RÉSUMÉ
WRITING
AND
JOB SEARCH
CORRESPONDENCE
Office of Career Services
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
Table of Contents
Introduction
3
Resume Types
6
Electronic and Scannable Resumes
12
References
13
Résumé Checklist
16
Sample Resumes
17
Action Words
23
Writing a Cover Letter
25
Other Job Search Correspondence
27
Sample Cover Letters and Other Correspondence
29
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
Writing Your Resume
Introduction: How is My Résumé Like a Commercial?
A résumé is a tool which highlights your past experience to demonstrate your ability to perform a job. A
résumé’s function is not to get you the job. It is to get you the interview. The résumé gets you the
interview by:
• Structuring the reader’s thinking
• Communicating your strengths and abilities
• Grabbing the reader’s attention and motivating him or her to take action
Sounds like the goals of a commercial, doesn’t it?
A recruiter will spend about 30 seconds looking at a résumé. So, that gives you 30 seconds to sell yourself
and your abilities and motivate the recruiter to give you a call for an interview.
Research: Knowing Your Audience
Now that you know the goal of your résumé is to get you invited for an interview in 30 seconds or less,
let's look at how to achieve this goal. Think about a commercial. It focuses on what you as a consumer are
looking for in the product. It tells you about its attributes, benefits, and solutions. Now translate that to
your résumé. You need to determine what the employer is looking for in an employee and how you fit the
mold. To help you accomplish this goal, the National Association of Colleges and Employers has
conducted research on this subject. Its conclusions are as follows:
“No matter what qualifications you possess,
no matter how stellar your GPA, there are
some skills that can make or break your
candidacy.”
Your ability to demonstrate to an employer that
you have the necessary qualities and skills “is just
as important as actually possessing them. In some
cases, you’ll be able to point to specific activities
or course work. You’ll want to make use of such
information on your résumé and in the interview.
And remember—the interview is a showcase of
your interpersonal and oral communication skills,
so be prepared!”
The information on the next page shows “how employers ranked
specific skills and personal characteristics (notice the overlap).
Increasingly in today’s workplace, employees work together to
complete projects successfully. Many of the skills and
characteristics listed here relate to how employees work, indicating
the importance employers place on work style.”
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
Desired Skills
Scale of 1 to 5; 5 equals “extremely important”
Skill
Interpersonal Skills
Teamwork Skills
Analytical Skills
Oral Communication Skills
Flexibility
Computer Skills
Written Communication Skills
Leadership Skills
Work Experience
Internship Experience
Co-op Experience
Rating
4.67
4.65
4.56
4.53
4.52
4.32
4.12
4.08
4.05
3.77
3.37
Top 10 Personal Characteristics Employers Seek in Job Candidates
1. Communication skills (verbal and written)
2. Teamwork skills
3. Initiative
4. Interpersonal skills
5. Problem solving skills
6. Analytical skills
7. Flexibility / adaptability
8. Computer skills
9. Technical skills
10. Detail-oriented
Source: Job Outlook, National Association of Colleges and Employers, Bethlehem, PA
The next step is to begin thinking about how you have developed these skills and characteristics during
your classroom experiences, activities, summer work, internships, volunteerism, sports, etc., and to begin
building your résumé. Take some time and think about what you have done. Also, think about the
compliments you receive from people. Do you often hear that you are easy to work with or very
organized? Have you been able to juggle a full class load, a leadership position in an organization, plus
work 20 hours per week? This type of schedule demonstrates the ability to prioritize and to be flexible.
Did you finance a portion of your education yourself? If so, you show motivation and the ability to reach
goals. Developing a list of your skills and characteristics takes time; do not rush. Talk to people who
know you well and ask them what your strengths are. Often we cannot see our own strengths.
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
Résumé DOs and Don’ts
There are some tips when it comes to résumé writing.
Do:
• Make sure everything on your résumé supports your objective, if you have included one
• Focus on the employer’s needs
• Emphasize what you’ve accomplished; do not simply list your job duties—think results
• Quantify, use numbers, percentages, frequency, volume, etc.
• Mention the related skills you have to do the job
• Limit length to one page; after you have a couple of years of experience, go to two pages
• Make your résumé visually appealing and easy to read; a good rule of thumb is to use approximately
one-inch margins all around the résumé
• Use 8 ½ x 11 white or ivory paper of approximately 24-pound weight
• Use action words; a list of action words is located at the end of this guide
• Be positive
• Make sure there are NO ERRORS on your résumé
• Provide a cell phone number if it is the best way to reach you (make sure your voice mail is
appropriate for professional calls)
Don’t:
• Lie on your résumé; the truth will come out and many employers reserve the right to terminate an
employee if false information was provided during the hiring process
• Make your résumé too long, short, or condensed
• List your high school if you are in college
• Create a résumé with poor layout/physical appearance
• Misspell, use bad grammar, be too wordy, or use poor punctuation
• Use lengthy phrases, sentences, or paragraphs
• Be too slick, amateurish, or “gimmicky”
• Be too boastful
• Hand in a résumé that is poorly typed and reproduced
• Omit critical information
• Include irrelevant information
• Use abbreviations
• Use an inconsistent format
• Include your birth date, social security number, marital status, religious affiliation, personal
philosophies, or current employer’s phone number
• Include your height, weight, or remarks about your physical appearance or health (unless relevant to
the job requirements)
• Include salary information; save it for the interview—if you are required to give that information,
reveal it in the cover letter
• Include a photograph of yourself (unless it is relevant to the position)
• List exact dates; months and years are sufficient
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
More Interesting Information
Some very interesting discoveries were made when Indiana University of Pennsylvania faculty Dr. Kelly
S. Wilkinson and Dr. K. Virginia Hemby conducted the study Recruiters’ Résumé Preferences of 178
recruiters at a WestPACS Job Fair. Drs. Wilkinson and Hemby constructed five résumés and asked the
recruiters to review the résumés and answer several questions. Here is what they found:
• Résumés on colored paper negatively influenced the recruiter’s decision. Therefore, use white or ivory
high-quality paper. Gray and textured paper does not photocopy or scan well.
• 87% of recruiters said poor grammar negatively influences employment decisions.
• 87% of recruiters said typographic errors negatively influence employment decisions.
• The survey did not show a strong preference toward having courses listed on the résumé; therefore, if
the résumé is not long enough or a certain course is required, list your courses. Otherwise, do not
include the information. If need be, you can send them a transcript.
• 52% of the recruiters like the GPA to be listed. Typically, the rule of thumb is if your GPA is above a
3.0, list it. Recruiters are wise to this, so you may want to list your GPA, or if your GPA in your major
is higher, list it but state it is your major GPA, not your overall.
• 61% of the recruiters want an E-mail address listed if one is available.
