The Career Step Series

Lundquist College Career Services
Resume Development
Presents
The Career Step Series
Step 2:
Resume and
Cover Letter
Purpose of Resume
•
Create a favorable first impression
•
Make a match between your qualifications and the needs of the employer
•
Display skills, talents, abilities, and experience
Characteristics of a Strong Resume
•
Organized and visually pleasing
•
Clear and concise in presenting your experience
•
Tailored to specific position, industry, and organization
•
Technically correct in grammar, spelling, and punctuation
Resume Writing Tips
•
Use specific action verbs (see the last 2 pages of this book)
•
Be consistent with past tense
•
Use concise phrases
•
Proofread!!
Most employers spend 20-30
seconds scanning a resume in
order to determine if it’s worth a
second look. Make it easy for them
to find what they’re looking for!
Step 5 – Job Offers
Step 4 – Interviewing
Step 3 – The Job Search
Writing effective bullet points
Go beyond merely describing your “duties” – instead of listing tasks,
focus on outcomes. Constantly ask yourself WHO, WHAT, WHEN,
WHERE, WHY and HOW when writing about your experience.
1)
2)
Step 2 – Resume / Cover Letter
Step 1 – Self Assessment
3)
4)
Select one of the work experiences that will be included in your
resume
Decide the skill words (action verbs) that best describe the
experience
Identify the demonstrated outcomes of the activity
Get specific - who, what, when, why, where, and how
Example: Task - “put the food supplies out for workers”
Organized - what did you organize? For whom? Why? How?
Organized employees’ food supplies...For what reason?
Organized food supplies to increase access...When? How?
Organized food supplies to increase access for busy
employees during peak business hours.
Use the same header
for your other
application materials
Resume Template
Resume Example
NAME
Address • City, State Zip Code • Phone • Email
OBJECTIVE (Optional)
Should tell employer what kind of job you are looking for and highlight what you offer.
Example:
• Product Marketing Analysis position in the consumer products industry that will
utilize my research and problem solving skills
PERSONAL STRENGTHS / ACHIEVEMENTS or SKILLS SUMMARY (Optional)
This section typically appears at the top of the resume as an introduction and makes
assertions about your abilities, qualities and achievements. Present only skills or
accomplishments that are relevant to your reader.
Example:
• Strong analytical problem solving and market research skills
• Demonstrated initiative and self motivation – financed 50% of education
• Strong cross-cultural communication skills obtained through extensive international
travel and study in Central America
JULIE SMITH
125 Broadway Street • Eugene, OR 97403 • 541-555-5834 • [email protected]
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Expected June 2012
University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
Charles H. Lundquist College of Business
Concentration in Finance, Minor in Economics
Cumulative GPA: 3.6, Finance GPA: 3.85
COURSE
HIGHLIGHTS
Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Economic Foundations of Competitive
Analysis, Introduction to Business, Introduction to Psychology, Spanish
(3 years)
EXPERIENCE
Resident Assistant, September 2009-Present
University Housing-University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
• Mentored, supported, and advised first-year college students which
contributed to high retention rates
• Arranged quarterly educational and social programs for more than 80
students to build sense of community
• Interpreted and enforced university policies and procedures
EDUCATION (Required)
Simple presentation - Lead with degree, institution and include date of completion. If you
have more than one degree, list in reverse chronological order.
Example:
Bachelor of Science in Accounting, June 2009
Lundquist College of Business, University of Oregon
• GPA = 3.2
Communications Volunteer, June-September 2010
Boys and Girls Club, Eugene, OR
• Maintained MS Access database of club participants’ visits and usage of
the facilities
• Coordinated media packets and proofread press releases
• Assisted the Communications Director in her daily activities and on
projects
• Filed, answered phones and greeted visitors
GPA is required for
Accounting and Finance
positions. Otherwise, if it
is above 3.0, it wouldn’t
hurt to include it.
