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Your resume and cover letter are the keys that can open the door to your next job and future career. Make sure your resume and cover letter are working for you. Read the packet of materials using Acrobat Reader Resume Writing packet or make an appointment with the Coordinator, Career Planning and Placement kierardi@capecod.edu.
In order to be selected for an interview, from possibly hundreds of other resumes, your resume must:
- sell your abilities and accomplishments (be your own advertising agent - be persuasive, and highlight your best self)
- include important information such as your name, address, and contact information
- contain content that demonstrates your qualifications for the position, including your formal education, experience, skills, and achievements
- use action or power verbs to sell your skills and accomplishments
- be professional looking - print your resume on a neutral-colored, high-quality bond paper (and use matching envelopes)
- be easy to read - use lots of white space, an 11 or 12 point professional serif font, consistent design themes, and descriptive titles
- be brief - keep your resume to just one-page in length
- be perfect - proofread, proofread, proofread!
Your cover letter must:
- accompany each resume you send to a potential employer
- be tailored to the job you are applying for - each cover letter should be individually crafted - if you are applying for 100 jobs, you should have 100 different cover letters!
- be written in a professional business letter, block format
- be professional looking - use the same high-quality bond paper, and the same 11 or 12 point professional, serif font that you used for your resume
- have correct contact information - use the precise name, title, correct spelling, and address of the person who has the ability to hire you when addressing your letter
- contain three or four well-written paragraphs that clearly articulate: what position you are applying for, how your qualifications and experience are a strong match for that position, that you are well informed about the field/company/organization you are applying to, and your desire for an interview
- present new information - don't just reiterate what is on your resume
- be brief - limit your letter to just one page
- be perfect - proofread, proofread, proofread!
For more information on resume and cover letter writing try some of these resources. |
