Résumé Tips

Your résumé should be a one- to two-page reflection of your strengths, skills, talents, education and qualifications. Quantify statements with examples.

The cover letter should not be a repetition of your résumé. The cover letter should tell prospective employers about your work experience and career highlights as they pertain to the position you are applying for.

Having an outstanding and professional résumé along with a well-written cover letter will leave a positive first impression and prompt employers to interview you.

Résumé Content Tips

• Use chronological résumé listing your most recent job first.
• Use bulleted statements to describe your job duties.
• Use a professional typeface on white or ivory paper in black ink.
• Use keywords to describe your skills that match from the job description or ad.
• Proofread by reading your résumé and cover letter aloud and also use the spell-check function on your computer.
• Verify spellings of companies, people and places.
• Stay away from lengthy sentences or too much jargon.
  If you must use abbreviations, include the complete description prior to the abbreviation.
• Be truthful and accurate.
• Don't falsify education or experience.
• Don't include personal information - height, weight, SSN, political interests, religion, etc.

Cover Letter Tips

• Describe your experience and why you are a good fit for the position.
• Personalize and tailor the letter to the specific position and company.
• Include in the letter how you found out about the position.
• Proofread the letter including the recipient's name, title and address.
• Use the same professional typeface as your resume on white or ivory paper in black ink.