Letters As you begin to build a network of contacts to help in your internship or career search, you will have a need to write a variety of letters effectively. Below are skills employers look for; be sure to incorporate into all of your employment documents.
Types of Letters
Tips for Letters
Inquiry Letter—an opportunity to begin the networking process and ask for an informational interview; discuss organization needs and your ability to solve them; be the solution.
Cover Letter or Application Letter—relates your skills to the needs of the organization and asks for an interview.
Thank You Letter—sent as a follow-up to any networking opportunity or interview. Follow-up Letter—an opportunity to inquire about your previous communications or encounters with a potential employer.
Send via email, hard copy, or handwritten note. Use clear and concise writing. Address the letter to a specific person if possible; otherwise, use a subject line instead of a salutation. Keep it brief. Match yourself to the opportunity. Illustrate your interest and passion for the field. Create a system to track letters for follow-up. Proofread carefully for grammar, spelling, and format (use modern business format).
Are Your Attachments Getting Read?
Accept/Decline Letter—your immediate acceptance or declination of an employment offer.
Remember to Follow-up
Save and send your cover letter and resume as one document—this ensures your cover letter and resume are read as one effective marketing tool.
Whether you are following up after an interview or developing a relationship with a potential employer, keep the lines of communication open. If you say you are going to follow-up within a specified time frame, be sure to do so (see Follow-up, page 33).
Example: bradykjonesdocuments.pdf
Building Effective Success Statements/Bullet Points A good success statement used in effective cover letters, resumes, and online applications should: Start with an action VERB and briefly describe a skill, responsibility, or task Identify any tools or processes (computer programs, team efforts, equipment) used to accomplish the above Use numbers to show results and scope/scale of your success Be represented as a bullet point (not written as a complete sentence—no periods)
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Letters Elements of a Successful Cover Letter Elements of a Successful Cover Letter
Format
Section 1
Section 2
Uses business format Clear, concise writing Correct grammar and spelling Identify the position you are applying for If possible, name any referral/contact Create interest or solve a problem/need Link your education and work experience to the job
Identify your strongest qualifications as they relate to the job Elaborate on applicable work, education or service accomplishments Include results-oriented success statements use data or numbers (see page 13) Can be paragraph or bullet point format
Thank the employer Request an interview Discuss how and when you will follow-up
1257 Michigan Avenue Logan, UT 84321 (435) 483-5837 maria.lopez@aggiemail.usu.edu March 14, 20xx Continental Industries, Inc. 2900 Rosemont Blvd. Rosemont, IL 60018
(Omit inside address if emailing)
WEB DEVELOPER POSITION The web developer position posted on Career AGGIE at Utah State University matches my ability to create and implement dynamic web content using a variety of software and design tools. In December 20xx I will complete my BS degree in management information systems with a minor in computer science. My course work and related experience has refined my skills in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, ezPlug, and HTML. My experience as a departmental computer consultant gave me exposure to both PC and Macintosh OSX platforms, while troubleshooting repairs on over 40 work stations. Additionally, my summer internship in computing operations for a major city newspaper enhanced my knowledge of enterprise systems, content management, and e-commerce operations. I will contact you next week to schedule an interview to discuss my qualifications as they relate to this position. Should you need to reach me before then, please feel free to contact me at the phone number or email listed above. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to talking with you. Sincerely, (Omit handwritten signature if emailing)
Section 3
(Omit return address and date if emailing)
Maria Lopez Enclosure
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Cover Letter (Sample A)
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Working towards BS degree in civil engineering with emphasis in wastewater management Experience building wastewater treatment systems in Chile working with Engineers Without Borders Communicate project status in English and Spanish to clients, suppliers, and community members Input field data to produce designs using CAD Expand leadership skills while serving as the ASCE representative on the College of Engineering Dean’s Council
Enclosure
David Lawson
Sincerely
Working with local communities as a member of PTC is the way I want to begin my career. I would appreciate an interview and will contact you next week to schedule an appointment.
