概要信息：

Turn To This WeTFeeT  
insider Guide To learn

4TH EDITION
InsIder
GuIde
Killer Cover 
Letters and 
Resumes
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
WETFEET, INc.
The Folger Building
101 Howard Street
Suite 300
San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: (415) 284-7900 or 1-800-926-4JOB
Fax: (415) 284-7910
Website: www.wetfeet.com
KIllEr cOvEr lETTErs aND rEsumEs
4th Edition
ISBN: 978-1-58207-741-3
PHOTOcOPyINg Is PrOHIbITED
Copyright 2008 WetFeet, Inc. All rights reserved. This publication is protected by the copyright
laws of the United States of America. No copying in any form is permitted. It may not be reproduced,
distributed, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, in
part or in whole, without the express written permission of WetFeet, Inc.
The publisher, author, and any other party involved in creation, production, delivery, or sale of
this WetFeet Insider Guide make no warranty, express or implied, about the accuracy or reliability
of the information found herein. To the degree you use this guide or other materials referenced
herein, you do so at your own risk. The materials contained herein are general in nature and may
not apply to particular factual or legal circumstances. Under no circumstances shall the publisher,
author, or any other party involved in creation, production or delivery of this guide be liable to
you or any other person for damages of any kind arising from access to, or use of, its content.
All illustrations by mckibillo

1 2 3
1 rEsumEs 
aND cOvEr 
lETTErs aT 
a glaNcE
5 30 sEcONDs 
TO saTIsFy
6 Looking Good 
on Paper 
8 The Bottom 
Line
11 ON yOur 
marK, gET 
sET, PrEP!
12 Determining 
What You Have 
to Offer
14 Analyze 
Your Skills, 
Abilities and 
Achievements
conte  nts
c
H
a
P
T
E
r 4 5
21 THE rEcIPE 
FOr rEsumE 
succEss
22 Building a 
Resume Master 
List
22 Essential 
Resume 
Ingredients
29 Optional 
Resume 
Ingredients
33 The Resume 
Menu at a 
Glance
36 Don’t Ruin 
the Recipe—
Buzzword Bozos 
and Other 
Offenders
39 WrITINg aND 
FOrmaTTINg 
yOur rEsumE
40 How Long Is Too 
Long?
40 Polishing Your 
Prose
43 Top-Level 
Formatting 
Guidelines
50 Resume Layout
58 Special Cases
66 Sample Resumes
82 Summary of 
Resume Dos and 
Don’ts
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
conte  nts
6
85 WrITINg 
a TasTy 
cOvEr 
lETTEr
86 Pique Their 
Appetites
86 General 
Cover Letter 
Guidelines
88 The 
Ingredients 
of Your Cover 
Letter
92 Sample Cover 
Letters
98 Cover Letter 
Dos and Don’ts
Killer Cover 
Letters and 
Resumes
4th EDITION
7
101 DIgITal 
DElIvEry: 
PrEParINg 
INTErNET-
rEaDy 
maTErIals 
aND 
aPPlyINg 
ONlINE
102 This 
Application Is 
Experiencing 
Technical 
Difficulties…
104 Getting Past 
the Spam 
Guard Dogs
106 Using Online 
Application 
Systems
8
109 grEaT 
rEsEarcH: 
THE KEy TO 
TaIlOrINg 
yOur 
maTErIals
110 Doing Your 
Due Diligence
111 Three Steps 
of Effective 
Research
114 Where to 
Look for 
Information
9
117 FrOm 
rEsumE TO 
INTErvIEW 
aND bEyOND
118 Follow 
Up After 
Sending Your 
Application
120 Prepare Your 
30-Second 
Spiel
120 Do You Need a 
Portfolio?
121 Anticipate Your 
Interviewer’s 
Questions
122 Write Those 
Thank-You 
Letters
10
125 FOr yOur 
rEFErENcE
126 Recommended 
Resources
127 Books
127 Surveys

Resumes and  
Cover Letters 
at a Glance
1
2 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
at a Glance
30 sEcONDs TO saTIsFy
•	 	Your	resume	has	one	primary	purpose:	to		
help	determine	if	you	merit	an	interview.		
A	well-constructed	resume	by	itself	won’t		
win	you	the	job.
•		 A	resume	and	cover	letter	are	marketing	tools	
designed	to	get	the	attention	of	potential	
employers,	and	interest	them	in	learning	more	
about	a	quality	product—you.
•		 Your	resume	must	make	you	stand	out	quickly.	
The	typical	resume	reviewer	will	spend	less	than	
30	seconds	looking	at	your	materials.
•		 In	a	nutshell,	your	resume	and	cover	letter	are	less	
about	where	you’ve	been	than	about	where	you	
want	to	go	next.
ON yOur marK, gET sET, PrEP! 
•		 Start	by	determining	what	you	have	to	offer:	
Examine	your	employment	history,	educational	
experience,	membership	in	academic	or	
professional	organizations,	and	volunteer	or	
community	activities.	In	addition,	write	down	
your	top	accomplishments.
•		 The	top	qualities	that	most	employers	want	
sometimes	have	little	to	do	with	work	
experience—such	as	communication	skills,	
honesty	and	integrity,	interpersonal	skills,	a	strong	
work	ethic,	and	teamwork	skills.
•		 Pay	close	attention	to	the	things	you	do	well,	
because	they	help	shape	your	most	valuable	
professional	attributes.	Don’t	forget	to	
incorporate	your	talents	and	natural	abilities		
into	your	resume	prep	list.
•		 The	chief	aim	of	history	gathering	is	to	identify	
transferable	skills	to	highlight	on	your	resume.	
These	include	analytical	and	problem-solving	
skills;	the	ability	to	produce	results;	evidence	
of	intellectual	achievement,	leadership	and	
teamwork	skills;	and	specific	industry	and		
job	expertise.
THE rEcIPE FOr rEsumE succEss
•		 Create	a	master	resume	that	includes	all	of	the	
resume	elements	you	might	use,	as	well	as	a	full	
selection	of	achievement	statements,	coursework,	
volunteer	activities,	hobbies,	and	anything	else	
you	might	use	on	a	job	application.	
•	 The	essential	parts	of	your	resume	include	
the	heading	(which	displays	your	contact	
information),	an	education	section,	and	a	work	
experience	section.	
•	 Optional	parts	of	a	resume	can	include	an	
objective	statement,	summary	of	qualifications,	a	
profile,	and	additional	information.	Your	decision	
to	include	or	omit	optional	parts	depends	on	your	
background,	experience,	and	career	path.	
•	 Effective	resumes	are	“action-packed!”	So	after	
you’ve	sketched	out	your	experiences	on	your	
master	list,	write	them	as	achievement	statements,	
which	emphasize	actions	and	results.	
WrITINg aND FOrmaTTINg  
yOur rEsumE
•		 Entry-level	candidates	and	those	with	five	years	
of	experience	or	less	should	limit	their	resumes	to	
one	page.	Experienced	professionals	should	write	
no	more	than	two	pages.
•		 Your	goal	is	to	distill	everything	you	need	to	say	
into	a	few	carefully	chosen	words	and	bullet-
pointed	sentences	that	are	easy	to	scan.
3WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
•		 There	are	two	basic	ways	to	layout	a	resume:	
chronologically	and	functionally.	Use	the	format	
that	best	reveals	your	strengths	for	a	particular	job.
WrITINg a TasTy cOvEr lETTEr
•		 Like	a	good	appetizer,	all	cover	letters	have	one	
main	purpose:	to	whet	your	readers’	appetite,	
get	them	interested	enough	to	move	on	to	your	
resume,	and	then	want	to	interview	you.
•		 Every	cover	letter	needs	to	address	three	areas:	
why	you’re	writing,	what	you	have	to	offer,	and	
what	happens	next.
•		 There	are	three	types	of	cover	letters:	those	that	
respond	to	a	specific	job	opening,	those	directed	
to	a	specific	person,	and	those	that	serve	as	letters	
of	introduction.
DIgITal DElIvEry:  
PrEParINg INTErNET-rEaDy 
maTErIals aND aPPlyINg ONlINE
•		 Make	sure	all	your	digital	materials	are	in	
accessible,	printable	formats.
•		 Save	four	versions	of	your	resume:	a	Word	
document	for	printing,	a	PDF	for	email	
attachments,	a	plain	text	version	with	line	breaks	
for	the	email	body,	and	a	plain	text	version	
without	line	breaks	for	online	forms.
•		 Don’t	be	afraid	to	use	online	application	systems,	
especially	if	a	firm	directs	you	there.	Follow	
the	instructions	precisely,	complete	the	entire	
application,	and	choose	keywords	carefully.
grEaT rEsEarcH: THE KEy TO 
TaIlOrINg yOur maTErIals
•		 Whatever	your	background,	you	won’t	get	far	in	
the	job	market	without	doing	the	research	that	
enables	you	to	tailor	your	resume	and	cover	letter	
to	address	each	employer’s	needs	and	to	start	
getting	ready	for	an	interview.
•		 The	three	steps	of	effective	research	include	
analyzing	the	job	description,	contemplating		
the	company	and	investigating	the	industry.
•		 Before	you	prepare	your	resume	and	cover	letter,	
get	in	touch	with	someone	in	your	field	who	
can	help	answer	questions	about	what	makes	
a	good	candidate.	If	you	don’t	know	someone	
on	the	“inside,”	try	using	personal	contacts	or	
professional	associations.
FrOm rEsumE TO INTErvIEW  
aND bEyOND
•		 If	you	have	submitted	your	resume	and	cover	
letter	directly	to	someone	in	the	company,	follow	
up	with	a	phone	call	or	send	an	email	to	reiterate	
your	desire	to	learn	more	about	the	position.	
Don’t	become	a	nuisance,	but	do	be	persistent.
•		 The	thank-you	letter	shows	gratitude	for	the	
time	the	employer	has	taken	to	review	your	
qualifications,	and	it’s	an	opportunity	to	
reiterate	the	fit	between	the	position	and	your	
qualifications	and	goals.
