Resume

Your resume is the backbone of your application - often it will be the first thing hiring managers read. If you aren’t clear about your skills, qualifications and history, you won’t get a chance to tell your story.

These tips can help you get started:

  • Keep your format simple and clean
  • Highlight the most important information first
  • Use effective titles and keywords related to your career
  • Be specific about your experiences and quantify your accomplishments
  • If you have leadership experience, explain the role, achievements, and scope of projects
  • If you are a recent graduate or have limited work experience, include your course work or practicums, explain each placement in detail
  • Incorporate your volunteer work to showcase additional skills, experiences, and interests.
Cover Letter

Your cover letter gives you a chance to show off a little personality before the interview. Use the cover letter to introduce yourself, tell your story and showcase how you fit the position.

These tips can help craft your letter:

  • Combine your cover letter and resume into one document to save space
  • Don’t duplicate your resume – expand on relevant points and give additional insight
  • Be passionate and explain why you want the opportunity
  • Demonstrate your achievements and explain how you succeeded
  • Showcase your knowledge about the company/industry and any current issues
References

References are an often forgotten, but valuable piece of the application process. References can help verify your past work experiences, skill set, and professionalism.

These tips can help you select your references:

  • Confirm with your references ahead of time that they are willing to recommend you
  • Choose carefully - ensure your references can accurately discuss your abilities and experiences
  • Create a separate document with your references to bring to the interview with you
  • Include three or more references with names, titles, and phone numbers
  • After the interview let your references know what position you've applied for and that they may receive a call