How to Format a Resume Education Section Tips and Examples

How to Format a Resume Education Section Tips and ExamplesHow to Format a Resume Education Section Tips and ExamplesMany job seekers put their resume writing energy into creating the bulk of their resume the experience and skill sections. As a result, the education section becomes a bit of an afterthought. But with applicant tracking systems parsing resumes and analyzing for job description requirements, more attention (and better formatting) should be paid. Were here to set the record straight about how to format your resume education section.What to Include in the Education Section of a ResumeFirst things first. What should be included in your resume education section? Here are the basicsName of InstitutionDegreeSchool LocationYears AttendedFrom there, you can add academic honors, scholarships, and other achievements if applicable. You can also include coursework, but should only if its absolutely pertinent to the job for which youre applying. If you do include coursework, use the titles of each course as a description instead of the course numbers.If coursework doesnt feel like the right fit, consider including relevant projects or groups that you really excelled in. For example, a senior thesis, an initiative to change a school policy, or an impressive on-campus group you headed up. Anything that exemplifies your passions and relates to the job is worth considering.Adding in extra details like coursework and projects is best for job seekers who have recently graduated or have minimal work experience. Well talk more about how to format projects and coursework later.A cover letter is also a great place to expand upon your relevant coursework.As for naming your education section heading? Jobscan sampled a collection of resumes and found that 35% used unconventional titles for their education heading name. These can cause parsing errors in ATS, which lead to unnecessary disqualifications. A simple heading of Education is the best option. It doesnt take up a lot of space and ATS will know exactly how to parse it.Jobscan analyzes your resume against the job description to ensurethat your education section matches the requirements among other checks for job titles, hard skills, measurable results, and other ATS and recruiter best practices.Jobscan parses your resume like an ATS and tells you whether your education is recognizable.Where to Put GPA on a ResumeYou should put your GPA in your education section, next to your major. If youve earned honors at your university (summa cum laude or magna cum laude), those honors should be listed below your majorin italicswith your GPA beside them.Heres how it should lookDePaul University Chicago, IL December 2009-March 2013Bachelor of Arts in English Composition (GPA 3.75)Bear in mind, you should only list your GPA on your resume if it is over a 3.5 and if youre a recent graduate. If youre a recent graduate and your GPA is below 3.5, use the space to talk about an impressive senior thesis project (or something along those lines) instead.How to List a Minor on Your ResumeIf your minor relates directly to the job youre applying for, it may be worth including on your resume. Listing your minor can help highlight relevant skills that can set you ahead of the competition.You should list your minor on your resume just beside your major. For exampleDePaul University, Chicago, IL, December 2009-March 2013Bachelor of Arts, Major English Composition, Minor JournalismIf you are including your GPA, it can go at the very end, beside the minor, like thisDePaul University, Chicago, IL, December 2009-March 2013Bachelor of Arts, Major English Composition, Minor Journalism (GPA 3.75)Resume Education Section FormatMany ATS parse the information from an applicants resume into a digital applicant profile. If your education is formatted incorrectly theres a very good perspektive that information will be parsed incorrectly or left out altogether.Typically, the degree is listed before the school, but if you went to an impressive, Ivy League university, leading with the name of the school cant hurt.Remember, a solid education section will include the name of the school, the degree earned (or major/minor), location of the school and the date of graduation. For exampleBachelor of Arts Theater, Shakespearean, 2016Columbia College, Chicago, ILorMasters of Business Administration, 