Résumé Types
There are three basic types of résumés: the chronological, the functional, and the psychological
(combination). The chronological résumé lists previous jobs in order beginning with the most recent. The
functional résumé lists skills gained from previous jobs, volunteer activities, and/or travel. The
psychological résumé combines the chronological and functional résumés. It uses the chronological
approach for most of your life but includes a functional-like description of your strongest points. To
further explain each type, their strengths and weaknesses are listed below.
Strengths
CHRONOLOGICAL
1. Easy to prepare
2. Preferred by recruiters and
employment professionals
3. Can highlight a strong work record
4. Best to use when trying for
advancement in present job
5. Most common style
FUNCTIONAL
1. Can highlight transferable job skills
2. Best to use when you change
careers, return to work, or lack
work experience
3. Allows applicant to emphasize
professional growth
PSYCHOLOGICAL
1. Provides strengths of both
chronological and functional
resumes
2. Proven to be the most effective
3. Creates a positive first impression
4. Structures the reader’s thinking
Weaknesses
CHRONOLOGICAL
1. Can highlight potential negative
information such as periods of
unemployment, job-hopping, etc.
2. Often does not address transferable
skills
FUNCTIONAL
1. Often difficult to prepare
2. Not preferred by recruiters
3. Skilled resume reader may think
“What is this person hiding?”
4. Employers may want to see
additional work history information
5. Restricts noting previous
employment
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PSYCHOLOGICAL
1. Not as familiar as the other types
Last Revised June 1, 2010
As a new graduate, which résumé style is right for you? Most career professionals recommend the
chronological or psychological résumés. The functional résumé is generally for people who are trying to
return to the work force after an absence or who are changing careers; however, new graduates who lack
experience may also use this type to display transferable skills.
Sections of a Résumé
Sample résumés begin on page 17.
Most résumés contain the same parts: Heading, Objective or Summary of Qualifications, Education,
Experience, Activities and Associations, Honors, and Skills. There is certainly flexibility in this structure,
but these are the basics.
Heading
The heading reveals your name, addresses, telephone number(s), and E-mail address. Usually this
information is centered at the top of the résumé or sometimes along the left margin. You should not put
the word “Résumé” at the top, as recruiters know a résumé when they see one.
Example 1:
Mary Flowers
50 S. Lincoln Street
Box #123
Washington, PA 15301
724-555-5555
[email protected]
If you are including your school address as well as your home address, center your name then place one
address at the left margin and the other address on the right.
Example 2:
Mary Flowers
Campus
50 S. Lincoln Street, Box #123
Washington, PA 15301
724-555-5555
[email protected]
Home
147 Oak Street
Berkeley, CA 94705
415-555-8888
Note: Do not use the phone number of your current employer as one of your contact numbers. You
should not overtly search for a new job from the work place.
Objective
Writing an objective is difficult. Before you even try to write an objective, make sure you have one. Many
people do not know what they want to do. Until you have a definite objective, it is better to leave one off
than have a weak one.
Example of a weak objective:
Objective
To use my business administration degree in an exciting and challenging position
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
This objective tells the recruiter nothing except that you are not sure about what you want to do and that
you are using this résumé to apply for many different types of positions.
Generally, when creating an objective you should be able to answer at least two of these three questions:
1. What kind of position do I seek?
2. What kind of company or organization do I want to work for?
3. Where in the United States or the world do I want to live?
Example:
Objective
An entry-level advertising or public relations position with a large company in the Northeast
Another tip is to keep the focus of the objective on what you can do for the company, not on what the
company can do for you. When you write your objective, try to figure out how the employer will benefit
from hiring you and then say that in the objective. One effective way is to use the word “benefit.”
Example:
Objective
A position in management with a technology company that will benefit from my solid information
technology skills and highly-developed organizational skills
If you do not have your objective narrowed enough to include it on your résumé, no problem. Include an
objective in your cover letter that is specific to the position for which you are applying.
Summary of Qualifications
A summary of qualifications can be used in place of an objective. It is a wonderful tool for structuring the
reader’s thinking and communicating your strengths and abilities. (Remember those because they are a
couple of the functions of a résumé.) A summary of qualifications is a bulleted list of 4-7 skills you do
very well. You hit the recruiter right off the bat with your best stuff. These are the things that make you
unique from the other candidates.
Example:
Summary of Qualifications
• Functioned in leadership roles in three organizations within the past two years
• Excellent time-management skills as exhibited by completing 16 credits each term, participating
in 2 varsity sports, and working 20 hours per week on campus
• Spent Fall Semester, 2004, in Spain in an exchange program which strengthened Spanish
language skills
• Learned teamwork skills by attending a four-credit, teamwork class
• Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel, Peachtree Accounting, and HTML
A summary of qualifications, like an objective, is not easy to write. It will take time and a lot of thought,
but if done correctly, could add a great deal of punch to your résumé.
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
Education
A W&J student’s Education section will look very similar to the following examples:
EDUCATION
Washington & Jefferson College
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Minor: Spanish
GPA 3.25/4.00
Washington, PA
May 2011
Or
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, May 2011
Specialization in Human Resource Management
Washington & Jefferson College, Washington, PA
GPA 3.5/4.0
As stated earlier, you can include a list of “Related Courses” or “Course Highlights,” provided you have
enough space.
Experience
In this section, you will want to list your current
position, summer work experience, internships,
and work-study. You are not limited to including
only the positions for which you were paid. If you
had an unpaid internship in your field, it needs to
be listed prominently.
The following is a list of items you will want to
include with each experience: name of the
company or organization, city, and state as well as
your job title and the time you spent in the position
listed by month and year. Then, you will want to
list what you did. Again, creating this section takes
a lot of thought and revision. You need to also be
mindful of your customer, the recruiter, and what
he or she is looking for. To help you create a
description of what you did on the job, a list of
action words is provided at the end of this guide.
When you review the list, several words may grab
your attention. Use those action words to describe
your accomplishments and job functions.
Remember to use quantities as much as possible.
The information can be displayed in paragraph
format or as a bulleted list. There are two examples
on the next page.
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THE FOLLOWING SUGGESTIONS ARE ADAPTED
FROM JOB CHOICES: PLANNING, A PUBLICATION OF
THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND
EMPLOYERS:
9 Tailor objective to each employer you are
targeting and to each job you are seeking
9 Usually a GPA of 3.0 or better should go
on the résumé
9 Course work section is not always
necessary but it can be helpful especially
for résumés lacking substance
9 Most employers believe that the
education section should precede the
experience section
Last Revised June 1, 2010
EXPERIENCE
Washington & Jefferson College
Washington, PA
Lab Monitor
September 2008 – Present
• Train and assist students with Microsoft Office XP – Outlook, Access, Word, and Excel
• Monitor the security of the students and equipment in the labs
• Maintain the hardware and software for a total of 55 computers
(Bulleted format is the preferred style of Career Services)
Or
EXPERIENCE
Washington City Parks
Assistant Park Manager
Washington, PA
Summers 2008 and 2009
Assisted the park manager with administrative functions including:
Training new temporary park employees on the lawn and equipment care. Evaluating work
orders and scheduling 15 temporary employees as needed to fulfill the work orders.
