Sample Resume Resume Chris Johnson 5481 South Sedalia Street Aurora, CO 80015 (303) 690-0474 Cjohnson@Gmail.Com

Chapter 2 / Presenting Yourself on Paper

Sample Resume Resume Chris Johnson 5481 South Sedalia Street Aurora, CO 80015 (303) 690-0474 [email protected]

Objective: Highly skilled and efficient administrative assistant seeking to obtain an administrative position with growth potential.

Qualifications

Excellent written and verbal communication skills Extensive customer service experience 60 WPM typing speed Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, QuickBooks, Photoshop

Education

National American University, Denver, CO (Associate Degree in Business Administration, 2007) 9 Emphasis in Management 9 3.4 GPA on a 4.0 scale

George Washington High School, Denver, CO (2005) 9 AP English and Art

Work Experience

1/1/08 – Present BethMark Realty Company, Denver, CO Executive Assistant – Provide executive-level administrative support to the CFO in a fast-paced environment; plan and coordinate corporate events, travel arrangements, agendas and itineraries; reorganize filing system to improve efficiency; manage and track capitol projects, including the creation of organizational charts, financial spreadsheets, and internal correspondence.

1/15/07 – 12/15/07 Sustainable Business Group, Aurora, CO Management Intern – Served as the face of the organization, greeting and escorting guests; scheduled meetings and managed conference space for upper-level management; handled phone calls, incoming/outgoing mail, copying and faxing for an office of 35; ordered and stocked office supplies and dispatched messengers.

5/1/05 – 12/31/06 The Body Shop, Denver, CO Associate – Assisted customers in making purchases; operated cash register and closed at end of shifts, counted and handled money; dealt with customer complaints in a solution- oriented manner; ordered supplies and organized displays; twice recognized as “Employee of the Month.”

Interests: Painting, drawing, sports, gardening.

References Available Upon Request

Resume Writing Guide

Resume Contact Information ;OLÄYZ[[OPUN[OLYLHKLYZOV\SKZLLVU`V\YYLZ\TL[VWHUKJLU[LYPZ`V\YUHTLWO`ZPJHSHK- dress, phone number(s), and email. Be sure that all of the information is up-to-date and that you’ve spelled out all the components of your address (e.g. Avenue, Apartment) except the state, which can be abbreviated. If you are currently dividing your time between two homes, you may put one HKKYLZZVU[OLSLM[ZPKL¸7LYTHULU[(KKYLZZ¹HUK[OLV[OLYVU[OLYPNO[¸;LTWVYHY`(KKYLZZ¹

Your First and Last Name Street Address City, State Zip Phone (Cell/Home) Email Address

Objective This section gives the employer some important information about who you are, and what you’re SVVRPUNMVYPUHQVI;OL`ZOV\SKILHZZ\YLK[OH[[OLQVI[OL`»YLVMMLYPUNTLL[Z`V\YULLKZ0UVUL sentence, clearly state your goal for employment, then go on to describe, as succinctly as possible, what makes you an exceptional candidate (e.g. motivated, compassionate, team-oriented), and ^OH[THRLZ[OLQVIWLYMLJ[MVY`V\LNJOHSSLUNPUN\[PSPaLZ`V\YZRPSSZNYV^[OWV[LU[PHS2LLW the content strictly business, and leave out anything personal.

8\HSPÄJH[PVUZ -VY[OPZZLJ[PVU`V\»SS^HU[HZOVY[I\SSL[LKSPZ[VMZRPSSZHJOPL]LTLU[ZHUKX\HSPÄJH[PVUZ[OH[ HYLYLSL]HU[[V[OLQVI`V\»YLZLLRPUN0UJS\KLHU`ZWLJPHSSPJLUZLZVYJLY[PÄJH[PVUZ`V\OVSKLN -PYZ[(PK*7(*5(3:>HUKHU`ZWLJPÄJWYVJLZZLZVY[VVSZ`V\TH`ILHISL[V\ZLPU[OH[WVZP- [PVULNZWLJPÄJJVTW\[LYZVM[^HYLWYVNYHTZWOSLIV[VT`VWLYH[PVUVMZWLJPHSPaLKLX\PWTLU[0M you speak multiple languages (are bi- or tri-lingual) or have any other skills that might be utilized in [OL^VYRWSHJL[OPZPZ[OLWSHJL[VW\[[OLT9LTLTILY[VRLLWP[ZOVY[·[OPZPZQ\Z[HZ\TTHY`HUK quick reference for the employer.

