Presentation Transcript

1. RESUMES & COVER LETTERS

   Julie F. Johnson, Ph.D. Assistant Director Experiential Education and Career Services James W. Stuckert Career Center University of Kentucky January 20th , 2009
2. A successful resume . . . Focuses on skills Uses action words to describe experience Is easy to read and understand Is free of gimmicks Is no more than two pages(one, if possible)
3. A successful resume . . . Is grammatically correct and free of errors Does not use “I,” contractions or abbreviations Is printed on high-quality paper (white/ivory color, 8-1/2x11) Presents information in reverse chronological order (most recent first) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZxsxaFJ3YQ
4. Resume Formats Chronological Format Emphasizes employment history in a progressive sequence Functional Format Emphasized skills, abilities, credentials, qualifications Combination (best of both worlds) Brief synopsis of market value, followed by chronological employment history
5. Content of your Resume Identification/Contact Information Objective Education Professional Experience Skills Awards Memberships/Professional Affiliations Related Activities/Accomplishments
6. Contact Information Name, Address, Telephone, E-mail Avoid nicknames Use a permanent address(may choose to show two addresses) Use a permanent telephone number (check greeting, alert family/roommates) Use an appropriate email address No personal information or pictures
7. Objective An objective tells potential employers the type of work you would like to do. Clear and concise No summaries; no long term goals Tailor your objective to each employer/job you seek Be specific about the job you want
8. Education Degree, major, date received University, City, State GPA if 3.0 or higher May also mention additional education-related items such as academic honors, certificates or licenses, relevant courses, etc., briefly here
9. Sample Entry EDUCATION Bachelor of Arts, Integrated Strategic Communication, May 2006 University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky GPA 3.6 Dean’s List four semesters National Design Award Winner Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges
10. Skills Languages both fluent and conversational Computer programs and systems especially industry specific software or systems (Quark, Photoshop, etc.) Special skills photography, advertising, web, etc.
11. Experience Title of position Name of organization Location of work (city, state) Dates of employment Description of responsibilities using action words, with emphasis on specific skills (bulleted items are best if space allows; not recommended for electronic submission) Who, What, Where, When?
12. Sample Entry EXPERIENCE Publicity Intern, Spring Semester 2006 Department of Theatre University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky Managed publicity for three main stage productions Created marketing plan for on-campus promotions Designed posters and other promotional materials using Quark desktop publishing software Wrote press releases Coordinated print and radio advertising
13. Volunteer Experience Include volunteer experiences where they fit best Related volunteer work may be included under the “Experience” heading and described in the same format Other volunteer work might fit better under “Activities” Make sure headings agree with subjects under them
14. Activities and/or Affiliations List relevant activities and affiliations List positions and participation May include skills acquired and used May include accomplishments
15. References Create a separate page for references Make sure your name is on it(may use same heading as resume) Include name, title, organization, address, phone, and email for each contact (at least 3) Send references only when requested Take copies to the interview
16. References Do not need to say “available upon request” Have references available on separate page Most employers check at least three They should be individuals who can attest to your work habits and qualifications for a particular position Professor, Supervisor, Co-worker, Advisor, Coach, avoid personal references unless specified by employer
17. References ASK before you use anyone as a reference—confirm that they are willing and that they will give a good reference Send them a resume Let them know where you are in the application/interview process
18. Resume Mishaps “Instrumental in ruining entire operation for a Midwest chain store.” “I am a rabid typist.” “Supervised and mentored sex employees.” “It is best for employers that I not work with people.” “Responsibilities included checking people out.”
19. Video with Helpful Hints http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeqJ2Qf3nTM
20. Cover Letter Also called Application Letter Provides a context in which to read your resume Shows your writing style and personality Personal, warm tone—but still professional
21. Cover Letters Full block format (flush left), one page Addressed to a specific individual with his/her correct title and business address Tailored for each situation(know your audience and their needs) Should be work-centered and employer-centered; not self-centered Most important facts first, supported by facts
22. Cover Letter—3 or 4 Paragraphs Introduction, who you are, what you are applying for Summarizes education, background, experience, and strengths in a way that shows how you fit the position Thanks, express enthusiasm, will follow-up, end with a strength