Assigning job duties to the temporary employees. Functioning as a resource for the
temporary employees.
When writing this section, always keep your potential employer in mind. Remember what they are
looking for and how you have already accomplished those skills. This information can be located in the
job posting.
Note: Do not mix the formats. Choose either paragraph or bulleted list.
Note: To lead off the entry, you need to think about what will catch the reader’s attention. For example,
you spent your summer interning for a bank. Your job title was Clerk 1. Leading with Clerk 1 will
not mean much nor will it impress the recruiter, but if you lead with Citibank, you have probably
caught his or her attention. There may be a time when the job title is more impressive then the
company name and you want to lead with it. You do not want to lead with your employment dates.
Note: There is some information that you do not include such as your rate of pay for your positions. It is
not needed. If an employer requests a salary history, you can include it in your cover letter. Also,
do not include your reason for leaving a position. The recruiter will ask you in the interview.
Note: If you would like your internship experience to stand out, you can make a new Internship section
separate from your Experience section.
Activities
There is a tremendous amount of teamwork and leadership that occurs within campus activities, academic
and social organizations, sports teams, community association, etc. It is important to highlight those skills
on your résumé. Employers like to see well-rounded graduates. Participation in activities and associations
is a wonderful way to complement your classroom experience. As for high school activities, unless you
are still participating in the activity, you do not need to include it. Stick with your college experiences.
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
The following is an example of an Activities entry:
Activities
Student Government
• Treasurer November 2008 – November 2009
• Representative November 2007 – November 2008
Varsity Swim Team
• Captain September 2008 – Present
Big Brothers Big Sisters
April 2007 – Present
September 2008 – Present
October 2007 – Present
Note: If your community service is substantial, or you would like to call attention to it, you can list
Community Service or Volunteer Experience as a heading separate from Activities. Also, if your
activity is directly related to your career, you may want to include it under experience. For
example, if you are an accounting major and you participate in the Volunteer Income Tax
Assistance program (VITA).
Honors
The Honors section can include both academic and nonacademic honors and awards. Some examples may
be Dean’s List, scholarships awarded, honors associated with your major, or Phi Beta Kappa. These
honors would be listed similar to the activities list. You may or may not include dates.
Example:
Honors
Eagle Scholarship award
Dean’s List – 3 semesters
Omicron Delta Epsilon – Economics Honorary Society
Skills
This section allows you to call attention to any special skills you have such as computer skills, foreign
language skills, or sign language skills. This section is particularly important if you did not include a
Summary of Qualifications section in which you highlighted these special skills. List your skills with as
much detail as possible.
Example:
Skills
• Proficient in Microsoft FrontPage, PowerPoint, Word, and Excel
• Experience using Java Programming Language
• Able to speak Spanish and spent a month studying in Spain
References
You do not need to include the statement “References available upon request”. If an employer asks for
references you should include a separate reference page, examples on pages 14 and 15. If you have a
portfolio or other documents that the potential employer may be interested in, you may want to say so in a
statement at the bottom of your résumé.
Example:
Portfolio available upon request
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
Electronic and Scannable Résumés
Electronic Résumés
Electronic résumés are simply résumés sent
through E-mail to an employer. If an
employer accepts electronic résumés,
interested candidates usually send a résumé
in response to a job announcement directly
to the potential employer. There are some
organizations, however, that offer
searchable databases of résumés to
employers. After candidates send their
résumés electronically to these
organizations, the employers are able to
search the databases to match the skills and
experience of candidates with the skills and
experience of the positions they want to
fill. The employer can also integrate the
information they find into a database or a
spreadsheet they may then use to evaluate
candidates quickly.
The Power of Portfolios
A little known fact among internship and job seekers is that
creating a portfolio of accomplishments to present at an
interview is a powerful way to stand out against other
candidates. The following information on portfolios was
adapted from an article posted on Internweb.com:
A portfolio is an effective means of communication for
many internships or job opportunities. It provides direct
evidence of your accomplishments. Your portfolio should
be neat, clear, concise, and tailored to the type of
internship or job you are interviewing for. Examples of
portfolio items are as follows:
The Recruiters’ Résumé Preference survey
found that 75% of the recruiters would
accept electronic résumés. The other 25%
were working towards the capability. This
news is good for you, as you will be able to
submit résumés to corporations all around
the country without incurring postage
costs.
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
Letters of recommendation from employers/college professors
Performance reviews
Thank you notes
Awards, scholarships, grants
Examples of writing, projects, presentations, or research
Brochures/fliers that you created
Certificate programs
Academic curriculum
Web sites/pages created
College transcripts
Marketing plans
Computer program code
Create a digital portfolio on College Central Network
in the Career Services Office.
Scannable Résumés
Scannable résumés are read or scanned by an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) System. The
employer uses electronic means to scan a candidate’s résumé for key words and phrases, which are then
matched to job descriptions that are stored in the employer’s database. The computer records the number
of “hits” each résumé has, which means the more hits that you have the more likely you will be called for
an interview. When recruiters request a scannable résumé, they take your résumé, scan it into a computer,
and store it in a database very similar to an electronic résumé. The main difference is the delivery of the
résumé. An electronic résumé is submitted via the Internet, while scannable résumés are sent to the
employer on paper and then scanned into the computer. Here are some tips to follow to make your résumé
more scanner-friendly:
•
•
•
•
Use simple fonts such as Times New Roman, Courier, or Arial of 10 to 14 points
Use white paper of standard size (8 ½ x 11), print on only one side, and only use black ink
Use regular printer paper rather than parchments, textured paper, etc.
Put your name at the top of the résumé
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
You can use boldface type for most OCR systems, but do not use italics or underline
Use both titles and acronyms (in parentheses) to assist the scanner; for example use Masters in
Business Administration (MBA)
Margins should be 1” all around
Minimize abbreviations
Do not hand write anything on the résumé
Avoid boxes, unusual shapes, graphics, and shading
Avoid unnecessary parentheses and brackets
Do not place your name and address on the same line
Do not fold or staple your résumé and cover letter; the fold will make scanning difficult
Note: To submit a résumé to a career-oriented Web site, such as Career Builder, you will most often need
to create a scannable résumé.
Note: If you are not sure if an employer wants an electronic résumé or a scannable résumé, send both,
especially if the employer is a large corporation. State in your cover letter that you are sending both
types of résumés.
