It’s Time to Get Noticed!

Lori Sadler

Resume and Cover Letter Tips

What Exactly is a Resume?

A brief document that summarizes your education, employment history, and experiences that are relevant to a particular job

The purpose is to get an interview, not necessarily the job

Think of it as a 30 second commercial where you are selling a product- YOU!

What Should I Include?

Contact Information– Name, address, phone number, email address– Make sure the information is accurate and current

Objective– Short, concise, user-centered statement

State the organization’s name, specific position title, and how you can help the organization reach its goals

– Example- Help ABC Aerospace achieve its mission of designing tomorrow’s technology today by joining the Navigation Software Development Team as a programmer.

What Should I Include?

Education– Name of High School– Date of Graduation (or expected Graduation)– GPA– Example-

Huntsville High School

Advanced Diploma

05/25/2013

GPA- 3.4/4.0

What Should I Include?

Work Experience– Name and location of employer– Dates of employment– Position Title– Include paid or unpaid, full or part-time, permanent or

temporary positions, volunteering, internships, cooperative education, club memberships, etc.

Example- Led 5 community projects for the Anchor Club involving 35 members, with a 30% increase in involvement.

What Should I Include?

Extracurricular Activities– Membership in clubs, organizations, and any

leadership roles Honors & Awards

– Honors, awards, academic achievements, scholarships

Community Service– Voluntary, community, religious-affiliated, civic

organizations

What Should I Include?

Optional Sections (if applicable to the position)– Computer & Technical Skills – Certifications– Hobbies & Interests– Foreign Travel

What Should My Resume Look Like?

No more than one page Use bulleted lists, instead of long sentences or

paragraphs Proofread resume to ensure there are no

spelling or grammatical errors Don’t exaggerate (don’t lie) Use black ink on white, off-white, or ivory

resume paper Use words from job posting

Power Words to Use when Writing Your Resume

Sample Resume for High School Student

Short Video Focusing on Resume Do's & Don't's

Check These Out!!

What Exactly is a Cover Letter?

Document enclosed with resume Typically consists of 3 paragraphs Explains why you are applying for the position Details why you are a great match for the

organization and position States your qualifications for the position Purpose is to get your resume viewed

What Format Should I Use?

Part 1- Heading – Include YOUR

Name Address Phone Number Email Address

– Include the COMPANY’S Contact Name and Title Company Name Complete Address

What Format Should I Use?

Part 2- Introduction– Salutation

Address letter to specific individual if possible As a last resort, use phrase “hiring professional”

– Who you are– Why you are writing– How you learned of the position (did someone refer you?)

Use specific job title and job number, if provided– Why you’re a great match for the company and

available position

What Format Should I Use?

Part 3- Argument– Showcase most relevant skills, qualifications, and

experience you have for the desired job– Convince reader that company will benefit from your

employment– Do not explain your entire resume, use your resume

as a source of data instead– Mention unique attributes that may set you apart

from the competition

What Format Should I Use?

Part 4- Closing– Restate main points – Provide contact information– Thank reader for their consideration– Include a signature block

Contains closing, such as sincerely Your written signature Typed Signature

Cover Letter Tips

Tailor letter to the specific position and organization Use standard professional business letter format Use active voice rather than passive voice Edit carefully to correct any grammatical, spelling, or

typographical errors Use the same paper for resume and cover letter Use spacing for improved organization and readability Use a large envelope for mailing so documents are

not folded to fit in smaller envelope

Check These Out!!!

Cover Letter Samples

Short Video about Cover Letters

Sources

The OWL at Purdue UAB Career and Professional Development

Services DailyMotion