Education This section tells the employer about your training and education. Be sure to include: 1) Name of the school you attended; 2) Location of the school, including city and state; 3)4HQVYJVUJLU- [YH[PVUKLNYLLVYJLY[PÄJH[LLHYULK"4).YHK\H[PVU`LHYPM`V\NYHK\H[LKHUK[OL`LHYZH[[LUKLK if you did not; 5)(U`ZWLJPHSOVUVYZVYH^HYKZYLJLP]LKHZ^LSSHZ`V\Y.7(VYH[[LUKHUJLYH[L if they were particularly high. (If you have received an award outside of the school setting that `V\MLLSPZWLY[PULU[[V`V\YYLZ\TL`V\JHUJOHUNL[OLOLHKPUN[V¸,K\JH[PVUHUK(^HYKZ¹HUK PUJS\KL[OVZLOLYLHZ^LSS0UJS\KLHU`VU[OLQVI[YHPUPUNVYUVUHJHKLTPJJV\YZLZ[HRLU^OPSL employed. One way to present this information is as follows: School Name #1*P[`:[H[L4HQVYKLNYLL.YHK\H[PVU`LHY School Name #2*P[`:[H[L4HQVYKLNYLL.YHK\H[PVU`LHY Special school honor

Work Experience Resume In this section, you’re going to tell the employer a little bit about your work history. Be sure to include: 1) Company name; 2) Company location (city, state); 3) Dates worked (month/year); 4) Job title; 5)+LZJYPW[PVUVMK\[PLZWLYMVYTLKHUKHU`ZPNUPÄJHU[^VYRWSHJLHJOPL]LTLU[ZPU short sentence or bullet form). There are various acceptable formats for this information, including [OLL_HTWSLILSV^@V\OH]L[OLVW[PVUVMSPZ[PUN`V\YQVIZPUVYKLYVMPTWVY[HUJLOV^YLSL]HU[ [OL`HYL[V`V\YJOVZLUÄLSKVYSPZ[PUN[OLTPUJOYVUVSVNPJHSVYKLYZ[HY[PUN^P[O`V\YTVZ[YLJLU[ VYJ\YYLU[QVIHUK^VYRPUNIHJR^HYKZ0M`V\^VYRLKZVTL^OLYLMVYVUS`HZOVY[WLYPVKVM[PTL `V\TH`^HU[[VSLH]LV\[[OH[QVI\USLZZ`V\MLLSP[PZWHY[PJ\SHYS`WLY[PULU[PU^OPJOJHZL`V\ TH`Q\Z[SPZ[[OL`LHYHUKUV[[OLTVU[OZVM`V\YLTWSV`TLU[MVYLHJOSPZ[PUN

Dates Worked Company #1, City, State Job Title – Responsibility; responsibility; achievement.

Dates Worked Company #2, City, State Job Title – Responsibility; responsibility; achievement. In addition to formatting and spacing, you may also utilize your underline, italics, and bold font styles to help separate information and keep it from blending together. However you choose to organize the information, make sure you stick with that formatting choice for the entire section.

Interests (optional) This short, bulleted section gives you the chance to list your outside interests, telling the employer a little bit about your personality, as well as any other skills you might have to offer. Include here any volunteer, community service, or charitable work you’ve done, and any involvement with clubs, HZZVJPH[PVUZVYV[OLYNYV\WZ(SZVSPZ[HU`ZPNUPÄJHU[HJJVTWSPZOTLU[ZVYH^HYKZ`V\»]LYLJLP]LK MYVT[OLZLHJ[P]P[PLZ2LLWPUTPUK[OH[^OPSL`V\YPU[LYLZ[ZKVUV[OH]L[VILYLSH[LK[V`V\YQVI you should avoid listing anything that would call your professionalism into question.

References Available Upon Request Most employers will want to speak with your former supervisors, teachers, and/or colleagues in order to learn more about you. Writing References Available Upon Request (centered and placed a few spaces below the last line of text on your resume) lets the employer know that you can provide them with at least three valid references. This information should be typed out on a separate sheet of paper and brought with you to all your interviews. (See Chapter 2, Part 3: Job Application for further instruction.)

6U[OLMVSSV^PUN[^VWHNLZ`V\»SSÄUKHYLZ\TL[OH[MVSSV^Z[OPZMVYTH[

Common Mistakes

Resume and Simple Fixes ;OLMVSSV^PUNHYLHSPZ[VMTPZ[HRLZQVIZLLRLYZJVTTVUS`THRL ^OLU^YP[PUNHYLZ\TLHUK[OLZPTWSLÄ_LZ[VYLTLK`[OLT

Common Mistake Simple Fix

Falsifying information Be honest

If an employer discovers that you’ve lied on your resume, they LP[OLY^VU»[OPYL`V\VYTH`ÄYL`V\VUJL[OL`»]LSLHYULK[OL [Y\[O,P[OLY^H`P[»ZKLÄUP[LS`UV[^VY[OP[

An inconsistent format Use a professional resume template

@V\JHUÄUKH]HYPL[`VMYLZ\TL[LTWSH[LZVU[OL^LIZP[LZSPZ[LK in Further Support. If you don’t have internet access, simply use the examples here as a guide.

Spelling, grammatical Proofread, proofread, proofread or punctuation errors

Using the word ‘I’ Write without using ‘I’

-VYPUZ[HUJL^OLUSPZ[PUNHYLZWVUZPIPSP[`MYVTHWHZ[QVI^YP[L ¸(ZZPZ[LKJ\Z[VTLYZ¹]Z¸0HZZPZ[LKJ\Z[VTLYZ¹

Abbreviations or acronyms Spell it all out

Contact information that is Have your name and contact information large and KDUGWRðQGRUUHDG centered at the top

Choose a font that is easy to read, and consider emboldening your contact information to make it stand out.

Common Mistake Simple Fix Resume Old or outdated contact Keep your contact information up-to-date information

Make sure your school’s Career Services department has your updated information as well.

