Resumes and Cover Letters

Resumes

Resumes should be job-targeted and achievement-oriented.

• Construct a general resume that includes everything.
• Target the job you are applying for by reading the job posting well, researching the organization and then cutting and pasting only the items that would make your candidacy for that job stand out.
• Do not just list job duties. Note what you did well, and who told you that you were great at those components.
• Resume samples:
  • Experienced Resume
  • Senior Resume
  • Standard Freshman Resume

Cover Letters

Cover letters only require three or four paragraphs and none of them should start with "I".

• First Paragraph
  What this letter is, the job it is for, and name-dropping.
• Second Paragraph
  Why you want to work for that particular organization and how your KSA's fit the organization's needs in those areas. Try not to repeat what is on your resume.
• Closing Paragraph
  Thank the person for reading, let them know how interested you are in the job and in explaining more in an interview. If appropriate, let them know you will call in two weeks if you have not heard from them.
• Sample Cover Letter Template