Three Common Resume Questions Answered

Free Resume Samples Articles : Three Common Resume Questions Answered by Heather Eagar

How many times have you found yourself in the midst of writing your resume when you realized that there were some questions you simply had to have answered before you could move forward? Everyone has probably been in this predicament at least once during a resume-writing experience.

Of course, there are some questions that are more frequently asked than others. So before you put your fingers back on the keyboard, let's take a moment to explore some of the more commonly asked questions regarding resumes.

How Do I Write a Great Objective?

For many, the objective is the most abstract and challenging portion of the resume to write. You may find yourself asking questions like "what does the employer want to know?" and "how can I describe myself in just one sentence?" during the process. But don't let these issues deter you from continuing on, because in actuality, it is not hard to create a succinct objective that will entice the employer to read on.

First, take note that objectives can be more than one sentence long. Depending on your level of experience, you may want to include up to three sentences describing who you are and what career plans you have that fall neatly in line with the employer's goals. Within the 1-3 sentences, you want to express your strengths, abilities and qualifications in your field, and how they match the specific employer's goals. However, try to avoid using the word "I" in this section as it creates a self-centered image, something that can quickly result in your resume hitting the bottom of the stack.

What if I Haven't Worked in a While?

If you haven't worked for several years, or even several months, you may feel a little bit nervous about explaining your employment gap. But don't worry; if you truly feel you're qualified for the job, you can express this in a number of ways.

One is by using a functional resume style (as opposed to chronological) that focuses less on timelines and more on skills. Also, you can roll up all of your non-work experience, including volunteering, community involvement, consulting, or even your continuing education, to highlight the skills you've acquired over the years. If your gaps are a little smaller, you can make them less obvious by not noting months on your resume. In the end, you want to showcase your knowledge of industry trends, so be creative in explaining how this knowledge can enhance the position you're applying for.

Should I Include References?

Typically, the rule for references is this: if they don't ask for them, don't provide them. However, if they do it's a good idea to create a separate sheet just for them. On that sheet, you can include the references' names, phone numbers, and their locations, as well as your personal/professional relationships. But before you add references be sure to contact them so they are prepared to offer information about you.

Writing a resume can be an exciting process if you remember that your hard work can result in a great job. So take the time to ask more questions about the writing process. You'll find that the more you ask, the more likely you are to create a standout resume that may just secure the job you want.

About the Author
Heather Eagar is a former professional resume writer and is passionate about providing working professionals with current, reliable and effective job search tools and information. Compare the top resume writing services in the industry at http://www.resumelines.com

Source: Free resume samples, Free resume template, Job resume examples information at goarticles.com

How to prepare a winning Resume / CV

Free Resume Samples Articles : How to prepare a winning Resume / CV... by Richard Penfold

How to prepare a winning Resume / CV... A few good habits starting NOW will hold you in good stead for the rest of your career...
Preparation is critical; the best builder in the world would not build a house without a blueprint and Land survey, not if he wanted to stay in business.

Your Resume is a vital career building document that done well will give you the chance to secure a better career and earn many thousands of dollars a year more in salary than you would If you take a half heated approach.

The intention of this article is to give you the Resume preparation blueprint that you will use and develop throughout your career. This is not going to require any deep thinking or use of technology.

To use the house building analogy this will give you the understanding of the required components and materials required to build a basic dwelling to a block of luxury apartments.

In resume terms the ability and resource to quickly tailor your resume information to suit?

Whatever role you want to apply for successfully. You may think that you will skip resume writing completely and simply hire a pro resume writer to do it for you.

But you will still need to provide them the basic information, from which they can Weave their magic.

So let's get this organized, once it's done you will continue to add information into it, but basically it's done FOREVER.

What you want to do is build a simple folder and file structure on your PC, if you don't have a PC borrow a friend's and keep you folder on a disk.

Step 1 create a folder and name it My Resume or CV or whatever reminds you.

Step 2 Then add a page for each of the headings listed below * Address and preferred contact details (phone and email).

* Personal Information, gender, nationality, driver license, marriage status

* Education / Qualification

* Training and certification details.

* Career history covering the companies, roles / title, dates and roles and responsibilities, achievements.

* Any other areas of responsibility, for example voluntary work, or team captain, head boy or girl at university or college.

* Any thought leadership examples, articles published, public speaking.