2014University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VAYou can add societies, activities or relevant coursework if it makes sense to the job for which youre applying. This information can be included at the bottom of your education section, like thisBachelors Degree, Elementary Education and Teaching, 2013Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, INSocieties Delta Delta Delta, Habitat for Humanity, Student Support GroupIf you are still completing your degree, you can list your expected graduation date, but be clear that you havent yet graduated. Like the above examples, you dont need to list the start date (thoug h you can if you prefer). For exampleBachelor of Science Civil EngineeringWashington University, St. Louis, MO.Expected Graduation Date 2019If you went to college but didnt graduate, its still acceptable to include your college education if its relevant for the job requirements just list the number of credits obtained. For exampleUniversity of Miami, Coral Gables, FLEnglish Composition, 65 Credit Hours ObtainedWhere Does the Education Section Go?Where among your resume sections you choose to put your education depends on where you are in your career. For instance, if youre a recent graduate with little to no experience, your education section is your best asset and should be put at the top of your resume (above Work Experience).On the other hand, if you have some professional experience, you should let that be the focus, opting to place your education section below Work Experience.If youve recently gone back to school, you may want to put your education section at the very top. For example, veterans who went to school after transitioning out of the military are advised to put their education above their experience on a military-to-civilian resume.However, if youve returned to school in preparation for a career change but are still looking to work in your current field, keep highlighting your past experience.Organizing Multiple Degrees on a ResumeWhen organizing the different schools you attended, list them in reverse chronological order. In other words, the highest degree earned should be at the top. For example, your masters degree should be listed above your bachelors degree.Have you attended college? If so, you dont need to list your high school degree. Your high school information should only be included if you are still attending high school or college. If youve graduated from college, the higher degree can take the place of your high school degree on your resume.How to Put Study Abroad on Your ResumeAdding a study abroad semester or year to your resume c an show employers that youre a go-getter. This information doesnt need to take up much space, and should be included in the education section as well.The correct place to put study abroad on your resume is just below the university you graduated from. You can format it the same way as you format the other institutions attended. For exampleDePaul University, Chicago, IL, December 2009-March 2013Bachelor of Arts, Major English Composition, Minor JournalismUniversit degli Studi di Firenze, Florence, Italy (Study Abroad) September 2010-December 2010Completed coursework in journalism and international affairs.Became fluent in the Italian languageEverything you include in your resume should relate back to the job youre applying for. Its good to mention coursework and other activities that apply to that job when including your study abroad experience.Resume Education Section ExamplesBachelor of Applied Sciences (B.A.Sc.), International Business, 2013Illinois State University, Bloomington, ILGeorgetown University, McDonough School of Business, 2010-2014Bachelor of Arts, Accounting/FinanceMiami University, Coral Gables, FLBachelor of Arts (B.A.) Social Psychology, 2013Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Magna Cum Laude, 2015Butler University, Indianapolis, INBachelor of Engineering, Civil Environmental Engineering, 2009Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TNUniversity of Cattolica, Milan, ItalyBachelors Degree, Marketing and Finance, 2011Purdue University, West Lafayette, INBachelors Degree, Hospitality Tourism Management, 2012Activities Intercollegiate Quidditch AssociationFordham University, Bronx, NYBS, Business Administration, Finance, 2007-2011A version of this article was originally published on Nov. 24, 2014 by Trista Winnie. It was rewritten on July 26, 2018.