EXPERIENCE (Required)
Should reflect strengths, accomplishments or achievements. Back up your assertions with
evidence.
• Present most relevant information first
• All verb tenses should agree (past tense is the standard convention)
• Format sparingly for greatest impact
• Experience can include volunteer and co-curricular activities as well as paid jobs
• Communicate using current industry terms, but avoid jargon and opaque abbreviations
• Use percentages and number details to add magnitude: “Which resulted in a 30%
membership increase,” or “Planned training program for 35 participants”
Example:
Nordstrom, San Francisco CA (Summers 2009-10)
Salesperson/Management Intern
• Earned 2010 top sales associate award for customer service during summer sales season
• Researched market trends for retail sales, presented findings to top management
INTERESTS or ACTIVITIES (Optional)
List hobbies, interests, volunteer work, club membership, etc. to show diversity or another
skill area related to your career goal. This area may also include travel experience. Try to
avoid controversial topics.
REFERENCES
Not generally included in a resume - no need for the phrase “available upon request”
Cashier, July 2005-August 2009
Albertsons, Eugene, OR
• Handled cash in excess of $5,000 and reconciled receipts daily
• Provided fast and friendly service enhancing customers’ shopping
experience
• Responded to customer concerns and directed questions as needed
• Organized promotional displays for highlighted products on special
SKILLS
Fluent Spanish, Conversational French, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel,
Access, PowerPoint), MS FrontPage
ACTIVITIES
• UO Investment Group-Member, September 2010-Present
• Women in Business Club, September 2009-Present
• Food for Lane County-Kitchen Assistant, January-July 2008
INTERESTS
Hiking, music, traveling, snowboarding
Resume Example
Developing a Strong Cover Letter
Purpose of cover letter
•
Accompanies your resume to identify your reason for writing the employer
•
Shows how your previous activities, skills and experiences lead to the job
and organization you’re applying for
Paul Chavez
180 E. 24th Apt. 2
Eugene, OR 97405
541-555-2102
[email protected]
OBJECTIVE
Product Marketing Analysis position in the consumer fitness products industry that will utilize
my research, analysis and communication skills
PERSONAL STRENGTHS/ACHIEVEMENTS
• Strong analytical problem solving and market research skills
• Excellent communication skills – writing, presenting, training
Characteristics of a strong cover letter
•
Targeted to specific employer and job
•
Organized and visually pleasing
•
Clear and concise in articulating skills and interests
•
Key points are structured within focused paragraphs
•
Introduction and conclusion sentences are effective in transitioning between
ideas and between paragraphs
•
Use active and positive tone: Instead of would or could, use will or can
- Bad: I would appreciate the chance for an interview
- Good: I look forward to meeting with you...”
EDUCATION
University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
Sports Business and Entrepreneurship Concentrations
Spanish Minor
Expected March 2012
Portland Community College, Portland OR
Associate of Arts - Oregon Transfer
June 2010
EXPERIENCE
American Marketing Association, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
New Member Committee Chair
May 2010-May 2011
• Identified marketing venues to attract new members, resulting in a 5% membership
increase
• Collaborated with committee members to plan and implement welcoming programs for
new members resulting in greater participation of new members on committees
• Developed marketing plan for future membership drives
JCPenney, Portland, OR
Marketing Intern/Sales Associate
December 2009-August 2010
• Researched market trends for retail sales, presented findings to top management
• Communicated closely with managers, staff, and customers to ensure tasks were
completed and customer satisfaction goals were met
• Assisted manager with scheduling and payroll tasks
• Earned top sales associate award for exceptional customer service during summer sales
season, 2009
INTERESTS
Distance running, soccer, softball, other team sports, Latin culture and literature
Use specific examples to illustrate your skills
•
Establish a SITUATION.
“We were short staffed and had a three month backlog in filling orders.”
•
Describe the ACTION you took.
“I developed a spreadsheet that helped us track order dates and parts
status.”
