The Do’s and Don’ts of Resume and Cover Letter Writing. You’ve probably heard that you need a resume and a cover letter when you’re job hunting. But what do those things actually entail? And more importantly, what makes them effective?
In this post, we’ll break down the do’s and don’ts of resume and cover letter writing. We’ll help you understand the purpose of each document, and we’ll give you some tips for putting together an effective submission.
When it comes to writing resumes and cover letters, there are a few do’s and don’ts you’ll want to keep in mind. Here are the most important ones:
DO:
- -Make sure your resume is typo-free and well-organized
- -Include a tailored cover letter with each job application
- -Include relevant experience and skills
- -Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible
- -Proofread everything before you send it!
DON’T:
- -Submit the same resume for every job application
- -Include personal information like your age or marital status
- -Lie or exaggerate on your resume or cover letter
- -Use generic phrases or templates for your cover letter
What Is a Resume?
A resume is a document that outlines your work history, skills, and education. It’s a way to show a potential employer what you have to offer.
Your resume should be concise and easy to read. List your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent job. Highlight your skills and achievements, and list your education at the bottom.
When writing your resume, be sure to tailor it to the job you’re applying for. Use keywords that match the job description, and make sure your formatting is consistent.
A resume is a great way to showcase your qualifications, but it’s not the only thing you need to send to a potential employer. You also need a cover letter.
What Is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a document that introduces you to a potential employer. It’s your opportunity to stand out from the crowd and make a great first impression.
Your cover letter should be concise and to the point, highlighting the skills and experience that make you the perfect candidate for the job. Be sure to mention how you learned about the position and why you’re interested in it.
And most importantly, don’t forget to personalize it! Make sure to address the letter to a specific person, and thank them for their time.
Do’s of Resume and Cover Letter Writing
When it comes to resumes and cover letters, there are a few do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind. Here are the most important ones:
- DO make sure your resume is up-to-date and typo-free.
- DO list your skills and experience prominently.
- DO tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for.
- Don’t use generic terms like “hard worker” or “team player.”
- Don’t include personal information like your age, race, or religion.
- Don’t lie or embellish your qualifications.
Following these tips will help you create a resume and cover letter that stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of getting the job you want.
Don’ts of Resume and Cover Letter Writing
Do not make these mistakes when writing your resume or cover letter:
- Typos and grammatical errors. This is a big one. If your resume or cover letter has mistakes, it will instantly make you look unprofessional.
- Failing to address the letter to a specific person. Make sure you research the company and find out the name of the person who will be reading your resume or cover letter. Address them by name in the letter.
- Send a generic resume or cover letter. Don’t just send the same resume or cover letter to every company you apply to. Tailor it to each job you’re applying for, and make sure it’s relevant to the position you’re applying for.
- Make the resume or cover letter too long. Keep it short and sweet—no one wants to read a long, drawn-out document.
- Failing to highlight your skills and experience. Make sure you list your skills and highlight your experience in the resume and cover letter. Don’t be afraid to brag a little bit!
Conclusion
When it comes to resume and cover letter writing, there are a few do’s and don’ts you should always keep in mind.
First, always make sure your resume is up-to-date and tailored to the job you’re applying for. And when it comes to your cover letter, be sure to personalize it for each position and make sure it concise and easy to read.
Finally, always proofread both documents before submitting them, and ask a friend or family member to take a look at them too. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to landing your dream job!
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