Writing an Effective Resume and Cover Letter Career and Professional Planning

Presenters Erick Larson, Manager Career Advising & Professional Development

Career and Professional Planning (CAPP) We help students with all aspects of the job and internship search process, as well as serve as a resource for service-learning and other experiential education opportunities.

Overview of Workshop Resumes, Cover Letters and Interviewing Techniques  Basic outlines  Philosophy and purpose  Common pitfalls The Next Step

Purpose of a Resume A self-marketing tool. Represents YOU—your accomplishments and skills. Summarizes what you have to offer employers—your unique selling points—in an easy-to-read format.

Basic Resume Outline

How we read resumes…. Top to bottom, left to right 10-second glance, most recent and relevant Important information needs to be found easily and quickly!

Resume as Map: Make it easy for your reader! Bold, italics, underline Font size Category headings Order of categories Use of white space Bullets Don’t “lose” the employer in a maze of job descriptions and extracurricular activities.

Common Pitfalls of Resumes Manger for manager: Failure to proofread! Microsoft Word or other widely distributed templates.

Microsoft Template

Resume Pitfalls: Objectives Too specific: A mechanical engineering position at Micron Too vague: A summer internship where I can gain valuable work experience. Leave off objective. This information is already in your cover letter. Mention field: A human resources internship for summer 2005.

Resume Pitfalls: “Special Skills” DON’T: List subjective, vague skills – Sample: Good people skills, excellent teamwork capabilities, enthusiastic, hard worker. DO: List concrete, job-specific skills – Computer Skills – Certifications – Languages – Skills relevant to field

Resume Pitfalls: Not Making the Most Out of Your Experiences Use strong action verbs and key words to describe your work experience. Numbers count! Create a section of “Projects” or “Course Highlights” to show specialized knowledge in your field. Don’t forget about extensive volunteer or extracurricular activities. - Use these “experiences,” even if you were not paid.

Volunteer and Extra-Curricular Activities as Experience: Examples Treasurer, Delta Chi Fraternity (2004-Present)  Manage over 100 active accounts receivable for members on campus.  Manage and prepare payroll and benefits for nine employees.  Work with collection agency to collect delinquent accounts. Student Alumni Relations Board (2003-Present) Committee chair responsible for coordination of “Graduation Salute” event. Assist with organization, planning, and execution of campus events such as Homecoming and Moms’ Weekend.

Putting It All Together: Before

Putting It All Together: After

Cover Letters: What Your Resume Can’t Do Show writing ability. Demonstrate specific interest in the organization and position. Allow for greater personalization.

Basic Cover Letter Outline

Sample Cover Letter

Cover Letter Pitfalls: No Personalization DON’T use the same letter to apply for all positions. DO your research and tailor your letter to the position and the organization: – “Based on the project descriptions, it is clear that my skills and experience would be a valuable contribution to your program. Both the University Residences and Commons projects, for example, will require a complete analysis of student, faculty, and staff needs.” – “I am very interested in an internship position with your agency. I was impressed with your recent campaign for Nike, and I would enjoy the opportunity to work in such an innovative environment.”

Cover Letter Pitfalls: Generic Statements Avoid vague clichés: – “I am a hard worker and a good team player.” – “I have excellent problem-solving skills.” Use specific details and examples. – “One project in particular demonstrates my teamwork skills. Last year, I participated in a robotics design competition with four other students….” – “My strong background in accounting would be a valuable addition to your team. As an office assistant for ABC Rentals and Sales, I was responsible for accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and quarterly reports. I have also completed several upper-division accounting courses.”

Cover Letter Pitfalls: No Action Plan DON’T wait for the employer to take the next step: “Thank you for reading the enclosed application materials. I look forward to hearing from you about the opportunities available at Micron.” DO be proactive and suggest a plan of action: “Thank you for reading this letter and my resume. I shall call you the week of February 7 to discuss opportunities at Micron and the possibility of an interview.”

What Now?: Taking the Next Step Review sample resumes for more ideas. – Websites: VandalTRAK.com and Jobweb.com – CAPP Library: Resume guides and student samples Sign up for an individual resume review with a career advisor at Career and Professional Planning. Participate in a resume clinic. Send it out! Visit Career and Professional planning for suggestions on how to begin your job search.