Most resumes are poorly
done. The business resume format is not the best for firefighter candidates. That's because with the high volume of candidates, the raters only have a few moments to look at resumes before you walk into the
room.What's the first impression the job panel has of you? Your physical appearance, yes. What else? Your choice of words, eye contact, and your handshake are all important. You
probably missed the most important point! Your application and resume before you walk in the room! I can't tell you how many times applications are completed with misspelled words, horrible spelling,
chronological order wrong – all before the candidate is seen.
Resumes for entry-level positions should be one page without a cover letter. Don't give them a book; they will not read it. The
board does not have enough time. Do not go into an interview thinking you are going to hand the resume to the raters and they will read it then. Often candidates come in and try to hand out a resume and it
upsets the normal flow of the interview. The board will read it before you come in the room. If you can, submit it first – get it to personnel to be placed in your file before the interview.
Suggestion for a firefighter resume format:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Experience
- Education
- Volunteer and community service
That's all you need. Nothing more, nothing less. Keep it simple.
Capt. Bob from