Resumes
If you have not completed your resume, please continue to work on it. If you have completed the resume, print one copy and give to instructor to review.
What do local employers have to say about resumes, cover letters and other items or areas related to the job application process?
Each year we have Advisory Committee Meetings at NWTC. I have provided below some of the highlights of the Career Center Advisory Meetings for the past two years:
Q. Do you have a preferred resume format for job applicants (such as trendy, traditional)?
- Simple, traditional resumes with bulleted items as opposed to long sentences is best.
- Some have an online process that has to be used; however, a resume can be uploaded as part of the process.
Q. Should applicants include a Personal Profile or Summary or Objective statement on the resume?
- Most say those items are not necessary; however, if it is included be sure to user correct grammar, spelling and punctuation.
Q. What sections should be included in a resume and is there a preferred order?
- Some employers want to see job history at the top.
- Want to see a “short and sweet” bulleted list of information and not long sentences to read.
- Not every job needs to be listed.
- Employers use the job history section to look for stability — they don’t want to train you and then have you leave shortly after.
- Some employers want to see involvement in community organizations.
- They want to see references who are not family members.
- Include a certifications section.
Q. Do you want a References section within a resume or on a separate sheet?
- Some want references on the resume.
- Be sure you have asked the references if you can use them and give them a heads up you are applying for a specific job.
- Some employers will call all past employers and if you do not give them permission to call a past employer that is a huge red flag to them.
Q. Do students need a Skills section?
- Only if you have skills that will set you apart from other applicants. Otherwise this will be covered in the interview process
Q. Do you have other advice regarding resumes?
- Have at least one other person proofread your resume! Watch for spelling, grammar and punctuation mistakes!
- Have a resume prepared even if it is not required in the application process. Many online sites will allow you to upload additional documents.
- Have your name in a bigger font so it is easy to find.
Cover Letters
Cover letters are important because they tell employers the type of position you’re seeking and exactly how you’re qualified for it. Your cover letter can also explain things that your resume can’t.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that, along with your resume, is sent with your job application. A cover letter is your chance to tell a potential employer why you’re the perfect person for the position and how your skills and expertise can add value to the company. The letter should be professional but personable, and serve as a sort of introduction.
A lot of job seekers today wonder if a cover letter is still appropriate to send with your resume—and the answer is yes! Even if an employer doesn’t ask for a cover letter, it couldn’t hurt to send one. In fact, it can help you get someone’s attention in a different way, and it can be a great way to display your enthusiasm for the job and company.
Basic Elements of a Cover Letter
The following should be included in the cover letter:
- Your name and address preferably in the header area of letterhead that resembles or matches your resume.
- Current date.
- Name and address of the person/company you are sending the letter to.
- Greeting – Address your cover letter to the proper person.
- Opening – Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph that notes which position you are applying for and how you learned of the job opening.
- Achievements and Skills – Highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you’re applying for. Emphasize additional relevant skills and certifications which show you meet the job requirements.
- Closing: Briefly recap your strengths as a candidate, why you want to work for the organization, a call for action or next steps, and your contact information.
Template for writing your cover letters:
Use the same letterhead format you did for your resume if it is attractive which includes the following in a header section of a Microsoft Word document: Your Name, Street Address, City, State Zip Code, Phone Number, Email address. You will NOT type this information as it appears here with just commas separating each element of the header.
Date
Individual’s Name (at the business you are applying to), Job Title (that individual’s job title within the business)
Name of Organization or Company (company where you are applying)
Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Dear Mr./Ms. WhoEver Is Listed Above (if no name is provided please ask me for help):
First Paragraph: State the reason for writing. Name the specific position or type of work for which you’re applying. Mention how you learned of the opening.
Second Paragraph: Explain why you’re interested in working for this employer and specify how you fit this position. Don’t repeat the information on your resume. Include something special or unique about yourself that will benefit the employer. Remember, the reader will consider this an example of your writing skills.
Third Paragraph: Mention that your resume is enclosed and indicate your desire to meet with the employer. You may want to suggest alternate dates and times, or simply advise them of your flexibility to meet. Include day and evening contact information. Include a statement or question that will encourage the reader to respond. Be sure to communicate your plan to follow up. You might state that you’ll be in the area on a certain date and would like to set up a meeting, or you’ll call on a certain date to set up a meeting. Finally, thank the employer for his/her time.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature in blue or black ink)
Your name
Enclosure
Tips and Tricks for Cover Letters
Check out the following resources on how to write a cover letter:
- CareerOneStop.com – Cover Letters
- Glassdoor.com – How to Write a Cover Letter
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Tips
- Balance.com – How to Start a Cover Letter
Cover Letter Examples
Check out the following examples of how to write a cover letter:
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Examples by Industry
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Samples
- TheBalanceCareers.com – Cover Letter Sample for a Resume
- TheBalanceCareers.com – Sample Email Cover Letter Message
Cover Letter Assignment
Search for a job opening that resembles something you may want to pursue once you have completed your career training. Create a PDF file (ask me how) that has the job opening and job description. Drag that PDF file into the file folder I created for you on the Shared Google Drive.
Create a letterhead using Microsoft Word that will be used in writing your cover letters. You will need to provide your contact information within the letterhead. Be creative but professional. Use the header and footer sections of the Microsoft Word document. After creating the letterhead be sure to save it and upload a copy to the Shared Google drive into the folder I created for you.
Create a cover letter for the job opening that you have found for an acceptable career position of your choice.
Be sure to print and then upload your cover letter to the Shared folder on the Google Drive.