References
You have already learned that it is not necessary to put “References available upon request” at the bottom
of your résumé. So, how do you handle your references? First, ask three or four people who know you
and your work well, such as your advisor, professors, work-study supervisor, activity sponsors, and
internship or work supervisors, if they will be a reference for you. If the employer asks for a character or
personal reference, you can list a friend of the family who knows you well (and perhaps holds a position
of prominence in the community or in industry) as one of your references. Once your references give you
permission to use their names, gather the following information: full name, job title, preferred address
(home or business), phone number, fax number, and E-mail. Once you have your three or four references,
type them on one sheet of paper. You should use the same header at the top of your References sheet as
you did on your résumé. You may also want to include the title References at the top of your paper. See
the examples on the next two pages.
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
Mary Flowers
Campus
50 S. Lincoln Street, Box #123
Washington, PA 15301
724-555-5555
[email protected]
Home
147 Oak Street
Berkeley, CA 94705
415-555-8888
References
Derrick Crane
Vice President of Engineering
A. Snyder Company
87 Maple Road
Berkeley, CA 94705
415-555-0447
415-555-8963—F
[email protected]
Meg A. Hertz
Director of Information Technology
Computec Inc.
34 Apple Court
Glendale, CA 19058
714-555-7145
714-555-2022—F
[email protected]
Robert Smith
Associate Professor
Information Technology Leadership
Washington & Jefferson College
34 South Wade Avenue
Washington, PA 15301
724-229-1234
[email protected]
Tips:
•
•
•
•
•
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3 is the average number
Use the same type of paper and font as your
resume
Ask for permission BEFORE you list
someone as a reference
Good references include professors,
former/current supervisors, or mentors
Provide your references with a copy of your
résumé
Last Revised June 1, 2010
Mary Flowers
Campus
50 S. Lincoln Street, Box #123
Washington, PA 15301
724-555-5555
[email protected]
Home
147 Oak Street
Berkeley, CA 94705
415-555-8888
References
Derrick Crane
Vice President of Engineering
A. Snyder Company
87 Maple Rd.
Berkeley, CA 94705
415-555-0447
415-555-8963—F
[email protected]
Meg A. Hertz
Director of Information Technology
Computec Inc.
34 Apple Court
Glendale, CA 19058
714-555-7145
714-555-2022—F
[email protected]
Robert Smith
Associate Professor
Information Technology Leadership
Washington & Jefferson College
34 South Wade Avenue
Washington, PA 15301
724-229-1234
[email protected]
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
Conclusion
As you prepare your résumé, keep your focus on your customer, the recruiter. Also keep in mind that the
first draft of your résumé will not be your last. Create your résumé, put it down for a day or two, and then
review it. A new way to state an accomplishment may present itself, or you may remember an award or
honor you received that really boosts your résumé. Do not hesitate to contact Career Services and ask for
help.
Lastly, this will not be the only time you write your résumé. With each job change you have or new
degree earned, you will want to update your résumé. It is a good idea to update your résumé at least every
six months or year. You never know when the perfect job opportunity will present itself. You want to be
ready with an accurate résumé.
Résumé Checklist
After you have created the first draft of your résumé, use the following checklist to make sure your
résumé is in good shape.
Overall Appearance
1. Does your résumé make an overall immediate favorable impression?
2. Is your résumé easy to read and professional?
3. Do you use accents such as boldface type or italics consistently?
4. Is your spacing consistent?
Contact Information
1. Is your contact information clearly presented at the top of your résumé?
2. Does it include your address, telephone numbers, and E-mail address?
3. Have you clearly listed your school and home (permanent) information (if you included both)?
Objective
1. Is your objective stated clearly and does it convey purpose?
2. Does it state information such as what kind of position you seek, what kind of company you want to work for, or in
which geographic region you wish to work?
3. Is it reasonably short (one or two lines)?
Organization
1. Do your key points stand out?
2. If using chronological format, do you have dates listed from most recent to least recent?
Content
1. Does your résumé support and substantiate your objective?
2. Does your résumé stress your skills, accomplishments, and results rather than duties and responsibilities?
3. Is your content consistent with the format you used: chronological, psychological, or functional?
Language
1. Did you express yourself in a clear and concise manner?
2. Did you use action verbs to begin phrases?
3. Did you use short, action-oriented phrases instead of full sentences?
4. Is your résumé free of grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors?
5. Did you avoid using slang terms or inappropriate words?
Length
1. Is your résumé brief—one page most commonly for new graduates or undergraduates?
After looking over your first draft, you may want to make an appointment with Career Services to have
either the director or assistant director review your résumé and offer suggestions.
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
SAMPLE
RÉSUMÉS
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
SEYMOUR MONAY
[email protected]
Home
89 Grant Street
New Hope, PA 19250
215-555-9876
College
50 South Lincoln Street
Box # 576
Washington, PA 15301
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a Management Trainee position with Acme Corporation.
EDUCATION
Washington & Jefferson College
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
GPA 3.4/4.0
Washington, PA
May 2011
EXPERIENCE
IBM
Pre-Professional Tax Analyst
• Filed monthly sales tax returns
• Audited monthly exception reports
• Interpreted tax laws for branch offices
• Determined customers’ tax-exempt status
Philadelphia, PA
Summer 2009
CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ EXAMPLE Lincoln Financial
Intern
• Initiated marketing strategy for new fund
• Developed skills in prospecting and presenting
• Created and managed spreadsheet database in Microsoft Excel
Canonsburg, PA
February – May 2009
Camille’s Clogs
Assistant Manager
• Helped supervise three part-time employees
• Calculated daily sales and maintained an accurate stock count
• Assisted in ordering new merchandise
Lambertville, NJ
May – August 2008
COMPUTER SKILLS
• PC and Macintosh
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access
• Experience with QuickBooks
ACTIVITIES
Business Club, member
October 2007 – Present
• Recruit students to participate in various business presentations and programs
• Act as a liaison between the Club and offices on campus, as well as community members
Zuni Indian Reservation Study, Albuquerque, New Mexico
January 2009
• Selected as one of three students to participate in this class trip
• Studied small businesses on the Reservation and made observations on how to increase sales