•
Reveal the RESULTS of your efforts.
“Within 20 days the backlog was eliminated.”
How do I know what skills an employer is looking for?
 Conduct informational interviews with the organization, other
companies in that industry, and/or people in that career (see “Step 3:
Job Search” booklet).
 Scrutinize the job description for key words and incorporate them into
your application materials.
Example:
Each year we look for enthusiastic individuals to help us produce and
market Rose Festival events. We're looking for people who are interested in
gaining valuable learning experiences in a fast-paced environment.
• Manage the implementation of float sponsor benefits
• Manage effective communication between sponsors and event managers
• Assist with coordination of sponsor hospitality functions
• Provide on-site marketing support at Rose Festival events
• Aid in strategic marketing planning for the 2011 Rose Festival
Cover Letter Content Brainstorm Worksheet
Step 1
Identify 2-3 skills or characteristics in which you really excel (see “Step 1:
Self Assessment” booklet) and which the employer is looking for.
1)
2)
3)
Step 2
Write possible cover letter body paragraphs.
Theme 1:
Tell the best story (example) from your experience that supports your claim.
Include the Situation, Action, and Result.
Connect this skill/characteristic with the job you’re applying for:
Repeat Step 2 until you feel you’ve made your best possible case.
Step 3
Write introduction and conclusion paragraphs.
The introduction and conclusion should emphasize what interests you about this
job or company. They should also preview (intro) and recap (conclusion) the
main themes of your letter.
Cover Letter Template
Use the same header
as your resume
Name
Street Address • City, State Zip
Phone # • Email address
½” margins minimum –
preferably 1”
Date
Contact name
Title
Company name
Address
City, State Zip
Try to find a name. If desperate,
use “Dear Hiring Manager,” or
“Dear Search Committee”
Dear Mr. or Ms. Last Name:
Introductory Paragraph:
•
Specify why you are writing
•
Identify the individual(s) who referred you
•
Note a previous point of contact, if applicable
•
Provide an overview of your letter
“I am writing to apply for the position of...with...company as advertised in...My (theme
1) and (theme 2) make me a strong candidate for the (job title) position.”
Body Paragraphs:
•
Elaborate on your strengths as they relate to needs of the employer
•
Provide specific examples demonstrating your knowledge and experience
•
Close paragraph with conclusion sentence focused on how skill will impact
employer.
Example:
My previous work experience has allowed me to develop my communications and
customer service skills. During the past two summers I conducted marketing research for
InvoTech, a company specializing in computer games. I surveyed over 50 retailers
regarding their customers’ online purchasing activity and analyzed the data for patterns
and preferences. Now I am looking to utilize this experience by helping your company
improve communication with retailers and assisting them with evaluating e-commerce
possibilities for computer-based entertainment.
Conclusion Paragraph:
•
Reiterate your interest in the position with the organization
•
Identify next steps
“I am extremely excited about the position of ___with ___ company and look forward to
beginning the interview process.
Proactive: “I will contact you the week of ___ to discuss my application and to learn
about your recruiting procedures.” -orReactive: “I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
Sincerely,
Signature
Typed name below
Use a font that is easy to read
(Times or Arial) 10-12 point size
for body and 14-18 for name
Cover Letter Example
JULIE SMITH
125 Broadway Street • Eugene, OR 97403 • 541-555-5834 • [email protected]
Cover Letter Example
Joan Oakley
7 Apple Court • Eugene, OR 97401 • 503-555-0303 • [email protected]
November 17, 2010
Ms. Lauren Leichtman
Founding Principal
Levine Leichtman Capital Partners
335 N Maple Drive, Suite 240
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Request for an
Informational Interview
Dear Ms. Leichtman:
At a recent alumni event, I had the great pleasure of talking to Mr. Jeff Phillips, Financial
Analyst, from your office. During our conversation, he mentioned that several analysts had
backgrounds similar to mine and he strongly encouraged me to contact you to learn more about
the field of financial analysis. I am completing my Bachelors Degree in Business
Administration with a concentration in Finance and minor in Economics at the University of
Oregon in June 2011.