Having recently studied the design-build process used at PTC and hearing your presentation in Dr. Chen’s research course, I became interested in joining PTC in order to effectively solve wastewater management challenges with your international clients. The following is an outline of the skills that will allow me to be effective on your design team:
IRRIGATION ENGINEER POSITION
PTC Engineering Division 2930 East Randolph Road Chicago, IL 84039
1569 Andover Avenue Logan, UT 84322 (435) 787-xxxx david.lawson@aggiemail.usu.edu February 1, 20xx
If you are unable to address your cover letter to a specific person, use a subject line in place of the salutation.
RITA JOHNSON
Enclosure
Rita Johnson
Sincerely
I am prepared for the opportunity to work with vendors and manage events for Alcoa. I will be in San Diego on April 15-18 and would like to discuss how my combination of organizational skills and enthusiasm could significantly improve relationships with your vendors and guests. I will contact you on March 12 to schedule an appointment. I look forward to speaking with you soon.
Last year, while planning an alumni event that attracted 400 people, I helped launch a new membership recruitment program for Utah State’s Alumni Center. This strategy resulted in a 36% increase in revenue over the previous year’s event. My personality is supported by outstanding organizational and networking skills.
After reading about your company’s successful publicity campaign in the March 3 edition of the Examiner, I became very interested in a marketing assistant position with your firm. I was given your name by Dr. Vernon Cluff, a former professor of yours, who suggested I meet with you to discuss my ability to support your marketing department. As a recent MBA, I can offer you strong member recruitment and event planning experience.
Dear Ms. Preston:
Ms. Heather Preston Marketing Manager Alcoa 12345 West Bernardo Drive San Diego, CA 92717
March 6, 20xx
196 N. 1220 S. Logan, UT 84321 (435) 787-xxxx rita.johnson@msn.com
Cover Letter (Sample B)
Letters—Sample Cover Letters
Letters—Sample Follow-up Letters Sample Resume/Cover Letter Follow-Up 4399 Grant Avenue Logan, UT 84321 (435) 777-7777 Myemail@yahoo.com January 27, 20xx
Mr. Bryan Robinson Baylee Financial 5687 Commander Circle Denver, CO 98483 Dear Mr. Robinson On April 6, 20xx, I applied for the financial analyst position that was posted on Career AGGIE at Utah State University. I wanted to confirm that you received my resume and to reiterate my interest in this position. As a reminder, I will graduate this May with my BS degree in finance from the Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University. To this position I can contribute the following: *Internship experience with Bosch in Germany as a financial analyst supporting merger and acquisition projects *Excellent understanding of ratio analysis, quantitative modeling, and market share analysis *Leadership experience as president of the Finance Club – increased membership by 22% *Initiated the development of a streamlined database to manage high net-worth clients I have attached an additional copy of my resume for your review and am excited to discuss my ability to contribute to the dynamic work environment at Baylee Financial. Please contact me at the telephone or email listed above to schedule an interview. Sincerely James Gordon Attachment
Sample Interview Follow-Up (EMAIL VERSION) Omit return address and date when emailing
Omit inside address when emailing
Dear Dr. Bryan: Thank you for interviewing me yesterday for the associate engineer position. I enjoyed meeting you and learning more about your research and design work. My enthusiasm for the position and my interest in working for Atlantic Engineering Systems designing hydraulic systems were strengthened as a result of the interview. My education and internship experiences fit nicely with the job requirements, and I can be immediately effective given my CAD and hands-on mechanical skills. I neglected to mention in the interview my membership in the Society for Women Engineers at Utah State University. As a member of this student organization, I have gained valuable leadership skills and participated in a variety of community service activities. I want to reiterate my strong interest in the position and in working with your staff. You provide the kind of opportunity I seek and I would be happy to meet with you again. Please feel free to call me at the phone number or e-mail address above if I can provide any additional information. Again, thank you for the interview and your consideration. Sincerely, Omit handwritten signature when emailing Jane Hancock
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Resumes What is a Resume?
