Anyone wish to critique my resume? *inside*

KGhaleon

Of course, I'll snip some unnecessary stuff. This is the resume I've used for the past several years, but I've constantly added and removed various things. I'm going to Los angeles, California this month to look for work(my friend living there is letting me stay in his apartment) and I want to go prepared.

I don't like the summary, but I'm still trying to figure out something better to put there. I also think my technical experience section is awkward, but I'm not sure what would be best to use there, maybe another format? I made my job descriptions more detailed since I had space for it. The resume is two pages and I've used bold to highlight important things in the .DOC version.

SUMMARY:

Provided quality desktop support to residential and business owners. Proficient in computer repair, data recovery, malware removal and network support.

TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE

*Installation experience:
Wintel Workstations, Dell/Sony/HP/Gateway/Compaq PCs and Laptops, Printers(local/networked).
Software: OS(Windows, Linux), Applications(Microsoft Office 2000/XP), Utilities(Recovery console, gpedit.msc, etc), Microsoft Active Directory services.
Cabling: 10/100 BaseT(CAT5/e) Ethernet, RJ45 wall outlets, closet punch-down.

*Configuration experience:
Windows Operating Systems(DOS, Win95-XP, Windows Server2000-2003), Linux(Ubuntu), Outlook Express, Cisco 2500 series routers, 1900/2950 Series Switches
Networking in a Ethernet LAN environment, Dynamic Routing Protocols(RIP/v2, IGRP, EIGRP, OSPF single-area), wireless routers, VMware Player/Server.

*Support experience:
Helpdesk for TCP/IP Ethernet environment, multi-classroom campus, data recovery for businesses in the Orlando area, large scale deployments.

*Troubleshooting experience:
Solved PC/Laptop hardware issues, TCP/IP Ethernet network(Ping,tracert,netstat,etc),
Printers, Microsoft Office(2000/XP), Anti-Virus/Spyware(Malware) removal using HiJackThis.

EDUCATION

2003 to 2005 International Academy of Design and Technology Orlando, Florida
Network Administration - Associate of Science (A.S.) 3.5GPA

2002 to 2003 Lake Technical Center, Eustis, Florida
Computer Electronics Technology - Diploma


CERTIFICATIONS AND EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

2005 A+, Network+, Security+ Certified
CompTia
*Preparing to write 70-270 for Windows XP
2003 to 2004 Cisco Networking Academy, Orlando, Florida
2002 to 2003 Lake Technical Center, Eustis, Florida
SkillsUSA-VICA

WORK EXPERIENCE

2006 to 2007: DAYSTAR TECHNOLOGIES - Orlando, Florida
Data Recovery Specialist <number omitted>
Job Description: Repairing and maintaining desktop and laptop computers along with printers and other hardware peripherals that would come in. Daystar also provided technical support to the All purpose insurance(API) company. I operated out of a Windows Server environment and worked on 5-12 systems per day, some of which had RAID setups. I performed data-recovery on failing or corrupt hard drives, recovered lost or missing data on client computers and troubleshooted unstable or damaged devices(power supplies, wireless keyboards and mice, motherboards and processors, etc). I worked with a wide variety of first and third-party programs in order to provide virus/spyware support to my customers. I received training and experience working on laptop computers(HP, Vaio, gateway, etc) and replaced broken LCDs screens, cables and other internal components. I answered telephones, tended to customers and wrote invoices in QuickBooks. I frequently built and sold refurbished computers to customers.

2000 to 2004: REMAX REALTY CENTRE - Mount Dora, Florida
Computer Technician <number omitted>
Job Description: Maintained office software for about a dozen computers in a small LAN environment running a windows server. Worked heavily with Microsoft Word and a variety of namebrand printers and modems. Troubleshooted slowdown occurrences on Windows ME and 2000 workstations, ensured that systems were running at an acceptable level of performance with anti-malware applications and monitored performance issues.