In addition to my business education, I have been a part of the University of Oregon
Investment Group (UOIG) for over one year. The UOIG is a student club in which we invest
more than $750,000 real dollars in the stock market. Since its inception in 2002, the Tall Firs
Portfolio has returned 56.21%, compared to the benchmark return of 34.40%. I really enjoy
immersing myself in the finances of a particular company and industry and determining
whether or not we should invest in it. This experience has made it clear to me that I have a
strong interest and aptitude for financial analysis and I’m hoping that you can help me get a
better sense of what it is like to work in this industry.
If you are able to talk with me for 30-45 minutes, I hope to learn about your experiences and
career path. In particular, I am interested in your experience as a businesswoman in a field that
is highly male dominated and how you started your own firm. I would also appreciate the
opportunity to hear your insight about how my education and work experience could be a good
fit with the position of financial analyst and advice about positioning myself to be a strong
candidate for future employers.
I will call you the week of November 28 to arrange a time for us to meet. I look forward to
talking with you soon.
Sincerely,
Julie Smith
Julie Smith
July 6, 2011
Mr. Archie Weatherby
California Investments, Inc.
25 Sacramento Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Use this format when sending
a hard-copy letter. When
emailing, you can either send
your cover letter as an
attachment, or as the body of
your email. If you send it in
the body, you do not need the
formal letter heading at the top
Dear Mr. Weatherby,
I’m writing to apply for the insurance broker position with California Investments,
Inc. I am looking to start a career in sales, and I was drawn to your company
because of your employee development programs and opportunities for career
growth. My ability to connect with clients and produce results makes me a strong
candidate.
In each of my many sales positions—radio ad sales, newspaper subscription sales,
and bartending—I have developed a loyal client base. In radio ad sales, I took the
time to understand each client’s advertising needs and helped them find ad slots that
would connect best with their target customers. Because I helped them identify and
achieve their goals, I had the highest referral rate of any of the sales force.
Insurance sales is also based on identifying and reaching client goals and client
referrals. I’m confident I will be similarly successful in that field.
Ultimately, however, client relationships aren’t valuable unless they can be
translated to sales. When I was selling newspaper subscriptions to college students,
I quickly learned how to adapt my pitch to their needs. Even at a time when “print
is dying,” especially in the college-aged demographic, I was able to increase my
new subscribers by at least 20% each quarter.
I will be in California at the end of this month, and I would like very much to talk
with you about my ability to build fruitful relationships and a potential broker
position. I will follow up this letter with a phone call to arrange a time to meet.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Joan Oakley
Joan Oakley
Job Search
Action Verb List for Resume
ACHIEVEMENT
Advanced
Assured
Bolstered
Eliminated
Encourage
Enhanced
Expanded
Facilitated
Fostered
Generated
Guaranteed
Identified
Improved
Increased
Inspired
Mastered
Maximized
Motivated
Obtained
Overcame
Promoted