* Any honors or achievements.

* Hobbies and interests

* Positive personality and behavioral traits you have get friends, family or colleagues to help if needed.

* Membership / Associations

* Testimonials

Note: You may feel that you will never need a page for Other Responsibilities, Awards, published Article or Testimonials, but I urge you to keep them, because if you get the chance to add content to any of these pages it WILL set you apart from your competitors.

I would particularly draw your attention to testimonials.

It's very easy to get a testimonial form somebody you have done a good job for. Clearly you must have done a better than average job for them.

Confirm with them that they liked your work and ask them to drop you an email or letter to that effect.

This is a great habit to get into.

A short testimonial embedded within your resume or cover letter used sparingly (1-3 max within a resume) will increase your chances massively.

Obviously don't make them up yourself they may check them out!

Also get used to recording your work history in "business" terms. What I mean here is that whatever role you had was in some way vital to the business, no matter how junior. They would not have employed you otherwise.

Therefore record your work experience in terms of the objectives of the role and how these objectives supported the overall business strategy, any measurements used, what skills you used to perform your role, what you learnt and achieved. Try and use tangible precise values if possible.

For example if you worked in a store part-time express your performance in terms of how you over-performed in sales revenue (averaged over $500 sales a week - the highest performing assistant), 100% attendance and commendation for customer service (great moment to slip in a testimonial from your then boss!).

If you can convey through your resume that whatever role you undertake you never loose sight of the overall business objective of the company, no matter how minor your role, you will be in a very, very small percentage.

Embed these good habits now, and I promise you, you will never look back.

Good Luck!



About the Author
Richard has been working in the recruitment industry for 11 years and specialises in Risk Management and Business Continuity.

For detailed information on resume writing tips visit us

Source: Free Resume Samples, Free Resume Template, Job Resume Examples information at goarticles.com

Tips on How to Write A Good Cover Letter

Job Resume Cover Letter Articles : Tips on How to Write A Good Cover Letter by Robert Watson

In the usual scenario, the resume is the first element of any job search. Considerable time and effort is taken to develop a solid resume, and once that is complete, most people move directly into the job search. It is only after a position is selected, that the last element, the cover letter, is quickly devised to respond to the job posting. In the "rush to get it done" mentality that surrounds this task, many candidates fail to give cover letters the attention they deserve.
Cover letters are important not only for the obvious reason that they are your first contact with a prospective employer, but also because in an economy where there may be hundreds of applicants, bad cover letters can get your resume on the discard pile even before the recruiters see it. Many consider cover letters to be the most overlooked aspect of a job search, simply because they are the last element of the job search process.

It's difficult to write a good cover letter. Care must be taken to provide enough information to introduce your self and your background, without giving out so much detail that you confuse the reader or give the recruiter something that will allow them to eliminate you from selection. Alternatively, saying too little makes it look as if the candidate is hiding something, another pitfall that should be avoided.

We think the best cover letters contain the following elements:

1) Declare your intention, by indicating the position for which you are applying in the first line of the letter. This allows the clerical person who is doing the "first cut" on the resume pile the chance to easily know the job you are interested in.

2) A short paragraph that briefly explains why you are qualified. This information clearly and quickly indicates why you applied for the job in question. Mention as many of the experience and background attributes from the ad itself as you can here, simply because these are the elements the prospective employer is seeking.

3) An additional brief paragraphy that expands on the "why I am qualified" theme, but mentions those attributes of your background that you want to display, that were not mentioned in the ad. In this way, you bring out those aspects of your experience of which may uniquely qualify you, separating you from the other applicants.

4) A closing line that either says your resume is attached (for e-mails), or your resume is included (in the envelope or with the FAX), for their review.

With some practice, you can include the experience and background elements from the employers' ad, and those personal attributes you want to advertise, into simple template that will allow you to quickly respond to jobs as they appear.

Take the time to develop a good cover letter, and the time spent will pay off when you get the job you deserve.



About the Author
Robert Watson, author of Job Hunter's Handbook has been involved in business consulting and headhunting for most of his professional career. His new book covers the job search process, from resume writing and writing a cover letter to job interviewing tactics and more.

