The resume is a one-page summary of your work experience, education and qualifications. Your cover letter highlights those points from your resume that show an employer why you are an excellent fit for the job. Both items give prospective employers their critical first impression of you and position you as a strong candidate for an interview.
WRITING STYLE
Do's:
• Since many companies screen resumes by computer, use key
words from the job description or classified ad in your
resume.
• Keep sentences short.
• Use your computer's spell check function, but don't count
on it to find every typo. Remember, the computer can't tell
the difference between words like "too" and "to."
Proofread carefully.
Don'ts
• Don't use "I", the first person pronoun, in
your resume. It's understood.
• Don't use lofty language, long sentences or big words
• Don’t overuse professional jargon or abbreviations.
• Don't use puns or clever wordplays.
RESUME FORMAT
Do's
• Use a chronological resume. List your most recent job
first followed by your additional work experience in reverse
chronological order, then your education.
• Use bulleted statements, not paragraphs, to describe your
job duties.
• If applying by e-mail, use a simple font and send in plain
text or ASCII format.
Don'ts
• Don't use gimmicks. Use a professional, easy to read typeface,
white or ivory bond paper, and black ink.
• Don't list references or state: "References available
on request." Interviewers assume that you will provide
references when asked.
• Don't include an objective on your resume, unless it is
written specifically for the position for which you are
applying.
RESUME CONTENT
Do's
• Be accurate and truthful.
• Describe your significant contributions at each of your
jobs.
• List all the computer hardware, software and databases
you know.
• Customize your resume for each prospective employer
• Include outside activities only if they relate directly
to the job for which you are applying
• Use key words found in the job description or classified
ad in your resume.
Don'ts
• Don't misrepresent your education or experience.
• Don't give reasons for termination or leaving a job.
• Don't include personal information such as height, weight,
social security number, social activities or religious philosophies.
• Don't include your phone number or e-mail address at your
current job if your boss is unaware of your intent to leave.
• Don't list your high school education if you're a college
graduate.
• Don't provide salary information in the resume. If an
ad requests a salary range, include it in your cover letter.
Otherwise, don't mention it until the interview