An unprofessional-sounding Create a professional-sounding email address email address

2LLW`V\Y¸`VIHI`'`HOVVJVT¹HJJV\U[MVYWLYZVUHS\ZLI\[ JYLH[LHWYVMLZZPVUHSLTHPSMVY`V\YQVIZLHYJO6ULVW[PVUPZ \ZPUN`V\YÄYZ[PUP[PHSHUKSHZ[UHTLLNQTVVYL'`HOVVJVT

Incomplete or disordered Start with your last or current school, and work education information backwards

Be sure to include all the details—name and location of your school, degree, year of graduation, and any special honors or awards you received.

Listing everything you’ve Keep your resume concise and relevant to the job ever done

Your resume should be no more than two pages. Emphasize everything you’re proud of—both qualities and abilities, as well as `V\YHJJVTWSPZOTLU[Z·[OH[TPNO[OLSW`V\NL[[OLQVI`V\^HU[

Leaving out relevant work List all applicable jobs experience

Include any work (including internships and externships) where `V\OVULKVYKL]LSVWLKZRPSSZYLSL]HU[[V[OLQVI`V\»YLZLLRPUN

Listing work experience List jobs either chronologically or in order of importance in a random order

;VSPZ[JOYVUVSVNPJHSS`Z[HY[^P[O`V\YSHZ[VYJ\YYLU[QVIHUK^VYR backwards. You may also choose to list list your most relevant LTWSV`TLU[L_WLYPLUJLÄYZ[^VYRPUN[V^HYKZQVIZ[OH[HYLSLZZ related.

Common Mistake Simple Fix

Using present tense Use past tense for past jobs, present tense for current for past jobs jobs Resume 0M`V\HYLSPZ[PUN[OLK\[PLZPU]VS]LKMVYHQVI`V\J\YYLU[S`OH]L ^YP[L!¸7SHUHUKJVVYKPUH[LL]LU[Z¹0M[OH[ZHTLQVI^LYLVUL you held a few months back, instead write: “Planned and coordi- UH[LKL]LU[Z¹7SLHZLUV[L[OH[`V\Y6IQLJ[P]LHUK8\HSPÄJH[PVUZ should be in present tense.

Being overly general or limited in describing your %HVSHFLðFDERXW\RXUGXWLHV job duties

0UZ[LHKVMQ\Z[^YP[PUNºZ\WLY]PZVY»L_WSHPU^OH[HUKOV^ you supervised, using as many action words as possible (e.g. ‘supervised four people on product assembly line; increased productivity by ten percent’). Instead of listing only a single duty like ‘customer service,’ give details about what that PU]VS]LKLNºPKLU[PÄLKJ\Z[VTLY»ZULLKZHUKKPYLJ[LK[OLT to appropriate department’).

Listing your references Write at the bottom “References Available Upon Request”

Have contact information for at least three references typed on a separate sheet of paper which you can mail or email if asked, or bring with you to the interview.

Sending your resume in the Send it as an attachment body of an email message

Mailing, faxing, or handing Use only a clean, unwrinkled copy in a messy or wrinkled copy

6U[OLMVSSV^PUNWHNL`V\»SSÄUKHYLZ\TL^P[OTHU`VM[OLZLCommon Mistakes:LLPM`V\JHUPKLU[PM`[OLT

What Doesn’t Work Resume

Shannon B. Kemfner 5589 North East 76th Street Seattle, WA 98115 [email protected]

OBJECTIVE: I would love to have an opportunity to gain more experience and learn new things being a Graphic Designer. I want to get a fresh start in my career working for an established company that acknowledges hard working employees with the potential for advancement where I can execute my abilities, learn from others and assist in the services of others. In high school I majored in psychology. I am an assertive, organized, self-motivated individual who is concerned about producing high quality work without sacrificing accuracy or efficiency. I have experience with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, PageMaker, QuarkXpress, and Maker Pro.

QUALIFICATIONS: I am fluent with both Macintosh and PC operating environments. My favorite thing to do in school was corporate design, which I’m really good at. I was recognized with the “Most Promising Designer” award at graduation. I’ve also studied photography, and am a very good illustrator. Competed in the Bands of America competition in 2005 and performed at the Rose Bowl and the Fiesta Bowl.

EDUCATION: 2004 Honors Graduate, Springdale High School 2007-2007 Design Institute of Seattle (Graphic Design) 2004-2006 University of Arkansas. Sophomore.

WORK EXPERIENCE: 2007-present Junior Advertising desiner , Creative Media Seattle Work on layout and design elements of regional advertising campaigns in print and online.

2007-2007 Waitress, Applebee’s Bar and Grill I served multiple customers at one time, was responsible for all monies collected in the duration of the shift.

2006-2006 Teacher, Pinellas Childrens Center Preschool for children ages 2-5 and an after school program for children Kindergarten thru Third grade. Teaching in the Pre-K classroom, provided weekly lesson plans an daily activities for children, and provided children with a safe and positive learning atmosphere.

