1. Layout, Content and Design
Résumés
Layout, Content
and Design
Prepared by Loyalist College

2. Loyalist College Career Centre
Layout
Loyalist College Career Centre

3. Content: Heading Name Address Telephone Number E-mail Address
Answering machine with a professional message
Address
Professional address
Professional on-line presence
Use the same heading for References and Cover Letter

4. Content: Objective
One to two lines that summarize you and your job search
Optional – if you are looking for anything leave it off
Tailor for each position you apply for
Mention the type of work you are looking for
Full Time
Part Time

5. Content: Objective
Objective
Seeking a full time position in a fast paced, customer service oriented office environment.

6. Content: Skills Focus on job-related, hard skills
Cross reference with the job posting
Use industry ‘buzz’ words
Use strong language such as:
Noted for
Excellent
Proficient
Outstanding
Fluent
Knowledgeable
Achieved
Dedicated
Trained

7. Content: Skills Include industry related skills, including:
Experience with different office procedures
Computer skills *****
Customer service
Administration tasks
Booking appointments
Answering phones, greeting customers
Problem solving, conflict management
Communication and listening skills
Physically fit
General maintenance
Mechanically inclined

8. Content: Skills

9. Content: Education Start with the most recent and work your way back
Do not include anything before high school
May mention special projects, accomplishments or marks
Include any awards you have received

10. Content: Education

11. Content: Related Experience
Career Experience Includes:
Placements, Internships and Co-ops
Volunteer Experience
Related Work History
Include Details Such As:
Job Title
Business / Organization
Location
Dates
Responsibilities
Skills Gained
Accomplishments

12. Content: Related Experience

13. Content: Work History
Does not have to include a list of responsibilities
If unrelated to your career, use to demonstrate your history as a steady and reliable employee
Should include:
Job Title
Employer Name
Location
Dates

14. Content: Work History

15. Design
Use bold, italics and lines to highlight sections, job titles and important areas
Use bullets
Use 12 point font
Select a legible and common font
Keep your résumé to 1 or 2 pages
Ensure the information is easy to read and true
Use a consistent format to make your résumé pleasing to the eye
Avoid using templates
Make it your own

16. Common Errors Spelling mistakes Not including dates Too long
Written in paragraph form
Personal information
Inaccurate contact information
Use of I, my or me
Difficult to read / understand
Too much information / not tailored to position

17. Cover Letters Use a professional business format
Copy your heading from your résumé
Tailor the letter for each position you apply for
Include the employer’s contact name, business name and address
Include the date

18. Cover Letters Three parts:
Opening Paragraph – State why you are writing and how you heard about the position
Second (and Third) Paragraph (s) – Write about the experience and education you have that relates to the position
Closing Paragraph – Summarize your points and ask for an interview, or state when you will follow up

19. Cover Letter: Opening Dear Ms. Jones,
As a student in the Business Administration Diploma Program at Loyalist College, I am currently seeking a summer employment opportunity in a dynamic office such as yours. Please accept my resume as application for a student position within your office for the summer of 2010.

20. Cover Letter: Middle
While a student at Loyalist, I have had the opportunity to gain both theory knowledge and hands-on experience. My classes have taught me the fundamentals of customer service and business applications, while my class projects have taught me the importance of teamwork and organization skills. In addition, as a high school student, I had the opportunity to complete a co-op placement with the City of Belleville, where I learned a great deal about office administration and procedures. Throughout my school career I have maintained part time positions in customer service positions, where I have added cash handling, multi-tasking and teamwork to my skill sets. In addition, I have excellent computer skills, and excel with all Microsoft Office applications.

21. Cover Letter: Closing
I believe my positive attitude would be a strong asset to your staff team. I look forward to the opportunity to meet you in an interview and welcome a phone call at the number above. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Kind Regards,
Jane Smith