Blog 05 - Resume Workshop

What is a resume?
• YOUR marketing tool
• First contact with an employer
• Must catch their attention and speak to their needs
• NOT a list of ENTIRE employment history 

Important questions to think about as you write your resume:
• Who is your audience?
• What are their needs?

The average employer looks at a resume for less than 10 seconds.

Common resume mistakes
• Typos or grammatical errors 
• Including too much information
• Not listing achievements in former roles
• Poor layout or design
• Including too little information 

Step 1: Taking Inventory 
• Make a list of the skills you have (computer skills, language, etc.)
• List educational achievements (strong GPA, class projects)
• List skills you use in your current on-campus job or volunteer work
• Think about specific examples of your abilities, and accomplishments.

Step 2: Research 
• Review job descriptions: what is on the employer’s shopping list? Which specific skills are employers seeking?
• Employer Websites & Social Media: What does the employer produce, how are they organized, what are their values?
• Networking: Talk to people who work in the same type of position, field, or organization (LinkedIn).

Step 3: Organizing Your Resume
• Objective 
• Education 
• Relevant Coursework
• Relevant Projects
• Experience 
• Activities 
• Honors/Awards
• Skills (computer, software, language etc.)
• INCLUDE KEY WORDS FROM JOB DESCRIPTION

Highlight Accomplishments 

Typical Statement
• Worked with adolescents and their families.

Highlighting an accomplishment
• Facilitated group sessions with adolescents (ages 12-18) and reviewed treatment plans with families

STAR Resume

Transferable Skills

What do employer’s want?
1. Communication skills 
2. Analytical Skills 
3. Teamwork Skills
4. Technical Skills
5. Strong work ethic 

Start with VERBS 

Cover Letter

1st Paragraph
• Why are you writing
• Why are you excited about the position or company?
• How did you learn of the opportunity
• Did someone refer you?

2nd Paragraph
• Mention some of your key qualifications. Tell the employer why this job appeals to you and how you meet their needs.

3rd Paragraph 
• Request an interview and indicate when you will follow-up
• Thank them for their time in reviewing your resume, cover letter. 

What are key components of a resume?
• Concise & Easy To Read 
• Error Free 
• Targeted to a Specific Job or Field
• Relevant Skills & Experience 
• Accomplishment Statements

CASA Advising Center, Thursday
MQH
10:30-12 Noon

Career Center Resources
• One-one career coaching 
• Workshops: webinars, at career center 
• Spartan Staffing
• Employment connections: career fairs, employer panels, info. sessions, drop-in interviews, etc.