Requesting input re: business resume

[ashis979]

Hi,

I want to get your input on a few things:

1. What constitutes a business resume? Is it the industry standard 1-pager? For schools that do not specify a page limit but request a business resume what is the best approach?
2. My background is in IB and PE, and resumes in my industry usually describe some component of the transactions undertaken. So, my question is: for the schools that want a one-page resume, do I just list a few of my transactions without any details about them, for e.g. "$XX acquistion of ABC", or should I try and squeeze in what I actually did on the transaction?
3. Aside from good transaction experience I'm quite involved in the community as well and would like to highlight that on my resume since I think it adds another dimension to my profile. What are the expectations when a school requests a business resume? Should I just put down professional experience and cut out anything non-professional? Same thing for a strictly one-page resume?
4. My understanding (I may be wrong) of a business resume is a resume you send to potential employers. If so, do I need to have an objective statement?

Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot.

[Stacey Oyler]

Hi Ashis,

Thanks for your post. Please see my comments below:

I want to get your input on a few things:

1. What constitutes a business resume? Is it the industry standard 1-pager? For schools that do not specify a page limit but request a business resume what is the best approach?

The rule of thumb is one page for every ten years in the workplace. Most business schools prefer to see one page unless otherwise stated.

2. My background is in IB and PE, and resumes in my industry usually describe some component of the transactions undertaken. So, my question is: for the schools that want a one-page resume, do I just list a few of my transactions without any details about them, for e.g. "$XX acquistion of ABC", or should I try and squeeze in what I actually did on the transaction?

Good question. In general a good format to follow would be something like this:

* Description of job responsibilities - explain your role/function (use one or two bullet points for this).
* Your biggest accomplishments/success/impact in the role such as deals closed, etc. Since you've already stated your role in the organization you need not specify the your exact role in the transaction.

3. Aside from good transaction experience I'm quite involved in the community as well and would like to highlight that on my resume since I think it adds another dimension to my profile. What are the expectations when a school requests a business resume? Should I just put down professional experience and cut out anything non-professional? Same thing for a strictly one-page resume?

Yes, you should absolutely plan to highlight your community experience as well as any other hobbies and extracurricular activities. You can list these together at the bottom of your resume. A nice heading for this would be "Personal" or "Other Skills and Activities."

4. My understanding (I may be wrong) of a business resume is a resume you send to potential employers. If so, do I need to have an objective statement?
A business school resume is different than one you would use in a job search. You should not list an objective (that is what your essays and application are for). You should also avoid mentioning computer programs/skills which would normally be on a "job search" resume.

We're happy to help you with your resume at Clear Admit. If you would like to learn more about our services and how we can help you with your resume and applications, please send your resume to [email protected]. We offer a free 30 minute assessment/consultation.

Best,

Stacey