RESUMES FOR ENTRY-LEVEL WOODLANDS JOBS IN THE SOUTHERN FOREST INDUSTRY

What should go into the resume of an undergraduate forestry student seeking employment in the Southern forest industry? The authors surveyed employers about their expectations from resumes for entry-level industrial woodlands positions. Surveys were sent to 75 employers representing 50 major forest industries in the Southern United States; 59% responded. Questions were asked about resume format, transcripts, references, interviews, and the conduct of the job search. The survey results provide a broad indication that undergraduates should focus on job seeking several years prior to graduation by obtaining related work experience and earning good grades. In some key areas, the survey results contradict common advice. For example, respondents suggested that personal information, especially a photo, be voluntarily included. The authors point out that federal law prohibits employers from requiring certain personal information from prospective employees, and they advise job seekers to judge for themselves what information to disclose voluntarily.