List:

To add to this subject, in the hopes that some of you could offer advice on
resume preparation to students...

I own a small CRM firm and also receive a lot of resumes, especially from now
until about September.  I start by looking at the envelope.  If it is
addressed sloppy, barely readable, crossed out, etc., I toss without opening.
 My theory is, if I can't read the envelope easily I probably won't be able
to read any fieldnotes generated by that person.  If the resume has items
crossed out and then new text penned in, I toss.  In this age of computer
availability, there is no excuse for updating old resumes with a pen and
white out and then sending it out (yes, I still get an amazing amount of
resumes with crossed out text, white out, and hand written corrections).

I look for a well written cover letter addressed to me, preferably short and
sweet.  I don't want to see age, marital status, personal statistics (height,
weight, number of children, etc.) on a resume!  I want to see work
experience, pertinent classes, volunteer work on field schools or arch sites,
computer software knowledge, etc.  I don't have time to read a wordy,
rambling letter more than a page max. in length that transmits and equally
wordy resume.  Keep it succinct and to the point!

My firm usually responds to all "good" resumes (unless we are really busy).
Minimally we send a form letter letting that person know that I received
their resume and will keep it on file for future work.  If a resume is
impressive but I don't need anyone I'll write back and give the person ideas
on where to send their resumes, or I might pass it on to another CRM firm.

Hope this helps reduce the recycled resumes in my bin.

Mary Maniery