UK Resume in the US

Just wondering if any of you have had to write a resume after moving to the US? I've started on one and its not too shabby, the only problem is that my various qualifications are different to what I would have got in the US. ie I dont have a high school diploma, I have 9 GCSEs. I dont have a College Degree, I have an AVCE in IT from college. Anyone come across this kind of problem? I guess employers would take one look at my resume and just think "What the hell is this?".

Not to fear – I had the same situation, only in the other direction! You may want to explain that the 9 GCSEs is virtually the same as scoring top grades (guess here) in 9 subjects. I would also explain what the AVCE in IT is. Once you get an interview, you can explain further.  This is just my two cents – you may get better advice!!!

Thanks Missy, i'll give it a go and hope for the best Though im hearing a lot of negativity on employment in the US, hope that doesnt apply to Wisconsin

Not in my neck of the woods - Kevin got a job on his first interview and I hope I have the same luck My first interview is in about 1 hour and 5 minutes

When they see that your education and first jobs were in the UK they'll know theyre dealing with something they might not understand, and will ask if they want to know more about your education and qualifications. Dont explain it on the Resume. They'll ask that stuff at interview if they want to see you based on your work experience. I too have to deal with that issue; but, like missy, its the other way around. It would be good to keep copies of your scores / degrees / certificates handy and take them with you to interview incase they ask.

The biggest thing I have to say about this topic to anyone writing a US resume for the first time is : CVs are NOT acceptable for most jobs. CVs are for people who are doctors, teachers, scientists, etc., or for people who are well published. Resumes come in all sorts of different shapes and sized so you should check out a "How To" on the web to find out what kind of resume is going to go over best with your target industry.

Thanks Mars, you're always such a big help! You can have a cut of the first paycheck I get

Kingbeast,

Go ahead and put your GCSE's and certificates down -you can explain what they are later like Mars said.  You might consider doing a skills based resume which wil highlight the skills you have rather than the education.  If you google for skill based resume it will pull up several examples.  Also make sure not to include personal info like age, race or religion or anything of that nature.  I have noticed more of a tendency to put more personal things like age on CV's. 

Clearly define your objective and make sure to avoid passive voice. 

Those are just a few additional suggestions!  Good luck! Your job search will depend on the market and your field. 

As always, excellent tips vnicepeeps! I shall be taking your advice when I do my resume too