Writing a Resume Geography 494 Internship

Overview Preparation Resume categories Types of resumes Writing a cover letter Writing a thank you letter

Preparation The most effective resume emphasizes individual experience in relation to position and employer requirements. Before preparing your rough draft: Clarify your job objective Know the qualifications for the position you are seeking Research the organization Keep in mind: Employers require a resume to determine who will be interviewed An effective resume increases your chances of being interviewed Preparing a resume helps you define your qualifications and skills Defining your qualifications assists you in interviewing effectively A letter is mailed with a Letter of Application

Characteristics of a Successful Resume Focuses on skills: Uses action words to define the responsibilities of your job- related experience Easy to read and understand Visually powerful and free of gimmicks One page, or at most 2 pages long Language is grammatically correct Spelling has been checked

Resume Categories Identifying Data (do not use headings – Name, Address, etc.) Education Honors Experience (as much information here as possible): Use action verbs (see list). You want to convey what you personally did and what was your level of responsibility. Include all relevant summer, part-time and volunteer work experiences. Professional Development: include memberships in professionally related organizations or training related to your field (ESRI Online classes are a good example) Special Skills: e.g., computer languages, fluency in foreign languages, public speaking, etc. Activities/Interests: Include activities which called for leadership on your part Personal Data (Optional): Include ONLY if it is a bona fide qualification for the position. It may include items such as citizenship or willingness to travel or relocate

Types of Resumes Chronological:

Types of Resumes Functional:

Types of Resumes Combined:

Writing a Cover Letter Name of Contact Person & Title Organization Street Address City, State ZIP Dear (contact person): Opening Paragraph: Name the job for which you are applying. Tell how you learned about it. Mention the name of the person (if any) who referred you to the organization and vacancy- preferably a colleague of the contact person. Body Paragraph(s): Critical content section which makes meaning of your resume. Emphasize skills or abilities you have that relate to the job for which you are applying. If you have had relevant work experience or related education, be sure to point it out, but do not reiterate your entire resume. Explain why you are interested in working for this employer and specify your reasons for desiring this type of work. Be sure to communicate confidence. Remember that the reader will view your letter as an example of your writing skills. Closing Paragraph: You may refer the reader to your enclosed resume and whatever media you are using to illustrate your training, interests and experience. Call him/her on a designated date, or within a specified time period, to set up an interview at his/her convenience. Sincerely, Your name typed Your address Your phone number or fax number Enclosure(s)

Writing a Thank You Letter Name of Contact Person & Title Organization Street Address City, State ZIP Dear (contact person): Body Paragraph(s): One short paragraph thanking them for considering you for the position. Try and bring up what you think is one important item you discussed in the interview. Let them know they can contact you if they have any questions. Sincerely, Your name typed Your address Your phone number or fax number Enclosure(s) BE UNIQUE AND WRITE ONE OF THESE!!

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