Source: Cover Letter samples, Job resume cover letter templates, cover letter examples information at goarticles.com

Accountant Cover Letter Sample

Job Resume Cover Letter Articles : Accountant Cover Letter Sample by Henry Matthias

Accountant Cover Letter Sample

It's necessary to include an accountant cover letter when sending your resume for an accountant job. But, you might be at a loss as to how to write the cover letter. Below you will get to see a sample. What you need to do is studying the format, then rewrite with your own personal information. By sending a well-written accountant cover letter, you will greatly increase the chance of getting an interview. Your prospective employer or the personnel from the human resources deparment will be attracted. Never undermine a cover letter. Here's the sample.

Ashely Davidson, 14 S State Street, PO Box 248 County Courthouse New Ulm, MN 56073-3154 Phone: (507) 233-6660 Fax: (507) 359-1430

Date

Mr. Lyn Dawn, Associate Partner, Freud & Hudsons, 201 South Exene County Courthouse Gettysburg, SD 57442-0000 Phone: (605) 765-9408 Fax: (605) 765-2412

Dear Mr. Lyn Dawn,,

This is in continuation to your advertisement in the last Thursday, in the New York Times. Please see my resume for my experience as a practising Accountant.

Currently, I am working at the Hartnett Accountancy Firm where I have gained valuable knowledge and expertise through my work on several large corporate accounts.

I am of the view that I have the right skills and attitude to fulfil the expected role within your company and if given a chance, I would begin to make an immediate contribution.

For any further clearings and any questions, I can be contacted at the numbers above phone numbers.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Ashley Davison

Enclosure: Resume




About the Author
Henry Matthias - Discover how to write cover letter for all kind of

job applications. See a great variety of cover

letter samples. Get your free no obligation ebook

: "Cover Letter Writing Guide" Yours free for

visiting www.cover-letter-generator.com

Source: Cover Letter samples, Job resume cover letter templates, cover letter examples information at goarticles.com

Mistakes To Avoid When Writing Your Resume And Cover Letter

Job Resume Cover Letter Articles : Mistakes To Avoid When Writing Your Resume And Cover Letter by Mike Selvon

A resume and cover letter are two of the most important tools in your life if you are actively seeking employment. They are the keys to finding a great job and making a good first impression. But far too often people underestimate the power that a good cover letter and curriculum vitae play in an employer's decision to hire someone for the vacant position.
Things such as stains, faded ink and rumpled paper are only the beginning of horror stores from the working world. Do not make those same mistakes with your documents. Knowing the good resume samples from the bad is the key.

A resume and cover letter are very important, and when done correctly, will likely get you the all-important interview. Done poorly, they can cost you the chance at the job. If you are unfamiliar with writing out a curriculum vitae, then there are always resume templates in Word or on the internet. The templates can show you the correct resume format and even allow you to plug in your information in the correct spots. It is that easy.

One of the biggest mistakes that occur when writing a curriculum vitae is spelling errors. Even if you are horrible at spelling, there is usually a spell-check feature on the word processing software program you are using. The truth is, with the availability of the software spell check-function, spelling mistakes are unforgivable.

Do not let simple mistakes in spelling keep you from the job of your dreams. The same thing applies to your cover letter. It should be free of spelling errors and be as grammatically correct as possible. This is not the time to try out new words. Keep it simple and tell the employer why you want the position and why you feel that you would be an asset to their company.

Another classic curriculum vitae blunder is forgetting to update your information. You want the employer to be able to contact you. An old address says that you did not check your resume before undertaking your resume distribution.

Keep your curriculum vitae updated with personal information and employment information at all times. Also, consider keeping it to one or two pages. Employers are busy, time-is-money sort of thing, so do not send a book that details your entire life.

Writing a great resume and cover letter is not impossible. You can do it and get that interview. Be honest, be prepared and always make sure to put your best foot forward.

Addressing the hiring person by name is a great way to show that you paid attention to the ad. If you are not sure who to address the cover letter to, you can always call the company to find out. Being pro-active will speak volumes to any employer.



About the Author
A whole world of information about resume and cover letter mistakes can be at your fingertips from Mike Selvon portal where a free gift awaits you. Drop us a note at our resume writing tips blog.

Source: Cover Letter samples, Job Resume Cover Letter templates, Cover Letter Examples information at goarticles.com

How Important Is A Cover Letter With Your Resume ?