3 things that will make your job hunt much easier

3 things that will make your job hunt much easier3 things that will make your job hunt much easierWhether you just graduated from college or youve been employed but need to change positions, you can do a few things to make the job hunting process easier. The right position probably wont fall into your lap, but you can help attract it to you.You might be happy to learn that it does elend have anything to do with how many high-ranking jobs you have held, nor your years worked. It does have to do with your planning and preparation. Take the following three steps to jumpstart your job hunt.Create a focused, targeted job searchRather than going it alone, marshal all theresources possible to assist you in your search. abflug by registering at your states employment center. Find a support group for career change or job hunting. Youll have others to bounce ideas off of, as well as, get and give encouragement. Check with your university for alumni placement. Your goal is to build a network of support for your job hunt. Do not ignore online groups like those on LinkedIn which can also help you find opportunities.Once you have lined up your potential assistant groups, you need to home in on what you really want to do. Sharpen your focus on what you want to achieve as a new position. Rather than search for a wide variety of listings or advertising yourself as one who can do anything, determine exactly what career you want to develop. Choose one to three jobs you would enjoy in which you already have the skill set or experience, preferably both. For example, you might choose to search only for administrative assistant or personal assistant positions. You may also add social media assistant to that list. Next, you would identify between ten and fifty firms with which you would like to apply. The specificity of your search contributes to its success. Your potential employers will look at your applications, resume and cover letter with an impressed eye to your well-developed j ob search.Develop your resumeCreate a concise butinformative resume using a simple format that uses standard fonts, spacing and colors. Choose a sans serif font. Use a good mix of white space and text. Organize it in an intuitive manner. Even if your career is in design or graphics, resist the urge to use strange formatting. Instead, create an infographic that illustrates your top skills and fits into the scheme of your resume. Use active verbs throughout. Do not keyword stuff but do use accurate keyword terms to communicate your skills. Cut the items that do not contribute to your most recent five to ten years of work. Also, eliminate the items that really belong on the cover letter like the objective. Part ofbuilding your resume is removing the unneeded. Lose your graduation year unless you are a recent graduate. Otherwise, it functions as a way for the potential employer to calculate your age. Remove the list of soft skills. Discuss this in the interview instead. Remove the phras e References available upon request. It is obvious and unnecessary. Provide only your email address and telephone number on your resume. The hiring manager may see an address and nix you because it reflects a potentially long commute.Provide your social media accounts, especially your LinkedIn. If you do not already have a LinkedIn, open an account. They are free and provide a convenient way to connect with other professionals, your college or university and they gear the entire site to professional communication and career only.Do not ignore your cover letterAuthor an amazing basiccover letter that you can tweak for each position. As with the resume, use a standard format. Use the same font as for your resume.Your cover letter amounts to an advertisement for yourself. Pull in your reader with perfect grammar, punctuation and punchy, active verbs. Sell yourself and your skill set. Keep it brief. It needs about 200 to 300 words. Highlight your key skills and tie them to the position available. Avoid sharing too much personal information. Also, avoid saying anything negative about your former employers. This reflects poorly on you, not on them.You can make your job hunt easier with these three steps. Use them to land the position of your dreamsThis article was originally published on YourCoffeeBreak.

How to Put Together a Chronological Resume

How to Put Together a Chronological ResumeHow to Put Together a Chronological ResumeA chronological resume is one of the most common resume formats and theres a good reason for it Employers tend to prefer it because its straightforward and easy to scan. If youve never created a resume before, and youre sitting down to build one from scratch, you probably have a chronological resume in mind. And while that might be the best choice for you, its worth learning what chronological resumes do well - and how to properly format one so that you can use this resume type to best advantage. Reverse Chronological, Technically A chronological resume lists your work history in order of date, with the most recent position at the top. It might include a resume objective or career summary before the list of work experiences. Note Its important to get the facts straight when youre listing your work experience so that the employer wont think that youre lying on your resume should they decide to do a background check. Make sure that the dates, job titles, salary history (if included), etc. are accurate before you submit your resume and application. Education, certifications, and special skills follow work experience in this style of resume. The Benefits of a Chronological Resume The chronological resume is one of the most commonly used styles, and its familiarity alone makes the information easier to absorb. Ideally, it shows the progression of a career clearly. It can be easier to compile, too, since its orientation toward dates helps you to nail down the details of your own job history. When