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Welcome Huskies! - Introduction

The first thing you should know about a resume or applying for a job is the proper order. First and foremost is SCHOOL. These days a college degree is a must for almost every job field, even flipping burgers! Second is the application process, you need to apply or attempt to apply before your ready to hand in a resume; although it's a good idea to have a digital copy of the resume because employers today tend to have you paste it into their online applications. A resume is your third and most crucial step because it's your chance to shine, not to mention the fact that if you're handing in a resume you're more than likely being interviewed! A resume is then followed up with a call or thank you note that a majority of people neglect to do, this is the last step of the process and is what keeps you fresh in the mind of the employer above those who didn't take the time for this extra step. It also has been proven to bump individuals who they planned on calling back out of their minds to be replaced by you!

To start the process of creating the perfect resume and cover letter please read the following articles. To jump straight to a particular section use the links below.

AND REMEMBER; always dress nice for a job interview - No matter what job it is. What is required for senior exhibition is perfect for an interview.

Common Mistakes To Avoid On A Resume

The first thing you should know about a resume is that it's not a speedy process. You need to brainstorm and plan what you will ultimately include in your resume and tailor it to boast your background. A resume is a "sells brochure" that when done properly sells you to the employer. Keep in mind even though you spend a lot of time on a resume, hiring managers will typically spend less than five minutes reviewing it. If your resume has any glaring errors, employers will waste no time deleting it.

For help setting up and tailoring a perfect resume please read the following articles (simply click on the links).

• 11 Common Mistakes To Avoid On A Resume - As well as first hand tips, advice, and solutions.
• Questions and Answers About A Resume - The golden rules for great resume.

Common Mistakes To Avoid On A Cover Letter

Too often, job seekers treat cover letters as afterthoughts or ignore them altogether. By including a cover letter with every resume you send, your chances of landing an interview will increase; it's that extra step that employers will admire.

For help setting up and tailoring a perfect cover letter please read the following articles (simple click on the links).

• Questions and Answers About A Cover Letter - The golden rules for great cover letter.

Resume Samples and Guides

Click on the picture to the left to view the resume and step by step advice on how to set yours up.

	Generic Resume This is a generic resume similar to the one you will be doing for senior exhibition, this resume is set up to maximize an overall presentation of you. It is recommended that you save a digital copy of this resume that you can alter or tailor for a specific job you are trying out for. Pay close attention to how stuff is ordered, this is done in a fashion that entices the employer to keep reading.
	First Time, No Experience Resume This is a twist on the generic resume that is perfect for High School graduates that have little or no job experience, including volunteer work. It simple requires a bit of tailoring to target the specific job you are trying out for.
	First Time, College Experience Resume This resume takes the structure of the "First Time, No Experience Resume" and tailors it to show off your skills and abilities as a College graduate. It simple requires a bit of tailoring to target the specific job you are trying out for.
	New Line Of Work Resume This resume is perfect for those trying to get into a line of work that is different than their past work experience. This is normally for adults looking for full time employment, but is great for students with work experience because it allows them to tailor it to show how it really makes them qualified for this position.
	Military Resume This resume is for the men and women who are returning or leaving active duty for a civilian job. It places emphasis on presenting you and your abilities with having little or no experience outside of the military workforce.

Resume Vocabulary

Proofread your resume every time one is printed and when possible have someone else proofread it as well. Try to use past tense active verbs such as:

Achieved	Adapted	Advised	Assisted	Built
Completed	Controlled	Convinced	Coordinated	Created
Decided	Delivered	Designed	Developed	Directed
Established	Established	Generated	Guided	Improved
Implemented	Initiated	Learned	Led	Maintained
Managed	Operated	Organized	Performed	Persuaded
Planned	Produced	Reduced	Repaired	Researched
Supervised	Trained

But remember be honest and truthful in your resume, and avoid trying too hard to add these words or any other flare.

Cover Letter Samples and Guides

Click on the picture to the left to view the Cover Letter and step by step advice on how to set yours up.

	Generic Cover Letter (Outline) This is a generic outline for a cover letter. It is the building block for any cover letter you will make in the future and is similar in style to the letter of introduction required for your senior exhibition.
	Specific Cover Letter This cover letter has a straight to the point style that puts your experience forward and shows that you're the one for the job. It's best used for when you know the exact job you are applying for and have at least a little experience/ skills and abilities that the job requires.
	College/ High School Grad Cover Letter This is a cover letter that is specifically tailored to show off your skills and abilities as a College or High School graduate. It's perfect for people applying with little or no On-the-Job experience.
	Follow Up Letter This is a simple follow up letter that can be used to keep in touch with the employer. It’s a highly valuable tool that reminds the employer about you and can bump your application back to the top.

Acknowledgements

These resources were complied and put together by Chris Keers (North Alumni 2009). It features advice and samples complied by Gregory Ramirez (Job placement Technician, Riverside City College), reproduced here with his permission.

- Resources are to be used for educational purposes only. Printouts for students/ teachers and classroom use is acceptable, no other reproductions may be made without consent. Please cite this source accordingly. -

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