Career Development. Resume and Cover Letter Basics. Career Development

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1 Gwynedd Mercy University Explore. Experiment. Experience. Excel. Career Development Resume and Cover Letter Basics Resume basics: p. 2-6 o Writing your resume: p. 2 o Accomplishment-focused: p. 3 o Action Words: p. 4 o Resume checklist: p. 5 o Sample resume: p. 6 Cover letter basics: p o Essential parts: p. 7 o Sample cover letters: p References: p. 12 Career Development , ext.: careerservices@gmercyu.edu

2 Resume Basics PURPOSE OF A RESUME Is an introduction of your experience/skills to an employer. You need to know what employers want and then tailor your resumes towards them. To successfully market yourself you need to: Have strong content and format. Demonstrate you have the skills and knowledge to be successful at the specific position. BEFORE YOU START WRITING YOUR RESUME Identify your strengths, knowledge, skills and experiences. List the different resume sections you want to consider, including: Objective, Professional Summary, Profile, Qualifications Education, Related Coursework, Honors/Awards Related Experience, Work Experience, Volunteer Leadership Activities, Student Clubs Professional Development/Associations Skills, Research WRITING YOUR RESUME When working on writing your resume bullets, consider these questions: What did you do?, How did you do it?, For what purpose?, What was the result? Use the following steps to brainstorm what to include from your jobs and projects. Step 1: For each job/internship/volunteer experience you had write down the following: Employer s name, location, job title, dates of employment What were your job responsibilities? What skills and knowledge were required to do this job? Step 2: Personalize your resume towards the job you want or at the very least the career field you are interested in. When preparing your resume for a specific position do the following: Write down the employer s name, location, job title Review the job description. o What type of industry and organization is this? (Products, services) o What are the job duties? o What skills and knowledge are required? o What tasks, skills and knowledge do you have that match or are similar? Review to enhance your knowledge of specific careers to help you better understand what to include on your resume. Step 3: Use the Accomplishment Writing and Action Word list to strengthen each bullet.

3 ACCOMPLISHMENT-FOCUSED Creating an Accomplishment-focused resume (rather than generic bullets) will help your resume stand out and sell you to the potential employer. Responsibilities state what you did while accomplishments demonstrate how well you did. Your document should have a mix of both. Example: Responsibility-focused: Sunrise Assisted Living Facility, Summit, NJ May 2013-June 2015 Business Manager Responsible for the daily operations of facility s administrative office. Oversaw the management of health benefits for all employees. Wrote grants and served on various committees, including the activities committee. Accomplishments-focused: Sunrise Assisted Living Facility, Summit, NJ May 2013-June 2015 Business Manager Managed finance and administration of retirement community with a $22 million budget and 550 residents. Saved $200,000 in costs for the fiscal year by implementing new employee benefits plan. Successfully secured a $1 million grant for technology improvements. Consider these questions to write accomplishment-focused statements: 1. What did you do to make this job your own? How did you take the initiative? How did you go above and beyond what was asked of you in your job description? What did you do to set yourself apart? 2. How has the organization benefited from your performance? How did you/will you leave this employer better off than before you worked there? List any awards. 3. Check your annual performance reviews for this job. Provide below any glowing or even complimentary quotes from your reviews. Did you consistently receive high ratings? 4. What tangible evidence do you have of accomplishments -- publications you've produced, products you've developed, software applications you've written? 5. How did you contribute to operational efficiency in this job? How did you help this employer or a part of the organization to save money, save time, or make work easier? 6. How did you build relationships or image with internal and/or external constituencies? How did you attract new customers or retain existing ones? 7. How did you help the organization fulfill its mission statement? 8. How did you solve one or more specific problems in this job? What were the problems or challenges that you or the organization faced? What did you do to overcome the problems? ** Keep track of your accomplishments in a Word document, phone, notebook, etc. This will help as you remember what you accomplished and update your resume.

