Lesson 12: Resume and Cover Letter | Reading and Writing

Summary

This lesson covers the essentials of writing a resume and cover letter, focusing on their purpose, structure, and key elements. It highlights the differences between a resume and a CV, offers guidance on tailoring resumes to specific jobs, and provides tips for formatting effectively. The script also explains the importance of cover letters, including how they introduce applicants, express qualifications, and demonstrate familiarity with the target company. Practical advice on creating concise, relevant, and well-structured resumes and cover letters is provided, making this a valuable guide for job seekers.

Takeaways

• 📄 A resume is a one to two-page summary of your skills and experiences relevant to the job you're applying for.
• 📊 The primary purpose of a resume is to get an interview, making a strong first impression with your potential employer.
• ✍️ A CV (curriculum vitae) differs from a resume as it is more comprehensive, detailing educational and professional history in reverse chronological order.
• 🌍 A CV is typically used for jobs abroad or in academia, while a resume is common for local jobs.
• 🔑 Writing a good resume requires self-assessment of your skills, talents, and experiences relevant to the job.
• ✒️ Key sections of a resume include your basic information, education, work experience, skills, and interests, all kept relevant to the job.
• 📧 Include your name, contact details (address, phone number, email), and avoid irrelevant details like your birthday or religion.
• 📜 Cover letters accompany resumes, expressing why you are the best candidate for the job and showcasing your familiarity with the company.
• 💼 The cover letter should include an introduction, a hard-sell paragraph explaining qualifications, research on the company, and a call to action for an interview.
• 🖋️ Resumes and cover letters should be well-formatted, concise, professional, and easy to read to maximize the chance of getting noticed by hiring managers.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of a resume?

The primary purpose of a resume is to provide a brief summary of your experiences and skills relevant to the job you're applying for, with the ultimate goal of securing an interview.

How does a resume differ from a curriculum vitae (CV)?

A resume is typically one to two pages and focuses on the highlights of your professional and personal accomplishments, tailored to a specific job. A CV is longer and provides a comprehensive history of your educational and professional background, often required for academic positions or jobs abroad.

What should be included in the basic information section of a resume?

The basic information section should include your name, complete mailing address, contact details (phone number, email), but does not need to include irrelevant personal details like your birthday, religion, or sexual preferences.

What are the key sections of a resume?

The key sections of a resume include basic information, educational background, professional experiences (or internships/volunteer work for fresh graduates), skills, and references if required.

Why is it important to tailor your resume to the job listing?

Tailoring your resume to the job listing ensures that the information provided is relevant to the specific job you're applying for. It increases your chances of being noticed by employers, as they will see how your skills and experiences match the role.

What are some tips for writing a concise and relevant resume?

To write a concise and relevant resume, focus on being brief, use action words, include only information pertinent to the job, and ensure your format is clean and easy to read, with one-inch margins and clear headings.

What is the main purpose of a cover letter?

The main purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself to the hiring manager, explain why you're a good fit for the job, and highlight your relevant experiences while showcasing your familiarity with the company.

What are the key elements of a cover letter?

A cover letter includes your contact information, an introductory paragraph, a 'hard sell' paragraph where you prove your qualifications, a research paragraph discussing your knowledge of the company, an action paragraph, and a closing with your signature.

What should you avoid including in a resume or cover letter?

Avoid including irrelevant personal information like birthdays, religion, or family members as references. Also, refrain from using fancy fonts, colored or scented paper when submitting printed resumes.

Why is it important to research the company before writing a cover letter?

Researching the company helps you tailor your cover letter to their specific needs and goals, showing that you are not only qualified but also a good fit for the company's culture and objectives.