Why build a resume?
Because a well written resume can:
1) Open doors to a wealth of new opportunities.
2) Showcase your strengths, accomplishments and potential — and target your goals —
rather than just listing portions of your past that may be unnecessary or
detrimental.
3) Create a positive and enthusiastic response with both hiring professionals and
managers.
When preparing to start writing your resume, remember that an employer is likely to spend only 15-20 seconds on an initial pass. Your job is to capture his/her attention while encouraging a more in-depth reading.
The basic parts of an effective resume are:
•Strong, clean, visually appealing appearance that invites tired eyes to read.
•A dynamic, powerful initial summary of skills that targets the job goal.
•A strong, well written work history that highlights the last 10-15 years; earlier positions can be included in condensed fashion unless these skills are needed for your current goals.
•A section detailing formal education, professional development (workshops, seminars, or other training that relates to your job goal), and any relevant certifications you have.
•Depending on your level or field, a table or list of specific technical or managerial skills may be useful for a quick scan.
What to include in you resume:
- Summary of you skills
- Employment history
- Education
Typically it should not be longer than one page.
REMEMBER: The resume is a tool used to sell yourself to a potential employer. Include relevant information in an efficient way.
For a sample resume check out this website: http://www.colsd.org/chs/culminating/pdf/Resume_Sample.pdf
another example:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/350689/resumeCoverLetter
Writing a Cover Letter
A cover letter is used as a more personal introduction and should accompany your resume. It is not necessary to provide a cover letter to potential employers if you have been approached by the them, however, if you are initiating contact, a cover letter would be appropriate.
The letter should include an introduction, your qualifications and a plan of action. In the introduction indicate how you came upon the position you are applying for. In the qualifications section highlight what you can bring to the company. To wrap up the letter state the actions you are going to take in the following days. Tell the potential employer when you will contact them. Also in this section indicate you are looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how you can contribute to the success of the organization.
It is important to balance the tone of your cover letter. You want to be professional and cautiously assertive. It is important to focus on the employers needs, emphasize what you can bring to the company.
Interviewing Tips
Look at interviews as the chance, think it as an opportunity to present you to a company. It is a chance for you to prove yourself in front of the interviewer, so you should come with full preparation.
Some common questions you should have prepared for any interview:
"Where would you like to go from here in your career. How do you plan to accomplish that?"
"What kinds of material do you feel you learn best?"
"How do you react when someone criticizes you?"
"What do you do when you have to make an important decision?"
If keep these questions in mind when you have an interview you will be successful in any interview.