- 18 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
NOAH LOTT
[email protected]
Campus
50 South Lincoln Street
Box # 342
Washington, PA 15301
Home
1776 Paul Revere Road
Cambridge, MA 02138
617-555-1812
Summary of Qualifications
•
•
•
•
•
3+ years experience in the field of American History
Leadership skills developed through resident advisor position
Comfortable with Macintosh and PC formats and proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Publisher
Excellent time-management skills as exhibited by working 10+ hours per week during school year
Recognized for superior writing skills and have written for the college newspaper
Education
Bachelor of Arts in History, May 2011
Washington & Jefferson College, Washington, PA
• Focus on Colonial American and Revolutionary War era, including domestic life of both colonists and
Native Americans
• Overall GPA 3.75/4.0 in major 3.87
PSYCHOLOGICAL Related Experience
RÉSUMÉ EXAMPLE
Jamestown Settlement Museum, Jamestown, VA
Intern, Summer 2010
• Assisted museum staff with research for exhibits about colonists and Native Americans
• Wrote copy for a brochure on an exhibit of artifacts collected from the excavation of an original fort site
National Museum of American History, Washington, DC
Intern, Summer 2009
• Assisted curator of Division of Social History in research for exhibit on domestic furnishings of the
colonial era
• Maintained Internet correspondence with several historians who specialize in the subject
King’s Arms Tavern, Williamsburg, VA
Waiter and Musician, Summers 2007 and 2008
• Served food to patrons in a colonial-style tavern and occasionally played fife to entertain patrons
• Wore colonial-era costume and preserved colonial tavern traditions
Additional Experience
Residence Life Office, Washington & Jefferson College, Washington, PA
Resident Advisor, 2008 – 2009
• Directly oversaw 45 residents and while on duty and oversaw 10 buildings and 300 residents
• Scheduled programs and managed fellow RA’s in planning programs for their floors
Honors
Washington & Jefferson College, Washington, PA
• Alfred Henry Sweet Prize in History, 2008
• Presidential Scholarship
- 19 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
ALOTTA KASH
50 South Lincoln Street, Box # 765
Washington, PA 15301
234-567-8912
[email protected]
Objective
To obtain a health management position with St. Barnabas Health System
Qualifications Summary
• Experience and education in health management, leading to the development of communications, client
relations, order processing, interpersonal, accounting, marketing, health policy, leadership, and
management skills
Education
Washington & Jefferson College, Washington, PA, May 2011
Bachelor of Arts, Biology
Business Administration Minor
Overall GPA: 3.6/4.0
FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ EXAMPLE (This is a good example for people
who are changing fields or returning
to the workforce)
Health Management Experience
• Assistant to the director, Stacey G. Houndly Breast Center Foundation
• Public health representative, Washington Area Public Health Administration
• Coordinator, Washington & Jefferson College Public Health Awareness Week
Management Experience
• Knowledge of various office functions, including employee relations and routine accounting
• Experience with client relations, order processing, and routine upkeep of the business
• Managed customer relations by coordinating efforts between customer needs and group personnel
• Designed market research analysis and projects for clients
• Presented market research results with suggestions for implementation of results to clients
Systems Skills
• PC and Macintosh
• Microsoft Office, PageMaker, Adobe InDesign, Quark 4.0
Communication Experience
• Solicited donations for Washington & Jefferson College from alumni and parents while serving as a
phonathon caller
• Developed interpersonal communication skills while volunteering for a political campaign through
distributing literature door-to-door, fielding questions, and making phone calls to local constituents
Leadership
• Participated in Youth Leadership Pittsburgh, a group dedicated to the development of leadership skills
through various programming activities
• Served as social chair of my sorority
• Elected president of the Pan Hellenic Council, which governs and coordinates educational
programming for Washington & Jefferson College’s women’s Greek system
- 20 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
Seymour Monay
Home
89 Grant Street
New Hope, PA 19250
215-555-9876
123-456-7891—C
SCANNABLE RÉSUMÉ EXAMPLE School
50 South Lincoln Street
Box #576
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 7821
[email protected]
OBJECTIVE
To join a management training program within a large technology corporation in the
northeast
EDUCATION
B.A., Washington & Jefferson College, Washington, Pennsylvania, May 2011
-Major: Business Administration
-Overall GPA 3.4/4.0
EXPERIENCE
IBM, Philadelphia, PA
Pre-Professional Tax Analyst
Summer 2009
-Filed monthly sales tax returns
-Audited monthly exception reports
-Interpreted tax laws for branch offices
-Determined customers’ tax-exempt status
-Developed extensive knowledge of Microsoft Office
Lincoln Financial Advisors, Canonsburg, PA
Intern
February - May 2008
-Initiated marketing strategy for new fund
-Developed skills in prospecting and presenting
-Managed spreadsheet database in Microsoft Excel
Camille’s Clogs, Lambertville, NJ
Assistant Manager
May - August 2007
-Helped supervise three part-time employees
-Calculated daily sales
-Assisted in ordering new merchandise
COMPUTER SKILLS
-PC and Macintosh
-Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access
-Experience with QuickBooks
ACTIVITIES
-Business Club member
2008 - present
-Peer tutor in Calculus I
2009 - present
- 21 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
Marjorie Search
50 S. Lincoln St., Box #385, Washington, PA 15301 • 724-503-1070 ext. 7813 • [email protected]
OBJECTIVE
To utilize my knowledge of theory and practical laboratory techniques in cancer research
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
•
•
•
•
•
•
Strong experimentation background and ability to use laboratory equipment
Experience keeping an accurate and up-to-date laboratory notebook
Highly organized and dedicated
Possess ability to handle multiple assignments under pressure and to consistently meet deadlines
Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills
Thrive on working in a challenging environment
EDUCATION
Washington & Jefferson College, Bachelor of Arts in Cell/Molecular Biology May 2011
Cumulative GPA: 3.3/4.0; Major GPA: 3.6
• Personally financed 45% of college expenses
EXAMPLE RÉSUMÉ FOR SCIENCE MAJORS COURSE HIGHLIGHTS
Cell
Microbiology
Genetics
Molecular
Biochemistry
Biometry
Experimental
Neurobiology
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
University of Pittsburgh, Lab Assistant, Pittsburgh, PA
Summer 2010
Howard Hughes Medical Institute grant supported
Assisted cell biologists in cancer research to:
• Develop new antibodies for use in breast cancer research & therapy
• Develop a novel assay which identifies the antibodies' ability to bind to live, intact tumor cells
• Delivered periodic presentations of results and works in progress
Magee Women’s Hospital, Student Researcher, Pittsburgh, PA
Summer 2009