Items to Exclude on a Resume Personal data (height, weight, age, marital status, religion, or health). Employers want to avoid any possible hint of discrimination Titles ("Resume" or "Curriculum Vitae") Reasons for leaving a job References -- create on a separate sheet Salary -- if a salary record or requirements are requested, discuss it in the cover letter Early childhood and upbringing Weaknesses or exaggerations -- keep it honest Long paragraphs -- use short statements or bulleted items Hobbies -- unless they relate to professional interests or show traits an employer wants
A resume is a sales brochure about you. It describes your abilities, your experiences, and your education—all of which should support your job objective. A resume has one purpose: to get you an interview. Before you write your resume, ask yourself, “Is my work experience related to the job I’m applying for?” If “yes,” consider using a chronological resume. If “no,” consider using a skills resume.
Writing Chronological & Skills Resumes A chronological resume is often used when you easily meet the skill, experience, and/or education requirements for a specific position. This format is good for demonstrating growth in a single profession. This format starts with the current or most recent employment, then works backward. The work experience section is the distinguishing characteristic of the chronological resume, because it ties your job responsibilities and achievements to specific employers, job titles, and dates (see Chronological Resume Outline, page 19 and Resumes-Samples A&B, page 22).
Can I Use One Resume for All Jobs? Generally, no. A resume should be targeted to the job you are seeking or to the company to which you are submitting your resume. This means that you should research the company to determine which kinds of positions are available and match your skills and achievements to the job.
The skills resume focuses on the professional skills you have developed rather than on when, where, or how you acquired them. The attention is always focused on the skill rather than the place or time the skill was obtained. Job titles and employers play a minor role with this type of resume. The focus is on the results you delivered rather than the dates of a particular job (see Skills Resume Outline, page 19 and Resumes-Samples C&D, page 23). You may also use a combination of the two formats.
The resume that “works” for you is the one that gets you an interview! Visit your Career Coach for professional resume writing assistance.
Remember Resumes often get less than one minute of an employer's time--make that time count for you. Be clear, concise, accurate, and make sure your resume is easily readable. Proofread carefully--often when emailing, people tend to be careless with typos, spelling. errors, and grammar. See your Career Coach for assistance in editing. Keep your resume to one page (two if you have advanced degrees or lengthy work experience). When mailing and emailing a resume, always include a well-written cover letter. If mailing, use good quality paper; white, offwhite, or buff-colored paper is preferable.
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Resumes Chronological and Skills Resume Outlines Chronological Resume
Skills Resume
Header—include name, address, city, state, zip, telephone number(s), and email address.
Header—include name, address, city, state, zip, telephone number(s), and email address.
Objective/Headline—some employers look for an objective, others do not. A targeted objective can tell the employer what kind of position you are seeking and helps you match your skills to the employer’s needs.
Objective/Headline—some employers look for an objective, others do not. A targeted objective can tell the employer what kind of position you are seeking and helps you match your skills to the employer’s needs.
Education—include the following key elements for the degree you are currently obtaining AND for previous degrees received. Eliminate high school once you reach your junior year.
Education—include the following key elements for the degree you are currently obtaining AND for previous degrees received. Eliminate high school once you reach your junior year.
Degree (BS, BA, MS, MA, MBA, PhD, etc.). List even if not completed Graduation Date Major, Minor, & Emphasis (if applicable) GPA Academic Institution City & State or City & Country Academic Recognitions/Scholarships (unless you include this elsewhere) Certifications/Licenses
Degree (BS, BA, MS, MA, MBA, PhD, etc.). List even if not completed Graduation Date Major, Minor, & Emphasis (if applicable) GPA Academic Institution City & State or City & Country Academic Recognitions/Scholarships (unless you include this elsewhere) Certifications/Licenses
Relevant Skills & Experience—use subheadings that outline your skills as they relate to the job you are seeking. Under each subheading, write statements that reflect that skill (see Sample Skills Headings, pages 20-21). The following page has sample skills headings. Remember each statement can draw from: academics, projects, employment, internships, undergraduate research, volunteer service, leadership, etc. Samples are outlined below:
Projects/Research—briefly describe relevant projects/research using the language of your field, tools or technologies, and results. Work Experience—begin with your most recent experience and work backwards. For EACH position include: job title, company name, location (city & state or city & country), dates of employment by month and year, and responsibilities with a focus on quantifying achievements and results.
Relevant Skills & Experience Computer/Technical Skills—include computer, field, lab, and other technical skills.
