Employment Preparation
Resume Writing
A resume is a document that is your brochure for employers; therefore, it is used to present your skills, education and work experience. Resumes are an integral part of the modern day job search. This marketing tool is customizable, so it can highlight the skills that each company representative will find most appropriate for their needs.
Three Common Resume Types
- Reverse Chronological Resume
The reverse chronological resume is good for people who have a strong consistent work history; therefore, this type of resume will reveal gaps in employment.
- Combination Resume
The combination resume is a good choice for those who wish to highlight both required skills and a consistent work history with no gaps.
- Functional (or Skill-based) Resume Resume
The functional resume is the best choice for people with a work history that includes gaps. This resume can be difficult to write because it is dependent on what you can do rather than what you have done.
Tips for writing a good resume
- Use active language, and be specific about your duties and accomplishments. Remember to use past tense for jobs wherein you no longer work and present tense for your current employment.
- Write your resume for the recruiter. This means you clearly communicate the job title in the objective, and sell your skills that they are looking for in the first third of your resume.
- Use 12-point font: Times New Roman, Arial, or Garamond.
- Resumes should be one page for job seekers with limited work experience (spanning 7-10 years)
Samples of resumes for your review:
Cover Letters
A cover letter is used as a vehicle to highlight the skills that are not mentioned in the resume but are pertinent to the position for which you are applying. The contents of the resume should not be restated in the cover letter; rather, the cover letter should elaborate concepts in the resume.
A cover letter (also called a letter of application or a letter of introduction) is usually divided into three parts:
- Introduction
In the introduction, clearly state what the position of interest is and where the position was found (e.g. classified ads or job board).
- Body
In the body of the letter, describe why you are the most qualified applicant for the position. Focus on the skill sets you may bring in which are important to the position.
- Closing
In the closing, suggest an interview to discuss your qualifications.
Tips for writing a good cover letter
- Keep the cover letter short and simple.
- Always try to get the name and address of the position's contact person.
- Stay away from using, “To Whom it May Concern.”
- Proofread your cover letter as it is used as a test to see the efficiency and clarity of your written communication skills.
Sample of a cover letter for your reVIew:
Preparing for the Interview
Being prepared for the interVIew shows your potential employer that you are serious about obtaining the position for which you have applied.
Be sure to:
- Plot out your driving route (or other transportation) to the interVIew location beforehand.
- Find out how long your commute is to the interVIew prior to the interVIew day.
- ReVIew the vacancy announcement to which you applied, your resume, cover letter and application.
- Make notes of your skills that match the job requirements.
- Map out your weaknesses and strengths that do not impact the essential functions of the job.
What to wear
Clothing and presentation are other forms of communication. Dressing appropriately shows the potential employer that you are taking the meeting seriously.