• Assisted in genome research of Drosophila melanogaster for breast cancer research lab
• Maintained incubators for Drosophila melanogaster for breast cancer research lab
• Made chemical solutions for testing gene sequences of Drosophila melanogaster
• Categorized Drosophila melanogaster based on physical traits exhibited by cross breeding
HONORS
The Alumni Prize for Original Research in the Life Sciences
Dean's List – 4 semesters
Presidential Scholarship
ACTIVITIES
Phi Sigma biology honorary
• President 2008 – 2009
Pre-health Society
• Secretary 2008 – 2009
Spring 2008 – Present
Fall 2007 – Present
- 22 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
Action Words
Accomplished
Achieved
Acquired
Acted
Activated
Adapted
Added
Addressed
Adjusted
Administered
Advanced
Advertised
Advised
Advocated
Affirmed
Agreed
Alleviated
Allocated
Allotted
Altered
Amended
Analyzed
Announced
Anticipated
Appointed
Apportioned
Appraised
Approved
Arranged
Assembled
Assessed
Assisted
Assumed
Assured
Audited
Augmented
Authorized
Averted
Avoided
Awarded
Backed
Based
Bought
Broadened
Brought
Budgeted
Built
Calculated
Called
Calmed
Campaigned
Canceled
Captured
Caught
Caused
Centralized
Challenged
Changed
Charged
Checked
Chose
Clarified
Closed
Collaborated
Collated
Collected
Combined
Commenced
Commended
Communicated
Compared
Compiled
Completed
Composed
Conceived
Concluded
Condensed
Conducted
Conferred
Confirmed
Considered
Constructed
Contacted
Contracted
Contributed
Converted
Conveyed
Coordinated
Corrected
Corresponded
Counseled
Created
Cultivated
Discovered
Dismissed
Displayed
Disseminated
Distributed
Divided
Documented
Donated
Doubled
Drafted
Drove
Earned
Eased
Edited
Effected
Elected
Eliminated
Employed
Encouraged
Ended
Endorsed
Enforced
Engineered
Enhanced
Enlarged
Erected
Established
Estimated
Evaluated
Examined
Exceeded
Excelled
Executed
Exercised
Exhibited
Expanded
Expected
Expedited
Experimented
Explained
Exposed
Extended
Extracted
Dealt
Decentralized
Decided
Decreased
Defined
Demanded
Demonstrated
Designed
Described
Detected
Determined
Developed
Devised
Diminished
Directed
Discarded
Faced
Facilitated
Fashioned
Finished
Firmed
Foresaw
Forestalled
Formed
Formulated
Fortified
Fought
- 23 -
Found
Framed
Freed
Fulfilled
Gained
Gathered
Gave
Generated
Governed
Granted
Gratified
Grew
Gripped
Grouped
Guarded
Guided
Halted
Handed
Handled
Harmonized
Hastened
Headed
Healed
Heightened
Held
Helped
Hired
Identified
Ignored
Ignited
Imparted
Impelled
Implemented
Imposed
Improved
Improvised
Inaugurated
Increased
Indicated
Influenced
Informed
Initiated
Innovated
Inquired
Inspected
Inspired
Installed
Instigated
Instituted
Instructed
Insured
Interpreted
Interviewed
Last Revised June 1, 2010
Introduced
Invented
Investigated
Invited
Invoked
Involved
Isolated
Issued
Joined
Judged
Jumped
Justified
Key
Knit
Laid
Launched
Led
Left
Lessened
Leveled
Lightened
Limited
Linked
Liquidated
Localized
Located
Locked
Maintained
Managed
Mapped
Marketed
Matched
Measured
Merged
Met
Mitigated
Mobilized
Moderated
Modernized
Modified
Monitored
Motivated
Mounted
Named
Narrated
Negotiated
Nominated
Nullified
Observed
Obtained
Offered
Opened
Operated
Opposed
Organized
Originated
Overcame
Oversaw
Redesigned
Reduced
Referred
Reformed
Refuted
Regulated
Rejected
Related
Relieved
Remedied
Renegotiated
Reorganized
Repaired
Replaced
Replied
Reported
Represented
Researched
Rescued
Reshaped
Resolved
Responded
Restrained
Restricted
Passed
Patched
Paid
Perceived
Perfected
Performed
Permitted
Persuaded
Pledged
Pleased
Polished
Possessed
Predicted
Prepared
Presented
Presided
Pressed
Probed
Processed
Proclaimed
Procured
Produced
Programmed
Projected
Promoted
Prompted
Proposed
Proved
Provided
Published
Publicized
Purchased
Pursued
Revealed
Reviewed
Revised
Revitalized
Rid
Risked
Routed
Sanctioned
Saved
Scanned
Scheduled
Screened
Scrutinized
Searched
Secured
Selected
Settled
Separated
Served
Serviced
Set up
Settled
Shaped
Shaved
Sifted
Simplified
Slashed
Slowed
Sold
Solved
Quelled
Questioned
Quickened
Quieted
Rallied
Razed
Reacted
Received
Recognized
Recommended
Recorded
Recruited
Rectified
- 24 -
Sought
Sparked
Specified
Spelled
Split
Spoke
Spurred
Staffed
Standardized
Stated
Stimulated
Stood
Stopped
Streamlined
Strengthened
Studied
Submitted
Suggested
Supervised
Supplied
Supported
Surpassed
Surveyed
Sustained
Swept
Systemized
Talked
Taught
Terminated
Tested
Thwarted
Tracked
Traded
Trained
Transferred
Tripled
Uncovered
Undertook
Unearthed
Unraveled
Upgraded
Upheld
Urged
Used
Utilized
Vanquished
Vindicated
Vitalized
Warned
Withheld
Won
Wrote
Last Revised June 1, 2010
Writing a Cover Letter
The cover letter is a selling tool that helps to introduce your résumé to an employer. You should send a
cover letter along with each résumé you are mailing. The best cover letters are short and to the point.
Regardless of what you say, the employer is going to scan your letter in 30 seconds or less. Remember
your goal is to get the reader to take action and call you for an interview.
Typically, a cover letter is three or four paragraphs. The first paragraph introduces you and lets the
employer know why you are writing. The second, and possibly third, paragraph should stress your
strongest points and relate them directly to the position you seek. Please note that you do not need to use
two paragraphs. If one paragraph expresses your strengths sufficiently, then that is all you need. The last
paragraph closes the letter and includes a request for action.
Paragraph One
Tell the reader who you are and why you are applying. Describing your current status is a good way to
start. “I am about to complete my degree at Washington & Jefferson College and am interested in
exploring a possible affiliation with Consolidated Coal Company.” Another lead may be to express where
or from whom you heard about the position. “I am writing to submit my résumé for the Employment
Specialist position as advertised in the Sunday, September 26, Pittsburgh Post Gazette. The combination
of my education and work experience makes me a uniquely qualified applicant.” You can also lead with
your interest in working in a certain geographic area. The possibilities for the first paragraph are
numerous. One rule to keep in mind is to keep it short and to the point.
Paragraph Two (and Possibly Paragraph Three)
Your goal in paragraph two is to sell yourself; however, always keep the reader’s point of view in mind.
Tell the reader what you have to offer or how your experience can benefit the employer. Do not focus on
how you will benefit from being hired.
Mention your strengths, special skills, accomplishments, and experience. Use action words and numbers
to quantify your accomplishments. Do not repeat everything that’s on your résumé. You want to paint a
vivid picture of the major benefits you can bring to the employer’s organization.
If you find that you cannot effectively mention everything in just one paragraph, then include a third
paragraph. Do not, however, include a third paragraph just for the sake of including it. Make sure it is
meaningful and it adds to your cover letter.
Last Paragraph
Here is where most cover letters fail terribly. They end with “Thank you for your time and consideration.
I hope to hear from you soon.” Often you will not hear again from the employer and you will be left
wondering about the status of your résumé.