Reduced
Restored
Stimulated
Strengthened
Upgraded
ANALYSIS &
PROBLEM
SOLVING
Abstracted
Analyzed
Appraised
Briefed
Clarified
Compared
Computed
Correlated
Critiqued
Debated
Defined
Determined
Diagnosed
Dissected
Evaluated
Examined
Identified
Interviewed
Investigated
Judged
Maintained
Mapped
Monitored
Observed
Perceived
Ranked
Read
Reasoned
Related
Researched
Reviewed
Screened
Scanned
Solved
Studied
Summarized
Surveyed
Synthesized
Verified
Visualized
ASSISTANCE
Advised
Assisted
Bolstered
Collaborated
Contributed
Consulted
Cooperated
Enlisted
Facilitated
Fostered
Helped
Participated
Referred
Served
Strengthened
Supported
Sustained
COMMUNICATION
Addressed
Advertised
Answered
Briefed
Communicated
Corresponded
Debated
Explained
Expressed
Facilitated
Interpreted
Interviewed
Lectured
Listened
Narrated
Prepared
Presented
Publicized
Recorded
Responded
Spoke
Wrote
CREATION &
DEVELOPMENT
Acted
Adapted
Authored
Bolstered
Built
Charged
Clarified
Composed
Conceived
Corrected
Created
Designed
Developed
Devised
Discovered
Drafted
Eliminated
Established
Expanded
Expedited
Initiated
Innovated
Instituted
Integrated
Introduced
Invented
Launched
Modified
Originated
Perceived
Performed
Planned
Prioritized
Produced
Promoted
Proposed
Recommended
Reduced
Restored
Refined
Revamped
Set
Shaped
Simplified
Solved
Styled
Streamlined
Substituted
Visualized
NEGOTIATION
Advised
Advocated
Arbitrated
Bargained
Expedited
Facilitated
Lobbied
Mediated
Merged
Motivated
Negotiated
Persuaded
Promoted
Reconciled
Solved
OPERATIONS
Adjusted
Adapted
Bolstered
Clarified
Corrected
Eliminated
Expedited
Facilitated
Fixed
Implemented
Installed
Performed
Prepared
Prioritized
Produced
Programmed
Promoted
Ran
Reduced
Repaired
Serviced
Set
Transported
Upheld
Used
Utilized
ORGANIZATION
Accumulated
Arranged
Assembled
Built
Catalogued
Clarified
Classified
Coordinated
Correlated
Detailed
Developed
Facilitated
Filed
Gathered
Graphed
Identified
Inspected
Located
Maintained
Mapped
Met (deadlines)
Methodized
Obtained
Organized
Planned
Prioritized
Processed
Programmed
Reorganized
Reproduced
Retrieved
Revamped
Revised
Scheduled
Set
Simplified
Solved
Streamlined
Structured
Synthesized
Systemized
Updated
PERSUASION
Aided
Advertised
Auctioned
Bolstered
Enlisted
Facilitated
Helped
Improved
Led
Maintained
Motivated
Negotiated
Persuaded
Promoted
Purchased
Raised
Recommended
Recruited
SERVICE
Attended
Cared
Catered
Delivered
Entertained
Facilitated
Listened
Maintained
Prepared
Procured
Provided
Satisfied
Served
Supplied
SUPERVISION &
MANAGEMENT
Administered
Allocated
Approved
Arranged
Assigned
Authorized
Bolstered
Coached
Conducted
Decided
Delegated
Directed
Dispatched
Distributed
Educated
Encouraged
Enforced
Evaluated
Executed
Exercised
Expedited
Facilitated
Fired
Followed (through)
Hired
Implemented
Instructed
Led
Maintained
Met (deadlines)
Monitored
Motivated
Organized
Oversaw
Planned
Prepared
Regulated
Reinforced
Responded
Retained
Reviewed
Scheduled
Set
Supervised
Taught
Trained
TEACHING &
COUNSELING
Adapted
Advised
Advocated
Aided
Assessed
Bolstered
For Additional Assistance: Career Services Lillis 240 Lundquist College of Business University of Oregon 541‐346‐3301 http://www.lcb.uoregon.edu/career Briefed
Cared
Charged
Clarified
Coached
Comforted
Communicated
Conducted
Coordinated
Demonstrated
Educated
Empathized
Enabled
Encouraged
Enlightened
Guided
Helped
Implemented
Improved
Influenced
Informed
Inspired
Interpreted
Investigated
Observed
Perceived
Persuaded
Restored
Saved
Shared
Solved
Spoke
Stimulated
Strengthened
Substituted
Supported
Sustained
Taught
Trained
Validated