Management Trained all new employees in rental procedures Served as supervisor over 20 employees Led weekly team meetings
Leadership/Volunteer Service—reflect the contributions you made through: offices held, projects completed, services delivered, awards received, etc.
Aerospace Completed thermal modeling analysis Re-designed tools using I-DEAS Presented results at USU Small Sat Conference
Optional Headings—anything that is appropriate in marketing your skills to any employer. Ideas… Language Skills Military Service Publications
Honors/Awards Outside Interests Presentations
Work/Leadership History—include job title, company name, location (city & state or city & country), and dates of employment by month and year. DO NOT add any responsibilities or accomplishments, as these are outlined above in the Relevant Skills & Experience section.
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Resumes Sample Skills Headings & Success Statements Accounting Administration Analysis Auditing Communication Computer/Technical Consulting Contract Administration Coordination Counseling
Curriculum Development Customer Relations Data Analysis Editing Engineering Evaluation Facilitating Financial Planning Forecasting Fundraising
Human Resources Demonstration Design Interpreting Interviewing Inventory Control Management Marketing Mediation Merchandising
Negotiation Office Support Operations Analysis Organization Organizational Development Media Relations Problem Solving Program Development Project Coordination Promotion
Public Relations Purchasing Quality Control Reporting Research Staff Development Supervision Systems Analysis Teamwork Training
Sample Success Statements by Transferrable Skills The first section below, Planning and Organizational Skills, has been customized to include SPECIFIC details. Be sure to add specific details to customize these statements to highlight your skills for employers. Planning & Organizational Skills Meet deadlines and manage time effectively as a division I student athlete in tennis Work under time and environmental pressures in a fast-paced distribution center Assess needs for staffing and create weekly work schedules for 12 employees Work effectively with other students to achieve a 50% increase in recycling in the dorm Successfully juggle multiple demands at work and school while maintaining a 3.5 GPA Critical Thinking/Analytical Skills Quickly and accurately identify the key issues when making a decision or solving a problem Examine assumptions underlying analyses or conclusions Recognize interrelationships in information obtained from diverse sources Critically evaluate theories and research and apply the results to solve problems Create innovative solutions to complex problems Interpersonal Skills Keep a team on track when working towards a goal Interact and work effectively with peers, superiors and subordinates from diverse cultural, social, ethnic and religious backgrounds Expand leadership skills while building a new chapter of… Delegate tasks and responsibilities Proven ability to work on a team or independently Communication Skills Organize and present ideas effectively for formal and spontaneous speeches Effectively participate in group discussions and brainstorm ideas Read and condense large amounts of material Write reports clearly, grammatically, concisely, and in appropriate format Write and speak in a French Research & Investigation Skills Use a variety of sources of information to research problems Conduct literature search on… Apply a variety of research methods to test the validity of data Construct, administer and interpret questionnaires for research Analyze and interpret statistical data using SPSS Select, administer, score, and interpret various psychological tests or assessments Adapted from Source: Marquette University (www.marquette.edu/csc/students/documents/TransferableSkills_UP96_000.pdf)
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Resumes Sample Skills Headings & Success Statements Sample Success Statements by Job Function* Accounting and Finance Reviewed finances and securities pertaining to advances and shipping for 200 clients Generated income statements, balance sheets, general ledger, checks, and financial reports Communication Edited and typed grant proposals, research papers, and reports Reported and wrote articles and columns for bi-monthly arts and entertainment publication Computer and Technical Developed an online program using ezPlug to track status of all invoices Designed Access database to track data collection Used computer software to prepare reports, graphs, brochures, and to conduct research Engineering Applied knowledge of thermodynamics and reactor design to complete simulation from preliminary coding Observed and participated in exploration of mines surrounding the Great Salt Lake Management and Human Resources Trained and supervised six customer service associates in a retail setting Developed nationwide relocation policy and procedures manual for new employees Sales and Marketing Contacted vendors to rent booths, sent promotional materials to potential buyers, and sold media advertising Utilized customer service and sales skills to sell home security systems door-to-door Science Developed laboratory microcomputer systems for instrument automation and custom test equipment Conducted more than 500 manual and computerized assays of steroids and fibrogens in a hospital lab Social and Human Services Worked in a variety of human service programs including supervising adolescents in group homes Administered psychological and educational testing for students ranging from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade *Resume Buzzwords, 2005, Herman, E. and Rocha S., Adams Media, Avon, MA.