4 ACTION WORDS This is a categorized list of sample words to use for your bullets and descriptions. Leadership Administered Advised Allocated Appointed Approved Assigned Authorized Chaired Delegated Designated Educated Empowered Enabled Encouraged Endorsed Enforced Enhanced Established Evaluated Executed Facilitated Fostered Guided Hired Improved Incorporated Increased Influenced Instructed Instituted Judged Led Managed Moderated Motivated Oversaw Recommended Recruited Scheduled Strengthened Supervised Trained Communication Addressed Advertised Authored Clarified Communicated Composed Condensed Contacted Convinced Corresponded Counseled Defined Drafted Edited Explained Expressed Informed Interpreted Interviewed Lectured Marketed Negotiated Officiated Persuaded Presented Promoted Publicized Recommended Reconciled Referred Reported Responded Suggested Summarized Translated Wrote Organization Arranged Catalogued Categorized Centralized Charted Classified Compiled Correlated Distributed Generated Linked Maintained Orchestrated Organized Oriented Planned Prioritized Processed Provided Recorded Regulated Reviewed Scheduled Sorted Submitted Standardized Updated Technical Assembled Built Computed Conserved Constructed Developed Installed Operated Programmed Specialized Upgraded Teamwork Accommodated Adapted Adjusted Aided Altered Assisted Collaborated Contributed Cooperated Fostered Instructed Motivated Participated Partnered Stimulated Supported Tailored Creativity Brainstormed Designed Engineered Entertained Envisioned Fashioned Modeled Performed Produced Shaped Visualized Financial Appraised Audited Balanced Budgeted Calculated Estimated Marketed Purchased Projected Reduced Research Analyzed Assessed Collected Compared Computed Conceptualized Concluded Conducted Confirmed Critiqued Deciphered Deliberated Determined Diagnosed Estimated Evaluated Examined Forecasted Formulated Gathered Identified Integrated Investigated Located Measured Prescribed Prioritized Projected Researched Reviewed Solved Studied Substantiated Surveyed Systemized Tested Validated Problem- Solving Alleviated Augmented Customized Elevated Enlarged Extended Extracted Finalized Fulfilled Generated Implemented Polished Procured Rectified Reduced Refined Reformed Rehabilitated Reinforced Rejuvenated Relieved Remedied Remodeled Restored Retrieved Settled Solicited Streamlined Strengthened Supplemented Transformed

5 RESUME CHECKLIST: Review your resume to see if your format and content are strong. Format: Font Spacing Sections Placement Consistency Bullets Content: Header Education Related Experience Work Experience Additional Sections Description Details Career Development: Resume Review Guidelines for Resume Simple style (Arial, Calibri, Garamond, Georgia, Times, etc.) Font size between (Names and Headings may be larger) No color Margin between.5 1inch Use spacing to separate sections and items such as jobs (do not use extreme spacing just to fill up the page) Spacing should be set at zero for before/after. Review spacing under the Page Layout tab. Enter spaces where needed. Content is separated into sections with appropriate headings (ex. Education, Work Experience, Campus Involvement) Dates and locations should be to the right side of resume so most important information is read first Format choices should remain constant. Ex: If bolding and underlining headings make sure you do it for all headings Simple style Good to use for job descriptions/list of skills Name (larger font size or bolded) Address Phone number Address Proper name of degree (if declared) Anticipated graduation date Include company name, job title, description of job, dates employed, city & state Should be put after education but before all other experiences Include company name, job title, description of job, dates employed, city & state Resume may also include sections on: Volunteering/ Service Campus Involvement Honors/Scholarships Related Courses Start each description with an action verb Speak about duties, skills, key accomplishments etc. Get your resume reviewed by a Career Development staff member. Check Check Check

6 MICHAEL SCOTT 26 Manor Road; Gwynedd Valley, PA ; OBJECTIVE: To secure the Marketing Assistant position at Verizon Communications utilizing expertise in product planning, buying, and analysis. EDUCATION: Gwynedd Mercy University (GMercyU), Gwynedd Valley, PA Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Graduate: May 2016 GPA: 3.5 Alternative Spring Break Savannah, GA (Spring 2015) Member of the Dean s Student Advisory Board RELATED EXPERIENCE: Research Design Company, Limerick, PA Market Research Intern, Summer 2015 Conducted quantitative and qualitative interviews and one-on-one and group discussions to determine the satisfactory levels of the clients. Developed screeners, re-screeners and question maps which assisted in improving the organization of the research process. Aided in the recruiting process through cold calls, surveys and helped develop the sample population. Accurately and efficiently performed data entry and analysis. Marketing/PR Office, GMercyU, Gwynedd Valley, PA Marketing/PR Intern, Fall 2015 Discussed marketing plan for graduate school programs with an outside representative to review ways to better connect with that population. Assisted in planning and facilitating a black-tie gala that celebrated the 50 th anniversary of the Nursing program, including creating a slide show displaying the program s history. Participated in meetings with Comcast to discuss the creation of television advertisements. Wrote press releases on events, activities, and student, faculty and staff achievements. CAMPUS LEADERSHIP: Business Club, GMercyU, Gwynedd Valley, PA Vice-President, 2014-Present Organize professional development events for members, including panel discussions and employer site visits. Represent business students at Student Government Meetings to communicate club s needs and mission. Student Activities Committee, GMercyU, Gwynedd Valley, PA Event Planning Coordinator, 2014-Present Supervise the committee that plans programs such as dances, games and speakers. Utilize marketing knowledge and skills to publicize events, including designing posters and digital flyers. ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE/SKILLS: Volunteer; Habitat for Humanity, Fall 2014-Present Sales Associate; Best Buy, Summer 2014 Customer Service; Comcast, Summer 2013 Technology: Microsoft Office, Access, QuickBooks.

