Resumes
A resume is a tool used to increase your chances of obtaining a job interview. When writing a resume your objective should be to tell an employer what you could do for him with the experience you have acquired.
The Five W's of a Resume:
Who you are
What you know
What you have accomplished
What you would like to do
What you can offer to an employer
Also remember the following:
Dos
- Choose an uncluttered format
- Keep resume as short as possible (one or two pages)
- Incorporate phrases rather than prose and complete sentences
- Describe skills in a way that is applicable to other jobs and fields
- Use good -quality paper
Don'ts
- Do not mention your last salary or how much you expect to earn
- Do not mention reasons for leaving previous job or for gaps in your employment history
- Do not use personal pronouns
- Do not give references on resume, but be prepared to supply them
Helpful Websites for Resumes
http://jobsmart.org/tools/resume/index.cfm
General site with information about resumes
http://www.knox.edu/x1069.xml
This site offers guidelines for the effective writing and polishing of resumes. Attention to specific details such as: page limit, style of resume formatting, and chronology are covered in this site.
Sample of resumes tailored to specific majors are also available.
http://www.master-of-writing-resumes.com/links.html
This site contains a variety of helpful links dealing with resumes and cover letters.
Links for editing services are also provided
http://www.jobweb.com/Resources/Library/Samples/Four_Sample_Resumes_68_01.htm
Offers four sample resumes, each with a different format
Letter Writing
Written communication that may be sent to employers include:
Letter of Application
This letter always accompanies your resume and is designed to bring your candidacy to the attention of the reader.
Letter of Appreciation (after an interview)
Expresses you appreciation for the interview and is a common sign of business courtesy.
Should be written within two days of initial interview.
Letter of Appreciation (after you receive an offer of employment)
Designed to confirm your receipt of the offer and to indicate your interest in the offer. This letter normally informs your employer of the date by which you expect to make your decision.
Letter Seeking Additional Information
This type of letter may be written anytime, but most often it is written after a job offer is received and you need more information in order to make your decision.
Letter Inquiring about Status
Used to inquire about the status of your application and to express your continued interest in employment.
Letter Accepting Position
This letter refers to the offer and outlines the date of employment, confirms date of reporting to work, and expresses your appreciation and pleasure to join the organization.
Letter rejecting Offer of Employment
In this letter you must always be positive in rejecting the offer. Remember to express your appreciation.