Building Effective Success Statements/Bullet Points A good success statement used in effective cover letters, resumes, and online applications should: Start with an action VERB and briefly describe a skill, responsibility, or task Identify any tools or processes (computer programs, team efforts, equipment) used to accomplish the above Use numbers to show results and scope/scale of your success Be represented as a bullet point (not written as a complete sentence—no periods)
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(839) 738-4938
vanessa@hotmail.com
VANESSA MILLER
Chicago, IL
22 Graphic Design Marketing Audits Campaign Management Internet Research
LEADERSHIP/SERVICE Member, Spanish Club, USU, Logan, UT, 20xx to Present Traveled to Mexico City to perform service at local orphanage Volunteer, Pasadena, California, January 20xx to December 20xx Developed strong work ethic by working 12 hours a day to meet specific goals Supervised four to ten volunteers Attained written/verbal fluency in Spanish; refined public speaking skills Volunteer, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Logan, UT, 20xx to 20xx Planned activities and assisted with homework for 24 elementary students Translator, Valley Hispanic Center, Logan, UT, May 20xx to March 20xx Translated documents into English for native Spanish speakers Developed relationships with inter-community agencies
MARKETING SKILLS Survey Research Retail Sales Data Analysis Report Writing
Account Manager, Good Luck Rent-a-Car, Chicago, IL, Summer 20xx Frequently served as store supervisor in the manager’s absence Developed 26 new corporate accounts Trained 12 employees in rental procedures and liability issues Developed database in Access to track frequency of customer usage
RETAIL/SALES WORK EXPERIENCE Retail Associate Intern, The Buckle, Logan, UT, May 20xx to Present Demonstrated effective sales skills and achieved monthly sales award twice Provided excellent customer service by phone and in person Resolved customer complaints including tracking lost items Selected to lead inventory team
EDUCATION B.S. Degree, Marketing May 20xx Utah State University, Logan, UT 3.45 GPA Spent fall semester 20xx studying in Barcelona, Spain. Wrote report comparing customer service practices in the US and Spain
OBJECTIVE A position in the management training program at Target
444 Lion Lane
Chronological Resume—Sample A
Magna, UT 84938 (801) 435-3988 bsmith@gmail.com
May 20xx 3.4 GPA
May 20xx 3.7 GPA
Solid Edge Fortran Maple
I-DEAS MATLAB Microsoft Office
Willing to Relocate and Travel
ACHIEVEMENTS & ACTIVITIES Engineering Ambassador, Utah State University Activities Committee Chairperson, AIAA Recipient, Science Academic Achievement Award, Utah Valley University Volunteer Math Tutor, Utah State University
COMPUTER SKILLS MathCAD C++ Lab VIEW
ENGINEERING PROJECTS Participated on team of four to design flight mechanics of aircraft that took first place in national student competition Served as team leader for group project analyzing incompressible flow over finite wings Completed a conceptual design and technical report of a theoretical imaging satellite in LEO
Mechanical Engineering Intern May 20xx – June 20xx Space Dynamics Lab Logan, UT Completed thermal/structural modeling and finite element analysis Conducted research on various launch requirements; coordinated the drawing package on a satellite Assisted with the Incident Energy Magnitude and Direction Sensor project
AEROSPACE WORK EXPERIENCE Tool Design Intern Summer 20xx ATK Thiokol Propulsion Promontory, UT Re-designed several tools for the Nozzle Work Center Performed extensive modeling and finite element analysis using I-DEAS; completed a thermal analysis Presented results of projects to department manager and co-workers
B.S. Degree, Mechanical Engineering Utah State University, Logan, UT Passed FE Exam, November 20xx
EDUCATION M.S. Degree, Aerospace Engineering Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
ENTRY-LEVEL AEROSPACE ENGINEER
94 Willow Drive
BRADY SMITH
Chronological Resume—Sample B
Resumes—Samples A&B
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Feature Writer, USU Statesman, Logan, UT, June 20xx to May 20xx Volunteer News Editor, USU Biology Department, Logan, UT, 20xx to 20xx Vice President, USU Biology Student Club, Logan, UT, October 20xx to May 20xx Server, Café Sabor, Logan, UT, June 20xx to January 20xx French-Speaking Volunteer, Paris, France, 20xx to 20xx
