Customer Reviews

Resumes For Dummies

5 star:		(42)
4 star:		(17)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

After many years at the same company, I'm on the job market and although I've been fairly conscientious about keeping my resume up to date, I haven't really had to test it in the marketplace. A review of the "Resumes for Dummies" book helped me to refine my job descriptions, incorporate more action oriented words and focus on the skills and jobs that are relevant to the type of position that I want to hold in the future.

Like all "Dummies" books, this one is presented in a simple easy-to-read, well-organized format with large bulleted headlines and plenty of graphics and examples. Whether you read the whole book, or just refer to specific sections, this book has it all, including resume formats; how to present education, experience, skills, activities, organizations, etc.; good attention-grabbing words; getting rid of deadweight in the resume; going digital and distributing the resume; spin control against potential problems, such as too much or too little experience, gaps in employment, demotions, age, etc.

The book is packed with resume tips, and should be one of the first you refer to if you're starting a new job search or just not sure that your resume is representing you fairly.

If nothing else, this book is beneficial because it gives the reader lots of ideas to borrow (Ok, steal, but that's why this book was written). I'm not very creative when it comes to laying the resume out, but the different possibilities gives me some options. It's important to not be too wordy in the resume, and Kennedy shows us what to emphasize. Her snappy writing style makes a mundane topic actually interesting. It's nice to know that I have this on my shelf in case I decide to go job-hunting in the future.

I had never heard of this book until I borrowed it from a friend. I found this book so useful that I intend to buy my own copy! I especially liked the sample resumes. I wish there were more information on CVs instead of just a reference to other books. I would also recommend Cover Letters for Dummies. These books are simple to follow, the tips are relatively easy to find, and great if you want to get that dusty old resume of yours polished up into a snappy, updated version in short order!

I have a short attention span when it comes to reading so this book is just what the doctor ordered! It has a little of everything for everyone, from basic to advanced. I found the sections pertaining to digital resumes and searching the internet for jobs very helpful and packed full of great web sites! If you only buy one book make it this one and you won't be disappointed.

While well-written and superbly organized, this book poorly met the needs of a recent graduate looking for work outside corporate world. A downright depressing read for those looking for a first job (treated as a "special need"), this book seems primarily designed for experienced sales and marketing professionals looking to move up in the corporate world. Those considering government work, having special needs other than "too much experience", or with a short work history should consider a different guide. (Incidentally, while the book left the impression I was unemployable, after ditching Resumes for Dummies, I was called for an interview on the first job I applied for.)

I highly recommend that every job seeker, no matter what your status, read this book. No others will hold a candle to it. I would not be able to describe how much I would be struggling, if it were not for this book. Just take the time to relax, put your feet up and read it from cover to cover. Building my resume came next (I had never done one due to years of service at my previous employer) and I used so many tips in that book while writing it. It actually does a wonderful job of preparing you for all aspects of your job search.

This was very helpful in writing my resume. The book is well written and very easy to follow. It brought to my attention things I had not thought to put in my resume so now I feel I covered all my bases. Recommend to anyone who wants to update their resume or anyone going out into the job market.

Dear Joyce, I have read your 'Resumes for Dummies' book with joy, laughter, and a deep sense of gratitude. What a Godsend you are to those of us who are resuming a career. Many of us have the confidence and fortitude to 'kick butt' out there in the workplace, yet the featly skill of preparing an actual resume can reduce some of the best of us to fainthearted dread. I unabashedly admit to being a member of the aforementioned group. My pen remains poised with trepidation when it actually comes down to putting pen to paper. Do you ever engage in private consulting? If not, is there a local consulting firm here in San Diego that you would recommend? Many thanks, once more, I shall look forward to your gracious and gifted advice. With much appreciation, Carol Treadwell

This book is a gem. If you havent been able to land that elusive interview this book will help you tinker with your resume so that it stands out amongst the crowd. Worked for me!!!

As a career counselor, I hear people wondering what is new in resume trends. Are they still necessary? Kennedy, an experienced syndicated columnist and author, has taken the subject of resumes to a higher plane. Yes, they're still necessary. Using humor to present the somewhat standard material, she takes the reader from objective to experience with a minimum of pain. There are two unusual features in this book. Sample resumes are presented in a before and after format, illustrating subtle points which will enhance the reader's own focus. And the book ends with a checklist for evaluating your own resume. (Warning: it's hard to be objective enough to complete the checklist: you may need some help from a friend.)