Ways to help students to develop a powerful, engaging, and professional resume and cover letter I start off by having the student submit what they think a resume and cover letter is. Once reviewed one on one, the student and I conduct mock interviews to help them realize what they did or didn't include in there resume and why it would or wouldn't be important.
Yes, a few different types of resumes/cover letters are used because it's usually very hard just focusing on one. The students who are venturing in different areas finds this to be helpful in getting a clearer picture of how their resumes/cover letters should look.
thanks.
Selimah,
Do you do a few different types of resumes/cover letters? I find it helps for them to see various styles and options..also, how the resume/cover letter can look different depending upon the kind of job you're applying for.
Elizabeth Kemler
I printed out a sample of a resume and cover letter and allow the students to study it and get an idea. Secondly, they are told to write out a resume and cover letter to compare. It works!
Giselle,
I agree that its a good idea to use some of the terminology used in the job description and to use the language in an interview as long as it sounds natural. of course practice always helps!
Elizabeth Kemler
I ask students to print out the job posting that they are applying for and to use the same terminology that is used within the job description. Also, to make sure that they include most, if not all of the requirements being asked for to complete the job. Having the job description printed out also helps during the interview as a way to make sure they are speaking the company's language.
Jessica,
I love the role-playing idea and the way you connect it to the revising of resume and cover letter.
Elizabeth Kemler
Breaking down a current resume is key. Ive found it to be quite helpful to have students role play interviewer/interviewee. This helps them see themselves in the eye of their potential hiring manager. With this under their belt, they can then update their resume and cover letter to better understand how they are being looked upon.
Nora,
This is a perfect description of the ideal cover letter-I'm afraid I have nothing to add to improve it!
Elizabeth Kemler
I always suggest to use a cover letter to specify all your skills and preparation for "that specific position". It should be strong and not longer then 3 paragraphs, the midle content paragraph should be use to describe why you are the best candidate for that position. Anything that your resume does not describe about your qualifications should be at this paragraph.
Yanisdey,
It sounds like you have a very comprehensive approach.
Elizabeth Kemler
Well, first of all, in our school, we often do Career Services Workshops with all the students at once. We make sure we go over specific and general details about how to make a professional resume and cover letter. By the time the students approaches their graduation date and come to my office for Job Placement Assistance they already have an idea of what is required to make a proper and once again, professional Resume and Cover Letter. I also hand out different templates that I have already created. They obviously have to personalize it with their own information. At last, I also encourage the students to research the Internet for more options in their field/program of choice.
Ashley,
This sounds like a very thorough and well-thought out approach. I especially like the idea of the category sheet as part of the process.
Elizabeth Kemler
In regards to resumes: I help students by providing sample resumes depending on the industry they are going into. I also give them a resume category sheet that I have developed. It allows the student to complete various categories and information that goes onto a resume. Once they complete the sheet, they can arrange the information into an appropriate format. After they have complete a first draft of their resume, we review it together and make appropriate changes. I ask them to really think and describe job duties and responsibilites. The biggest challenge I find is that students are not detailed enough in their descriptions.
In regards to cover letters: I review a rough draft with students, then discuss what each paragraph should describe for the employer and I go over the correct format for writing a cover letter. They we review it again after they have made changes. Again, the biggest challenge is having students be detailed yet straight to the point.
Leah,
I agree that this is the best approach, so the resume/cover letters are targeted to the specific job vs generic.
Elizabeth Kemler
I am hoping to have them match a job description to create their resume and cover letters the first time. I think that helps keep them excited as well, realizing they are qualified to do the job.
Thanks, you know it really helps the students be more confident. Many of the students/grads I work with are very young. I enjoy seeing the lightbulb go on so to speak.
Lynne,
This sounds like a perfect approach. One question for you though-are the various styles of sample cover letters all related to the type of job the student is seeking?
Elizabeth Kemler
Detailed and to the point. Tell them to try to keep it 2 paragraphs. Employers do not want to read a book. I give them mutliple sample cover letters showing them different ideas. And most definetly be reachable so to have updated information on their cover letter and resume. Also to consistently check email. Being that this is an internet world, employers often respond with email. I review their final copy before giving them resume paper to print it on. Always being another set of eyes to give feedback to them.
Joshuah,
Your emphasis on transferable skills is so important..it's amazing how often we overlook relevant skills we've developed simply because the job description if unrelated.
Elizabeth Kemler
