Harty pg 275-306

Part 5- Resumes and Other Written Materials for a Job Search
difficult audience- experienced recruiting managers
-There is no one way to write a resume or cover letter.
- purpose of writing resume/cover letter: to get an interview
Managers look for:
- written and oral communication skills
- computer skills
- interpersonal skills- as demonstrated by the ability to work as a member of a team
- self-reliance and initiative, as demonstrated by the ability to work alone
- a sense of what the world demands in terms of professionalism and deadlines
- specific skills in at least one business or technical area supplemented by secondary skills in a variety of related areas
- a sense of business and personal ethics
- the ability to manage time, set priorities, and work under stress
Munschauer- Writing Resumes and Letters in the Language of Employers
Why use a resume?
- the convey a message, a way to court employers
- Don't confuse customers by flaunting things that don't speak to their needs
Giving your Message
- example of two letters written by job applicant; "I"
The Importance of Knowing What the Job is All About
- it is important to determine the best way to get a message across
- sometimes there is no substitute for a resume
Letters of Application
- if work history and activities don't support the job that you want, a letter is necessary to get the job
Hard Work and Attention to Detail Make for a Good Letter
- write a letter that sets you apart and is organized, not a literary masterpiece
Don't Delegate the Job of Letter Writing
Resume Preparation
- job objective should not be long-winded
- the reader should be able to take a great deal in with one look
- do not feature information that is not of primary interest
- list skills related to the job
- waitress example
Janet Smith- Proper Use of Headlines
- sometimes description of activity is needed
- Beware of misleading headlines; church example
- highlight names of impressive companies
Mark Meyers- The Functional Resume
- described function of the job wanted and things he had done that pertained to these functions
Preparing a Resume for a Specific Job
- take cues from employer
- use job description
Bruce Gregory Robertson- A Resume Reflecting an Active Mind and Body
- employers are interested in candidates for what they can learn
- high energy level
Michelle Trio- The Curriculum Vitae
-C.V.- course of life
- resume for academic positions
- not just abilities, but prestige
- can be long
The Job Objective
- Career Interest headline
One Page or Two?
- length depends on message
- don't sacrifice headings and white space