FOr yOur rEFErENcE
•		 Want	more	info	to	create	your	killer	resume?	
Check	out	our	list	of	recommended	reading		
and	research.

30 Seconds  
to Satisfy
2
Looking Good on Paper ............... 6
The Bottom Line .......................... 9
6 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
lookInG Good 
on PaPer
You’re ready to begin	the	job	hunt.	You’ve	
researched	the	types	of	positions	you	want	and	the	
companies	for	which	you	want	to	work.	Now	you	just	
need	to	whip	together	a	resume	and	proceed,	right?	
Sounds	simple—but	writing	a	resume	that	raises	you	
above	the	pack	and	conveys	your	perfect	fit	to	an	
employer	is	a	challenge	indeed,	especially	if	you	take	
into	account	that	many	recruiters	spend	less	than	30	
seconds	scanning	a	resume	before	sending	it	to	the	
“yes”	or	“no”	pile.	You’ve	got	the	goods:	experience,	
education,	personality.	But	how	do	you	sum	up	a	
lifetime’s	worth	of	hard	work	and	accomplishments	in	
one	or	two	pages	of	text?
rEsumEs aND cOvEr lETTErs  
arE marKETINg TOOls
The	first	step	to	creating	killer	resumes	and	cover	
letters	is	to	understand	what	they	really	are	and	how	
to	best	use	them	in	a	successful	job	search.	Most	
people	think	a	resume	is	a	document	that	traces	one’s	
work	history	and	skills.	The	cover	letter	is	a	formal	
accompaniment	to	the	resume,	intended	to	introduce	
a	job	candidate.
But	resumes	and	cover	letters	are	also	much	more	
than	that.	They	are	marketing	tools	to	get	the	attention	
of	your	desired	audience—potential	employers—and	
interest	them	in	learning	more	about	a	quality	
product:	you.	How	do	consumer	products	companies	
get	us	to	buy	their	products?	Marketing.	How	do	
financial	services	companies	attract	more	customers?	
Marketing.	How	do	political	candidates	move	their	
campaigns	forward?	That’s	right,	marketing.
Viewed	this	way,	it’s	easy	to	see	how	important	a	
killer	cover	letter	and	resume	are	to	a	job	search—and	
how	much	potential	these	marketing	tools	have.	But	
any	successful	marketing	campaign	requires	a	carefully	
crafted	message	that	speaks	directly	to	the	needs	of	
its	audience.	Your	resume	should	make	recruiters	say,	
“Yes!	This	is	exactly	who	we	need.	I	want	to	meet	this	
candidate	to	learn	more.”
aDOPT THE rEcruITEr’s  
POINT OF vIEW
Many	job	seekers	make	the	fundamental	mistake	of	
viewing	the	job	search	in	terms	of	their	own	needs	and	
desires.	While	these	are	certainly	important	factors	in	
finding	a	fulfilling	job	and	career	path,	this	isn’t	the	
most	effective	way	of	approaching	employers.
Rather	than	viewing	your	target	employers	from	
the	outside	looking	in,	view	them	from	the	inside	
and	place	yourself	in	the	recruiters’	shoes.	You	need	
to	understand	what	employers	look	for	in	the	initial	
review	of	applications,	and	what	qualities	will	lead	you	
to	the	next	stage	in	the	hiring	process—the	interview.
To	get	a	sense	of	the	employers’	perspective,	check	
out	this	bit	of	information:	Recently,	ResumeDoctor.
com	contacted	more	than	5,000	recruiters	and	hiring	
managers	throughout	the	U.S.	and	Canada	regarding	
the	success	of	using	online	job	postings.	More	than	92	
tIP>
On average, most recruiters spend 
less than 30 seconds scanning a 
resume before sending it to the “yes” 
or “no” pile.
7WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
percent	of	those	surveyed	reported	being	inundated	
with	irrelevant	responses	to	their	job	postings.	Most	
participants	indicated	that	they	receive	hundreds	of	
responses	per	online	job	posting.
Additional complaints included:
•		 Resumes	that	don’t	match	the	job	description.	
[71%]
•		 Job	seekers	“blasting	out”	unsolicited	resumes.	
[63%]
•		 Job	seekers	failing	to	follow	specific	submission	
instructions	found	in	job	posting.	[34%]
Did	you	hear	that,	folks?	The	number-one	
complaint	from	employers	is	that	most	resumes	they	
receive	don’t	match	the	posted	job	description—that	
is,	most	applicants	are	not	fulfilling	employers’	needs,	
or	even	trying	to.	While	the	high	number	of	responses	
to	job	postings	may	be	an	obstacle,	the	lack	of	
preparation	(not	to	mention	customization)	by	most	
job	seekers	represents	a	distinct	advantage	for	the	savvy	
resume	writer,	soon	to	be	you	after	reading	this	guide.
TargET yOur mEssagE
A	successful	job	search	requires	planning	and	
organization.	You	may	be	mentally	vowing	to	research	
employers	and	career	paths,	network	with	all	your	
contacts,	and	send	out	your	prospecting	letters.	But	
the	first	and	foremost	step	is	to	take	a	wide	view	of	
your	entire	work	history,	skills,	personal	interests,	
and	life	path	to	determine	your	overall	direction.	
Your	work	history	should	appear	as	a	series	of	
thoughtful	steps	leading	up	to	the	present,	rather	than	
a	haphazard	collection	of	experiences	gained	through	
chance	and	whim.	Your	path	isn’t	that	linear,	you	say?	
Then	it’s	your	job	to	select	carefully	what	to	feature	
from	your	work	history	and	skill	set	to	present	an	
organized	picture.
A	successful	resume	presents	an	employer	with	a	
clear	path—and	in	the	best	cases,	that	clear	path	leads	
directly	to	the	employer’s	job	opportunity.	To	light	the	
way,	you’ll	need	detailed	knowledge	of	your	own	skills	
and	work	history,	as	well	as	knowledge	of	the	employer	
to	which	you’re	presenting	your	resume	and	of	the	job	
opening.	If	you’re	simply	introducing	yourself	to	an	
employer	to	prepare	for	future	opportunities,	knowing	
what	the	employer	may	need	or	want	is	just	as	crucial.
Once	you’ve	made	a	thorough	assessment	of	your	
own	skills	and	work	history,	community	activities,	
education,	even	hobbies,	you	can	judiciously	select	the	
most	enticing	bits	to	present	to	a	particular	employer.	
And	what’s	enticing	to	one	employer	may	not	be	as	
appealing	to	the	next—that’s	why	you’ll	need	to	know	
something	about	what	an	employer	may	need	from	
“Most online job postings 
bury recruiters with literally 
hundreds of resumes. The ease 
with which job seekers can 
respond to postings online is 
now their greatest obstacle.”
—Mike Worthington,  
cofounder, ResumeDoctor.com
tIP>
To keep your message targeted 
and successful, be prepared to 
customize your resume for each 
potential employer. At the very least, 
you’ll need to present a custom 
resume for each kind of job you 
pursue.
8 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
you.	To	keep	your	message	targeted	and	successful,	be	
prepared	to	customize	your	resume	for	each	employer.	
At	the	very	least,	you’ll	need	to	present	a	custom	
resume	for	each	type	of	job	you	pursue.
cONNEcT THE DOTs
From	your	self-assessment	and	employer	research,	
you	should	be	able	to	find	the	connections	between	
your	skills	and	the	employer’s	needs	and	draw	a	path	
between	the	two.	Let’s	say	that	you’re	applying	for	
a	job	as	a	design	director	for	a	magazine,	but	you’ve	
never	held	this	specific	position	before.	You	have,	
however,	worked	as	a	print	production	manager	for	
a	publishing	company,	and	a	graphic	designer	for	
an	advertising	agency.	In	college,	you	minored	in	
visual	art	and	worked	at	the	campus	daily	newspaper.	
You’ve	also	volunteered	as	a	docent	at	a	local	modern	
art	museum	and	done	some	additional	freelance	
design	work.
At	first	glance,	these	might	seem	like	a	collection	
of	experiences	only	tangentially	related	to	a	job	as	a	
design	director.	But	let’s	start	from	the	beginning	of	
the	path	in	college.	You	have	hands-on	visual	arts	skills	
and	worked	on	a	fast-paced	periodical,	the	campus	
newspaper.	To	that,	you	added	experience	as	a	graphic	
designer,	showing	that	you	have	first-hand	experience	
in	the	graphic	art	industry,	know	how	to	put	designs	
together	in	a	real-world	context,	and	have	used	design	
in	marketing	endeavors	for	the	ad	agency.	Your	
volunteer	work	as	a	docent	at	the	modern	art	museum	
highlights	your	personal	interest	in	the	visual	arts.	Your	
freelance	graphic	design	work	shows	that	you	have	the	
ability	to	manage	projects	from	concept	to	completion,	
not	to	mention	an	entrepreneurial	bent.	And	finally,	
you’ve	proven	that	you	can	manage	both	projects	and	
other	workers	with	your	experience	as	a	production	
manager.	This	chain	of	experiences	draws	a	reasonable	
path	to	a	role	as	a	design	director	for	a	print	periodical.	
The	experiences	may	not	have	been	sequential,	but	the	
way	in	which	you	present	them	can	still	clearly	show	
how	you	would	fit	into	the	new	role.
What	about	entry-level	candidates	without	
much	work	experience?	The	same	technique	applies,	
but	you’ll	need	to	draw	from	your	education,	
extracurricular	activities,	volunteer	or	community	
work,	and	personal	interests.	Altogether,	the	skills,	
experience,	and	interests	you	present	should	clearly	
point	to	the	job	opportunity	as	the	natural	next	step	in	
your	progression.
This	may	seem	like	an	overwhelming	task	if	you’re	
just	getting	started.	But	don’t	worry—we’ll	take	you	
through	the	process	step	by	step.