2002 to 2003: LAKE TECHNICAL CENTRE - Eustis, Florida
Desktop Support <number omitted>
Job Description: Installed over fifty new workstations and used ghosting software to mirror the images, ran 10/100-BaseT cable through plenum ceilings and installed new RJ45 wall outlets where they were needed. Offered technical support to campus employees and answered calls. Repaired desktop and laptop computers, removed Malware(viruses, trojans, spyware, etc) and improved security on computers by updated antivirus and firewall software frequently.

--REFERENCES AND OTHER JOB INFO AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST--


Pick, prod, criticize or whatnot. I just need some new ideas.

j938

Try this summary

Dependable and diligent IT professional who manages multiple tasks and works well under pressure. Experience in installing, troubleshooting and repairing hardware, software and peripherals. Applies consultative approach to resolving issues. Very patient. Provides clear and simple explanations and works closely with people to develop solutions to their computer problems. Then if you want you can add something like seeking position that offers whatever your looking for?

You can also add your number of years in this summary if you want.

dynamik

j938 wrote:

You can also add your number of years in this summary if you want.

Statistics can really make your resume pop. If you can, add any information about the results that you've obtained. I.E. how such and such an action saved the company X amount of dollars.

networker050184

j938 wrote:

Try this summary

Dependable and diligent IT professional who manages multiple tasks and works well under pressure. Experience in installing, troubleshooting and repairing hardware, software and peripherals. Applies consultative approach to resolving issues. Very patient. Provides clear and simple explanations and works closely with people to develop solutions to their computer problems. Then if you want you can add something like seeking position that offers whatever your looking for?

You can also add your number of years in this summary if you want.

Thats the type of summary I use as well. If they read your first paragraph they know just enough to be interested and read on!

jbaello

Guys have any summary for System Administration, I believe this summary relates more to desktop support.

Scott316x

I do not have any parahgraphs on my resume. The hiring manager has alot of resumes to go threw if he has to spend 5 min reading your resume then it goes in the trash. Companies get hundreds of resumes for positions. Do you think they read everyone? Make your resume short, but with good content. Don't make the hiring manager read a book about your life history. That is where the interview comes in. The resume is just a paper that gets you in the interview. In the interview you would tell the interviewer everything about your work history.

Mishra

Summaries should be 1-2 sentences total.

Resume should look like this.

Contact info

summary

Work experience (job title should be bold and the top of the paragraph)

Education (certifications should be listed under here)

Skills (probably should rename technical experience... 2 experience columns is confusing)


Thats all I looked at. Sorry I didn't go deeper into it.

j938

jbaello wrote:

Guys have any summary for System Administration, I believe this summary relates more to desktop support.

Sys Admin focus IT professional, expert in leading and contributing to projects designed to enhance system functionality and end-user productivity. Acknowledged for capacity to tackle challenging issues, analyze viable alternatives, and provide innovative solutions that reside well within clients financial and time frameworks. Persistence, personal integrity, and channeled energies are major strengths consistently cited by managers and clients alike—universally praising team spirit, independent work habits, and the determination to conquer technical challenges. A resourceful, life-long learner, embracing knowledge as a tool for improved problem-solving effectiveness.

I have 3 resumes I use
I have one resume that clean cut straight to the point that will get me in the door
but when I go in for an interview I provide them with a more detail resume ... this is just my approach though.

However I think you should keep your resume more functional.

paintb4707

j938 wrote:

Try this summary

Dependable and diligent IT professional who manages multiple tasks and works well under pressure. Experience in installing, troubleshooting and repairing hardware, software and peripherals. Applies consultative approach to resolving issues. Very patient. Provides clear and simple explanations and works closely with people to develop solutions to their computer problems. Then if you want you can add something like seeking position that offers whatever your looking for?

You can also add your number of years in this summary if you want.