WORK/LEADERSHIP HISTORY
Research Performed statistical analysis using SPSS, including cross-tabs and regression analysis Construct, administer, and interpret questionnaires for research
Computer Designed an Access database for community literacy program to track participant and volunteer hours Used ezPlug to re-design and maintain webpage for the USU French Student Club (www.usu.edu/clubs) Proficient in: ezPlug, InDesign, HTML, SPSS, and Microsoft Office
Communication and Interpersonal Created and taught ten weekly classes on “Internet Research” to adult groups of up to 40 people Worked well under pressure and demonstrated strong customer relations skills while working as a server Spoke to large and small groups while a volunteer in France for two years French tutor for USU students and local high school students
Writing and Editing Revised the text and design for a 125-page student handbook distributed to 2,500 freshman Contributed article monthly as feature writer for 16,000 circulation campus newspaper Organized a staff of 10 proofreaders and copy editors Designed layout and oversaw final production of monthly student housing newsletter
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Spring 20xx GPA 3.5
Design Software
Logan UT 84341 jenn123@yahoo.com
Client Liaison
TECHNICAL WRITER
Technical Illustrations
B.A. Communications, Print Journalism; French Minor Utah State University (USU), Logan, UT
EDUCATION
Newsletter Production
PO Box 444 (435) 755-3948
JENNIFER WHARTON
Skills Resume—Sample C
Providence, UT 84332 tongchen9999@yahoo.com
(435) 234-3948
Willing to Relocate Internationally
•
Work Permit Eligible
Food Server, October 20xx to May 20xx Village Inn, Logan, UT Served large groups efficiently in a fast-paced environment Learned to multi-task, problem-solve, and pay attention to detail
ADDITIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE Telephone Interviewer, August 20xx to Present Information Alliance, Logan, UT Conducted telephone surveys to 30 clients daily Consistently exceeded call volume goals
LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE Vice President of Activities, Student Alumni Association, 20xx to 20xx Fundraising Committee Chair, Industrial Hygiene Student Club, 20xx to 20xx Doctors Without Borders, USU Chapter, 20xx to 20xx
INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE Industrial Hygiene Intern, Summers 20xx and 20xx Hitachi Global Storage Technologies, Ventura, CA Identified, evaluated, and controlled work place hazards for corporate headquarters and research center Conducted air sampling projects, non-ionizing radiation surveys, and completed Qualitative Exposure Assessments for laboratory and clean room procedures and tools Performed internal safety audits, assisted in teaching ergonomic classes, performed PPE hazard assessments, participated in regular safety department meetings and activities Wrote professional reports for OSHA compliance and documented all activities in Excel Used fluent Mandarin skills to communicate with international clients and vendors
EDUCATION BA, Public Health, Industrial Hygiene Emphasis May 20xx Minor: Chemistry Utah State University, Logan, UT Maintained 3.0 GPA while working part-time and participating in campus leadership positions
INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE GRADUATE SEEKING HEALTH AND SAFETY POSITION
49 South 100 West
TONG CHEN
Hybrid Resume—Sample D
Resumes—Samples C&D
Resumes References Important Tips for a Reference Sheet
Always ask your references if they are prepared to give you a good recommendation. Provide your references with a resume and job description or type of job you are applying for so they can speak about you and your qualifications effectively. Use three to five references. Use at least one (more is better) employmentrelated reference. Good sources include previous supervisors, co-workers, faculty, advisors, or community/service leaders.
Keep personal references to a minimum. Use the same color and quality of paper for the reference sheet as you do for your resume. Only submit your references when requested. Otherwise, take your reference sheet with you to the interview. Thank your references and anyone else instrumental in your job search when you accept a job offer. As your career builds, keep your reference list upto-date.
