Information about Resumes & Cover Letters
Your resume is a professional summary of your education and experience related to the type of employment you are seeking. The goal of your resume is to demonstrate to potential employers that you would be vaulable to their organization.
Remember, your cover letter and resume will continue to transform to fit the position you are applying for throughout your lifetime.
Below are several RESOURCES to help you with your resume and cover letter.
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Guide to Resume Writing - Several helpful tips, worksheets/ checklists and examples that will assist you whether you have nothing or just want to revamp your resume.
- Teacher Education Resume Packet - Information specifically targeted for students entering the Education field.
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Guide to Writing Cover Letters- Several tips and examples of cover letters, internship letters, thank you letters and more...
What is a resume?
A resume is a concise written statement which highlights the qualifications and skills you possess as a result of your life experiences.
It communicates a maximum amount of relevant information through a minimum number of words. A resume is a printed synopsis, a capsule biography designed to persuade an employer to grant you an interview or to request your formal application.
Who should have a resume?
Everyone! In today's tough job market, the average individual changes jobs at least once every 4-6 years. The primary tool used by almost every employer to weed out prospective employees is the resume. The resume is your entry ticket to the job game.
When should I begin putting my resume together?
Now! A resume is something that grows and changes as you do. It's never too early to get started.
A well-prepared resume is a necessary tool for effective employment seeking. The time and effort devoted to resume preparation is a worthwhile investment in your future. Another major advantage to developing your own resume is that the very discipline required to collect, analyze, and prepare your data for writing provides the opportunity for necessary self-assessment. In addition, you will be better prepared to interview effectively with your educational and employment history at your fingertips.
Where to start?
Think of your resume as an advertisement. Before you write the advertisement, you must know what the product is that you are selling. You are the product! Make sure that you can clearly state what the benefits of this product are: your skills, abilities, competencies, motivation, and potential. Start by sketching your past work and educational experience.
Do not worry about form, that will be covered later. The important thing is to create a pool of information on which to draw. The best resumes are those that target the employer's needs. Do a little research into the employer's needs. This can be done through the job referral itself, annual reports and other publications by the employer, and publications in the Career Services Library.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact:
Career Coordinator & Academic Advisor:
Colleen Smith
Academic Resource Center
Taylor 306
970.943.7122
csmith@western.edu