Very nice. Maybe you can write me a summary too! :P

j938

paintb4707 wrote:

j938 wrote:

Try this summary

Dependable and diligent IT professional who manages multiple tasks and works well under pressure. Experience in installing, troubleshooting and repairing hardware, software and peripherals. Applies consultative approach to resolving issues. Very patient. Provides clear and simple explanations and works closely with people to develop solutions to their computer problems. Then if you want you can add something like seeking position that offers whatever your looking for?

You can also add your number of years in this summary if you want.

Very nice. Maybe you can write me a summary too! :P

I use that while im looking for jr sys admin jobs even though i dont have as many yrs exp. but it gets me in the door I just need to get my cert though

the other one was more when i first got into IT

bmauro

Well - here are some of my thoughts - just my opinions so take em with a grain of salt.

"*Configuration experience:
Windows Operating Systems(DOS, Win95-XP

Do you really need to include DOS? Win95?

"Dynamic Routing Protocols(RIP/v2, IGRP, EIGRP, OSPF single-area)"

Again - do you really need to include RIPv2? IGRP?? Again - this is just my opinion, but when I see those protocols listed my first thought is "this person just opened a networking book and wrote down everything under the routing protocol index"

Not saying that is you - but that is what comes to my mind when I see it.

The last thing that pops out is that you use TCP/IP and Ethernet too much. Unless your applying to networks that are still using IPX, or Appletalk...

I'm no resume guru, but just those parts (mostly networking) just don't look right.

KGhaleon

Would it be better if I took away the large paragraphs and just replaced them with something like this:

-Did this and that
-Also provided this type of suppose
-Answered phones, wrote invoices, handled customers, etc


Just one-line sentences providing brief details of the type of work I did at each place.

KGhaleon

bmauro wrote:

Well - here are some of my thoughts - just my opinions so take em with a grain of salt.

"*Configuration experience:
Windows Operating Systems(DOS, Win95-XP

Do you really need to include DOS? Win95?

You're right about the other stuff, which I will probably remove or reword. The DOS and win9x stuff I leave in because it shows that I'm willing to work with it. My last job had me work on a machine that was running Norton commander for a customer.
Also you occasionally get residential or business computers that are running Windows 9x, because they have proprietary software which won't run in newer OSs. Some people just refuse to move on.

I can work with them, so why not add them? *shrug*
I'm sure they aren't really needed though for most jobs.

Any other suggestions are welcome. I'm going to redo my resume later this evening. I'll take the summary suggestions into account, though honestly I wouldn't use the ones mentioned above since it would feel like plagiarizing.

Mishra

KGhaleon wrote:

Would it be better if I took away the large paragraphs and just replaced them with something like this:

-Did this and that
-Also provided this type of suppose
-Answered phones, wrote invoices, handled customers, etc


Just one-line sentences providing brief details of the type of work I did at each place.

I got interview calls from both formats. Brief descriptions/explanatory paragraphs. Your choice, I'm using paragraphs.

KGhaleon

Really? Does anyone else believe I should leave the paragraphs?

I'm going to start uploading my resume to a number of big job sites before I head over to LA on the 22nd. I'll try and get my resume in top shape before then.

dynamik

I use bullet points. Paragraphs are more work for you as well as the person reading it. These people will be pouring over dozens of resumes, and you don't want any of your information being overlooked because they're skimming your resume (nor do you want to frustrate a busy decision-maker). Keep it simple; e.g. *Saved the company X amount of money by implementing such and such a system. There's no need for extra wording or even complete sentences. Just state cause and effect. Paragraphs also increase complexity, so there is a greater chance that you have errors as well.

Mishra

I'll actually post a snippet from my resume. I described this job with short paragraphs and really explained what I did at a company. I hate putting in resumes like 1 paragraph for a job I was at 2 years. I work hard at the places I work at and I want to give the resume reader that feeling. like (no way he could have done all that) but I did an explain it in the interview. I also want the reader to know specific things I did and know at the job.


