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Resumania: Handle 'affiliations' section of resume carefully
Monday, December 31, 2007

In addition to "Work Experience," "Skills" and "Education" sections, many job seekers include "Affiliations" on their resume to note the professional organizations to which they belong.

In this optional section, an accountant, for instance, might note her connection to industry associations such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants or the American Society of Women Accountants.

But that doesn't mean every group you were ever involved with should be listed. For example, one candidate wrote that he was an "ex-member of a writer's club." In addition, avoid citing political organizations or other associations that represent your life outside of work and not your professional interests.

"AFFILIATIONS: Founder and past president of a beer-appreciation organization."

It's Norm from "Cheers."

"ASSOCIATIONS: Human race, lifetime member."

Have you paid your dues?

"PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS: I am not a member of any associations per se, but I do associate well with others."

Well, that's a start.

In addition, watch out for wordiness. Extraneous details and long-winded sentences can quickly turn off time-strapped hiring managers.

Consider this example from a job seeker who was applying for an accounting position:

"INTERESTS: My home is my biggest interest. I have experience in painting, wallpapering, woodworking, some electrical, some plumbing, pre-finished hardwood flooring, decks and porches, roofing, and vinyl siding, just to mention a few."

Just a few, huh?

Speak for yourself.

For more Resumania, visit www.resumania.com. Examples can be sent to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International Inc., 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, CA 94025, or faxed to 1-650-234-6998.

Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International Inc., a specialized staffing firm, and author of "Managing Your Career For Dummies" and "Job Hunting For Dummies," 2nd Edition. His most recent book is "Human Resources Kit For Dummies," 2nd Edition.
First published on December 31, 2007 at 12:00 am