Your last paragraph needs to be a call for action. If you are applying for a local position, ask for an
interview right away.
“When may we get together for a personal interview?”
- 25 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
If you are applying for a position that is out of town, and you will be traveling to that area, let the
employer know.
“I plan to visit Detroit during the week of November 22–26, and I would welcome the chance to
meet you personally.”
You may also simply state that you will contact the recruiter’s office in the near future.
“I would appreciate an opportunity to discuss with you how I might best meet your needs. I will
follow-up with your office next week.”
In the last example, follow-up can mean that you are checking to make sure your résumé and cover letter
were received by the correct people or that you would like to schedule an interview with the recruiter or
human resources department.
Cover Letter Dos and Don’ts
Do:
• Make your cover letter only one page
• Use paper and an envelope that match your résumé
• Include your phone number in the letter to make it easy for the reader to take action
• Find out the name of the person doing the hiring (if possible) because using a personal name is more
effective than “Dear Sir” or “Dear Madame” or “To Whom This May Concern;” ask Career Services
for help if you have trouble obtaining the name
• Be professional, positive, and to the point
Don’t:
• Use your current employer’s letterhead if you are currently employed
• Use W&J letterhead
• Have personal letterhead printed
• “Preach” to the employer; this common mistake is a big turn off—for example: “In today’s highly
competitive business world, companies must be extremely careful to control the quality of their
products and services.”
• Try to explain any perceived weakness in your background
• Forget to sign your letter
• Make any errors
- 26 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
Thank You Letter
Thank you letters for both job interviews and information interviews are imperative. They will set you
apart from most of the other applicants. A thank you letter should be typed on the same paper as your
cover letter and résumé. It should be professional. Also, it needs to be very timely. It is best to send a
thank you letter the evening of or day after your interview.
If you interviewed with several people, ask for business cards at the end of each interview. Then, send a
thank you letter to each person. If you forgot to ask for their cards, still send a thank you letter to your
main contact but mention the other interviewers and thank them.
“I enjoyed speaking with you and the search committee. Everyone’s enthusiasm for the company is
contagious.”
Or
“Thank you for the opportunity to meet with you and the Human Resources Department on July 30
regarding the generalist position.”
A thank you letter should be short. The basics of the letter should include:
PARAGRAPH ONE
• Thank the interviewer for the opportunity to speak with him or her
• Mention when the interview took place and the position you interviewed for
PARAGRAPH TWO
• Highlight why you are qualified for the position
• Supply any requested information
PARAGRAPH THREE
• State that you are interested in the position
• Close with a statement expressing your eagerness to receive a response
Accepting a Job Offer
While this type of letter is not as popular as it once was, if you are writing one, congratulations! It means
you have a job. This type of letter implies a commitment between two parties, you and your new
employer, and means the end of your job search.
The basics of the letter are simple. Express your acceptance of the offer and restate the details (your title,
place of employment, start date, salary, etc.) as you understand them.
If you are unsure about any part of your employment agreement, seek clarification before writing the
letter. Close the letter by thanking your contact for the employment opportunity.
Now that you have accepted a job, you should send letters to your references letting them know your
status. Tell them about the position you have accepted and thank them for their time and kind words.
- 27 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
Withdrawing Your Résumé from Consideration
If you have interviewed for several positions and have just accepted an offer, your next step is to
withdraw your interest in the other positions. It is important for the other companies to know you are
employed. Recruiting is expensive and very time consuming. Do not mislead employers by continuing in
the recruitment process if you have already accepted a position.
The letter should be professional and should simply state that you appreciated the opportunity to
interview, but you have accepted another position. This step is important in the job search process,
because you never know when you may be seeking employment with this company in the future. Do not
burn any bridges by misleading them.
Decline of Offer Letter
There may be a time when you are offered a position but you do not care to take it. You need to write a
rejection letter as soon as you have decided to decline the offer of employment. Open the letter by
expressing your appreciation for the offer. Then indicate that although the decision was a difficult one,
you are declining the offer and describe your reason(s). Thank them again for their time and
consideration.
Resignation Letter
While you may only be thinking about finding a job at this point, there will be a time when you will
resign a position. Once again, this letter is to be professional. Open the letter by stating your intent to
resign your position and actually state your job title. Research your company’s “Length of Notice” policy.
Then, calculate when your last day will be, based on that policy. Typically it will be 2 weeks or 30 days.
You may want to state why you are leaving; for example, you have decided to return to school, your
spouse is being transferred, or you have decided to pursue other opportunities. Do not burn any bridges in
this letter. It will remain in your personnel file and you never know when situations may change and you
will be seeking employment with the company again. End the letter by thanking your manager and the
company for the employment opportunity.
- 28 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
SAMPLE
LETTERS
- 29 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
50 South Lincoln Street
Campus Box #1121
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 4563
Use a standard business format
when writing a cover letter. List
your address, the date, and the
employer’s address.
March 24, 2010
Cover Letter Example 1
Jane Shirley
Human Resources Manager
Smith, Jones, and Day
It is best if you have a direct name.
170 Grant Street
You may be able to obtain a name on
Rockville, MD 22089
the company’s Web site or call them
Dear Ms. Shirley:
In the first paragraph, tell the reader
why you are writing and how you
learned about the position. Also, include
the job number and title.
directly. If a name is not available, you
can address your letter Dear Hiring
Manager or Dear Sir or Madam.
I am about to complete a double major in psychology and business administration with an emphasis on
human resources at Washington & Jefferson College and am interested in relocating to the Rockville area.
My internship supervisor, John Taylor at 84 Lumber, made me aware of your open position in the Human
Resources Department.
Elaborate
on why
you are the
best
candidate
for this
position.
As you can see from my résumé, I bring not only the educational background needed for a career in
human resources, but I have also gained practical experience. While at 84 Lumber, I rotated among the
recruiting, benefits, and training departments. Some specific projects I was involved with included the
implementation of a new benefits plan and participation in open enrollment. I attended three regional
career fairs and provided training to managers on behavioral interviewing. I firmly believe that these
experiences can benefit Smith, Jones, and Day, as I have been trained to be a generalist and find that role
very rewarding.
If you need a third paragraph, make sure you are including relevant information.
I will be in the Rockville area from April 10–14, and would welcome the opportunity to interview with
you. I will follow-up with your office next week to discuss a possible time when we can meet. Thank you
for your time.
Suggest a meeting, or let them
know that you will be following
up. Additionally, make sure to
thank them for their time.
