Resume or CV?

When looking for a job, you should have an up-to-date resume ready to sent to potential employers or, to hand to them before an interview.  In the past, a curriculum vitae or CV was required, but now most employers prefer a one-page resume specific to the job.  CV's are too long and often contain information that is not relevant to the position being applied for at the time.

Here are some tips for creating a topnotch resume.

• First, create a resume for the position you are looking for, not a resume that gives all your history. You may have more than one resume.

• Make sure your formatting is correct.  In other words, make sure that if you use bullets, they all line up the same or, if you use all capital letters in titles, you do that throughout the resume.

• Today's employers like to see numbers, so instead of writing in you description "catered weddings, graduations and community events," say, "catered 20 weddings, 5 graduations and 6 community events in the last year."

• Have someone edit the resume before you print it out. You don't want to miss out on the job of your dreams because your resume had mistakes. (Go to the Career Center and ask for help!)

• Write a cover letter that tells the employer why they should hire you and does not repeat what they will see in the resume. Use strong descriptive words.

Here are some links to sites that offer templates for your resume and cover letters:

Best Resume Templates of 2015-2016

Best Cover Letter Templates of 2015-2016 

That First Impression

The first time doing anything can be scary.  When you are looking for a job, there are a lot of "firsts".  Even if you have worked before, it will be the first time you meet the people at this new company. You want to make a good impression. How do you make yourself feel comfortable for that first interview?

• One of the first things you can do, is to relax.  Take a deep breath. 
• Then, tell yourself that you are going to be the best you can be.  
• Arrive a few minutes early so you have a chance to do this. 
• Ahead of time, make sure you have a fresh, up-to-date copy (or two) of your resume. 
• Also, make sure you have learned something about the company.  
• Have two or three questions to ask the interviewers.  (DON'T ask them about pay, benefits or vacations until you have the job!)

  
Your first impression will be one of a calm, businesslike employee that has what it takes to do a great job!