Write a Better Resume & Cover Letter
Overview
A resume is your friend. With it, you guide prospective employers through your qualifications. I'll show you. This section is geared for people who are changing careers or whose resumes aren't getting results. If you have never written a resume before, I suggest you read a basic resume guide first.
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Most people make two big mistakes: 1. They don't tailor their resumes for different jobs (this can also include volunteer positions); 2. They don't show how good a job they did and how they made a difference (known as being accomplishments-oriented). Instead, jobseekers tend to rewrite their job descriptions. It is hard to stand out if you do that.
An Example of How to Stand Out
Suppose you are an experienced veterinary receptionist seeking a new job. The principles of resume writing are the same no matter how advanced or entry-level the position with exceptions for veterinarians, professors, researchers and federal government employees.
You could write under a current or previous job that you greeted pets and their families, answered phones and scheduled appointments. Instead, show your accomplishments. Did you keep fighting dogs apart? What else have you done? If accurate, you could write, for example, "Greeted pets and their families, calmed animals on the verge of fighting, and soothed distraught pet parents. Handled 3 phone lines, scheduled appointments and answered questions." Did you develop a new process that saved time? For example, "Developed a streamlined intake form." If it was a very busy practice, you could write that you handled up to __ so many patients pr day. If you've never missed a day of work--you can say that, too.
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This shows that you made a difference and that you understand the complexity of the job.
Now, think about your own background.
Use the links below to learn more pointers, including targeting and layout.
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The two exceptions: 1. Veterinarians, professors and other graduate-degree level researchers may need a CV instead of a resume (that will be made clear in the job description). In the US and Canada, resumes and CVs are not the same. A CV is a longer document that is organized differently and has fewer descriptions. I will not be covering CVs in this section. 2.The other exception is that resumes for jobs with the federal government require far greater detail. The principles are otherwise the same. The US Office of Personnel Management has written a thorough guide.
10 Resume Pointers
Resumes are more flexible than you may think. The headings you use and how you list your skills and experience make a huge difference.
​​Tips About Resume Design
Make it readable. Not too dense, not too wordy, ample white space and more.
Resumes are not one size fits all. You need to target especially if your resumes aren't getting results.
Are You Changing Careers?
Consider a Profile or Summary section after your contact information especially if you have relevant experience--even if it isn't with animals.
Cover letters and resumes are more flexible than you might think
A bad cover letter can rule you out. A great one can help.