Once you know what employers are looking for, it's time to see how you match up. Consider both your basic career assets, such as jobs you've held and courses you've taken, and your unique-to-you assets, like your strongest skills and values.

Here are some examples of what you'll want to think about in each category:

Basic career assets

• Employment history. Positions you've held or projects you've worked on, including volunteer or recreational activities.
• Education, continuing education. Degrees or diplomas you've earned, and any additional courses or training you've received.
• Technical skills. Computer or other technical skills you're proficient in and would like to use in your next position.
• Other information. Professional associations, service awards, publications or presentations, relevant hobbies or volunteer activities.

Unique assets you offer

• Your strongest skills. Things that you're good at and particularly enjoy doing. Pay special attention to transferable skills.
• Your accomplishments. Achievements you're proud of, whether they're from jobs, volunteer work, or recreational activities.
• Your values. Things that are important to you, such as helping others, learning new skills, or preserving the environment.
• Your special knowledge and interests. Unique contributions you can make as a result of your career history, education and life experience.

As you gather this information, make sure to capture keywords you can use in your resume and other documents.

Next, you're ready to write your resume!