For	starters,	you’ll	learn	about	the	best	ways	
to	prepare	for	your	job	search,	including	how	
to	determine	and	articulate	your	strengths,	
research	companies	and	jobs,	and	customize	
your	presentation	toward	desired	positions	and	
organizations.	Next,	you’ll	get	the	full	scoop	on	
how	to	create	a	killer	resume	and	cover	letter—from	
what	information	they	should	(and	shouldn’t)	
contain	to	how	they	should	look	and	read.	
Multiple	cover	letter	and	resume	examples,	as	well	
as	suggestions	for	creating	layouts	that	suit	your	
unique	needs,	will	give	you	great	ideas	for	how	your	
own	materials	should	come	together.	The	section	
on	special	concerns	examines	common	problem	
areas—such	as	international	careers,	“overqualified”	
candidate	syndrome,	or	big	chronological	gaps—
with	helpful	tips	for	addressing	them.	The	final	
section	contains	suggestions	for	following	up	on	
your	application,	as	well	as	resources	that	will	help	
you	in	your	job	search.
tIP>
In a nutshell, your resume and 
cover letter are less about where 
you’ve been than about where you 
want to go next.
9WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
the  
Bottom lIne
At best, resume readers	spend	30	seconds	
reviewing	a	cover	letter	or	resume	the	first	time.	This	
is	especially	true	in	a	competitive	job	market	where	
recruiters	may	receive	up	to	200	responses	to	a	single	
advertised	job	posting.	In	30	seconds,	your	cover	
letter	and	resume	package	need	to	convey	an	image	of	
who	you	are,	your	capabilities	and	strengths,	and	how	
you’ve	used	your	abilities	to	achieve	results.	Ideally,	it	
indicates	that	you	know	yourself	well	and	have	a	firm	
grasp	on	what	you	bring	to	the	table.	In	a	nutshell,	
your	cover	letter	and	resume	are	less	about	where	
you’ve	been	than	about	where	you	want	to	go	next	and	
how	you’re	qualified	to	do	so.
Although	insiders	tell	us	“there	isn’t	one	right	
answer”	to	the	question	of	how	to	create	a	good	cover	
letter	or	resume	(phew!),	they	say	that	the	best	ones	are	
concise,	results-oriented,	and	very	clearly	presented.	
Of	course,	a	great	resume	alone	won’t	land	you	the	job	
of	your	dreams,	but	appropriate	choices	in	shaping	
your	materials	make	you	far	more	likely	to	get	a	call,	
and	can	even	help	you	sail	more	smoothly	through	the	
interview	process.	This	guide	will	show	you	the	way.

On Your Mark, 
Get Set, Prep!
3
Determine What  
You Have to Offer ...................... 12
Analyze Your Skills,  
Abilities and Achievements ........ 14
12 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
determIne 
What You 
have to offer
Ever get stuck watching	Uncle	Fred’s	travel	
slides?	Time	ticks	by	mercilessly	as	Fred	displays	
endless	photos	while	giving	excruciatingly	detailed	
descriptions	of	people	you	will	never	meet	and	places	
you’d	never	want	to	visit.	Whatever	you	do,	don’t	let	
your	cover	letter	and	resume	become	like	Uncle	Fred’s	
pictures.	Always	keep	your	audience	in	mind,	and	
include	only	the	highlights	of	your	experiences.
Before	you	begin	writing,	take	a	good	look	at	
yourself.	Which	elements	of	your	years	of	wisdom,	
experience,	and	accomplishment	belong	on	a	couple	of	
sheets	of	paper,	and	which	don’t?	What	characteristics	
make	you	stand	out	from	the	crowd	but	also	show	
that	you’re	a	team	player?	What	kind	of	candidate	does	
your	target	employer	usually	hire?	Be	prepared	to	think	
through	your	activities	and	achievements	and	tell	your	
compelling	life	story	in	one	to	two	pages.
In	addition	to	knowing	all	of	the	factual	
information	about	yourself—including	grades,	test	
scores,	and	dates	of	employment—think	about	how	
to	portray	yourself	in	a	positive,	confident	light	
while	telling	the	true	story	of	who	you	are	and	what	
you’ve	accomplished.	You	must	have	insight	into	
your	strengths	and	weaknesses	to	create	a	compelling	
resume	and	cover	letter.
Get	started	by	cataloguing	all	of	your	knowledge	
areas,	skill	sets,	and	abilities.	There’s	no	need	to	get	
fancy	here—just	brainstorm	and	create	a	comprehensive	
list.	Your	knowledge	areas	will	be	drawn	from	your	
education,	past	employment,	vocational	training,	and	
professional	certifications.	Your	skills	and	abilities,	on	
the	other	hand,	have	been	developed	through	a	variety	
of	life	experiences,	including	your	past	internships,	
volunteer	work,	and	other	career-related	activities.	
Following	are	the	main	areas	to	consider	when	listing	
your	accomplishments,	skills	and	abilities.
EmPlOymENT HIsTOry
The	best	way	to	get	started	building	a	resume	is	to	
map	out	your	employment	history.	When	evaluating	
a	potential	candidate,	employers	first	will	look	for	
previous	experience	in	areas	similar	or	related	to	the	
position	being	filled.
Prepare	a	chronological	list	of	the	major	jobs	
you’ve	held.	Include	the	company	names,	your	
titles,	managers’	names,	the	time	you	spent	in	
those	positions,	starting	and	ending	salaries,	and	
primary	responsibilities.	Remember,	not	all	of	this	
information	will	go	end	up	on	the	resume;	you’re	
just	collecting	details	that	form	the	“big	picture”	of	
your	employment	history.	Seeing	your	work	history	
laid	out	will	help	you	identify	upward	trends	in	your	
career,	such	as	responsibility,	increased	salary,	or	
other	advancement.	Your	employment	history	will	
also	reveal	any	gaps	that	you’ll	need	to	address	on	the	
resume	or	in	the	interview.
EDucaTIONal ExPErIENcE
Gather	your	school	transcripts,	standardized	test	
scores,	scholarship	applications	and	awards,	and	any	
other	information	that	may	help	you	paint	a	picture	
of	your	academic	accomplishments.	Calculate	your	
GPA,	because	you	might	need	this	information	at	
some	point.	If	you’re	concerned	about	your	GPA,	
calculate	it	using	several	cuts—overall,	major-
only,	or	by	year—to	see	which	provides	the	most	
favorable	view	to	note	on	your	resume,	or	at	least	
mention	in	the	interview,	if	asked.	Always	use	a	
standard	4.0	scale.
Review	your	school	curriculum	and	make	note	of	
any	special	areas	of	study.	What	was	your	major?	Did	
you	have	a	minor?	Did	you	take	any	special	courses,	
such	as	business	communication,	economics,	media,	or	
art	history?	These	areas	of	knowledge	may	be	helpful	
in	applying	for	certain	jobs.
13WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Look,	too,	at	your	academic	record	from	a	
skills-and-abilities	perspective.	For	example,	did	
you	undertake	any	special	projects	or	collaborative	
assignments	as	part	of	your	courses?	These	may	be	
evidence	of	teamwork	and	group	leadership	abilities,	
talents	that	most	employers	prize.	As	you	will	read	
shortly,	your	aim	is	to	sift	your	experience—from	
whatever	source—for	transferable	skills.
mEmbErsHIP IN PrOFEssIONal Or 
acaDEmIc OrgaNIzaTIONs
Are	you	or	were	you	a	member	of	any	academic	or	
professional	organizations,	societies,	and	committees?	
Make	note	of	any	organizations	in	which	you	are	or	
have	been	involved	and	describe	the	role	you	played	
in	each.	Write	down	any	notable	achievements	or	how	
you	helped	these	organizations	fulfill	their	aims.	Again,	
entry-level	candidates	and	career	changers	may	be	able	
to	use	their	memberships	in	organizations	to	their	
advantage	while	applying	for	new	positions.	
vOluNTEEr Or cOmmuNITy 
acTIvITIEs
Volunteering	is	a	great	way	to	gain	valuable	experience	
that	can	be	applied	to	a	job.	Make	note	of	any	
community	activities	in	which	you’ve	participated.	Do	
you	volunteer	as	a	Big	Brother	or	Big	Sister?	Part	of	
the	Rotary	Club?	Deliver	meals	during	the	holidays?	
All	of	these	activities	can	be	sources	of	valuable	
experience	to	present	to	an	employer.	Not	only	that,	
but	extracurricular	activities	such	as	these	also	tell	an	
employer	something	about	your	motivation,	character,	
values,	and	work	ethic.	
For	entry-level	candidates	without	a	lot	of	work	
experience,	volunteering	is	a	great	way	to	get	some	
experience!	Volunteering	also	has	the	added	benefit	
of	introducing	you	to	potential	references	and	
networking	contacts.
TOP accOmPlIsHmENTs
List	the	most	significant	accomplishments	from	your	
professional,	academic,	and	personal	experiences.	
Write	down	each	achievement;	then	explain	why	it	is	
significant	to	you,	how	you	achieved	it,	how	others	
helped	you,	and	how	you	measure	its	success.	You	will	
need	to	include	information	about	at	least	two	of	your	
top	accomplishments	in	your	resume,	preferably	with	
an	indication	of	the	results	you	achieved.
Why	take	this	additional	step?	Effective	resumes	are	
outcome-based.	They	stress	achievements,	and	don’t	
just	list	duties	and	responsibilities.	The	easiest	way	
for	an	employer	to	predict	your	potential	value	to	the	
company	is	to	study	your	record	of	accomplishments.	
If	you	only	list	what	you	did—as	opposed	to	what	you	
achieved—you	risk	hiding	your	unique	contributions.
We’ve	urged	you	to	look	beyond	your	work	history	
when	listing	what	you	have	to	offer	in	your	next	
job.	Why?	Put	simply,	a	career	is	developed	through	
an	accumulation	of	life	experiences,	both	in	and	
outside	of	the	workplace.	Wherever	you	are	in	your	
career,	it’s	to	your	advantage	to	draw	from	a	variety	of	
professional	and	personal	experiences	when	presenting	
your	skills	and	abilities	to	an	employer.