to Use a Chronological Resume As it emphasizes work history, the chronological resume is most effective for candidates with solid experience in the field. By showcasing your work history front and center, you immediately show the employer that you have related experience and skills. When Not to Use a Chronological Resume Although many employers prefer a chronological resume, there are times when its not the right choice. A few examples When youre just beginning your career The chronological resume format will not work well if you are new to the workforce. You may have all the skills required and applicable experience outside the realm of paid work, such as volunteering and internships. But if you choose a chronological resume, the hiring manager will only binnensee your lack of paid work experience, not your abilities. In this case, a functional resume, which emphasizes skills over linear job experience, will help you make your case. When youre changing careers Many employers will put your resume in the no pile if they see that you do not have directly relevant work experience. Choose another style, such as a functional resume that focuses on your skills and experience or a combination resume, which lists both your skills and your work history.When you have gaps in your work history Maybe youve been unemployed for a long period of time, or have taken ti me out of the workforce to care for young children or ailing family members. Regardless of why youve been out of the workforce, choosing a format that displays what you can do, rather than your work history, will help you make the best impression. When youve frequently changed jobs Employee loyalty is a thing of the past, and for good reason very few employers keep workers for the whole of their careers anymore. However, too many job changes can look bad to hiring managers, who dont want to invest time and money training an employee whos going to jump ship. If you have a history of job hopping, a chronological resume probably isnt the best fit. Getting Started Consider using a template to help you create your resume. Templates give you a ready-made layout and guide you through the process of filling it out. Resume examples can help you see what kind of content you should include in your document, and how you should write and format it. Formatting Your Resume Chronological Re sume Sample (Text Version) Jane Applicant999 Chugalug WayWheaton, MA 60187Cell (123) 555-1234jane.applicantemail.comCAREER OBJECTIVEAdministrative coordinator seeks management position with a top corporation that will allow her to utilize her organizational and leadership skills while coordinating workflow and overseeing company logistics.CORE QUALIFICATIONSHighly organized individual able to handle and oversee multiple tasks simultaneously.Experience scheduling employee training classes, staff meetings, and office relocations.Have accurately managed a multimillion-dollar budget.PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCEAdministrative Coordinator, Mannix Services, Naperville, ILDecember 2016 - PresentResponsible for analysis of monthly, weekly, and daily sales reports.Achieved 100 percent accuracy for the past two years.Responsible for scheduling training classes, seminars, and conferences.Administrative Secretary, Minnesota Life Insurance, Barrington, ILJune 2014 - December 2016Oversaw research and d esign of sales and training presentations, requiring fluency in PowerPoint, SlideShare, and Prezi.Responsible for scheduling a three-person training staff.Facilities Assistant, SBC Warburg Dillon Reed, Chicago, ILMay 2012 - June 2014Responsible for balancing a $7 million facilities budget.Scheduled maintenance calls, staff meetings, office relocations, and construction projects.General Manager, KSMR Radio 92.5 AM/94.3 FM, Winona, MNMay 2000 - May 2012In charge of a 36-member staff, as well as a 7-member management team, with duties that included disciplinary actions, budgeting, special requests, program scheduling, and hiring.Chaired a committee that received a grant for increasing station amenities.EDUCATIONBachelor of Arts in Public Relations St. Marys University of Minnesota, Winona, MN Expand

Environmental Careers - Find a Green Job

Environmental Careers - Find a Green JobEnvironmental Careers - Find a Green JobDo you care intenselyabout the earth? Follow your passion and consider one of these environmental careers.People who work in these occupations, also known as green jobs,protect our planet and help repair it. Now, all you have to do is figure out which one of these is theright career for you, and thenfulfill the educational requirementsto reach your goal. These occupations pay well, and some require only an associate degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts they will have an excellent job outlook. Agricultural Engineer Agricultural engineers design farm machinery, equipment, sensors, processes, and structures. They improve the processing of agricultural products and develop ways to conserve soil and water. Earn abachelors degree in engineeringwith a concentration in agricultural engineering if you want to work in this occupation. For jobs that involve working directly with the public, you will als o have to become licensed as aProfessional Engineer. zentralwert Annual Salary (2017)$74,780 Number of People Employed (2016) 2,700 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)8percent (as fast as the average for all occupations) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)200 Conservation Scientist Conservation scientists find ways to utilizeland while protecting the natural resources on it. They work with landowners and governments. A bachelors degree in ecology, natural resource management, agriculture,biology, or environmental science is required to work in this occupation. Eventually, you may want to get a masters degree or doctorate for advancement. Median Annual Salary (2017)$61,480 Number of People Employed (2016)22,300 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)6percent (as fast as the average for all occupation) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)1,400 Environmental Engineer Environmental engineers use engineering principles and their knowledge of biology, soil science, and chemistryto solve en vironmental problems. They have expertise in pollution control, recycling, and public health issues. To work in this field, you will need a bachelors degree in environmental engineering. A professional engineering license is necessary to provide services to the public. Median Annual Salary (2017)$86,800 Number of People Employed (2016)53,800 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)8percent (as fast as the average for all occupations) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)4,500 Environmental Scientist Environmental scientists goal is to identify, abate, or eliminate pollutants and hazards to the environment or the health of the population. They conduct research to help them in this endeavor. It is possible to get an entry-level job with only a bachelors degree, but you will have to continue your education to make yourself a more desirable job candidate for advanced positions. Most employers prefer to hire job candidates who have a masters degree in environmental science, hydrology, or a re lated natural science. Median Annual Salary (2017)$69,400 Number of People Employed (2016)89,500 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)11 percent (faster than the average for all occupations) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)9,900 Environmental Technician Environmental technicians perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and look for sources of pollution. They work under the supervision of environmental scientists. The educational requirements to work in this occupation vary greatly. Most jobs require anassociate degreeor a certificate in applied science or science-related technology. For others, you will need only a high school diploma. There are even some jobs that require a bachelors degree. Median Annual Salary (2017)$45,490 Number of People Employed (2016)34,600 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)12percent (faster than the average for all occupations) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)4,200 Geoscientist Geoscientists study the earths composition, struct ure, and other physical aspects. Some help environmental scientists clean up and preserve the environment. You will need a masters degree to work in this occupation. Your degree can be inphysics, biology, engineering, chemistry, computer science, or mathematics as long as you take classes in geology. Median Annual Salary (2017)$89,850 Number of People Employed (2016)32,000 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)14percent (faster than the average for all occupations) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)4,500 Hydrologist Hydrologists study underground and surface waters. They manage the water supply and solve problems with its quality. It is possible to get an entry-level job with just a bachelors degree. If, however, you want to advance beyond that, a masters degree in geoscience, environmental science, or engineering with a concentration in hydrology or water sciences is required. Median Annual Salary (2017)$79,990 Number of People Employed (2016)6,700 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)1 0percent (faster than the average for all occupations) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)700 Landscape Architect Landscape architectsdesign outdoor areas, for example, residences, parks, shopping centers, school campuses, golf courses, and parkways. Their goal is to make them beautiful, functional, and compatible with the natural environment. To practice this occupation, you will need a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) or a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA). Individuals with bachelors degrees in other subjects can earn a Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) degree instead. Median Annual Salary (2017)$65,760 Number of People Employed (2016)24,700 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)6percent (as fast as the average for all occupations) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)1,600 Urban or Regional Planner Urban or dezentral planners help local governments decide how to best use their land and resources. They develop plans and programs after meeting with government officials, the public, and developers. To work as an urban or regional planner, youmust have a masters degree in urban or regional planning from an accredited graduate program. Your bachelors degree can be in a variety of majors, but studying economics, geography, political science, or environmental design at the undergraduate level can be excellent preparation for your graduate studies. Median Annual Salary (2017)$71,490 Number of People Employed (2016)36,000 Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)13percent (faster than the average for all occupations) Projected Increase in Jobs (2016-2026)4,600 Comparing Environmental CareersRequired DegreeLicenseMedian Salary (2017)Agricultural Engineer BachelorsRequired to work with the public$74,780Conservation Scientist Bachelorsnone$61,480Environmental Engineer BachelorsRequired to work with the public$86,800Environmental Scientist Mastersnone$69,400Environmental Technician Associatenone$45,490Geoscientist MastersRequired to work with th e public in some states$89,850Hydrologist MastersRequired in some states$79,990Landscape ArchitectBachelorsRequired in almost all states$65,760Urban or Regional PlannerMastersnone$71,490 Explore moreCareers By Field or Industry Sources Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor,Occupational Outlook Handbook Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor,O*NETOnline

Resume Objective Examples: the Ultimate Convenience!

