Once you’ve conducted a self-analysis, it’s time to prepare your resume, cover letter and reference list. The resume is a silent business card or sales representative. Among the items you want to include are these:
• Who you are
• Where you can be reached
• Current employment
• Employment history
• Education and training
• Business and professional accomplishments
• Awards and recognitions
No two resumes are alike, and some people like to include these items:
• Relevant activities and interests
• Career objectives
• References
• Publications and memberships
No matter what you choose to include in your resume, avoid including a photo, physical data such as age, gender, race, height and weight, and personal data, such as marital status and memberships in controversial social, religious or political organizations.
Choose a resume format that’s appropriate for the position, organization and your field. Then arrange the content to reveal your abilities and experiences. Your resume should present what you’ve done or achieved, where you’ve done it and what you’re looking for now. Present contact information, followed by education and training and work experience.
The prevailing opinion today concerning references on resumes is NOT to include them, nor to state “References are available.” Employers assume you have references available. Including this line just adds to the length of the resume and brands you as out of date with current practices. That said, when you assemble your resume, prepare your list of references.
If you choose to write a cover letter that targets a specific employer, follow these principles:
• Steer clear of form letters; the letter should be tailored to the position at hand.
• Keep it short, equivalent to one page.
• Use the letter to introduce yourself, not to deliver a complete biographical profile.
• Expand upon your resume without repeating resume details.
• Mention why you’re interested in the position.
• Identify specific areas of expertise.
• Indicate when you can be available for an interview.
• Explain how you learned about the position opening and organization.
[This piece is adapted from a section of the Job Search Resources page for Candidates on the BeechTree Partners website.]
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