14 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
analYze 
Your skIlls, 
aBIlItIes, and 
achIevements
Entry-level and internship candidates	may	feel	
especially	challenged	when	it	comes	to	proving	their	
mettle	to	potential	employers.	Don’t	worry.	The	top	
qualities	that	most	employers	want	sometimes	have	
little	to	do	with	work	experience.
To	understand	why	this	is	so,	consider	employers’	
responses	to	the	National	Association	of	Colleges	and	
Employers	(NACE)	Job Outlook 2007	survey,	which	
asked	employers	to	rate	the	importance	of	a	candidate’s	
qualities	and	skills	on	a	five-point	scale,	with	five	being	
“extremely	important”	and	one	being	“not	important.”
Here are their top five responses:
•		 Communication	skills	(4.7)
•		 Honesty/integrity	(4.7)
•		 Interpersonal	skills	(4.5)
•		 Strong	work	ethic	(4.5)
•		 Teamwork	skills	(4.5)
The	attributes	in	the	preceding	list	are	the	ones	
employers	designate	as	the	most	desired	year	after	
year.	Fortunately,	your	educational	achievements,	
extracurricular	and	community	activities,	or	special	
projects	can	reveal	these	attributes	in	abundance.
HarD aND sOFT sKIlls
As	we	suggested	already,	you	may	need	to	learn	to	
look	at	skills	from	a	number	of	angles.	Employers	
and	recruiters	often	separate	professional	skills	into	
two	sets:	“hard”	skills	and	“soft”	skills.	Hard	skills	
typically	include	the	more	left-brained	areas,	such	
as	programming,	mechanical	aptitude,	finance,	
accounting,	marketing,	operations,	and	strategy.	
Soft	skills	are	the	right-brained	areas,	such	as	
communication,	interpersonal	skills,	collaboration,	
leadership,	motivation,	and	creativity.	You	may	see	
soft	skills	referred	to	sometimes	as	adaptive	or	self-
management	skills.	During	the	technology	boom	of	
the	’90s,	many	employers	tended	to	downplay	the	
importance	of	soft	skills,	but	in	today’s	employment	
market,	soft	skills	have	gained	a	whole	new	respect.
This	is	not	to	say,	however,	that	the	hard	skills	aren’t	
important.	Most	successful	job	candidates	display	
a	balance	of	both	skill	sets.	So,	to	escape	any	value	
judgment	inherent	in	describing	skills	as	“hard”	and	
“soft,”	let’s	recast	them	as	“functional”	and	“strategic”	
skills	instead.	A	successful	resume	displays	a	reasonable	
balance	of	both	areas	because	hiring	managers	are	
seeking	both	skill	types,	preferring	a	well-rounded	
candidate	who	has	a	solid	knowledge	base	and	the	
personal	traits	to	succeed.
This	presents	a	challenge	to	candidates	with	
scientific	and	humanities	backgrounds	alike.	
Those	applying	for	technical	positions	need	to	
demonstrate	some	strategic	skills,	such	as	teamwork	
and	communication,	while	those	applying	for	non-
technical	positions	would	benefit	from	revealing	
some	functional	skills,	such	as	marketing,	finance,	or	
computer	skills.
To	find	out	more	about	the	NACE Job Outlook	survey,	please	see	the	resource	section	at	the	end	of	this	guide,		
or	visit	www.naceweb.org.
15WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
abIlITIEs aND TalENTs
Your	abilities	and	talents	can	reveal	skills	that	you	may	
not	have	considered.	While	skills,	especially	functional	
ones,	are	learned,	abilities	or	talents	are	things	at	which	
we	naturally	excel.	Equally	important,	your	abilities	
and	talents	usually	point	you	to	the	jobs	at	which	
you’ll	probably	be	happiest	and	most	successful.
Good	at	making	friends?	Then	your	interpersonal	
skills	must	be	top-notch!	Great	at	last-minute	
Halloween	costumes?	Then	you	must	be	highly	
visually	creative!	Never	need	to	look	at	the	instructions	
when	assembling	IKEA	furniture?	Then	you	must	
have	superior	mechanical	aptitude!	Be	sure	to	pay	
close	attention	to	the	things	you	do	well,	because	they	
probably	help	shape	your	most	valuable	professional	
attributes.	So,	don’t	forget	to	incorporate	your	talents	
and	natural	abilities	into	your	resume	prep	list.
IDENTIFy TraNsFErablE sKIlls
The	chief	aim	of	all	your	history	gathering	and	soul	
searching	is	to	identify	the	transferable	skills	that	
you’ll	highlight	on	your	resume.	What	are	transferable	
skills?	Basically,	they	are	skills	and	abilities	that	are	
useful	in	a	variety	of	jobs.	Which	skills	you	choose	to	
“transfer”	onto	your	resume	depends	on	the	particular	
requirements	of	the	position	and	the	corporate	culture	
of	each	company	you’re	targeting.	
The	list	of	questions	following	each	skill	set	will	
help	you	identify	your	transferable	skills	and	what	
you’ve	accomplished	with	them.	These	questions	
should	also	help	you	see	that	skills	or	expertise	
developed	in	one	context	can	help	you	prepare	for	a	
successful	career	in	another.
TOP FIvE THINgs EmPlOyErs lOOK 
FOr WHEN rEvIEWINg a rEsumE
5.  A well-rounded candidate
4.  Something that makes you stand out from  
all the others who are applying for the job
3.  A balance of work (or academic) and life 
experiences
2.  Someone who went to the interviewer’s  
alma mater (not that she’s biased)
1.  A typo—so the recruiter can throw it out
16 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
analYtIcal 
and ProBlem-
solvInG skIlls
Analytical and problem-solving skills	are	
critical	components	of	many	jobs,	particularly	in	
business	and	scientific	fields.	For	example,	they	are	
fundamental	to	your	success	in	industries	such	as	
financial	services	and	consulting,	especially	during	
the	first	few	years	of	your	career.	In	these	fields,	if	you	
show	no	evidence	of	these	skills,	you	won’t	get	to	the	
interview.
Have you:
•		 Sifted	through	data	and	assumptions	and	
identified	reasonable	responses	to	complex	
problems?
•		 Synthesized	large	amounts	of	information	and	
identified	trends	or	issues?
•		 Identified	a	problem	and	taken	a	proactive	
approach	to	solving	it?
•		 Done	well	in	courses	with	heavy	analytical	and	
quantitative	content?
•		 Performed	experiments	that	required	formulation	
of	a	hypothesis	and	collection	of	evidence	to	prove	
or	disprove	it?
•		 Taken	courses	in	mathematics,	statistics,	or	other	
subjects	that	require	analytical	thinking?
If	so,	you	may	have	the	analytical	ability		
employers	seek.
aBIlItY to 
Produce 
results
An increasing number of	employers—even	
nonprofit	organizations—want	evidence	that	a	
candidate	can	produce	results.	Accordingly,	your	
resume	should	demonstrate	successful	outcomes	
and	suggest	that	you	have	the	ambition,	motivation,	
attention	to	detail,	and	energy	necessary	to	achieve	an	
employer’s	goals.
Have you:
•		 Brought	new	customers	or	revenue	into	your	
company?	
•		 Developed	new	programs	or	initiatives?
•		 Proven	that	you’re	a	self-starter	who	goes	above	
and	beyond	requirements?
•		 Shown	the	ability	to	prioritize	and	move	quickly	
among	different	tasks?
•		 Set	a	challenging	goal	and	achieved	it?
•		 Attended	to	the	details	while	juggling	multiple	
tasks?
•		 Taken	an	innovative	or	efficient	approach	to	
getting	something	done?
The	need	for	specific,	quantitative	measurements	of	
your	accomplishments	should	start	you	thinking	about	
how	to	track	and	measure	your	achievements,	if	you	
haven’t	done	that	already.
17WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Intellectual 
achIevement
Can you demonstrate superior	knowledge	of	
a	particular	subject?	Have	you	achieved	exceptional	
results	in	your	academic	pursuits?	Employers	are		
often	interested	in	people	who	can	excel	beyond		
the	norm,	or	who	demonstrate	drive	and	ambition		
in	their	endeavors.
Have you:
•		 Earned	honors	or	academic	awards?
•		 Received	academic	scholarships	or	fellowships?
•		 Taken	on	challenging	courses	or	a	heavy	workload?
•		 Engaged	in	intellectual	pursuits	(chess,	computer	
programming,	etc.)?
•		 Attended	academically	rigorous	schools?
•		 Done	well	on	standardized	tests	(SAT,	GMAT,	
LSAT,	and	so	on)?
•		 Earned	a	high	GPA?
•		 Received	awards	and	recognition	in	the	workplace?
leadershIP
Leadership can be expressed	both	through	your	
managerial	experience	and	through	your	willingness	to	
take	on	responsibility,	even	if	your	role	is	not	that	of	a	
supervisor	or	team	captain.	Many	employers	look	for	
leadership	qualities	in	their	staff.
Have you:
•		 Directed	people’s	activities?
•		 Facilitated	meetings?
•		 Led	teams	in	solving	problems?
•		 Coordinated	outside	vendors?
•		 Held	a	leadership	position	in	a	school	
organization,	team,	or	club?
•		 Been	elected	to	a	post	by	your	peers?
•		 Organized	or	coordinated	noteworthy	events?
•		 Had	a	position	of	significant	responsibility	with	a	
previous	employer?
•		 Hired	or	fired	anyone?
18 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
teamWork
The ability to work	with	clients	or	colleagues		
is	a	critical	component	of	most	work	environments.	
Employers	also	value	employees	who	can	inspire		
others	toward	a	common	goal.	Teamwork	requires		
an	ability	to	communicate	clearly	and	to	collaborate	
with	managers,	peers,	assistants,	clients,	vendors,		
and	anyone	else	with	whom	you	have	contact		
through	your	work.
Have you:
•		 Been	a	member	of	a	sports	team,	study	group,		
or	committee?
•		 Worked	effectively	with	people	whose	work	style	
or	cultural	background	differs	from	yours?
•		 Inspired	others	to	take	action	in	an	unstructured	
situation?
