Resume and Cover Letter Checklist
Do not exceed one page
Know your audience
Minimize personal information; avoid using first person "I"
Include marketable, relevant data only
Stress accomplishments and how your skills will benefit the company/employer
Use results-oriented descriptions of past duties
Cite numbers and specifics to show quantifiable results
Be honest and accurate, and avoid self-flattering descriptions
Supply examples to support personality traits
Review final draft with counselor or friend
Always include a cover letter tailored to the specific job you are seeking
Have more than one resume available for each type of job you are seeking
Leave off references but have them available; make sure they are current
Select a resume format which best suits your qualifications
Use underlining and bullets to emphasize skills (in moderation)
Make graphically pleasing (center on page, use white space in design)
Use action verbs to describe duties
Highlight skills and capabilities
Proofread to eliminate all errors
Have an email-friendly version, without complicated formatting
Use 8 1/2" x 11" white bond paper and a letter quality printer
Proofread again and then ask someone else to proofread
The most effective way to highlight your qualifications is to use action verbs that make a dynamic impression of your abilities on the reader. Vague expressions like "involved in" or "participated in" are less effective and should be avoided. Here are some examples of action verbs:
Administered | Analyzed | Assisted | Checked | Compiled |
Completed | Composed | Conducted | Converted | Construct |
Coordinated | Created | Handled | Monitored | Revised |
Delivered | Headed | Negotiate | Schedule | Designed |
Edited | Instituted | Produced | Taught | Establish |
Hired | Obtained | Serviced | Develope | Implement |
Investigated | Ran | Tested | Evaluated | Managed |
Organized | Sold | Devised | Improved | Planned |
Reorganized | Trained | Expanded | Marketed | Reported |
Supervised | Directed | Increased | Prepared | Surveyed |
Translated | Gathered | Modified | Research | Wrote |