It’s a common fact that many of us are overwhelmed and anxious when it comes to writing a resume and cover letter. There are so many mistakes that we often make, which can make us sound less professional, or even unprofessional! So, in this article, we’ll tell you exactly what you can learn from writing a resume and cover letter, for each part of the application process.
The Application Process
When applying for a job, you’ll inevitably have to sit in front of a computer screen and pour out your resume and cover letter for the potential employer’s review. It can be overwhelming to give the best version of yourself, in terms of work experience, skills, and qualifications. Which parts should you include? How much should you include? Should you tailor your resume and cover letter for each application? Should you submit a sample resume and cover letter? How do you present yourself? What do you want the hiring manager to say about you?
After you’ve submitted your application through a career website, what happens? Typically, your resume and cover letter will be assessed, and either you’ll be asked to submit further documents or you’ll receive a confirmation that you’ve been short-listed for further consideration.
The whole process can be frustrating, as you want to secure the job, but you’re also worried about making a mistake. While you’re anxious about this phase of the process, remember that every mistake you make can be corrected! So, take your time, review the instructions, and take notes. Familiarise yourself with the common errors that people commonly make, and try to avoid making the same mistakes. You can also ask friends or family members to review your application, and get feedback on how to improve, and whether you’ve made any mistakes at all.
The Resume
Your resume is your chance to highlight your skills and experience, and convey the kind of person that you are, and what you can offer the business. It is, therefore, incredibly important that you sit down, and write your resume with care. Before you begin, make sure that you practice, and look at different versions of resumes, to see what works for other applicants, and to see how you can stand out from the crowd.
What should the format of your resume be? Should you include details about your education, and training? Or, should you just include your work experience, in chronological order? In terms of the content, what should you include?
Your resume should include your:
- Contact information
- Education
- Work Experience
- Additional Skills
- References
- Personal Information
If you do decide to use a resume template, make sure to familiarise yourself with the layout and styling of the template, as this can affect how your resume looks. What you want is a simple yet effective resume that makes you look professional.
The Cover Letter
An important part of your application package is your cover letter. A cover letter is a short letter, typically addressing the reasons for your interest in the role, along with some key details about your career history, or other relevant experience. Cover letters are typically written after your resume, and should follow the same basic structure, with key details about yourself. As with your resume, the cover letter is your chance to demonstrate your ability to write concise yet compelling letters, and to put your best foot forward.
Your cover letter should include your:
- Contact information
- Education
- Work Experience
- Additional Skills
- References
- Personal Information
As with your resume, your cover letter should include your following items:
- A brief introduction, detailing your interest in the role, and why you’re qualified for it.
- A clear statement of the specific responsibilities of the role you’re applying for.
- Specific details about your work experience or relevant training, which directly relates to the job you’re applying for.
- A short conclusion, restating your interest in the position, and how you can contribute to the business.
- Your full address, including email address
- A phone number
If you decide to use a cover letter template, be sure to familiarise yourself with the layout and styling of the template, as this can affect how your cover letter looks. What you want is a concise cover letter that draws the reader in, and makes them want to learn more about you.
What Can You Learn From Writing A Resume And Cover Letter?
Writing a resume and cover letter is a great exercise. You get to showcase your skills and experience, and perfecting this task means you’ll have an easy to follow guide, for when you’re needed, and don’t have to remember too much, when you need to.
As with many other tasks in life, nothing is ever perfect the first time you do it. However, the more you practice, the better you’ll become at it. So, take your time, review the instructions, and take notes. Familiarise yourself with the common errors that people commonly make, and try to avoid making the same mistakes. You can also ask friends or family members to review your application, and get feedback on how to improve, and whether you’ve made any mistakes at all. Then, take a break, and when you’re ready, begin again, and improve your game.