•		 Taken	on	the	role	of	a	team	leader	or	player		
as	needed?
Of	course	you	have.	We	don’t	know	of	any	
candidate,	particularly	one	with	a	high	level	of	
academic	training,	who	hasn’t	been	involved	in	
working	with	a	team.	(Gotta	love	those	study	groups!)	
Identify	the	teams	or	groups	you’ve	joined	and	
think	about	the	roles	you	played.	Employers	may	
want	to	hear	about	your	ability	to	make	productive	
contributions,	the	type	of	role	you	tend	to	play	on	a	
team,	or	how	you’ve	worked	with	a	team	to	identify	
and	solve	a	problem.
IndustrY and 
JoB exPertIse
If you have a	strong	understanding	of	an	industry	
through	experience	or	academic	training,	you’ll	want	
to	highlight	this	on	your	resume	and	cover	letter.	Of	
course,	the	skills	that	are	considered	most	important	
vary	by	industry.	Here	are	some	useful	ways	to	think	
about	your	knowledge	and	past	expertise.
Have you:
•		 Worked	in	a	particular	industry	for	a	good		
chunk	of	time?
•		 Held	various	roles	within	one	industry?
•		 Held	similar	functional	roles	in	different	
industries?	Been	able	to	apply	your	functional	
knowledge	from	one	industry	to	another?
•		 Written	a	thesis	or	research	paper	about	a	
particular	industry,	business	issue,	or	other	topic?
•		 Volunteered	in	a	particular	field,	or	followed	
current	events	related	to	an	industry	or	issue?
•		 Participated	in	conventions,	conferences,	
symposiums,	or	associations	in	a	specific	field?
•		 Developed	specialized	skills—such	as	technical,	
industry-based,	administrative,	or	in-depth	
knowledge—from	your	academic	training?
Unlike	Uncle	Fred,	with	his	misguided	approach	
to	sharing	past	exploits,	you	can	write	carefully	
focused	descriptions	of	your	most	interesting	and	
valuable	experiences	to	share	with	recruiters	and	
hiring	managers.	The	goal	of	assessing	your	skills	is	
to	identify	what	you	can	offer	an	employer,	and	to	
demonstrate	how	hiring	you	will	help	a	company	meet	
its	objectives.
19WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E

The Recipe for 
Resume Success
4
Building a Resume  
Master List ................................. 22
The Essential  
Resume Ingredients .................... 22
Optional Resume Ingredients..... 29
The Resume Menu at a Glance ... 33
Don’t Ruin the Recipe— 
Buzzword Bozos and  
Other Offenders ......................... 36 
22 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
BuIldInG 
a resume 
master lIst
Every good cook knows	that	a	single	recipe	can’t	
please	everybody.	The	same	can	be	said	for	developing	
a	resume	and	cover	letter	for	a	successful	job	search.	
One	standard	resume	will	simply	not	work.	Get	
comfortable	with	the	idea	that	you’ll	need	to	customize	
your	resume	for	each	position	you	want	to	apply	for.	
At	the	very	least,	you’ll	want	to	create	several	versions	
of	your	resume—one	for	each	industry	or	type	of	
position	you’re	targeting.
The	best	way	to	address	this	need	is	to	create	
a	master	resume,	a	document	that	includes	all	of	
the	resume	elements	you	might	use,	as	well	as	a	
full	selection	of	refined	achievement	statements,	
coursework,	volunteer	activities,	hobbies,	or	anything	
else	you	might	use	for	a	particular	job	application.	
A	master	list	helps	you	keep	all	of	your	resume	
ingredients	in	one	place.	Then,	when	you’re	ready	to	
apply	for	a	job,	you	can	simply	select	the	elements	and	
achievements	from	your	master	list	that	you	think	will	
be	most	impressive	to	the	employer.
As	you’re	reading	through	the	following	
descriptions	of	common	resume	ingredients,	begin	
jotting	down	notes	for	each	section	to	see	where	you	
have	the	most	material.	From	there,	pare	down	your	
material	to	create	your	master	list.
the essentIal 
resume 
InGredIents
Your resume will always	have	at	least	three	parts		
or	sections:	
•		 Contact	Information
•		 Experience
•		 Education
Your	contact	information	always	comes	first,	but	
you’ll	have	to	choose	whether	to	cover	experience	
before	education,	or	vice	versa.	Generally,	lead	with	
your	strength.	Students	with	little	work	experience	
will	want	to	place	their	education	section	near	the	top	
of	their	resumes.	As	your	school	days	grow	distant,	
employers	become	much	more	interested	in	your	
professional	experience	than	in	the	fact	that	you	were	
editor	of	your	school	newspaper,	or	what	your	major	
was.	Experienced	professionals	(those	a	few	years	or	
more	out	of	school)	should	always	emphasize	their	
work	history	and	save	education	for	last.	Career	
changers,	however,	may	want	to	place	their	education	
section	near	the	top	of	their	resumes	if	they	have	little	
or	no	experience	in	the	field	they	wish	to	enter	but	do	
have	education	or	training	in	that	field.
Let’s	explore	the	three	essential	sections	that	are	the	
heart	of	your	resume.
tIP>
Heads up! Use the same heading on 
your cover letter that you create for 
your resume. This looks professional 
and provides a visual cue that the 
documents belong together. And 
don’t forget the graphic punch of 
“branding” your name!
23WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
cONTacT INFOrmaTION
Every	resume	starts	with	a	heading	that	displays	the	
two	most	important	pieces	of	information	to	supply	
to	a	potential	employer:	your	name	and	contact	
information.	Seems	straightforward,	but	many	people	
make	the	mistake	of	sending	resumes	with	old	contact	
information	or	of	omitting	telephone	numbers	and	
email	addresses.	Be	sure	to	include	the	name	you	
use	professionally,	a	home	address,	and	the	personal	
telephone	number	or	numbers	where	you	are	most	
easily	reached.	Note:	If	you	have	a	two-page	resume,	
your	name,	phone	number,	and	email	address	should	
also	appear	at	the	top	of	the	second	page.
Get	a	job	search	email	account	if	you	don’t		
already	have	one;	using	a	unique	email	address	
for	your	job	search	will	help	you	to	avoid	losing	
messages	from	employers	among	the	many	personal	
messages	you	receive	each	day.	Select	an	email	
address	that	displays	your	name.	For	example:	
mary_johnson@hotmail.com.	(See	the	Internet	
delivery	chapter	of	this	guide	for	additional	dos	and	
don’ts	on	formulating	an	email	address.)
You	want	your	name	to	stand	out	and	stick	in	
the	reader’s	mind,	which	is	why	the	heading	should	
be	highlighted	using	a	bold	or	an	enlarged	typeface.	
Remember,	a	resume	is	a	marketing	piece	about	you,	
and	subtle	visual	tricks	like	this	can	be	very	effective.	
Don’t	go	crazy,	however,	by	using	ridiculously	huge	
letters.	Stick	with	a	font	size	between	12	and	18	points	
for	the	most	effective	visual	punch.	Finally,	center	your	
contact	information	on	the	page	or	align	it	along	the	
left	margin.	This	will	make	it	easier	to	see	if	it’s	filed	in	
a	folder	or	binder.
ExPErIENcE
The	most	important	part	of	any	resume,	and	the	
section	many	recruiters	study	most	closely,	is	a	job	
seeker’s	experience.	If	you’re	an	experienced	candidate,	
this	section	will	highlight	the	past	jobs	you’ve	held.	
Entry-level	candidates	can	fill	out	this	section	with	
a	combination	of	work	experience,	extracurricular	
activities,	and	volunteer	work.
To	get	started	on	your	experience	section,	
create	a	master	list	of	your	work	history	in	reverse	
chronological	order.	List	the	month	and	year	that	you	
began	and	ended	each	job,	your	job	title,	the	name	of	
the	company,	and	the	responsibilities	you	held.
Think	about	your	experience	in	terms	of	results	
produced.	Be	short	on	the	description	of	duties	and	
long	on	verifiable	outcomes.	Quantify	your	results	
with	numbers	wherever	possible	to	give	the	resume	
reader	a	clearer	picture	of	your	accomplishments.	
Always	remember	that	your	aim	is	to	show	in	your	
resume	not	just	the	types	of	experience	you’ve	had,	
but	also	how	effectively	you	performed	your	duties,	
what	benefits	you	brought	to	your	employer	while	
working	there,	and	how	valuable	you’ll	be	to	your	next	
employer.	Finally,	fill	out	your	experience	list	by	citing	
any	particular	accomplishments,	including	awards	or	
special	recognition,	you	received	at	each	job.	
Effective	resumes	are	“action-packed”	documents!	
So	after	you’ve	roughed	out	your	experiences	on	your	
master	list,	you’re	going	to	write	them	as	achievement	
statements—phrases	that	emphasize	actions	and	results.	
tIP>
Odd numbers are more believable 
and persuasive than even numbers. 
“19%” sounds like a number taken 
from a financial report, while “20%” 
sounds like a wild guess. Be exact!
