technical Support
Customer Service
Sales
Bilingual – Fluent reading and speaking in both Vietnamese and English
Troubleshooting computer hardware
Ghosting/Image
Basic networking

DETAILED WORK HISTORY

Technical Support (Aug 2006 – Present)
XXX,XXX
Phone and email support for 400+ customers using Windows base pc. Level I-II trouble tickets resolved and tracked through company database. Research intermittent blue screen of death. Stress test 15 computers each day with MemTest, 3DMark, SuperPi, and Orthos. Final inspection and image all computers before shipping.

ENDORSEMENT
“Without a doubt, the most patient tech rep ever spoken with.” - Customer
“Exhibited textbook troubleshooting skills when diagnosing our gaming problems.” – [H] Consumer Reviewer, www.hardocp.com
“Praised as 'most hard-working and determined associate in sales team'.” – Mike Dickey, Executive Sales Director
 
this is a lot better than your first one. it shows some of what you actually did while on the job. Under skills you have technical support, troubleshooting hardware, ghosting/imaging, and basic networking. try to expound on these more. like basic networking to me means you know how to check for an ip address and make sure it's plugged in. but you may know about wins, dns, dhcp, and have some understanding of things like how subnets and vpn's work. just make sure u use ur resume to sell yourself. outside of ghost, you have listed any real enterprise level apps or hardware you've used. im assuming you've used office before, so put that on there also. i should be able to look at the skills portion of your resume and see what you know and don't know easily

offtopic, u ever played the legend of dragoon? ur name reminds me of that.

I'm happy to say that i got a new job. i turned in my resignation at my current position yesterday. im making almost 50% more and i'll be working for a global fortune 500 company with 45000+ users. im VERY HAPPY :D
 
Good stuff. Congratulation. What did you do before and what will you be doing now? I have not play that game before, but it sound familiar. Is that on Playstation 1 or 2? Dragoon is from a unit in starcraft. I use the name in alot of games I play.

As far as basic networking...hook up dsl/cable connection through wire or wireless router, troubleshooting networking issues (no connection, limited connection, just really basic stuff I guess), go into the router and set up WEP, abd checking ip address and assigning ip address. I have not learn anything about networking, but I would like to soon. I have not done any enterprise work. I listed ghost/image because a lot of companies look for that. I used Ghost like when I was in high school. Currently I used image software by TerabyteUnlimited.I heard of Acronis, but havent download and try it yet. I feel like I know alot more than people outside of this forum and other highly technical forum; yet my skills section is so empty...do people really put Windows XP or Office in the skills section? I can see how Mac OS X is worth putting. I'm looking everyday for jobs and hope to get a new one soon (been looking since november).

I dont know what the point of going to a job fair is. Everytime I go, I think it's a waste of time. But I go because I'm just hoping maybe just one company will hire me and give better pay and some benefits. :)
 
DragoonTD said:
Good stuff. Congratulation. What did you do before and what will you be doing now? I have not play that game before, but it sound familiar. Is that on Playstation 1 or 2? Dragoon is from a unit in starcraft. I use the name in alot of games I play.

As far as basic networking...hook up dsl/cable connection through wire or wireless router, troubleshooting networking issues (no connection, limited connection, just really basic stuff I guess), go into the router and set up WEP, abd checking ip address and assigning ip address. I have not learn anything about networking, but I would like to soon. I have not done any enterprise work. I listed ghost/image because a lot of companies look for that. I used Ghost like when I was in high school. Currently I used image software by TerabyteUnlimited.I heard of Acronis, but havent download and try it yet. I feel like I know alot more than people outside of this forum and other highly technical forum; yet my skills section is so empty...do people really put Windows XP or Office in the skills section? I can see how Mac OS X is worth putting. I'm looking everyday for jobs and hope to get a new one soon (been looking since november).