REFERENCES: Janet Ross, Creative Media Seattle—(206) 582-3349 Stever Laterlink, Applebee’s—(206) 386-2955

INTERESTS: Ice-skating, Gardening, Being with friends

TM Copyright © 2009, Best Effect 35 Think Build Live Success | Joining the Workforce Chapter 2 / Presenting Yourself on Paper Fix It Many of the Common Mistakes are indicated below with blue marks. Resume Shannon B. Kemfner A th C 5589 North East 76 Street Seattle, WA 98115 B [email protected]

OBJECTIVE: I would love to have an opportunity to gain more experience and learn new things being a Graphic Designer. I want to get a fresh start in my career working for an established company that acknowledges hard working employees with the potential for advancement where I can execute my abilities, learn from others D and assist in the services of others. In high school I majored in psychology. I am an assertive, organized, self-motivated individual who is concerned about producing high quality work without sacrificing accuracy or efficiency. I have experience with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, PageMaker, QuarkXpress, and Maker Pro.

QUALIFICATIONS: I am fluent with both Macintosh and PC operating environments. My E favorite thing to do in school was corporate design, which I’m really good at. I was recognized with the “Most Promising Designer” award at F graduation. I’ve also studied photography, and am a very good illustrator. Competed in the Bands of America competition in 2005 and performed at the Rose Bowl and the Fiesta Bowl.

EDUCATION: 2004 Honors Graduate, Springdale High School H 2007-2007 Design Institute of Seattle (Graphic Design) G 2004-2006 University of Arkansas. Sophomore. I WORK EXPERIENCE: 2007-present Junior Advertising desiner , Creative Media Seattle Work on layout and design elements of regional advertising campaigns in print and online.

J 2007-2007 Waitress, Applebee’s Bar and Grill I served multiple customers at one time, was responsible for all monies collected in the duration of the shift. L 2006-2006 Teacher, Pinellas Childrens Center K Preschool for children ages 2-5 and an after school program for children Kindergarten thru Third grade. Teaching in the Pre-K classroom, provided weekly lesson plans an daily activities for children, and provided children with a safe and positive learning atmosphere.

REFERENCES: Janet Ross, Creative Media Seattle—(206) 582-3349 M Stever Laterlink, Applebee’s—(206) 386-2955

INTERESTS: Ice-skating, Gardening, Being with friends

Chapter 2 / Presenting Yourself on Paper

Fix It Resume In the left hand column, What Didn’t WorkSPZ[HSS[OLTPZ[HRLZPKLU[PÄLKVU[OLWYL]PV\ZYLZ\TL Then, in the right hand column, How to Fix It,^YP[LV\[^OH[`V\^V\SKKV[VÄ_[OLTHZWLY[OL following example. What Didn’t Work How to Fix It A. Hard to read, missing information Choose a font that’s easier to read, add phone number

*Check the Answer Key on pages 168-169 to see how you did.

What Does Work

Resume Shannon B. Kemfner 5589 North East 76th Street Seattle, WA 98115 (206) 846-7368 [email protected]

OBJECTIVE Highly motivated graphic designer seeking to obtain a challenging full-time position that will allow me to utilize my specialized education and skills.

QUALIFICATIONS

Fluent with Macintosh and PC operating environments Proficient with Adobe Photoshop CS4, Adobe Illustrator CS4, Adobe PageMaker 7.0, QuarkXPress 8.0 Trained photographer and illustrator

EDUCATION

Design Institute of Seattle, Seattle, WA (Graphic Design, 2008) Named 2008 “Most Promising Designer”

University of Washington, Tacoma, WA (2004-2006) Extensive coursework completed towards BA in Photography

Springdale High School, Springdale, WA (Honors Graduate, 2004)

WORK EXPERIENCE

4/2008 – Present Creative Media Seattle, Seattle, WA Junior Advertising Designer – Collaborate on layout and design elements of regional print and online advertising; consistently meet deadlines.

8/2007 – 3/2008 Adams Marketing, Seattle, WA Intern – Completed 150 hours; designed internal newsletter for over 50 employees; contributed design elements to various projects, including restaurant menus, postcards, and retail packaging.

1/2007 – 8/2007 Applebee’s Bar and Grill, Seattle, WA Server – Provided dining service in high-pressure environment; offered friendly and solution-oriented customer service; responsible for collecting monies.

1/2006 – 12/2006 Tacoma Children’s Center, Tacoma, WA Pre-Kindergarten Teacher – Wrote weekly lesson plans and planned daily activities; kept students energized and motivated; created safe and positive atmosphere for 20+ students.

INTERESTS

Marching band clarinetist with multiple trips to National College Bowls Gardening Ice-skating

References Available Upon Request

Checklist Resume The following checklist is a helpful reference for when you’re creating your resume. A quick run-through of the all the items below and you’ll have everything you need to make your resume look 100% professional.

Did you...

>YP[LHJSLHYVULZLU[LUJL6IQLJ[P]L Have someone you trust look it over? [HYNL[LKZWLJPÄJHSS`[V[OL[`WLVMQVI you want?

Check for any spacing or alignment Add in any Interests you think might issues? give the employer a more complete picture of who you are? Write References Available Upon Request at the bottom, and prepare a Check for spelling, punctuation ZLWHYH[LZOLL[VMH[SLHZ[[OYLL]LYPÄLK and grammar errors? references? (see Chapter 2, Part 3: Job Application for further instruction)

Make sure all the information was accurate and updated? Save the resume either on your own computer or on one at school?