24 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
The following table is	a	useful	tool	for	getting	started	with	this	crucial	step.	At	the	top	of	each	
column,	you’ll	see	a	major	area	of	competency	that	employers	look	for	in	jobseekers.	Below	each	
category	is	a	list	of	“action	words”	that	indicate	you	prove	your	competency.	Study	the	table	and	circle	
the	action	words	that	relate	to	your	work,	academic,	or	personal	experience.	Use	the	extra	spaces	
provided	to	write	additional	action	words	that	apply	to	your	record	of	experience.
communication Teamwork management
authored assisted administered
composed backed approved
consulted brokered conducted
conveyed collaborated decided
corresponded contributed delegated
drafted cooperated directed
edited coordinated executed
explained created synergies guided
finessed helped handled
interpreted participated hired
justified partnered with managed
mediated reinvigorated oversaw
negotiated shared project-managed
reported solidified ran
revised strategized regulated
simplified supported supervised
translated united trained
25WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
leadership Initiative adaptability
coached achieved adapted
conducted conceived adopted
enabled created anticipated
facilitated cultivated changed
founded designed complied
governed determined engineered
guided developed improved
headed devised integrated
instructed established invented
led expanded learned
motivated garnered mastered
piloted generated modified
prescribed implemented negotiated
recommended initiated problem-solved
taught instituted resolved
unified launched retrenched
united originated trained
26 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
analytical Organizational results/achievements
analyzed administered built
appraised arranged completed
assessed compiled doubled/tripled
broke down coordinated enhanced
calculated distributed grew
categorized gathered made
evaluated operated maximized/minimized
examined ordered outpaced
experimented organized/reorganized produced
innovated maintained rebuilt
inspected managed reduced
investigated prepared re-energized
quantified prioritized sold
researched processed solved
reviewed scheduled started up
surveyed sequenced transformed
systemized synthesized turned around
27WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
To	write	an	achievement	statement,	associate	
each	of	the	action	words	you	circled	with	specific	
skills,	abilities,	and	experiences.	Each	achievement	
statement	describes:
•	what	action	was	taken,
•	in	what	setting,	
•	with	what	skills,
•	and	with	what	results.	
The	following	example	demonstrates	how	to	write	
an	achievement	statement	that	really	achieves!	
Step 1: Analyze Your Experience
Action: campaigned	for	environmental	organization
Setting: worked	with	the	public
Skills: defined	goals,	designed	campaign,	implemented	
campaign,	conducted	outreach,	educated	public
Results: improved	public	awareness	of	issues,	increased	
visibility	of	organization,	generated	500		
new	members	($5,000	revenue),	acquired	$20,000		
in	donations
Step 2: Write a Results-Oriented 
Achievement Statement
Environmental Advocate, Sierra Club:	Designed	
and	implemented	a	campaign	strategy	to	educate	the	
public	about	climate	change	and	shape	international	
treaties	on	the	issue.	Generated	more	than	$25,000	
in	new	memberships	and	donations		
to	support	the	campaign.
NOW IT’s yOur TurN TO Try...
Write Your Own Achievement Statements
Use	this	workbook	to	practice	writing	your	own	
achievement	statements.
Action:		 ___________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
Setting:		___________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
Skills:		 ____________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
Results:		___________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
Situation	(job,	academic,	personal):		______________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
Statement:		_________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
28 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
EDucaTION
This	section	might	be	more	aptly	titled	“Education	
and	Academic	Achievement.”	Information	here	should	
include	schools	attended,	degrees	conferred	and	
when,	and	other	information	regarding	your	academic	
achievement,	including	GPA,	SAT/GRE/GMAT	
scores,	scholarships	and	awards	earned,	honor	society	
memberships,	class	ranking,	etc.	List	only	those	things	
that	showcase	your	strengths.	A	3.0	GPA	isn’t	likely	to	
impress	anyone,	nor	is	a	600	on	the	GMAT.	These	are	
perfectly	respectable	statistics,	but	if	they	aren’t	going	
to	wow	the	reader,	you	might	as	well	save	the	space	for	
more	impressive	details.
What	not	to	list?	There’s	no	need	to	list	high	
schools	attended;	accomplishments	in	high	school	
generally	apply	to	enrolling	in	a	college,	rather	
than	getting	a	job.	Listing	when	you	received	your	
degree(s)	is	optional.	Doing	so	may	reveal	your	age	
and	how	current	your	knowledge	is,	which	may	or	
may	not	be	desirable.
You	can	also	include	in	this	section	special	
certifications,	licenses,	or	additional	vocational	training	
you’ve	completed.	Many	job	seekers	make	the	mistake	
of	omitting	appropriate	professional	development	
training:	non-credit	courses,	workshops,	seminars,	
conferences,	and	on-the-job	training.	Employers	value	
this	education	since	it	often	directly	relates	to	the	job	
and	is	usually	more	recent.	Of	course,	list	only	those	
things	that	showcase	your	strengths	and	are	relevant	to	
the	job	that	you’re	seeking.
To	get	maximum	mileage	out	of	your	education,	
describe	honors,	awards,	and	special	projects.	Use	
the	heading	“coursework,”	and	you	can	describe	the	
contents	of	the	curriculum	without	worrying	about	
the	actual	name	of	each	class.	Here’s	an	example:
By	fleshing	out	work	you’ve	done	in	school	that	
is	relevant	to	the	job	you’re	applying	for,	you	can	
skirt	the	issue	of	little	work	experience	or	a	lack	of	
experience	in	a	particular	job	or	industry	while	still	
presenting	yourself	as	a	skilled	candidate.	
π ExamPlE
bs, sociology, minor in business, 2001
Michigan State University
Coursework included:
• Financial & Management Accounting 
• Corporate Finance 
• Statistics & Statistical Analysis 
• Principles of Sales Management 
• Marketing Strategy & Planning 
• Market Research
Computer skills:
• HTML, MS Office, ACT!, WordPerfect
Sample research project:
• Discriminant Analysis and Psychographic 
Profile of Consumer Market for Premixed Ethnic 
Foods
29WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
oPtIonal 
resume 
InGredIents
You may want to	add	additional	sections	to	your	
resume	if	doing	so	helps	a	reader	to	understand	how	
your	qualifications	fit	the	position	you’re	targeting.	
Directly	after	the	heading,	you	can	add	an	objective	
statement,	a	summary	of	qualifications,	or	a	profile.	
And	you	can	close	your	resume	with	a	section	of	
additional	information	that	lists	particular	skills	or	
credentials,	or	that	reveals	your	interests	and	activities.	
Let’s	look	at	each	of	these	optional	resume	ingredients	
and	consider	when	it’s	worthwhile	to	include	them.
ObjEcTIvE sTaTEmENT
An	objective	statement	conveys	your	immediate	
career	goals	and	reason	for	contacting	an	employer.	
Professionals	with	many	years	of	experience	in	a	
particular	career	who	are	applying	for	a	job	similar	to	
one	they’ve	held	should	skip	the	objective	statement.	
In	such	a	case,	allow	your	experience	to	speak	for	itself	
by	including	one	or	two	extra	achievement	statements.
Those	applying	to	firms	in	fields	which	have	
formal	hiring	channels,	such	as	financial	services	
or	consulting,	should	also	leave	out	the	objective	
statement.	Submitting	your	resume	is	enough	to	state	
your	objective	in	these	situations.	For	applicants	in	
other	fields,	an	objective	statement	might	be	effective	
in	the	following	situations:
•		 You’re	applying	to	a	very	large	company		
with	many	similar	positions.
•		 You’re	an	entry-level	candidate	with	little		
job	experience.
•		 You’re	a	career	changer	applying	for	a	job		
in	a	field	in	which	you	have	little	or	no		
prior	experience.
•		 You’re	applying	for	a	job	that	is	a	clear	
advancement	from	those	you	previously	held.
•		 Your	work	history	consists	of	a	variety	of	types		
of	experience.
And	if	you	are	leading	your	resume	with	your	
educational	accomplishments,	you	may	want	to	
include	an	objective	to	prepare	the	recruiter	to	evaluate	
your	achievements	in	terms	of	your	career	goals.	
Your	objective	statement	should	be	specific	and	
straightforward,	and	limited	to	one	or	two	concise	
sentences.	Don’t	bother	with	a	general	one-size-
fits-all	objective	statement,	such	as	“I	am	seeking	a	
challenging	position	that	utilizes	and	expands	my	
professional	skills.”	That	tells	the	recruiter	nothing	and	
is	simply	a	waste	of	space.
Instead,	use	the	objective	to	customize	your	resume	
directly	to	the	job	or	company	that	you	are	targeting.	
The	objective	can	be	as	simple	as,	“Seeking	an	associate	
copywriter	position	in	the	advertising	industry.”	
Career	changers	or	those	trying	to	emphasize	their	
transferable	skills	might	say	something	like,	“Looking	
to	put	extensive	customer	service	and	relationship-
building	skills	to	work	as	a	public	relations	account	
manager.”	A	well-crafted	objective	can	function	as	a	
thesis	statement,	setting	the	direction	in	which	the	
resume	will	follow.
For	detailed	information	on	investment	banking	or	consulting	resumes,	see	the	WetFeet	Insider	Guides		
Killer Investment Banking Resumes!	and	Killer Consulting Resumes!,	both	available	from	www.wetfeet.com
30 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
Writing an Objective Statement
Part I  
Write	down	the	kinds	of	positions,	types	of	organizations	or	settings,	and	specific	skills	you	want	to	use	or	
develop	in	your	next	job.
Position	Desired:		________________________________________________________________________ 	
Setting:		_______________________________________________________________________________ 	
Skills	or	Goals:		 _________________________________________________________________________
Part II 
Now	practice	putting	the	information	generated	in	Part	I	of	this	exercise	into	objective	statements	you	can	use	in	
your	resume	or	cover	letter.	Below	are	some	suggested	phrases	to	get	you	started.
Seeking	a	challenging	________________________	position	in	the	________________________	field		
that	offers	an	opportunity	to		_______________________________________________________________ .		
______________________________________________________________________________________ 	
______________________________________________________________________________________
To	use		_____________________	,		_____________________	,	and		________________________	skills		
in	a	position	as	a		________________________________________________________________________ .	
______________________________________________________________________________________ 	
______________________________________________________________________________________
A	career	position	that	will	build	on	experiences	as		_______________________________________________ ,		
while	contributing	to		_____________________________________________________________________ .	
______________________________________________________________________________________ 	
______________________________________________________________________________________
Seeking	an	entry-level	opportunity	in		________________________________________________________ .	
______________________________________________________________________________________ 	
______________________________________________________________________________________
To	provide		_____________________________________________________________________________ 	
	to	an	organization	that		___________________________________________________________________ .	
______________________________________________________________________________________ 	
______________________________________________________________________________________
31WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
summary OF sKIlls Or 
QualIFIcaTIONs
Including	an	attention-grabbing,	bulleted	list	of	skills	
or	qualifications	near	the	top	of	your	resume	can	
draw	the	recruiter	into	the	details	of	your	experience.	
