Designing IA for AI - Information Architecture Conference 2024
Resume and cover letter tips lori sadler
1. It’s Time to Get Noticed!
Lori Sadler
Resume and Cover Letter Tips
2. What Exactly is a Resume?
A brief document that summarizes your
education, employment history, and
experiences that are relevant to a particular job
The purpose is to get an interview, not
necessarily the job
Think of it as a 30 second commercial where
you are selling a product- YOU!
3. What Should I Include?
Contact Information
– Name, address, phone number, email address
– Make sure the information is accurate and current
Objective
– Short, concise, user-centered statement
State the organization’s name, specific position title, and
how you can help the organization reach its goals
– Example- Help ABC Aerospace achieve its mission of
designing tomorrow’s technology today by joining the
Navigation Software Development Team as a
programmer.
4. What Should I Include?
Education
– Name of High School
– Date of Graduation (or expected Graduation)
– GPA
– Example-
Huntsville High School
Advanced Diploma
05/25/2013
GPA- 3.4/4.0
5. What Should I Include?
Work Experience
– Name and location of employer
– Dates of employment
– Position Title
– Include paid or unpaid, full or part-time, permanent or
temporary positions, volunteering, internships,
cooperative education, club memberships, etc.
Example- Led 5 community projects for the Anchor Club
involving 35 members, with a 30% increase in involvement.
6. What Should I Include?
Extracurricular Activities
– Membership in clubs, organizations, and any
leadership roles
Honors & Awards
– Honors, awards, academic achievements,
scholarships
Community Service
– Voluntary, community, religious-affiliated, civic
organizations
7. What Should I Include?
Optional Sections (if applicable to the position)
– Computer & Technical Skills
– Certifications
– Hobbies & Interests
– Foreign Travel
8. What Should My Resume Look
Like?
No more than one page
Use bulleted lists, instead of long sentences or
paragraphs
Proofread resume to ensure there are no
spelling or grammatical errors
Don’t exaggerate (don’t lie)
Use black ink on white, off-white, or ivory
resume paper
Use words from job posting
9. Power Words to Use when Writing Your
Resume
Sample Resume for High School Student
Short Video Focusing on Resume Do's &
Don't's
Check These Out!!
10. What Exactly is a Cover Letter?
Document enclosed with resume
Typically consists of 3 paragraphs
Explains why you are applying for the position
Details why you are a great match for the
organization and position
States your qualifications for the position
Purpose is to get your resume viewed
11. What Format Should I Use?
Part 1- Heading
– Include YOUR
Name
Address
Phone Number
Email Address
– Include the COMPANY’S
Contact Name and Title
Company Name
Complete Address
12. What Format Should I Use?
Part 2- Introduction
– Salutation
Address letter to specific individual if possible
As a last resort, use phrase “hiring professional”
– Who you are
– Why you are writing
– How you learned of the position (did someone refer you?)
Use specific job title and job number, if provided
– Why you’re a great match for the company and
available position
13. What Format Should I Use?
Part 3- Argument
– Showcase most relevant skills, qualifications, and
experience you have for the desired job
– Convince reader that company will benefit from your
employment
– Do not explain your entire resume, use your resume
as a source of data instead
– Mention unique attributes that may set you apart
from the competition
14. What Format Should I Use?
Part 4- Closing
– Restate main points
– Provide contact information
– Thank reader for their consideration
– Include a signature block
Contains closing, such as sincerely
Your written signature
Typed Signature
15. Cover Letter Tips
Tailor letter to the specific position and organization
Use standard professional business letter format
Use active voice rather than passive voice
Edit carefully to correct any grammatical, spelling, or
typographical errors
Use the same paper for resume and cover letter
Use spacing for improved organization and readability
Use a large envelope for mailing so documents are
not folded to fit in smaller envelope