Resume Objective Examples the Ultimate Convenience A sample is able to help you decide what type of content you should include, together with how to format your resume. You can also check at any of the samples of several types of resumes for various kinds of careers. Just take a look at these examples. Resume samples are a beneficial way to direct your own writing. Everything about your resume is selling one product you and if you are wanting to work in retail, you want to demonstrate that you understand precisely what is necessary to sell yourself. Resume objectives can be somewhat controversial. Resume objectives often arent the correct choice if you wish to compose a great resume. Its therefore far better to do a little bit of research, instead of waiting longer for work. Your resume can enable you to get your foot in the door, even if do not have any former massage therapy job experience. Currently trying to find a librarian position. Bellow youll find a CV sample, and precious suggestions for your job interview. Before you opt to make an application for work, always make aya your CV is current. A look at the financial analyst job description printed by the employer offers you information concerning the job responsibilities they want the prosperous applicant to do. Its not critical that you include it on your resume, but a lot of employers say that its particularly useful when reading resumes written by university graduates and company professionals which are looking for a change in their careers. Whether youre experienced at work, you have to explain to a prospective employer just what qualifications youve got. The job isnt specific, and even though it includes the businesss name, the employer will just think you would like to work there only for the brand. You must not omit the simple fact that youre preparing a crucial document which will be able to help you to come near the outstanding job proposals. My goal is to find the job. His prima ry purpose, however, is to clearly show his skills as a leader, so he will stand out as the very first pick for a greater level job at the USPS. Now, the function of an excellent Resume is a rather vital component in securing work, especially in the present scenario, when job opportunities come by hard. Possessing a brief statement or overview at the start of your resume is a good way to demonstrate your abilities and experience and show the hiring manager the value which you will bring to the position. Whether you want to open an unaffiliated massage therapy practice or work for somebody elses business, writing your resume is a significant step. Resume writing help can likewise be availed at your neighborhood employment center or college. What Resume Objective Examples Is - and What it Is Not Lists, as a rule of thumb, are also simpler to write. It is possible to also Simple Resume Template. All our resume templates are in Microsoft Word, thats the simplest program to use. Resume templates may also be very beneficial. Resumes are a great absprache more than merely a very simple collection of your prior responsibilities. Receptionist Resume Objectives When you submit an application for a Receptionist position, it is extremely important to personalize your resume so that it reflects skills desired for that specific job. Searching for an entry-level bursar position.