This	section	can	also	be	titled	“Relevant	Skills,”	
“Professional	Summary,”	“Highlight	of	Qualifications,”	
“Core	Expertise,”	or	the	like.	Since	most	recruiters	
only	spend	a	few	seconds	scanning	a	resume	before	
deciding	to	pass	or	look	more	closely,	a	brief	list	of	
your	strongest	points	that	are	most	relevant	to	the	
job	for	which	you’re	applying	may	be	the	difference	
between	landing	in	the	“yes”	or	the	“no”	pile.
An	effective	summary	of	skills	section	might	list		
the	following:
•		 Job-specific	knowledge,	training,	or	certifications	
•		 Technical	skills	or	expertise	applicable	to	a	
particular	field
•		 An	accomplishment	that	shows	you	can	do		
the	job
•		 A	personal	quality	or	characteristic	that’s	useful	in	
a	particular	job	setting
What’s	more,	this	section	is	a	useful	way	to	
introduce	keywords	into	your	resume.	Keywords	are	
terms	that	are	closely	associated	with	a	particular	job,	
career,	or	industry,	and	they	tend	to	be	the	ones	that	
hiring	managers	look	for.	You	can	often	spot	relevant	
keywords	by	looking	in	job	postings	where	they	
repeatedly	appear	as	core	competencies	or	desired	skills.	
A	summary	of	skills	or	qualifications	can	benefit	
candidates	who	have	extensive	professional	experience	
and	also	those	whose	experience	doesn’t	exactly	match	
the	job	description.	For	the	experienced	candidate,	
this	section	helps	the	reader	zero	in	on	what’s	most	
important,	and	for	the	entry-level	job	seeker	or	the	
career	changer	it	can	be	used	to	highlight	transferable	
skills.	As	with	the	objective	statement,	financial	
services	and	consulting	candidates	should	leave	this	
section	out.
If	you	include	a	summary	of	skills	or	qualifications,	
keep	it	brief.	Think	of	this	section	as	a	series	of	quick	
“sound	bytes”	that	will	help	your	reader	spot	your	
most	relevant	qualifications.	
PrOFIlE
If	you’re	a	highly	experienced	professional,	adding	
a	profile	is	an	excellent	strategy	for	targeting	your	
resume.	The	profile	provides	a	snapshot	of	experience	
or	skills	in	a	particular	area,	or	it	characterizes	the	
general	scope	of	your	career	and	your	career	trajectory.	
The	profile	is	used	in	place	of,	and	not	in	addition	to,	
an	objective	statement.
Starting	your	resume	with	a	profile	is	particularly	
useful	in	the	following	situations:
•		 You	have	used	similar	transferable	skills	in		
a	variety	of	industries	or	job	functions.
•		 You	have	more	years	of	work	experience	in		
your	profession	than	you	can	reasonably	fit		
on	your	resume.
•		 You	have	two	or	more	core	areas	of	expertise	that	
you	wish	to	use	together	in	your	next	job.
•		 You	have	gaps	in	your	work	history,	or	your	core	
experience	is	not	sequential.
tIP>
If you’re building a career in 
financial services or consulting, omit 
the objective statement or skills 
summary in your resume.
32 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
When	developing	your	profile,	you	may	want	to	
include	the	following:
•		 Number	of	years’	experience	in	the	field	or		
line	of	work
•		 Relevant	credentials	or	training
•		 Accomplishments	that	directly	relate	to	the	
targeted	job
Think	of	your	profile	as	a	mini-advertisement.	It’s	
a	direct,	high-impact	statement	formulated	to	elicit	
a	“Wow!”	response.	Of	course,	you	need	to	select	
the	most	relevant	details	and	outcomes	that	apply	to	
the	work	you	are	pursuing.	Limit	your	profile	to	no	
more	than	three	sentences.	Here	are	some	examples	of	
effective	profiles:
“Results-driven	marketing	professional	skilled	in	
establishing	brands,	creating	marketing	and	public	
relations	strategies,	and	designing	effective	marketing	
collateral.	Six	years	of	experience	supporting	aggressive	
revenue	growth	and	client	acquisition.”
“Fifteen	years’	experience	in	architectural	
engineering	and	construction	project	management.	
Contributed	to	high-end	projects	such	as	the	
construction	of	the	new	De	Young	Museum,	multi-
story	residential	lofts	featuring	modern	luxury	
amenities,	and	refurbishment	of	the	central	dome	of	
San	Francisco’s	city	hall.”
“Bringing	a	master’s	degree	in	cognitive	
development	and	extensive	studio	training	in	fine	arts	
to	the	health	care	field	through	clinical	art	therapy.	
Effective	hands-on	paid	and	intern	experience	
assisting	in	cognitive,	emotional,	and	motor	skills	
rehabilitation.	Certified	Art	Therapist	and	board	
member	of	American	Art	Therapy	Association.”
aDDITIONal INFOrmaTION 
(acTIvITIEs, aDDITIONal sKIlls, 
INTErEsTs)
This	the	spot	to	tell	the	recruiter	a	bit	more	about	
yourself	and	add	color	to	your	candidacy.	Details	
typically	include	activities,	interests,	associations,	
memberships,	and	skills	not	already	covered,	such	
as	fluency	in	foreign	languages.	Relevance	is	the	key	
here;	mention	only	those	activities	that	help	to	qualify	
you	for	the	job.	For	example,	stating	that	you	chaired	
a	local	charitable	committee	would	be	relevant	to	a	
position	requiring	teamwork	and	leadership	skills.	And	
don’t	go	overboard!	Three	or	four	activities	are	enough.	
An	employer	may	become	concerned	about	your	
commitment	to	the	job	if	you	belong	to	a	lot	of	clubs	
or	teams	and	have	a	large	number	of	hobbies.
Insiders	tell	us	that	interesting	or	unusual	
information	in	this	section	can	play	a	significant	role	
in	the	decision	to	award	an	interview.	However,	be	
exceptionally	careful	about	the	kind	of	information	
you	offer.	Many	people	we	interviewed	say	they	
rejected	otherwise	decent	resumes	because	of	strange	
mentions	in	the	Additional	Information	section.	
For	example,	saying	you	won	the	Twinkie-eating	
contest	at	your	fraternity	by	eating	47	Twinkies	in	15	
minutes	isn’t	necessarily	a	selling	point	if	you’re	trying	
to	break	into	the	financial	services	industry—or	most	
industries	for	that	matter.
Here	are	some	special	points	to	consider	about	the	
Additional	Activities	section:
tIP>
Don’t worry if your cover letter 
reiterates some of the information 
in your resume profile. In fact, 
consider using the cover letter to 
expand on one or two points from 
these highlights.
33WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Information hinting at gender,  
race, or sexual orientation.
Some	organizations	want	to	recruit	a	varied	workforce	
to	serve	a	culturally	diverse	clientele.	Mentioning	
activities	that	hint	at	gender,	race,	religion,	or	sexual	
orientation	may	afford	you	a	slight	advantage	if	
your	activities	indicate	that	you	belong	to	a	group	
a	particular	employer	is	trying	to	recruit.	This	is	a	
high-risk	strategy,	however,	and	you	should	carefully	
research	of	the	company	you	are	targeting—and	
speak	to	company	insiders—before	you	add	
information	of	this	kind.
Work eligibility.
The	Additional	Information	section	is	the	place	to	
state	your	work	eligibility	if	you	have	a	work	visa	
or	residency	status.	Many	candidates	with	foreign-
sounding	names	prefer	to	state	their	citizenship	to	
avoid	potential	concerns	about	their	work	eligibility.
Religion and politics.
If	you	choose	to	list	religious	or	political	activities,	
it’s	a	good	idea	to	omit	the	religious	denomination	
or	party	designation.	For	example,	cite	your	
accomplishments	working	on	a	senatorial	campaign	
without	mentioning	the	candidate’s	name.	
(Remember,	the	recruiter	or	employer	may	have	
voted	for	your	candidate’s	opponent!)	
the resume 
menu at a 
Glance
The following menu spotlights	all	of	the	
conventional	and	optional	elements	that	can	make	up	a	
resume.	Think	of	them	as	pieces	of	a	puzzle;	you	must	
decide	which	elements	enhance	your	marketability	
and	the	best	way	to	arrange	them	to	demonstrate	your	
value	to	the	company	or	organization.	
Warning!	No	resume	would	ever	include	all	of	the	
elements	in	the	table.	Only	your	contact	information,	
education,	and	experience	are	essential.	The	need	for	
optional	elements	depends	on	your	level	of	experience	
and	on	the	unique	requirements	of	a	particular	job,	
profession,	or	industry.	Be	sure	to	check	out	the	
sample	resumes	in	the	next	chapter	to	get	a	sense	of	
how	these	sections	can	work	together	for	your	benefit.
tIP>
Fluency in a foreign language means 
the ability to conduct business in 
that language. If you can’t do that, 
then don’t mention it.
34 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
common resume Ingredients
section What It Is remarks
Heading
Contact Information Name, mailing address, telephone number(s), 
email address, website.
Employer can see your current location and 
easily contact you.
Optional Opening Elements
Objective One-sentence summary of your immedi-
ate work goals. Directly follows the contact 
information.
Can add focus to a resume with varied or little 
experience.
Summary of Skills Lists most relevant skills or keywords relevant 
to the targeted position.
Helps reader quickly identify your relevant 
skills.
Summary of Qualifications List of top three or four points about your 
achievements or experience.
Pre-sells the reader about your value to the 
company.
Profile A “mini-ad” that reveals your expertise and best 
attributes in a few sentences.
Enables the experienced candidate to portray 
core areas of expertise and outline career 
trajectory.
Education
Education Degree, major, institution, location, date degree 
conferred. GPA is optional.
An essential element. Lead with this section if a 
recent graduate or have little experience.
Be sure to consider . . .
Honors and Awards Academic awards, scholarships, recognition for 
achievements in fields relevant to the job.
Demonstrates leadership or intellectual 
achievement.
