RESUME & COVER LETTER
A student or recent college graduate may feel the task of creating a resume and cover letter difficult and time-consuming. Also with minimal experience in the workforce, there can be hesitation that poses challenges in building a resume and writing a cover letter. The lack of work experience should not be an intimidation factor or hindrance for students.
RESUME
Standout Resume
1. Writing Basics- Keep format and the layout basic
- Keep font and text easy to read
- Use relevant information
- Recent appears first
- Avoid using I's
- Focus on actions verbs
- One page recommended, two maximum
- Internship/Co-op
- Activities
- Academic organizations
- Sports teams
- Greek organizations
- Volunteer work
- Leadership roles
- Step outside of self
- Resume should speak to job description.
- Use key words, phrases, thoughts, skill sets
COVER LETTER
Writing for the Job
1. Research
- Do homework
- Know the organization
- Know the job/position
- Understand the culture
- Understand the industry
2. Arrangement
- Clear beginning, middle and end
- Customize for each company or organization
- Proofread
- Use professional e-mail address
3. Sales Pitch
- Put emotion into it
- Be personal salesperson
4. Cover Letter vs. Personal Statement?
- Cover Letter written for them (Employer), more direct to the organization and position
- Personal Statement written for you, more general