Job Resume Cover Letter Samples Articles : How Important Is A Cover Letter With Your Resume ? by Mike Selvon

It would be hard to image someone ignoring a vital piece of information that could make the difference between getting an interview, or having their resume tossed into the nearest trash can. Yet many people elect not to include this document along with their resume.

They choose not to include a cover letter. Cover letters are your introduction to the employer. They show intent, as well as showing that you have actually read the job posting. They catch the employer's eye which could mean getting that life-changing phone call.

Cover letter writing is a lot like learning how to write a resume. You either learn how in a class or you do a little bit of online research and learn through that method. There is a right way and a wrong way to go about writing cover letters.

If you do not know the difference, then it can cost you a shot at the job you have always wanted. Resume cover letter writing is a blend of creative and technical writing. It is designed to grab the attention of the employer and make them want to see what is on your resume.

A cover letter is not an opportunity to discuss your pet lint collection. It should not be informal and chock full of useless information that does not apply to that position being offered. It is a chance to introduce yourself.

If the employer wants to know about lint collections, then you can always let them know at the interview or even better, later when you have the job. Address the letter to the hiring person, usually someone in Human Resources, and tell them why you are a great candidate for the job.

Tip number one. Do not undersell yourself. Your goal is to sound confident and sure of your abilities. Tip number two. Do not oversell yourself. An over inflated ego is a great way to turn an employer off and could cause them to think that perhaps you embellished your curriculum vitae.

With cover letter writing, there is a fine line between the two extremes. A third tip is to know who will be reading your curriculum vitae. This may not always be possible if the ad did not state a name. However, if it did, make sure and address the individual directly.

Take advantage of any assets you have in your arsenal. Use a cover letter to show your potential employer that you are serious about winning that position. If you have looked for help, but are still unclear as to what cover letters should include, then you can always use a professional resume writing service to help you write your cover letter, or provide you with sample resumes and cover letters. Just make sure to personalize the letter and tell them why you want the job.



About the Author
A whole world of information about the importance a cover letter can be at your fingertips from Mike Selvon portal where a free gift awaits you. Drop us a note at our resume writing tips blog.

Source: Resume Cover Letters, Job Resume Cover Letter Samples, Cover Letter Examples and Templates, Cover Letter Articles information at goarticles.com

Teacher Cover Letter

Job Resume Cover Letter Samples Articles : Teacher Cover Letter by Mario Churchill

You are just out of school and excited about your first teaching job, or, you are looking to change careers and start educating students; either way, you are going to need a first-rate teacher cover letter.

Being able to craft an exceptional teacher cover letter is essential because it is your first chance to make an impression on the employer, a chance to make him or her ask them self "why should I interview this applicant"? "What can he/she bring to the table that the others can't?" If your teacher cover letter doesn't show them your uniqueness you may have a problem.

There are several ways to go about getting help when you need to know about writing a teacher cover letter. Most colleges and universities offer help of this sort right at their student services office; there are also books galore in your local library or bookstore. However, the most powerful and most-oft used tool today, I believe, is the Internet. You can go to any search engine and type in "teacher cover letter" and you will most certainly bring back several "hits." It can be tiring just reading through them and trying to weed out the good from the bad!

So, let me give you some help from someone who has been there and done that, let's teach you about writing a teacher cover letter... no pun intended!

But, before you begin writing, make sure you do some research on the school or educational system you are applying to; it is always wise to know a few facts beforehand and if it comes up in conversation during the interview you are trying to get, or if you can work it in somehow, it will be impressive and show how interested in the school district you really are.

Next, choose a cover letter style. If your cover letter is in response to a job posting in the newspaper, for instance, most people like to mention where they saw the ad. Recently, this action has come under debate, with some people saying not to mention where you saw the ad unless it was a referral, so do what feels right to you.

If you are sending your resume via email, make use of the Subject Line with something catchy, more than just your generic "Job Opening, Resume Attached." Stay away from fancy fonts and italics though. Make sure the employer has all of your contact information as well as your full name. And last but not least, check for spelling and grammar. Spellchecker cannot and will not catch everything so you will have to proof read it yourself, as well. Make sure you do!

If you are composing a Cold Call cover letter, simply address it to the School Administration Hiring Board, or whatever may be more appropriate where you are applying. You should still do some research on the school district, and let them know which teaching position you are interested in. Also, list two or three things that would make you an asset to their teaching staff. Finally, simply write that you will follow up to discuss possible openings, maybe giving a specific day or a time range in which to expect your follow up, and make sure that you do indeed stick by your word and follow up. Of course, make sure that they have all of your contact info just in case something opens and they want to contact you.