Sample Reference Sheet
YOUR NAME 222 Anytown Avenue (555) 555-5555 Anywhere, USA 88888 your.name@yahoo.com _________________________________________________________________________________
REFERENCES Mr. George Hildall Manager of Production ACME Company 1234 Address Avenue City, UT 87888 801-752-9999 georgeh@acme.com Former Supervisor
Ms. Gale Strong Training Supervisor XYZ Company 9444 Southwest Street City, UT 87888 435-752-9898 gale@xyz.com Former Supervisor
Dr. Carla Porter Professor of Finance Business Administration Department Utah State University Logan, UT 84322-9999 435-797-0008 carla.porter@usu.edu Current Professor
Mr. Cal Vale Vice President Big Firm 987 Avenue Way City, UT 88888 801-987-9999 calvale@bigfirmusa.com Community Leader
Are Your Attachments Getting Read? Save and send your cover letter and resume as one document— this ensures your cover letter and resume are read as one effective marketing tool. Example: bradykjonesdocuments.pdf 24
Resumes The Curriculum Vitae A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a summary of your educational and academic background. In the United States, a curriculum vitae is used primarily when applying for academic, administrative, scientific, and research positions or fellowships/grants. Its length can range from two to four pages (or more as your career progresses). Please keep in mind each field has a different standard. Ask the faculty in your department, as well as your Career Coach at Career Services, for feedback on your CV.
Concise. Since the CV is typically longer than the resume, there is sometimes a tendency to "pad" -- avoid the temptation! Be absolutely sure that there are no "double entries" -- no item should appear in the CV in more than one place. Present everything that is relevant and necessary, but keep it brief.
The Differences Between a Resume and a Curriculum Vitae
Consistent. Don't use an extensive mix of styles (such as an array of different fonts). Be sure to use the same order in presenting information -- present your experiences from most recent to least recent.
Complete. Be sure you have included all of the important and relevant information that the reader needs in order to make an informed decision about your application.
A CV is a longer, more detailed synopsis of your background and skills. A CV includes a summary of your educational and academic backgrounds as well as teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, awards, honors, affiliations, and other details. As with a resume, you may need different versions of a CV for different types of positions.
Current. Remember to include dates with all information. It is particularly critical to continually update the information; ideally, the CV should be revised at least once a year.
Finally While the content is critical, you should also be conscious of the image you present with this document. Remember, your CV and accompanying letter may be your first contact with a prospective graduate program, employer, or grant reviewer. A CV needs to be visually appealing and should not contain any typographical or grammatical errors.
Often, a briefer one- to two-page document can also be developed as a distillation of the more important points in the CV. If a job announcement requests a resume, you may send the briefer document in an initial response letter, with the notation in your cover letter that the CV can be sent if needed. If you are confused about whether a hiring individual or institution really wants a resume or a vita, you should contact them and ask. Often these terms are used interchangeably; however, if a CV is requested, have yours prepared to send.
Items to Include in a CV The categories listed below are often included in CV's. However, no CV contains all of them, and some CVs will contain other categories that are not listed here. The basic rule is that your own unique educational and work experiences should be carefully considered when deciding which categories will be most effective. The first step in actually developing your CV is to write down all relevant information; later you can organize it into categories and do whatever editing is necessary. After you have written down all relevant information, you should develop a hierarchy, placing the most important and relevant categories and information first.
Points to Consider As is true with resumes, your CV may get as little as 3060 seconds of consideration by a potential employer, grant reviewer, or other reader. An effective vita must be able to positive attract attention, stimulate the reader's interest, create a desire to get to know you better, and generate action. To maximize effectiveness, your CV should be: Clear. This means well-organized, logical, readable, and easily understood.
Typical Sections to Include in Your Curriculum Vitae Heading Education Relevant Experience Certifications Honors & Awards Grants Received
Professional Associations Publications Presentations Research Institutional Service Courses Taught
Community Involvement Educational Travel Teaching Interests Research Interests Additional Relevant Skills References (separate sheet)
Visit Career Services for a more complete CV guide and samples
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