Writing Effective Resumes and Application Letters

1. Writing Effective Resumes and Application Letters Writing in CSD

2. How not to get the job/How not to get accepted • Little or no knowledge of the company/organization/program • Unprepared to discuss skills and experience • Unprepared to discuss career plans and goals • Limited enthusiasm • Limited eye contact

3. Application Letters and Resumes • Usually the initial contact with the potential employer; sometimes required by schools • Your opportunity to link your skills and experience with what the company is looking for or what the program offers • Must be crafted carefully and contain no grammatical/spelling errors

4. Application Letters • Introduction • Purpose of letter • Overall qualification for job/program • Body paragraphs • Key qualifications – be selective and detailed • Conclusion • Thanks the reader for consideration • Indicates interest in position/program • Provides contact info

5. Resumes • Vital stats: Name, address, phone, email • Education • Experience • References (optional)

6. Resumes • Should be visually appealing • Should be easy to read • Should be updated often • Should be tailored to the situation each time you send it out