Sincerely,
Timothy Spearing
Timothy Spearing
Enclosure
Tips
•
•
•
•
•
Tailor your letter to the position and company to which
you are applying
Demonstrate how you are a good fit for this position
Print your letter on the same quality paper as your résumé
Don’t start every sentence with I
Don’t go longer than one page
- 30 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
50 South Lincoln Street
Campus Box #1121
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 4563
April 14, 2010
Cover Letter Example 2
Jane Shirley
Human Resources Manager
Smith, Jones, and Day
170 Grant Street
Rockville, MD 22089
Dear Ms. Shirley:
I am writing to indicate my interest in the Data Analyst position (#54333). After reading the position
description and reviewing your Web site, I am excited about this opportunity with Smith, Jones, and Day.
This spring I will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and a minor in Information
Technology Leadership with an emphasis in data mining. During the summers of 2009 and 2010, I had
the opportunity to complete a technology internship at UPMC. As an intern, I learned to utilize my IT
skills in a business environment. I designed, developed, and maintained databases in SQL, Access, and
Excel. Also I gained experience in normalizing data to ensure it is homogeneous and consistently
formatted to enable sorting, query, and analysis.
In addition to my experience in the classroom, I have enhanced my leadership skills through my
extracurricular activities. Previously, I have held the positions of president and secretary for the business
club, treasurer for the student activities board, and public relations chair for the Asian cultural association.
Each of these positions has helped me to be more efficient in meeting deadlines and to utilize effective
communication skills.
I am confident that my education and experience match the qualifications that you are seeking. Thank you
for your time and consideration, I look forward to further discussing this opportunity with you in person.
Sincerely,
Timothy Spearing
Timothy Spearing
Enclosure
- 31 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
50 South Lincoln Street
Campus Box #1121
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 4563
March 14, 2010
Cover Letter Example 3
Jane Shirley
Human Resources Manager
Smith, Jones, and Day
170 Grant Street
Rockville, MD 22089
(This would be appropriate for an internship)
Dear Ms. Shirley:
I am interested in applying for the accounting internship that was posted through the Office of Career
Services at Washington & Jefferson College.
As my resume states, I am a sophomore accounting major and an economics minor. I have many of the
characteristics that your firm is seeking in an intern. Through my campus job, I have developed strong
communication skills and have become very proficient in Microsoft Excel. Currently I am completing an
experience with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. This opportunity has allowed me
to put my classroom experience into action. Furthermore, I am completing a Taxation of Business Entities
course in which we are learning how to fill out tax forms for businesses.
Thank you for your time; I am excited about the possibility of interning for Smith, Jones, and Day. I am
available for an interview at your convenience. I will be sure to follow up with you within the next couple
of weeks.
Sincerely,
Timothy Spearing
Timothy Spearing
Enclosure
- 32 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
50 South Lincoln Street
Campus Box #1121
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 4563
April 14, 2010
Thank You Letter Example
Jane Shirley
Human Resources Manager
Smith, Jones, and Day
170 Grant Street
Rockville, MD 22089
Dear Ms. Shirley:
Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you on Wednesday, April 14, concerning the human
resources generalist position. I am excited about this opportunity and believe the skills and experience I
possess will be an asset to Smith, Jones, and Day.
Specifically, my recent experience with a major benefits plan change will directly aid in your company’s
decision to add dental and vision coverage to your benefits package. I am comfortable speaking with large
groups and to individuals one-on-one about the changes, as well as assisting employees in completing the
forms. In addition, my experience with employment and recruitment will help your company in such a
growth period.
Please feel free to contact me if you have additional questions. Thank you again for your time and
consideration. I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Timothy Spearing
Timothy Spearing
- 33 -
Last Revised June 1, 2010
50 South Lincoln Street
Campus Box #1121
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 4563
Acceptance Letter Example
May 2, 2010
Jane Shirley
Human Resources Manager
Smith, Jones, and Day
170 Grant Street
Rockville, MD 22089
Dear Ms. Shirley:
It was certainly wonderful news when you called this afternoon to offer me the human resources
generalist position at Smith, Jones, and Day. Please consider this letter my formal acceptance.
I am pleased to accept your offer at a salary of $29,000. As we agreed, I will begin working on July 7,
allowing me to finish a summer computer class that will enhance my skills for Smith, Jones, and Day.
I also understand that I will receive full company pay and benefits during the 12-week training program,
and that I am considered probationary during that time.
Thank you again for offering me this wonderful opportunity. Please let me know if I can do anything in
advance of my starting date to facilitate the paperwork or if there are any areas you would like me to be
reviewing.
Sincerely,
Timothy Spearing
Timothy Spearing
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
50 South Lincoln Street
Campus Box #1121
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 4563
May 2, 2010
Walter Mellish
Human Resources Manager
Greenley Corp., Inc.
432 Oak Street
Somecity, MD 16354
Withdrawing Your Résumé from
Consideration Letter Example
Dear Mr. Mellish:
It was a pleasure to meet with you on April 12 to discuss the human resources generalist position at
Greenley Corp., Inc. My time with you and members of the department was both enjoyable and
informative.
Our discussions provided me with a much clearer understanding of the responsibilities and typical career
path for a generalist with Greenley Corp., Inc. After thinking over this opportunity as well as others, I
have decided to withdraw from consideration for the generalist position and to accept an offer from
another firm. My decision is based on several factors including the amount of travel the generalist
position at Greenley Corp., Inc. requires.
Thank you for your consideration and the opportunity to learn more about Greenley Corp., Inc.
Sincerely,
Timothy Spearing
Timothy Spearing
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
50 South Lincoln Street
Campus Box #1121
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 4563
Rejection Letter Example
May 2, 2010
Robert Cavanaugh
Director of Human Resources
Sampson & Sampson Inc.
45 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Dear Mr. Cavanaugh:
I appreciate your offering me the human resources generalist position at Sampson & Sampson Inc. I have,
however, decided to accept a position with another company. This decision has been very difficult to
make, but after careful deliberation, I feel that this is the best choice for me at this time.
I was very impressed with the employees of Sampson & Sampson and want you to know how much I
enjoyed meeting all of you and learning about your organization. Thank you for your time and
consideration.
Sincerely,
Timothy Spearing
Timothy Spearing
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Last Revised June 1, 2010
50 South Lincoln Street
Campus Box #1121
Washington, PA 15301
724-503-1070 ext. 4563
May 2, 2010
Resignation Letter Example
Jacob Rogers
Manager
Old Navy
Washington Crown Center
1500 West Chestnut Street
Washington, PA 15301
Dear Mr. Rogers:
It is with deep regret that I inform you of my decision to tender my resignation effective May 16. It has
been a pleasure working with you and representing the company as a sales associate.
I have accepted an offer with another company. This decision has nothing to do with the exceptional
opportunity you have provided for me. You and the company have been more than fair with me, and I
genuinely appreciate all of your support.
I wish Old Navy continued success, and I want to thank you for allowing me to be a part of your team.
Where possible, I will do whatever I can to aid in a smooth transition.
Sincerely,
Timothy Spearing
Timothy Spearing
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Last Revised June 1, 2010