WORKPLACE DOCUMENTS: COVER LETTER AND RESUME

Cover Letter

often referred to as an application letter

Cover Letter

is a concise document consisting of three to four paragraphs.

Cover Letter

It is addressed to employers to express your enthusiasm for the position and the company while highlighting your qualifications and suitability for the role.

Header with date and contact information

Salutation or greeting

Opening paragraph

Middle paragraph(s)

Closing paragraph

Letter ending and signature

A cover letter should be formatted like a business letter with these sections:

Header

you should include a few pieces of personal and role-specific information at the top of your cover letter to make it easier for a hiring manager or recruiter to follow up with you

Include a Greeting

Find the name of the person reviewing applications and address them with "Dear [Name]" or "Dear [Position Title]." Avoid generic greetings like "To whom it may concern

Opening paragraph

state the job title, where you found the posting, and your interest in the role and company. Make it concise and engaging to leave a strong first impression.

The first section of your cover letter

also the first impression the reader will have of you, so it's important to appeal to that person quickly and succinctly.

Second paragraph

should be a brief overview of your background as it relates to the position. Include key achievements, skills and specialties that make you particularly suited to the position.

Second paragraph

Focus on one or two and provide specific details about your success, including measurable impacts you made.

Closing paragraph

Use the closing paragraph to highlight a key skill or achievement with a brief story that shows you’re fit for the role, avoiding repetition of your resume.

Professional Sign Off

Use the closing paragraph to highlight a key skill or achievement with a brief story that shows you’re fit for the role, avoiding repetition of your resume.

Resume

It is an essential document for job seekers, serving as a formal representation of one's professional identity to potential employers.

Reverse-Chronological Resume Design

This format primarily emphasizes professional experience by presenting an applicant's work history in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position.

Reverse-Chronological Resume Design

It is particularly suitable for individuals with extensive and relevant experience aligned with the requirements of the position they are pursuing.

Functional Resume Design

prioritizes showcasing an individual's skill set over work history

Functional Resume Design

This format is particularly advantageous for those entering the workforce for the first time or transitioning to a new career.

Resume Header

Situated at the top of your resume

Resume Header

should feature the essential contact information.

Resume Header

Use a professional email address, typically your first and last name. Avoid using nicknames or personal email accounts that look unprofessional (e.g., no “[e-mail]”).

Resume Header

Write out a phone number where employers can easily reach you. Double-check it to avoid any mistakes.

Resume Summary

contains three to five sentences that focus on your experience, qualifications, and what you can bring to the company.

Resume Summary

As it focuses on the past, it’s perfect for experienced candidates.

Resume Objective

is shorter, up to three sentences, and should outline your abilities and your career goals–as it focuses more on the future.

Resume Objective

It’s best for entry-level candidates or career changers

Work Experience

The experience section of a resume tells your career story so far, demonstrating how your past work makes you qualified for the job you're applying for.

Education Section

It shows a brief, clear overview of your academic achievements. It highlights the degrees or certifications you've earned and the institutions you attended.

Skills

show a lot about what you’ve achieved and what you can do in the future. When written out properly, a powerful skills section can make your resume skyrocket.

Character References

often required for job applications, educational programs or legal purposes.