Alan Ackmann
Alan Ackmann teaches Business and Technical Writing at DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. His creative work has appeared in a variety of literary journals, including Ontario Review and McSweeney’s. In addition to teaching and writing, he edits resumes on a freelance basis.
- Website: http://www.alanackmann.com
Alan Ackmann has written 13 posts for TrainSignal Training
3 Reasons To Avoid IT Resumé Templates
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ April 13, 2012 ⋅ One comment
You are not a template! Avoid some common pitfalls of using resumé templates from Microsoft or other sources, making sure your credentials jump off the page. Make sure hiring managers aren’t overlooking your resumé with these 3 tips for using templates.
IT Resumes for the Career Changer
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ March 30, 2012 ⋅ Post a comment
A significant career change for anyone can be both mentally taxing, and a professional uphill battle. Depending on the scenario and how drastic of a change in front of you, a restructured strategy for marketing your skills may be just what you need.
Let Us All Give Thanks: 3 Tips for a Successful Thank You Letter
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ November 25, 2011 ⋅ Post a comment
How do you write a thank you letter following a job interview that is memorable, genuine and helps reinforce your professionalism? Here are three quick tips that will help you put together an appropriate — and appreciative — thank you letter.
Creating a Searchable IT Resume with the Right Keywords
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ September 9, 2011 ⋅ 2 comments
The right keywords can make your IT resume searchable, increasing the chances of employers noticing you. Use these tips to find the right keywords and increase the search engine optimization of your resume.
What is a Functional Resume and Do You Need One?
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ August 12, 2011 ⋅ Post a comment
A functional resume is arranged by skill sets, or the functions of your job. For some IT professionals, especially contractor and consultants, a functional resume might work best to show off your skills. Learn more and see if a functional resume is right for you.
Top 5 Things to Avoid Adding to Your IT Resume
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ July 22, 2011 ⋅ 4 comments
Today we tackle the question: what not to put on your IT resume. Just as important as the things you should include on your resume, are the things you should avoid. Learn more.
Creating a Cover Letter: The Power of a Persona
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ July 8, 2011 ⋅ 2 comments
Your first impression is crucial to the hiring process. Learn how to create a persona in your cover letter that will demonstrate that you’re not only a qualified applicant, but that you’re a culture fit as well… someone people would want to work with.
Creating a Cover Letter for Your IT Resume
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ May 27, 2011 ⋅ Post a comment
When applying for any position in the IT field, a cover letter accompanying your IT resume is a must. Here are some structural and content suggestions on writing a cover letter for your IT Resume.
IT Resume 101: Language Skills, Volunteer Experience, Publications, Presentations and More
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ May 6, 2011 ⋅ One comment
Do you have language skills that you’d like to include on your IT resume? How about publications or presentations that show off your expertise? Or have you done some volunteer work that relates to the job your applying for? Take a look at how to incorporate these additional/optional sections on your IT resume.
IT Resume 101: How to Optimize Your Work History Section
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ April 29, 2011 ⋅ One comment
Optimize your work history section on your IT resume with these three simple tips and see how easily your resume can go from vague and boring to unique and interesting. See how to present your work history in a detailed way that matches your objective and sets you apart from your competition.
IT Resume 101: Tips for a Perfect Technical Skills Section
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ April 22, 2011 ⋅ 3 comments
The technical skills section is a crucial part of your IT resume. Candidate screening for IT positions often begins (and frequently ends) by assessing technical competence. Today we take a closer look at some tips for perfecting your technical skills section of your resume.
IT Resume 101: Crafting Your Education Section
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ April 15, 2011 ⋅ One comment
Learn how to craft the perfect education section of your IT resume. Whether you’ve just left school or you’ve been out for a while, these expert tips and tricks will help you get the most out those hard years in school to make your IT resume stand out.
IT Resume 101: Resume Basics
By Alan Ackmann ⋅ April 8, 2011 ⋅ Post a comment
In the initial stages of a hiring process, your resume is crucial. You have about 20 seconds to make a good impression with a single piece of paper. How do you do that? In our IT Resume 101 series we’ll show you how to craft the perfect resume. Today we start with the basics.