7 Cover Letter Basics PURPOSE OF A COVER LETTER Should enhance your resume. The cover letter introduces you to the reader, indicates the job for which you are applying, and gives supporting information on why you are qualified for the job. You should include a cover letter with your resume. A well-written, targeted cover letter will increase your chances of being invited to an interview. ESSENTIAL PARTS OF THE COVER LETTER 1st Paragraph The Opening Identify the job for which you are applying, how you found out about the job (referral, research, advertisement, etc.) and a brief statement indicating your interest in the position. Introduce the themes that you will elaborate upon in the second paragraph. For example, perhaps you will expand upon your educational qualifications and related experiences in the second paragraph. 2nd Paragraph The Body of the Letter Your job is to convince the reader that you can perform those tasks which the employer requires. Mention why you want to work for this particular company. Do research on them. Give concrete examples, showing when, how much, what kind, etc. 3rd Paragraph the Close or Call to Action Tell the employer what the next step should be (requesting an interview, for example), what action you plan to take (follow up), and what action you hope the employer will take (setting the appointment). Include your contact information. End your letter with a closing such as Sincerely, Cordially, etc. Sincerely, Your name

8 PARAGRAPH STYLE COVER LETTER (Internship) *This cover letter is available as a sample only. Please use it as a guide and don t copy it word-for-word. 15 Broad Street Lansdale, PA March 7, 2015 Dave Saunders Point Laboratories 123 Main Street, Suite #3 Lansdale, PA Dear Mr. Saunders: I am writing in reference to the Lab Tech Internship position at Point Laboratories that was listed on College Central through the Gwynedd Mercy University Career Development office. This position appeals to me because it would allow me to combine the knowledge I have gained through my college science courses with my strong interest in pharmaceutical laboratories. I am currently a junior at Gwynedd Mercy University, working on my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Some of my strengths include being a self motivated hard worker. As a biology student, I am often required to work independently on my laboratory projects requiring me to be accurate and consistent as I work. In addition, I am able to successfully maintain a good grade point average while working parttime to earn money for my college tuition and also remaining involved as a campus leader. I am currently the Vice President of the Biology Club and am a member of the Student Government Association. I have developed and enhanced several skills during my work in those leadership activities including teamwork, multi-tasking, problem solving, critical thinking and communication. These skills, combined with my educational background in biology, make me an ideal candidate for this internship position at a well-respected laboratory. Through my research I noticed that Point Laboratories frequently comes up with new and meaningful products and methods. That is one of my strong suits, as I often lead my lab partners at school in thinking outside the box. Enclosed please find a current copy of my resume. If you should have any questions regarding how my skills fit with your organization, please contact me at or griffin.kimgmercyu@gmail.com. Sincerely, Kim Griffin

9 PARAGRAPH STYLE COVER LETTER (New graduate) *This cover letter is available as a sample only. Please use it as a guide and don t copy it word-for-word. Taylor Student 45 Maple Avenue Ambler, PA (215) January 22, 2015 Mary Smith Nurse Recruiter General Hospital 234 Broad Street Ste. 123 Philadelphia, PA Dear Ms. Smith: While job searching on your hospital s website, I was excited to learn about an opening for a Registered Nurse in pediatrics at General Hospital and I would like to express my interest in applying for this position. I will be graduating in May 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Gwynedd Mercy University (GMercyU). As a nursing student at GMercyU, my clinical rotations have provided me with the experiences and skills needed to begin my career as a registered nurse. Through my rotation in pediatrics, I have gained experience with working with children, their families, and other medical professionals. My commitment to providing high-quality patient care and eagerness to continue learning aligns me with your Mission Statement and makes me a qualified candidate for this position. In addition to my educational background and clinical experience, my volunteer work at Abington Hospital has also prepared me well for a career in healthcare. Since my senior year of high school, I have volunteered in several areas of the hospital including pediatrics and maternity. I am interested in working at General Hospital because of its outstanding reputation for being one of the best children s hospitals in the state (placing fifth in the recent Pennsylvania Nurses Association s state ranking). I am very interested in starting my career at General Hospital and would welcome the opportunity to speak with you in person about my qualifications. I will be following up early next week to make sure my materials were received. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Taylor Student

