1. Preparing “Perfect” Resumes and Cover Letters
MARKETING YOURSELF
Preparing “Perfect” Resumes and Cover Letters

2. Primary Purpose-to get an interview
There’s no “best” or “right” way to do a resume
Think of it as your sales sheet with you as the product
The key is to present you and your qualifications in the best possible light. ..
And make the reader want to know more.

3. What do you think of the two attached resumes?
If you were a hiring manager, which impresses you more?
Im A. Sample I or Im A. Sample II both on the website

4. Im A. Sample I
This is a resume wizard-DON’T use one
Difficult to read, uses unusual fonts and spacing, won’t scan or copy well
Doesn’t allow you to present yourself in the best possible light
Employers simply don’t like them!
Resume doesn’t highlight strengths
Contact information is almost impossible to read
Objective is too vague—doesn’t describe the type of work the candidate is seeking

5. Im A. Sample II
This sample does everything right
Has a good, strong objective
Doesn’t use italics or underlining, uses a basic straightforward font in a size that makes it easy to read
Uses action phrases to describe work experience and highlight strengths
Contact information is easy to find
Recruiters or hiring managers are very likely to want to pursue this candidate

6. Chronological
Resume
Presents your work history working backwards from your current position
Works well with solid work experience related to your field
Chronological Resume, Definition, Format, and Examples
Fundamentals of a Good Chronological Resume for Job Seekers

7. Functional
Resume
Lists major skill areas and presents accomplishments to illustrate proficiency in each area
Best when there are significant gaps in work history or experience is in academic projects or volunteer activities
Resume Format Tips for Functional Resumes

8. Choose headings that reflect your experience and are relevant to your career goal
Examples include:
Objective
Summary of Qualifications
Education
Professional Experience
Professional Accomplishments
Work History
Community Involvement
Computer/Technical Skills
Professional Organizations
Collegiate Activities

9. Things You Should Always Do
Be consistent in format, style, sequence
Keep it brief, concise, and easy to read
Use an easy to read font such as Times New Roman, Garamond, Arial, Helvetica, Calibri, or Georgia
Lead with your strengths and emphasize what you have to offer in the best possible light
Make sure your resume is ERROR FREE

10. Tailor your resume to highlight your skills and experience relative to the position you are applying for.
Identify key skills and keywords; be sure to weave these into the resume.
Create a “long version” of the resume with everything on it. Tailor it for each position using the information that’s relevant.
Customize Your Resume for Best Results
The One-Size-Fits-All Resume Usually Fits Nothing
Resume Critique Checklist

11. Things You Should Never Do
Use a resume wizard or template
Reduce the font below 11 (12 is ideal)
Include salary information
Reveal political or religious affiliations
Include so much detail that you lose the reader’s interest
Submit a resume that’s not your best effort

12. If you worked at a job for a couple months, it’s acceptable to leave it off your resume. But, you must list it in the application.
The application is a legal document. If you embellish the truth or leave information off, you’ve falsified the application. You can be fired for this.
Can I Leave a Job Off My Resume?
Lying in Your Job Search: Where’s the Line?
Can I Be Fired for Lying on My Job Application?
Biggest Lies Job Seekers Tell on Their Resumes—and How They Get Caught

13. Cover letters are just as important as the resume
Always send a cover letter when sending your resume to an individual or organization
Direct the reader’s attention to specific strengths related to the organization or position
Many companies won’t look at the resume is if the cover letter is poorly written

14. Critical Elements to a good cover letter
Demonstrate your written communication skills and knowledge of accepted business practices
Demonstrate your ability to persuade/convince the reader of your value
Highlight strengths related to the position
Communicate your value in understandable, concise, and professional way-one page, 3-4 paragraphs
Don’t Use a Generic Cover Letter, tailor each cover letter to the position you are applying for
How to Write a Cover Letter That Practically Guarantees You an Interview
5 Ways Your Cover Letter Might Be Hurting You

15. Resources