Exercise: Mining for Gold Resume PART ONE:

PART TWO: ;OPURHIV\[[OLX\HSP[PLZHUKZRPSSZYLX\PYLKMVY[OL[`WLVMQVIZ`V\»YLSVVRPUNMVYHUK make a check next to any of those you already possess. You’ll want to highlight these when creating your resume.

EXPERIENCE DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITES QUALITIES/SKILLS

Some Helpful Resume Terms >OH[L]LYK\[PLZX\HSP[PLZVYZRPSSZ`V\»]LPKLU[PÄLKPU[OLMining for Gold exercise, there are likely

Resume to be many more you haven’t thought of, or some that you could rename to sound even more de- ZJYPW[P]LHUKJVTWSPTLU[HY`;OLMVSSV^PUNPZHSPZ[VM[LYTZ[OH[^PSSOLSW`V\ÄUK[OLWLYMLJ[^VYK Read over the list and circle all that apply to you.

Describing Yourself (your qualities and skills)

accurate dependable logical productive adaptable detail-oriented managerial skills reliable adept diplomatic methodical resourceful caring LMÄJPLU[ mindful self-disciplined compassionate energetic motivated self-starter competent enthusiastic multi-task sense of humor conscientious experienced outgoing sensitive creative honest people skills solution-oriented (provides) good independent personable takes initiative customer service innovative practical trustworthy

Describing Your Duties

accomplished coordinated founded motivated reviewed adapted corrected functioned negotiated revised administered counseled guided operated screened advanced created handled organized selected advised dealt headed performed serviced allocated delegated PKLU[PÄLK planned set up analyzed designated implemented prepared solved applied developed improved presented sorted approved devised increased processed strengthened arranged directed indexed programmed supervised assisted discovered initiated promoted supported attained distributed inspected provided systematized built documented installed purchased trained carried out edited instituted raised transacted catalogued encouraged introduced recommended transcribed collaborated established invented recorded transformed completed evaluated led recruited upgraded conducted expanded located redesigned ]LYPÄLK constructed facilitated managed repaired wrote consulted ÄUHSPaLK maintained replaced cooperated formulated moderated restored

Exercise: Which Word Works? Resume Look over the skill, quality, and duty description-terms you circled on the Some Helpful Resume Terms ZOLL[HZ^LSSHZ[OVZL`V\PKLU[PÄLKVU[OLMining for Gold exercise, and in the appropriate IV_ILSV^^YP[LPU[OVZL[OH[TPNO[HWWS`[V`V\Y6IQLJ[P]L8\HSPÄJH[PVUZHUK>VYR,_WLYPLUJL Try to give yourself as many options as you can.

Objective: >OH[X\HSP[PLZKV`V\WVZZLZZ[OH[HYLHWWYVWYPH[LMVY[OL[`WLVMQVI`V\»YL seeking (e.g. motivated, caring, etc.)?

8\HSPÄJH[PVUZ! What skills and abilities do you have appropriate to the type of work you’re now looking for?

Work Experience: How would you describe the duties and responsibilities you’ve had in your various roles so far?

6U[OLUL_[WHNL`V\^PSSÄUKHISHURYLZ\TL[LTWSH[L^OLYL`V\JHUJYLH[L HÄYZ[KYHM[VM`V\YYLZ\TL;Y`[VPUJVYWVYH[LZVTLVM[OL[LYTZ`V\SPZ[LKPU[OPZ L_LYJPZLHZ`V\^YP[L`V\Y6IQLJ[P]L8\HSPÄJH[PVUZHUK>VYR,_WLYPLUJL

Exercise: Resume Draft ;OLMVSSV^PUN[LTWSH[LPZTLHU[[VIL\ZLKHZHÄYZ[KYHM[+VU»[MLLS`V\ULLK[VLKP[`V\YZLSM I\[YH[OLYSL[[OLPKLHZÅV^HUKZH]L[OLLKP[PUNMVY`V\YZLJVUKKYHM[0M`V\»YLHWWS`PUNMVY Resume different types of positions, you will want to draft a few versions of your resume.

CONTACT INFORMATION

OBJECTIVE

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

WORK EXPERIENCE

INTERESTS

References Available Upon Request

Sample Cover Letter Fax/Mail Format

Lauren Anderson 398 East 67th Street, Apartment 4D New York, NY 10065 (917) 456-7798 [email protected]

May 6, 2005 Reference your Cover Letter Mr. John Richmond recommendation Director of Client Relations Why you’re writing Midtown Nursing Services (cold inquiry) 24 East 40th Street New York, NY 10016 Full use of company name Dear Mr. Richmond: Summary I am writing on the recommendation of my colleague, Mr. Sebastian Bellows, who is currently working as a Nurse’s Aide with Midtown Nursing Services. Having heard many good things about of key Refer to your organization, I would appreciate the opportunity to submit myself for any available positions points resume as a Nurse’s Aide. from resume As indicated on my enclosed resume, I am a licensed New York State CNA and a recent graduate of the Manhattan College of Nursing where I specialized in Assisted Living Care (completed 72 hours). I am also certified in First Aid and CPR, and am experienced in basic laboratory and medical procedures (e.g. EKG, x-ray, venipuncture).