10 BULLET STYLE COVER LETTER (Experienced candidate) *This cover letter is available as a sample only. Please use it as a guide and don t copy it word-for-word. 123 Main Street Gwynedd Valley, PA May 2, 2015 Frank Jones, Business Manager Project Industries 7000 Hancock Street Lansdale, PA Dear Mr. Jones: I am introducing myself as a candidate for the Marketing Director position at Project Industries that was recently listed on your website. I am currently the Marketing Assistant at Ambler Financial. I have dedicated a significant part of my professional experiences to the areas of marketing, public relations and event planning. I believe my professional experience and educational knowledge would help me succeed in this position and be a valuable contributor to Project Industries. In my current position as the Marketing Assistant, I manage the marketing operations and our staff in a team-based environment. I am responsible for analyzing and assigning all work to the staff, as well as problem resolution pertaining to our customers and products. I have proficiency in several areas you mention in your job posting. Specifically I have: Flexibility to manage multiple tasks to a successful conclusion. Solid verbal and written communication skills with internal and external clientele. Excellent organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail. Proficient leadership competencies in public speaking, taking initiative and team collaborator. As the Marketing Assistant, I have developed excellent leadership skills in a team environment, which I utilize daily to assist my team in achieving our company s goals. As a small firm specializing in marketing and public relations solutions, your organization is suited to my individual strengths and skills. Throughout my work experience I have focused on creating effective and individualized marketing plans for each company/product. I feel strongly that my experiences working in marketing along with my recent educational exposure to business and communication theory and practice have adequately prepared me to perform successfully in this position. I welcome the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications for the Marketing Director position. Please feel free to contact me by phone ( ) or (Johnson.markgmercyu@gmail.com) at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration; I hope to hear from you. Sincerely, Mark Johnson

11 LETTER OF INQUIRY * Use this letter to reach out to employers about positions that are not officially posted. Your Street Address City, State Zip Code Telephone Number Address Month, Day, Year Mr./Ms./Dr. First Name Last Name Title Name of Organization Street Address City, State Zip Code Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name: Opening paragraph: State what position you are inquiring about; how you learned of the organization or position, and when you will be qualified for the position. Example: While researching mental and behavioral health facilities in Montgomery County I came across The Horsham Clinic, which immediately caught my interest for a potential position. I believe there would be a good fit between my skills and interests and your needs. I will be graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in May Middle paragraphs: Tell why you are interested in the position or type of work the employer does. Demonstrate that you know enough about the position by relating your background to the employer or position and mention specific qualifications which make you a good fit for the employer's needs. Example: As a psychology student I have completed courses such as Abnormal and Developmental Psychology and Biopsychology along with Introduction to Criminal Justice. In these courses I have gained knowledge of behavioral changes and disorders and trauma Associated with children and adolescents. This knowledge will aid me in working with children and adolescents at The Horsham Clinic. Additionally my work experience as a Respite Provider with Child and Family Focus Inc. has helped improve my knowledge and skills in the areas of working with children with emotional and behavioral changes. 3rd paragraph: Would like the opportunity to learn more about their opportunities or hiring plans. Example: I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss a position with you, and will contact you in one to two weeks to answer any questions you may have and to see if you need any other information. Sincerely, Your name

12 REFERENCES References can be a critical part of the decision-making process for the employer. A list of references is not the same as Letters of Recommendation. References are generally called by a prospective employer to inquire additional information about the candidate. References should be drawn from people who are in the best position to assess your performance. Make sure you ask permission to use someone s name in advance as a reference. Three to five references is the norm. Choose employers and professors (not personal references). Make sure to supply your references with a copy of your resume and job description. Additionally, there is no need to write References Available Upon Request at the bottom of your resume. It is understood that references will be available. Sample Reference Sheet: Your name Address/City/State/Zip code Phone/ REFERENCES Person s name Job title Company Name Street Address City, state, zip Phone Relationship: Briefly describe how this person knows you. Gwynedd Griffin Associate Professor of Marketing Gwynedd Mercy University 1325 Sumneytown Pike Gwynedd Valley, PA , ext: 111 Griffin.g@gmercyu.edu Relationship: Professor of completed courses in marketing, management and human resources. Person s name Job title Company Name Street Address City, state, zip Phone Relationship: Briefly describe how this person knows you.