Is it Time to Re-think America#8217;s Position on Work-life Balance

Is it Time to Re-think America8217s Position on Work-life Balance In my usual browsing through Yahoos homepage, I came across an article about shorter work weeks. In high school I remember proposing the idea of a shorter school week to my mother I should only have to go to school Monday through Thursday. Because I had to go to school Friday it cut into my weekend time, truly giving me only two days off as opposed to the three schools led students to believe. And I deserved a full three days off. My mother said no, of curse.But as an adult and now full-time worker, I still support this notion of shorter weeks. And, pertaining to the workweek, not so much because I just want three full days off (I mean who doesnt?), but for a couple important reasons1) How we work is changing. With the addition of technology, especially mobile mediums, its much easier to accomplish tasks from anywhere and at anytime . If were honest, great deals of us go into an office and sit behind a computer for 8+ hours each day. As long as we can access the companys systems outside the office, who needs to physically come into the office each and every single day? Cant we behind a computer in any location?2) The definition of work is evolving. Nowadays its not uncommon to see a man dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, sitting in a coffee shop on his laptopdoing work. Hes a real employee or a geschftliches miteinander owner although his appearance and working conditions are not typical business professional.A worker is not confined to a cubicle or a building, and being employed doesnt always mean a structured 9-5 schedule or having one specific title. To work means many different things.So I, quite naturally, found the article interesting about Mexican telecom billionaire Carlos Slim, the worlds second richest man, saying at a business conference in Paraguay that its time for a radical overhaul in the way people work. (Yahoo quoted him from the The Financial Times. According to the article, Slim said people should work three-days a week, to give employees more time to relax and have a better quality of life. Yet, the catch is shorter workweeks would mean longer work days, i.e. 10-11 hour days, which could delay retirement (to 70-or-75).Now the Yahoo writer did note that although our nations working week timetables need an overhaul, interestingly, this push usually comes from billionaires who dont actually have to work (haha).But is the writer correct in that America does need to update its workweek mandate, especially for the sake (and health) of its workers? After all, Americans typically struggle to find work-life balance and have often been deemed workaholics.The five-day, 40-hour work week, according to the Yahoo article, became the standard in the U.S. in 1938. That was 76 years ago, and as previously stated, the concept of work looks much different now from the 1930s.CNN Money create d an article detailing the 10 industrialized nations where workers have shorter hours than Americans average of 38 hours per week.Countries with the shortest workweeks (average hours worked per week)Netherlands 29Denmark 33Norway 33Ireland 34Germany 35Switzerland 35Belgium 35Sweden 36Australia 36Italy 36And look at some of the things the article had to say about each of the countries listed in comparison to our nationAbout Switzerlands work-life balanceSwiss workers earn nearly the same as the average American worker, but work 155 hours less each year. About a third of them are on part-time schedules.A whopping 79% of the countrys working-age population are employed, the highest of any industrialized nation. In comparison, only about 67% of Americans ages 15 to 65 have a job.About Belgiums work-life balancethe government created career breaks. Every Belgian worker is entitled to a one-year break during their working lifetime. During this time off, the worker receives an allowance fr om the government.Belgian law also entitles workers to 15 weeks maternity leave, 10 days paternity leave, and in addition to that, up to three months parental leave, which can be taken in short increments up to a childs 12th birthday.Belgians work an average of 35 hours a week, and over an entire year, average about 210 fewer hours than American workers.And results from the 2013 OCED Better Life Index also support the evidence above that the U.S. is lagging behind other developed nations when it comes to its policies affecting work-life balance.An article on sfgate.com highlights a few examplesCompared with 36 other nations, the United States is the only country that does not have a national paid leave policy for mothers and fathers after a baby is born.The U.S. ranked 28 out of 36 on the index list of countries with the best work-life balance. Denmark was No. 1, and Canada, New Zealand, Brazil and most European countries all outrank the U.S.The U.S. ranked 14 out of 36, on the inde x list of countries whose people have the highest general satisfaction with life.We all know just how important work-life balance is, and with data showing that nations with shorter workweeks and a focus on quality of life ranking higher in the satisfaction areas, can we assume that America has it all wrong?And this isnt necessarily focused on shortening working weeks, but our countrys views on work-life balance and quality of life overall. We work long hours skip vacation days or if we do take them we work while on vacation and many times put our career demands over our personal lives.And I believe this is largely due to whats been instilled in us from day one You have to work hard to succeed, but somehow weve turned working hard into constantly working. Our nation is so fast-paced everyone has to be doing somethinggrinding, building a brand, networking, etc.and the more demands you have on your plate the better.And for this hustle and busyness we sacrifice family, relationships, a nd sometimes, even our health.With the way the workforce is shifting, i.e. telecommuting, startups, etc.is now truly the time for American workers and employers to adjust their thinking and practices when it comes to work-life balance in the U.S.?