Résumé and Cover Letter Basics
Résumés
- Should be no more than 2 pages.
- Employer will scan for 7-10 seconds.
- Impress the employer in first 2/3rds of page.
- Profile is preferred over an Objective.
- Font size between a 10-12 point
- Must be free of all grammatical and typing errors
- Use action/value statements to describe your work experiences and skill sets
- Use bulleted points starting with a verb, e.g. developed, supervised, planned, organized
- Organize your information under headings so the employer can easily follow your résumé
- Avoid using: the personal pronoun "I"; "My duties included..." or "Responsible for..."
- Avoid abbreviations
- If résumé is two pages, make sure your name appears on the top of Page 2
- Should include a minimum 2, preferably 3 references. (Teacher, employer, minister etc)
- Never include SIN, DOB, Race, Religion etc.
- Remember to spell check, have someone else review.
Cover Letters
- 1st paragraph: The position you are applying for.
- 2nd paragraph: Discuss your employability skills.
- 3rd paragraph: Thank the employer and request an interview.
- Cover letters should be only 1 page, and each paragraph should be around 4-6 lines.
- Address your letter to the person in charge of hiring
- Centre your letter on your page (equal amount of white space at top and bottom of page)
- Customize a letter for each position you are applying for
- Don't repeat résumé, explain why you are the best fit
- Be specific, saying you have skills is fine, but back it up with specifics from your experience
For more assistance, visit one of The Work Rooms, located at Simonds High School, Kennebecasis Valley High School, Belleisle Regional High School or Sussex Regional High School or visit www.careersthatwork.ca.