I share the values and high standards exemplified by Midtown Nursing Services, and pride myself on ensuring the comfort and safety of every resident in my care. I enjoy collaborating as part of a team, and am proactive in providing support on an as-needed basis. As an intern with the Clinton Hill Residences, my attention to detail and strong work ethic earned me a temporary staff position that ends this month. Why I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my education and experience could benefit your you’re organization. I will be contacting you Thursday morning (May 9th) by phone to talk about the possibility right for of arranging an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration. the job Sincerely, Mention achievements

Lauren Anderson Reference and skills skills mentioned gained at Enclosure(s): Resume in the ad, using previous jobs the employer’s language The plan for following Thank the employer up

Sample Cover Letter Email Format

Sent Mail Sent Mail

From: Lauren Anderson

Cover Letter To: John Richmond

Date: May 6, 2005 at 2:27pm

Subject: Available Nurse’s Aide Positions

Resume.doc, 144 KB

Mr. John Richmond Director of Client Relations Midtown Nursing Services 24 East 40th Street New York, NY 10016

Dear Mr. Richmond:

I am writing on the recommendation of my colleague, Mr. Sebastian Bellows, who is currently working as a Nurse’s Aide with Midtown Nursing Services. Having heard many good things about your organization, I would appreciate the opportunity to submit myself for any available positions as a Nurse’s Aide.

As indicated on my attached resume, I am a licensed New York State CNA and a recent graduate of the Manhattan College of Nursing where I specialized in Assisted Living Care (completed 72 hours). I am also certified in First Aid and CPR, and am experienced in basic laboratory and medical procedures (e.g. EKG, x-ray, venipuncture).

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my education and experience could benefit your organization. I will be contacting you Thursday morning (May 9th) by phone to talk about the possibility of arranging an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Lauren Anderson

398 East 67th Street, Apartment 4D New York, NY 10065 (917) 456-7798 [email protected]

Attachment: Resume

Cover Letter Writing Guide

Subject (for emailed letters) 2LLWP[[V[OLWVPU[:[HY[`V\YZ\IQLJ[SPUL^P[O¸9,!¹ZOVY[MVY¸YLNHYKPUN¹HUK[OLUPUZLY[[OLQVI [P[SL-VYL_HTWSL¸9,!(\KPV;LJOUPJPHU7VZP[PVU¹-VSSV^[OLZ[LWZILSV^HUK^YP[L`V\YSL[[LYPU a word processing program even if you’re emailing your cover letter. Then copy and paste it into the IVK`VM[OLLTHPSHUKJOLJRMVYHU`MVYTH[[PUNJOHUNLZ[OH[TH`OH]LVJJ\YYLKPU[OL[YHUZMLY

Contact Information

Cover Letter ;OLÄYZ[[OPUNVU`V\YJV]LYSL[[LYJLU[LYLKH[[OL[VWZOV\SKIL`V\YUHTLWO`ZPJHSHKKYLZZ phone number(s), and email address, so the employer knows how to get in touch with you. Leave one empty line, then switch to the left side of the page. Put the day’s date, leave the next line empty, then write the recipient’s information: name, position/title, and the company’s address. You may need to turn to the phonebook, do a quick online search, or call the company to get the necessary information. It is best to know the name of the person who will be reviewing your resume; if you don’t, however, it’s acceptable to use the name of the department (e.g. Human Resources Department). Be sure all contact information is up-to-date, and take the time to write out the full ^VYKZMVYHU`HKKYLZZJVTWVULU[ZLN)V\SL]HYK-SVVYVYQVI[P[SLZLN:LUPVY4HUHNLY]Z:Y Mgr.). When emailing your cover letter, start with the employer’s information. The date/time will be stamped automatically when you send the email, and your contact information will instead go at the bottom, beneath your signature. (See the example on page 53.)

NOTE: If you can take the time, make letterhead for yourself or buy stationary that will give your cover letter a sleek, professional look while saying something about your personal style (see Further Support for pre-made templates).

Your First and Last Name Street Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address Today’s Date Employer First and Last Name Title Company Name Street Address City, State Zip Code

Salutation/Greeting Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name: 0M`V\KVU»[RUV^L_HJ[S`^OV`V\»YLHKKYLZZPUN`V\TH`^YP[L¸;V>OVTP[4H`*VUJLYU!¹VY ¸+LHY:PY4HKHT!¹

Opening Paragraph Your opening is your opportunity, in two to three sentences, to capture the employer’s attention, and get them interested in you. With your opening, be sure to: Introduce yourself and describe what makes you an exceptional candidate. Explain why you’re writing and why you’re interested in the position/company. If you’re YLZWVUKPUN[VHUHKILZ\YL[VPUJS\KL[OLZWLJPÄJKL[HPSZYLNHYKPUN[OLSPZ[PUNLNUV[Q\Z[ ¸`V\YWVZ[PUNPU[OLUL^ZWHWLY¹I\[¸[OLVWLUPUNMVYHU?9H`;LJOUPJPHUHZSPZ[LKPU[OL Sunday Times»*SHZZPÄLKZLJ[PVU¹0M`V\HYL^YP[PUN[OLJVTWHU`JVSK[VPUX\PYLHIV\[M\[\YL QVIVWWVY[\UP[PLZ`V\TH`ZPTWS`Z[H[L[OH[

Reference any friends who recommended you for the position. Cover Letter Be sure to use the company name instead of a generic phrase (e.g. “Miami Children’s Hospital¹ ]Z¸[OLVYNHUPaH[PVU¹ Close this paragraph by summarizing what makes you right for the job.