I dont know what the point of going to a job fair is. Everytime I go, I think it's a waste of time. But I go because I'm just hoping maybe just one company will hire me and give better pay and some benefits. :)
Click to expand...

its a ps1 game, came out a little after ff7 did. it was a lot of fun here's the cover.

yes people do put that on their resume. i have it on mine. you wouldn't believe how many IT professionals out there would be totally clueless using Windows XP with it's new interface. besides, generally the HR people are the first barrier you'll have to go through. they look for key words, and if you're resume doesn't have it, you'll get passed up. remember, ur resume is ur first impression to a company, so you gotta make sure you market yourself.

before my new job, i worked for a local govt doing network/desktop support (active directory, e-directory, as/400). at the new place i'm gonna be doing scripting and more active directory stuff. im really excited about it because if it seems like it will be my dream job. working for the govt was cool and all, but i knew it wouldnt be something long term. i was there for 2 years. it was my first "real job" but i worked hard and made sure i kept asking for more responsibilities and work. the more you can put on your resume, the better for you in the longrun. it's wierd thinking about it because i got my 1st computer in september 2000. and i really started learning about computers 4 years ago. but i made up for lost time by reading, browsing various forums, and reading trade magazines (network world, redmond mag, etc), and trying to apply everything i learned to get my own hands on experience. in the windows world, you can build a pretty robust network with only 2 computers (a client and a server) and a hub.

the best thing to do honestly though is to figure out what path in IT you want to take. networking, programming, web dev, databases, system integration, security, etc. then focus your on learning about the things needed to excel in those fields.
 
ne0-reloaded suggestion post my questions and his answers:

You mention trade magazines. What are in those? Do they teach you anything or just showcase products? As far as what field in IT I want to get into, that is a good questions. I know I dont want to do any programming whatsoever. I been thinking about networking. Security sound like it would go hand in hand with networking. As far as my skills for "basic networking," what would you suggest I put in there? If you dont mind, how does your resume look like? I really need to beef up my skills section. Thanks for your suggestion so far.


Trade magazine don't really teach you anything necessarily, they just let you know about different upcoming technologies and what's hot in the job market. Things like VOIP, virtualization, and WAN optimization. It'll just keep you "in the know," but you'll have to do your own research of course. Whatever you pick, just make sure you enjoy it. If you enjoy it you'll progress in your career faster, make more money, and have a fun ass time doing it.

If you are going down the networking path, it depends on where you want to fit in. netowork OS's (windows, linux, netware) and network hardware (routers, switches, etc) are 2 different beasts. they compliment each other, but they're very different. go to a used book store and buy a active directory book or a cisco networking book. or if you're tight on funds, go to a book store and just read for free. those will give you a pretty decent overview of networking hardware and software.

also try getting some certs. they're not cheap, but they'll help you get ahead. A lot of people will tell you they suck, but you'll never lose a job because you're certified. A+, MCP, and CCNA are good ones to start with. in general tho, learn about tcp/ip. also research dns, dhcp, wins, vpn, subnets. they're not extremely difficult, but if you run into trouble, you can always ask me or the [H]orde for help.

I'm not sure what to tell you about basic networking. do you understand the concepts of name resolutin (dns, wins), or the purpose of subnet masks and default gateways? do you understand why a company would need a vpn server? why are routers and switches needed? if you can answer yes to any of those questions, then you can say "Fundamental understanding of DNS, DHCP, WINS, TCP/IP." those 4 keywords will definately get you a 2nd look. If you don't know just google them. If you really wanna know, dl a linux distro and setup a server. or dl MS virtual server and some vhds. vhds are like preinstalled versions of windows you can in a virtual machine to play around with.

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/tra...b/default.mspx
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/try/vhd/default.mspx
 
ok, I'm going to post my resume here, but with a quick word, it's not a strictly "IT" resume, though I am going after an IT job at the moment (entry level hardware service) I am ex-military, and up until this point I have been working jobs as more of an "Electro-Mechanical Maintenance Technician", working with PLC systems, conveyor systems, robotics, rewiring 480v wiring, etc, etc... On the other hand, I have been the sole "Systems Administrator" for a small local real estate company for the past 7 years (part time, as needed type of a job)... anyway, enough blab, here's a link to not only my resume, but also my military "S.M.A.R.T. Transcript" that I have provided (on an "at request" basis) to a couple of prospective employers.

http://www.ghengis-khan.com/host/resume.zip

*ninja edit note*: The copy that I actually send to companies is a much smaller file size, I had to edit this one in PhotoShop to blur out my name/ssn/birthdate, and it became much larger in size. I'll shrink the file size if 8M is too big for some of you to bother downloading.
 
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