Teacher cover letters should always be kept professional looking and "sounding." At the top of the page should be listed your address, do not put your name there, just your address. On the next line, put that day's date. Next, you will want to put the name of the employer, or person in charge of hiring, if you do not have this information, get it! Call Administration and find out, it will only take you a second and it's a must. Make sure you have this person's title as well, because that is what goes below his or her name. Then you will list the school or district name, below that, the address. Triple space and you are ready to address your potential employer: Dear Mr./Ms. Employer.

Your first paragraph should be kept short and to the point; state the position you want. Explain why you are interested in this specific profession; this specific grade, etc. Try to make a connection. This is where your research comes into play again. If you can make a connection do so concisely and explicitly; across-the-board statements will not work. If you don't have something that you are sure you can use, use nothing. It will work better for you that way.

Your second paragraph will probably be your longest and should be the one that really "reels'em in," so to speak. This is where you try and list two or three accomplishments which can be backed up with specific examples. Talk about general qualities that you possess that would bring value to the school district you are applying to. You may use examples from your resume but never copy word for word from it. If this paragraph gets too long, consider breaking it down into two, you want your teacher cover letter to have a consistent look and flow about it.

Your final paragraph should be short and will simply refer to the enclosed resume, and also request an interview. Let them know what will happen next, i.e. when you will be contacting them to follow up. And last, but certainly not least, thank them for their time and consideration.

Well, that's all the time we have. Now how do you feel about getting started on writing a teacher cover letter?



About the Author
Mario Churchill is a freelance author and has written over 200 articles on various subjects. For more information on resumes or for a samples resume checkout his recommended websites.

Source: Resume Cover Letters, Job Resume Cover Letter Samples, Cover Letter Examples and Templatesm, Cover Letter Articles information at goarticles.com

Writing A Cover Letter

Job Resume Cover Letter Samples : Writing A Cover Letter by Mario Churchill

When you apply for a professional job, you will need both a resume and a cover letter. While both of these are important in the job application process, it is the cover letter that your employer will see first. If your cover letter is not compelling, they will not want to turn to your resume. This is even the case if your resume was itself outstanding. For this reason you will want to do everything you can to make sure your cover letter is well-written. If you do not know how to properly write a cover letter read on as this article will explain what you need to do.

First, you will need to include your address then your employer's address if you are creating a printed cover letter. If your cover letter is simply an email, you can go straight towards the salutation. Pay close attention to the job ad to see if there are any names mentioned as contacts. If a name is not directly given, sometimes it can be deduced based on whatever email address is provided. If you find a first and last name, include it in your salutation followed by a colon. On the other hand, if you cannot find a name, you can say To whom it may concern or Dear Sir or Madam each followed by a colon.

The first paragraph of your cover letter needs to introduce yourself. You need to provide your full name and let the employer know you are interested in applying for their position. Make sure you also state where you found their ad from, so the employer will have a point of reference. This is especially helpful, since it is not uncommon that employers may have to send out dozens of ads for different positions.

The second and third paragraphs of your cover letter need to talk about why you are a qualified candidate for the job. You will want to showcase some of the strongest points of your resume, including your best-performing and highest-paying job, your academic achievements and all of your pertinent skills. However, try to use a lot of synonyms when talking about these points. You do not want a replica of your resume in these sections of the cover letter.

The last paragraph of your cover letter needs to let the employer know how to access your resume and any other documents you may have provided. If you are sending your resume through postal mail, you can simply say these things are enclosed. Yet, if you are sending your documents through email, you can say they are provided as an attachment. After this sentence thank the employer for their consideration. Conclude the cover letter by saying how you would look forward to working for the company if offered the chance.

So, all in all, writing a cover letter doesn't have too be extremely difficult. If you follow this formula and keep your letter brief, (since employers do not have time to be reading lengthy cover letters), you should be able to at least get your resume looked at.



About the Author
Mario Churchill is a freelance author and has written over 200 articles on various subjects. For more information on cover letter or cover letters checkout his recommended websites.

Source: Resume Cover Letters, Job Cover Letter Samples, Cover Letter Examples and Templates information at goarticles.com