System Administrator
Company, 2005 – Present city,state
Complete system administration tasks to over 400 systems. Provide high level support for all 400 systems. Directly responsible for approximately 32 applications and over 100 systems. Each system includes operating systems using Windows 2003/2000/NT/Debian/Red Hat/Suse/Solaris 9.

High level of experience using the operating systems listed which includes: monitoring, backups, patches, installations, documentation, and server management applications. Successfully implemented and currently managing an entire monitoring solution using Nagios.

Administration over DHCP and WINS applications for the entire company. File server duties such as, share/NTFS level permissions, file/folder manipulation, and NT group implementations.

Complete administration of a 3000-user Exchange 5.5 mail system including: Trend Micro, Symantec, and Canit antivirus and spam solutions. Administration includes user interaction at a high level of troubleshooting for real problems.

Robust server management over a large 3500 user NT Domain in addition to a small Windows 2000 Active Directory domain. Active in the beginning stages of a migration from NT Domain and Exchange 5.5 to Windows 2003 Active Directory and Exchange 2003. This migration was selected by me after evaluating Scalix and NotifyLink as a replacement.

Daily management of Companys backup strategy using Netbackup 6.0. Develop strategies and policy/procedures to streamline IT operations.

Currently have storage management experience in the following systems: Net App SAN, Adaptec NAS Snap Servers, and Dell EMC Ax400 iSCSI. Assist in asset management dealing with any purchases of equipment to Company’s datacenter.

Contributes to and supports additional project-related responsibilities as they arise. Assist with planning of new project requirements from a technical point of view. 24/7 on-call for any server level issues that may arise with systems I direct.

Some major projects completed are: complete rollout of Debian based Incognito servers, complete physical and logical datacenter move, and complete rollout of Windows and Linux based Aspect IVR system.

networker050184

I hate putting in resumes like 1 paragraph for a job I was at 2 years.

I feel this way too as my military experience (six years) could cover a couple pages on its own. In stead of listing it all in paragraphs, I put bulleted highlights that will make them want to know more. If they want to know more then they call you for an interview!

KGhaleon

I'm still making changes, but I decided to try one without the paragraphs that looks like the below(minus bold). Instead of bullets I used asteriks, but was unable to keep them at one line each:

WORK EXPERIENCE

2006 to 2007: DAYSTAR TECHNOLOGIES - Orlando, Florida
Data Recovery Specialist 407-896-3616
*Worked in-house providing desktop support to the API insurance company and Daystar technologies, repairing desktop and laptop computers in a windows server environment.
*Performed Malware removal and Data-recovery on customer computers. Recovered data from hard drives(desktop/laptop), iPods, USB thumbdrives, floppy disks, etc.
*Worked with RAID, handled failing or corrupt hard drives, replaced broken laptop LCD screens, and frequently built and sold refurbished computers to customers.
*Answered telephones, wrote invoices in QuickBooks and tended to customer needs.

2000 to 2004: REMAX REALTY CENTRE - Mount Dora, Florida
Computer Technician
*Maintained under a dozen computers on a small LAN and provided software and hardware support to real estate agents. Worked with Windows 2000 and ME.
*Repaired printers, cleaned malware(viruses, spyware, etc), responded to problems with Microsoft office and other software products and solutions(MLXchange).

2002 to 2003: LAKE TECHNICAL CENTRE - Eustis, Florida
Desktop Support 352-589-2250
*Installed and duplicated(ghosted) 50+ new workstations for classrooms and offices.
*Ran 10/100BaseT cabling and wired RJ45 walljacks.
*Provided technical support on-campus by repairing desktop/laptop computers, cleaning malware, and responding to support calls. Ensured computers were updated frequently.


Seems to the point, or could I improve it more? I plan to add a few more lines to this section. Working on the other sections now.

KGhaleon

What do you guys do about other types of work? I do a lot of work by myself, for local residencies and businesses. I also do contract jobs...but they are fairly small, and only last a few days. Not enough material to put on a resume. I rarely get any references for these type of jobs.