Resume Awards and
Honors Section
On a resume, the awards section
helps demonstrate to a potential employer that you have received recognition for
your abilities in a certain field, and also that you are a balanced or
well-rounded individual. You may believe that all that matters on your resume
are your educational background and accomplishments in your work history, but
this leaves a great deal about who you are and your strengths out of the mix.
When you create your resume, the awards section is an essential part of
demonstrating your skills and abilities.
If
the only items listed in this section are academic in nature (Dean's List, etc.)
they should be listed in the Education section under the GPA. If you are listing
additional awards or honors as well, list the academic awards first along with
the dates in reverse chronological order
Official recognition from past employers, professional societies, and volunteer
services should be listed after academic awards. Each statement should be able
to be supported with facts. Do not include superlatives.
Other awards and honors outside of the professional and academic subjects may
also be included as well. However, it is important to keep them relevant and
timely. Do not include awards older than three years, or that may be prejudicial
in nature. If the title of the award or honor is not self-explanatory, it may be
helpful to include a brief description as necessary. This section should
directly follow the Education component in the overall structure of the resume.
Sample Awards and Honors Section
HONORS AND AWARDS
Phi Beta Kappa, 2008
Best Employee of the Month, April 2004.
"Freedom is us" Essay Contest, Honorable Mention. January 2002.