Middle Section Now that you’ve stated your case, it’s time to support it with evidence. Be sure to: Refer the reader to your resumeLN¸(ZPUKPJH[LKVUT`LUJSVZLKYLZ\TL¹VY¸0OH]LH[- [HJOLKT`YLZ\TLMVY`V\YYL]PL^:VTLVM[OLYLSL]HU[OPNOSPNO[ZHYL!¹0M`V\WYLMLY`V\TH` instead introduce your resume in the concluding paragraph. 4LU[PVUHU`[OPUNZWLJPÄJ[OH[`V\^HU[[OLLTWSV`LY[VUV[LHIV\[`V\YZRPSSZ HUKX\HSPÄ- cationsHUKYLMLYLUJLHU`WHZ[LTWSV`TLU[[OH[L_LTWSPÄLZ`V\YHWWYVWYPH[LULZZMVY[OLQVI (KKYLZZHU`ZWLJPÄJ[YHP[ZVYZRPSSZ[OLLTWSV`LYTLU[PVULKPU[OLHK, either by borrowing the language used in the listing, or using synonyms (refer to Some Helpful Resume Terms for help). 0MMVYPUZ[HUJL[OLHKTLU[PVUZ[OH[[OL`HYLSVVRPUNMVYZVTLVUL^OVPZ¸KL[HPSVYPLU[LK¹`V\ TPNO[TLU[PVUOV^PUHWHZ[QVI`V\^LYLYLZWVUZPISLMVYZVTL[OPUN[OH[YLX\PYLK¸JSVZLVIZLY- ]H[PVUHUKH[[LU[PVU[VKL[HPS¹ Consider using several short paragraphs, or bulleting`V\YTVZ[YLSL]HU[X\HSPÄJH[PVUZ[V help organize the information. NOTE:>YP[LLHJOZLU[LUJLHZ[OV\NO`V\^LYLÄUPZOPUN[OLWOYHZL!¸0»TWLYMLJ[MVY[OPZQVIILJH\ZL¯¹

Concluding Paragraph In closing, thank the employer for considering you for the position. If you haven’t already, refer them to your resume. Let them know how you plan to follow-up (email, phone, in-person) and when (a week, or less for faxed or emailed letters).

Close and Signature Keep your closing professional, and not too familiar. Also, make sure you allow yourself space between the closing and your typed name to sign the letter. If emailing your resume, with or without other KVJ\TLU[ZSPZ[HZ¸([[HJOTLU[Z!¹0Mmailing^YP[L¸,UJSVZ\YLZ!¹HUKPMfaxing^YP[L¸0UJS\KLK!¹

Sincerely/Regards,

Handwritten Signature (for a mailed or faxed letter)

Typed First and Last Name (Contact information if emailing)

Enclosures: Resume See the following pages for sample cover Reference List letters in both fax/mail and email formats.

Common Mistakes and Simple Fixes The following are some of the common mistakes people make when writing a cover letter, HSSVM^OPJOHYLLHZPS`YLTLKPLKI`[OLJVYYLZWVUKPUNZPTWSLÄ_LZSPZ[LKILZPKL[OLT

Common Mistake Simple Fix Cover Letter *HQHULF RQHVL]HðWVDOO $GGUHVVWKHVSHFLðFQHHGVRIWKHEXVLQHVVDQGHPSOR\HU cover letters

Before you even begin writing, gather as much information as possible about the position and the company so that you can JSLHYS`ZOV^^O`[OH[QVIPUWHY[PJ\SHYPZ[OLVUL`V\HYLPU[LYLZ[- LKPU4HRLZ\YL[V[HYNL[`V\YSL[[LY[V[OLQVIZWLJPÄJH[PVUZ

Making it too short or Include all relevant information while keeping it to too long the point

0M`V\YJV]LYSL[[LYZLLTZ[VVZOVY[YLL_HTPUL[OLQVISPZ[PUNHUK company information, looking for any other matches between your capabilities and their needs. If the letter looks long, break the text up into a few short paragraphs and/or use bullets to lay out the information. It should not go over one page.

Spelling, grammar, formatting Proofread, proofread, proofread or other errors

As with your resume, you’ll want to use the spelling and grammar check functions on your computer, both as you’re writing, and VUJLHNHPU^OLU`V\»YLÄUPZOLK0[»ZILZ[[VWYVVMYLHKHWYPU[LK (rather than on-screen) version of your document, as it’s easier to catch mistakes. Afterwards, have someone whose eye you trust read it over in case anything was missed.

,PSURSHU RUQR IRUPDW Follow a standard format

Make sure your cover letter follows professional guidelines so that it’s taken seriously. You can use either the examples in this book as a guide, or check out the Further Support section for more options.

