You can find resume templates in many places – Canva, Word, Google Docs, random websites, and more. They provide a basic layout for a resume. But if you lack confidence in your writing skills, the prospect of explaining all of your experience can be overwhelming. Cypress Resume stands out as a resume builder by providing pre-written, customizable job statements based on the target job. In addition to resumes, Cypress Resume can help you write your cover letter and list of references.
If the length of this article seems daunting, we also have an instructional video about Cypress Resume.
Getting Started
To access Cypress Resume, visit colonielibrary.org/research, and then scroll down to click Cypress Resume. Click the “Go!” button on the landing page under “Create Your Resume.”
The next page prompts you to choose a resume layout. Both are acceptable to employers, so it is a matter of personal choice.
Next, enter your name, contact information, education, and basic employment history. There is also an option to enter certificates/certifications/vocational training.
Select a Target Job, Industry, or Skill Set
In the next step, enter a job title, industry, or skill set that matches the job you want to apply for. Review the description(s) to find the best match. Then click “select this job.”
Edit Your Job Statements
After confirming your choice, you are presented with a “Professional Profile Statements” list and prompted to choose six of them. Page through and check the boxes of those that closely fit your skills. These statements can be edited, and you can add a custom statement by checking the box in the lower right of the screen. When you’re ready, click “next section” in the left menu to move on.
Next, select six items from the software and tools section. You can edit and add a custom item on this screen, as well.
The next section lists general skills and abilities that can be applied to any industry. Use the dropdown menu on the left to indicate your proficiency level. Again, you can edit and add a custom item.
When you finish this step, your resume is complete! Unfortunately, there is no way to save your progress before completing step 3.
Download, Save, and/or Create More Documents
The next page shows your document name and options for downloading, viewing, editing, or deleting your resume. At this point, use the dropdown to select “rtf” format to download your resume in a format that can be edited by Word or Google Docs.
You will see options to create another resume, cover letter, or reference document. The process is similar to creating a resume. Keep in mind that if the session is closed, these documents are lost. It is best to download them to a USB drive or email them to yourself as soon as they are completed.
If you want to save your documents in the cloud, you can create an individual Cypress Resume account by clicking “save” on the lower right. You will need an email address to create an account. Your Cypress Resume documents will be available in the cloud for as long as the Upper Hudson Library System subscribes to the service. Because the service is not guaranteed, it is a good idea to download editable copies (rtf) of each document/version you create.
