How To Prepare a Resume

This is a guide to assist you in preparing your resume. The format suggested is simply one that has worked in presenting candidates to client companies. Remember...it is the information contained within the resume, rather than format itself, that will get you an interview. A sample resume, using a suggested format, is shown at the bottom of this guide.

The brief time that you spend on your resume could be the most important time you ever spend in your business career. While MASA firms are professionals in resume design and presentation, we can't do any better than work with the information you provide. Your resume is the "selling tool" between you and a proposed employer. Make certain you are thorough on your specific accomplishments. Your title, duties and responsibilities will be important, but most likely your accomplishments will determine if you are to obtain an interview.

When developing your resume, keep in mind that HONESTY is of primary importance. When listing dates, job titles, duties, accomplishments, education, etc., make certain that they are absolutely correct. Incorrect, misleading or withheld information can have dire consequences that could impact your new or future employment.
When submitting resumes to recruiting firms, there is some supplemental information that is needed in order to assist you now or in the future. Please advise the following:

• Your present or last base salary and any bonus/commission you receive over and above the base salary.
• The minimum compensation you would require for a new position.
• Your ability to relocate and any geographical preferences you may have.

Most firms prefer resumes submitted via email.

Sample Resume Format

MARY A. JONES, CLU
123 Anywhere Street
Someplace, NY 12345
123-456-7890
maj2@hotmail.com

EDUCATION

Penn State University - BA in Business 1982.
Penn State University - MBA 1983.
American College - Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) 1992.
Licenses - Life and Health, NASD Series 6 and 63.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

1/90-Present
XYZ LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY - New York, NY

Vice President, Sales

• Responsible for the sales results of all Life Insurance and Annuity products nationwide.
  
  
• Develop all sales goals and budgets.
  
  
• Work with Marketing Department in the design of all sales materials.

Accomplishments

• Introduced three new products since 1998 to expand the product line.
  
  
• Increased premium growth an average of 17% per year over the past 5 years.

1990-1995

Regional Vice President, Sales

• Responsible for managing the sales process for 12 Districts in the region.
  
  
• Provide product training and support for District Sales Managers.

Accomplishments

• Took the region from the number 4 out of 5 ranking to number 1 in 24 months.
  
  
• Ranked number 1 from 1992-1995.
  
  
• Increased the number of Producers from 100 to 160.
  
  
• Premium growth increased an average of 22% per year from 1990-1995.

7/83-1/90

ABC LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY - Boston, MA

District Sales Manager

• Responsible for the hiring and training of Sales Representatives.
  
  
• Promoted the sale of the Company's Life and Annuity products.

Accomplishments

• Increased the number of Sales Representatives from 28 to 71.
  
  
• Improved the national ranking of the District from 28 to 6.

1983-1986

Sales Representative

• Sold Life and Annuity Products in an Estate Planning environment.
  
  
• Million Dollar Round Table Producer 1985 and 1986.