Résumé and cover letters are the first source of contact between you and an employer; it will determine whether or not you are offered an interview. It should be an accurate and positive representation of you. While some job seekers are enlisting the services of professionals to write theirs, it is important to know every aspect of your résumé in detail and therefore may be more beneficial to write it yourself. Writing a résumé may seem like the most easy and obvious task but in reality, many people’s résumés are either dated or unpolished, hindering their chances of employment.

There are tips that you can learn, The Wall Street Journal explains that resources for writing the perfect résumé are easily accessible: “By visiting a government-sponsored job center, your alma mater and even your local library, you can tap into a pool of professionals who will help you create or critique your résumé.” Visiting job clubs introduces you to a network with similar interest to your own, question and compare other people’s resumes and you may learn something new.

While different professions often require specific résumés here are some tips that are applicable to everyone:
Pick a format that works: Hiring companies undoubtedly receive many résumés. A striking but uncomplicated format will not only stand out but show your computer proficiency. Be especially wary not to overdo the format and ensure consistency. Decide on your font type and size, whether you are enlarging your headers and what tabs you will use. Then, make sure the format flows effectively. One bold heading and one larger heading looks sloppy and unprofessional.

Keep it simple: Do not overwhelm the reader with adjectives and jargon. If you are including an objective try not to use convoluted and clichéd phrases. If you want to put and objective use short and direct sentences or even bullet points. Include your credentials, skills, experience and target position.

Make it applicable: One of the most important things that job seekers forget is to tailor their résumé every time they apply for a job. Make your skills applicable to the requirements mentioned in the job listing. If there are no skills listed research the company and apply your skills to their needs. Remember, an architecture firm will require a different resume to an insurance company.

Don’t bury the lead: If you have relevant experience ensure that it is the first point of reference when listing your previous employment. Cut out superfluous descriptions of former employment and describe only the tasks that you will use again. E.G: If you worked as a marketing assistant, exclude that you answered phones or made coffee and focus on marketing plans you created etc.

Give examples: Simply saying: “Sales experience” is not sufficient. Give examples and numbers of sales figures or clients you worked with. Giving examples will show the employer that you have definite experience. Depending on the type of company you are applying for tailor your examples, if you are applying to a web design company include names of programs you know, or examples of what you have designed. If you are applying to a finance company offer solid figures.

Show ongoing development: Emphasize ongoing education or classes you may be taking. Include any seminars or lectures you have attended. This proves that you are ambitious and willing to learn new things.

Check grammar and spelling: One of the most commonly overlooked element of résumés is grammar and spelling. You do not have to be an English major or include fancy words. You do however; have to ensure that your cover letter is grammatically correct, without spelling errors. It is one of the most off-putting mistakes a job seeker can make as it shows laziness and a lack of caring. Read over your résumé again and again. Ask a friend to then read over it as they may notice something you have not.

Know your résumé: Employers will use your résumé when they are interviewing as a reference, and will often ask you questions on what you have included. Know your résumé extremely well and prepare answers related to what you have written.

Cover Letters are another important element of the job seeking process. They are a chance to show the employer your ambition and skills before the interview. Like résumés cover letters should be properly spell and grammar checked. They should always follow a format letter format. A good cover letter is essential when applying for a job and these tips can help:

Research: The most important thing a cover letter should convey is that you have researched the company. This shows the employer that you are serious in your application. Go to the company’s website and make notes of their mission statement, client lists, company size and important projects. Include what you learn in your cover letter and make it applicable to your skills. E.G. If the company has prestigious clients like Microsoft, say in your cover letter that as a computer science major, or since you have taken several computer classes, working with Microsoft would give you a chance to further develop your skills.

Break it down: While the format should be that of a formal letter break down your points into paragraphs, separating them with a space. In the first paragraph include what you know about the company. In the second describe yourself and why you fit their requirements. In the third include any other information that may be suitable.

Always make sure to develop your résumé, it is your most important tool in your job search. The U.S. Department of Labor sponsors over 3,000 One-Stop Career Centers across the country where job seekers can get free help writing and improving their résumés, among other career advice. Find your local center at ServiceLocator.org.