Common Mistake Simple Fix

Outdated (or otherwise LQFRUUHFW FRQWDFWLQIRUPDWLRQ 'RXEOHFKHFNDQGFRQðUPDOOLQIRUPDWLRQ for yourself or the employer

Make sure that your information is updated and matches your resume, and verify all employer information. Cover Letter Using abbreviations Write it out and acronyms

The same abbreviation rules apply for cover letters as for resumes. Write out any acronyms the employer may be unfamiliar with. It’s VRH`[VZH``V\HYLH¸*5(¹^OLUHWWS`PUNMVYHU\YZPUNWVZP- tion, but someone not familiar with medical terminology needs to RUV^[OH[`V\HYLH¸*LY[PÄLK5\YZPUN(ZZPZ[HU[¹

An inappropriate greeting Address the recipient in a professional manner

If it’s unclear from the ad how you should address the person `V\»YL^YP[PUN[VJHSS[OLJVTWHU`HUKNL[[OLWLYZVU»ZQVI[P[SL name and gender.

Repeating exactly what’s on Change it up your resume in the body of your letter

Highlight skills or accomplishments that you want the employer to know about upfront, but rephrase the information in a way that will add to and reframe what your resume already shows. For L_HTWSLPMP[ZH`ZVU`V\YYLZ\TL[OH[PUHWHZ[QVI`V\¸WYV- ]PKLKHZZPZ[HUJLVUHUHZULLKLKIHZPZ¹`V\TPNO[YLZ[H[L[OH[ in your cover letter to say you, “developed a broad range of skills, and came to be counted on as someone ready to assist in various KLWHY[TLU[Z^OLUL]LYULLKLK¹(JV]LYSL[[LYPZHSZVHNYLH[ WSHJL[VTLU[PVUHUL^WYVQLJ[`V\»YL^VYRPUNVUHUPUK\Z[Y` JSHZZ`V\»YL[HRPUNVYHZRPSS`V\NHPULKMYVTHQVI[OH[KPKU»[ make it onto your resume.

Common Mistake Simple Fix

Not mentioning a follow-up %HVSHFLðFDERXW\RXUIROORZXSSODQV

Show initiative by detailing exactly how you plan to follow-up (by phone, email, or in-person) and when.

Signing off with something Be professional to the very end too casual

:[H`H^H`MYVT¸;OHURZ¹VY¸@V\YZ;Y\S`¹HUKJOVVZL Cover Letter ¸9LNHYKZ¹VY¸:PUJLYLS`¹PUZ[LHK

Leaving out your name Print and sign your name or signature

If you’re mailing, faxing, or delivering the letter, be sure to print your name with enough space that you can sign above it in blue or black ink. If you’re emailing the letter, you don’t need the extra space, but remember that your contact information should go below your name (instead of at the top).

Sending a letter without a Remember to include all necessary documents resume

4HRLZ\YL[OLLTWSV`LYPZSLM[^P[OHNSV^PUNÄYZ[PTWYLZZPVU not a second email with a forgotten attachment. If you’re mailing, faxing, or delivering your letter, make sure your resume is in the envelope or in your bag.

Faxing your cover letter/ Include a cover sheet resume un-introduced

>OLUL]LY`V\»YLMH_PUNKVJ\TLU[Z^OL[OLYMVY`V\YQVI search or anything else, be sure to include a cover sheet. It should contain: the name and title of the person you’re faxing to, their fax number, your contact information (including fax number if you have one), the total number of pages you’re sending (including the cover sheet), and a one-sentence note HIV\[^OH[`V\»YLZLUKPUNLN¸0UJS\KLKWSLHZLÄUKT`JV]LY letter and resume to be considered for the IT Specialist position at Bravo Communications.”)

6U[OLMVSSV^PUNWHNL`V\»SSÄUKHJV]LYSL[[LY^P[OTHU`VM[OLZL Common Mistakes:LLPM`V\JHUPKLU[PM`[OLT

Think Build Live SuccessTM | Joining the Workforce 56 Copyright © 2009, Best Effect Chapter 2 / Presenting Yourself on Paper Checklist The following checklist is a helpful reference for when you’re creating your cover letter. Once you’ve checked off everything on this list, you’ll know you have a great looking cover letter.

Did you...

Do the necessary research to ensure Craft an opening that will catch the HJV]LYSL[[LY[OH[PZ[HYNL[LKZWLJPÄJHSS` reader’s attention? [V[OLQVIHUK[OLLTWSV`LY&

Cover Letter Refer the reader to your resume for a JVTWSL[LSPZ[VM`V\YX\HSPÄJH[PVUZHUK State your case clearly and concisely, experience? keeping your letter to a single page?

(KKYLZZ[OLZWLJPÄJH[PVUZPU[OLQVI Run your computer’s spelling and listing, highlighting skills and past grammar checks, and print out a copy to employment that show your prepared- check for alignment or spacing errors? ULZZMVY[OLQVI&

Have someone you trust look it over? Say exactly how and when you plan to follow-up?

Make letterhead and/or properly lay Thank the reader for their time and out your and the employer’s contact for considering you? information?

Sign off with a standard, professional Make sure all the information is correct word or phrase? and up-to-date?

Remember to print your name, and sign Write out any abbreviations (except it for mail, fax, or hand-delivery? the state), and any acronyms that the employer may not be familiar with?

Remember to enclose/include/attach your resume? Address the employer in an appropriate manner? Fax a cover sheet with your cover letter and resume?