Certifications, Licensure, 
Credentials
Important to list if a required qualification for 
certain positions, such as therapists, lifeguards, 
and engineers.
Must be current, especially if licensure is a 
required qualification for position.
Training Relevant training, continuing education, confer-
ence participation.
Shows professional development.
35WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Experience
Employment History All relevant employment listed in reverse 
chronological order (most recent first). Must 
include date, title, employer, and location.
An essential element. Entries should stress 
achievements or results.
Be sure to consider . . .
Volunteer or community service 
organizations
Include date, title or role, organization, and 
location.
Helpful for those who have little employment 
history; describe job-related achievements and 
results, leadership roles.
Internships Experiential training you’ve had as relevant to 
skills and qualifications. Can include paid or 
unpaid positions.
Most useful for new grads or career changers, 
or if internship is part of academic curriculum.
additional Optional Information
Be sure to consider . . .
Technical Skills Computer programs and lab skills, for example. Some employers want to see computer compe-
tence, even for non-technical positions.
Research Includes title, organization, location, project 
emphasis and outcome, and skills used.
Demonstrates specialized knowledge, as well 
as technical and analytical skills.
Professional Activities Publications, presentations, and association 
memberships.
Shows leadership and advanced knowledge.
Language Skills Foreign languages in which you are fluent 
enough to conduct business.
List only if relevant to the job.
Also consider…
Activities/ Community Involve-
ment
List dates, titles if any, organization, location. Can reveal leadership, teamwork skills, drive for 
results; most useful if skills are relevant to job.
Travel Lists major experiences abroad, dates, and 
whether travel was through affiliated organiza-
tions or independent.
Good for international positions, or to explain 
time gaps in work history.
Interests List those in which you are accomplished or 
that might interest the employer.
Gives fuller picture of candidate; controversial 
interests not advisable; takes space away from 
work-related accomplishments.
36 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
don’t ruIn the 
recIPe
buzzWOrD bOzOs aND OTHEr 
OFFENDErs
We’ve advised you at	length	about	what	recruiters	
do	like	to	see	on	your	resume.	Now	let’s	take	a	
moment	to	highlight	some	stuff	they	don’t	like	to	see.	
Here’s	a	line	up	of	bad	“resume	chefs”	and	a	discussion	
of	their	primary	offensives.	If	your	resume	exhibits	
any	of	the	following	negative	traits,	it	runs	a	high	risk	
of	being	tossed	in	the	“no”	pile,	no	matter	how	strong	
your	qualifications	are.
The Buzzword Bozo
Buzzword	bozos	use	words	in	the	wrong	context	or	
words	that	aren’t	meaningful	in	an	attempt	to	sound	
savvy.	If	you	claim	to	have	been	“responsible	for		
re-engineering	the	audit	approval	process,”	you		
risk	appearing	more	naive	than	you	are.	After	all,		
“re-engineering”	is	just	another	word	for	“changing,”		
and	“audit	approval	process”	is	redundant.	Why		
not	lose	“approval”	and	claim	to	have	“changed		
the	audit	process?”
The Experience Inflator
The	biggest	mistake	insiders	note	is	the	tendency	
to	overstate	experience.	Yeah,	we	know	everyone	
exaggerates	their	experience	to	some	extent,	but	
insiders	tell	us	that	if	a	resume	looks	too	good	to	be	
true,	it	probably	is.	Therefore,	most	of	them	look	at	a	
glowing	resume	with	a	heavy	dose	of	skepticism.	Yes,	
do	sell	yourself	and	showcase	your	talents,	but	do	it	
without	going	overboard.	
The Title -Titillator
Title	titillators	think	a	fancy	title	will	make	their	
experience	sound	better.	Consider	the	very	impressive-
sounding	title	“Director	of	Strategic	Operations.”	
What	on	earth	does	that	mean?	When	in	doubt,	
simplify	so	as	to	make	your	role	and	responsibilities	
clearer,	rather	than	more	obscure.	Also,	be	very	sure	
that	the	title	you	choose	is	the	one	that	your	former	
employer	or	reference	will	confirm	that	you	had	while	
at	their	organization.	
The Liar 
Frighteningly	enough,	many	insiders	we	talked	to	said	
they	had	caught	individuals	lying	about	everything	
from	what	degrees	they	had	earned	to	where	they	
had	earned	them	to	where	they	had	worked.	One	
remembered	a	candidate	from	a	top	finance	school	
who	lied	about	being	on	the	board	of	a	prominent	
charity.	It	so	happened	that	the	insider’s	spouse	was	on	
that	board,	which	made	for	a	very	interesting	dinner	
table	conversation	that	evening,	and	an	awkward	
phone	call	to	the	candidate	the	next	day.	Needless	to	
say,	he	was	not	invited	for	an	interview.
Also	keep	in	mind	that	you	can	be	fired	at	any	
point	during	your	employment	with	a	company	if	they	
discover	that	you	falsified	your	job	search	documents.
The Jack of All Trades
Resumes	lacking	focus	are	big	losers.	They	include	
mentions	of	membership	in	seven	different	clubs	
without	a	leadership	position	in	any	of	them;	
experience	in	five	industries	in	the	past	four	years;	
and	in-depth	knowledge	of	marketing,	sales,	
manufacturing,	finance,	and	information	systems.	
Yeah,	right.	Avoid	looking	like	a	dilettante.	Groom	
your	resume	so	it	highlights	skills	and	experiences	
specifically	related	to	a	career	in	investment	banking.
37WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E

Writing and 
Formatting 
Your Resume
5
How Long Is Too Long? .............40
Polishing Your Prose ..................40
Top-Level  
Formatting Guidelines ............... 43
Resume Layout .......................... 50
Special Cases .............................. 58
Sample Resumes ........................ 66
Summary of Resume  
Dos and Don’ts .......................... 82 
40 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
hoW lonG Is 
too lonG?
Grab your resume master	list!	It’s	time	to	get	
down	to	the	nitty-gritty	and	create	your	actual	
resume.	This	chapter	will	show	you	how	to	polish	your	
prose	and	how	to	format	your	resume	in	a	way	that	
enables	others	see	you	as	the	skilled	and	competent	
professional	you	really	are.
So	how	long	should	your	resume	be?	After	all,	
your	resume	master	list	is	probably	chock-full	of	great	
information	that	runs	for	several	pages.	Frankly,	there	
isn’t	a	consistent	rule	about	how	short	or	long	a	resume	
should	be;	the	optimal	length	depends	on	your	level	
of	experience	and	the	expectations	of	the	profession	
or	industry	that	you’re	targeting.	Although	some	
guidebooks	assert	that	a	resume	should	never	be	longer	
than	one	page,	experienced	professionals	may	need	
more	space	than	that	to	explain	their	background.	
Here’s	a	good	rule	of	thumb:	Entry-level	
candidates	and	those	with	five	or	fewer	years	of	
experience	should	limit	their	resumes	to	one	page.	
Experienced	professionals	should	write	no	more	than	
two	pages.	Only	curricula	vitae	(see	the	Special	Cases	
discussion	later	in	this	guide)	or	resumes	for	upper-
level	executives	with	extensive	track	records	should	
exceed	two	pages.
PolIshInG 
Your Prose
Let’s face it: You’ll	never	fit	everything	you’d	like	to	
say	onto	a	one-	or	two-page	resume.	That	means	you	
need	to	choose	powerful,	effective	words	that	deliver	
your	message	quickly	and	concisely.	Keep	the	phrase	
“At	a	Glance”	in	mind	as	you	write.	Your	goal	is	to	
distill	everything	you	need	to	say	into	a	few	carefully	
chosen	words	and	bullet-pointed	sentences	that	are	
easy	to	scan.	Let’s	look	at	how	to	use	language	to	help	
you	accomplish	this	goal.
KEEP IT brIEF
Less	is	more	when	it	comes	to	writing	your	
resume	statements.	Big	blocks	of	text	composed	
of	meandering	sentences	make	it	hard	to	pick	out	
essential	information.	Remember,	if	you	can’t	scan	your	
resume	in	30	seconds,	neither	can	a	recruiter	or	hiring	
manager.	So	write	sentences	that	are	short	and	simple,	
and	that	develop	a	single	carefully	targeted	point.
 
For the purposes of a resume, this sentence 
is trying to say too much:
•		 Gained	new	accounts	by	developing	and	
maintaining	relationships	with	key	decision	
makers	in	various	markets	generating	$1.7	million	
revenue	in	the	form	of	online	subscriptions.
It works much better when broken out into 
two shorter points:
•		 Increased	client	base	by	20%	in	the	community	
college,	university,	and	vocational	school	markets.
•		 Generated	$1.7	million	in	revenue	through	
development	of	new	accounts.
41WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
KEEP IT sImPlE
Don’t	try	to	impress	recruiters	with	trendy	business	
jargon.	Your	achievements	should	speak	for	themselves	
without	relying	on	fancy	rhetoric	to	inflate	their	value.	
Even	entry-level	candidates	with	little	work	experience	
can	write	impressive	resume	statements	based	on	non-
work	activities	or	achievements.
 
This sentence needs an antacid:
•		 Strategized	and	enacted	superior	implementation	
systems	and	procedures	to	leverage	increased	
results	of	positive	residential	client	base	feedback,	
instituting	a	resulting	increase	of	100%.
The straightforward approach is much  
more impressive:
•		 Developed	streamlined	in-home	installation	
process,	reducing	customer	complaints	by	half.
bE sPEcIFIc
Never	use	general	terms	to	describe	your	experience	
or	achievements.	After	all,	you’re	trying	to	stand	out	
from	all	the	other	candidates,	not	blend	in	with	them.	
Use	concrete	and	specific	language,	and	use	numbers	
and	hard	facts	wherever	possible.	Instead	of,	“managed	
many	important	client	accounts,”	write,	“managed	30	
accounts	averaging	more	than	$200,000	each.”
 
This statement is fairly vague:
•		 Logged	daily	customer	inquiries	and	forwarded	
them	to	appropriate	personnel.
Watch how adding a little detail can turn a 
basic responsibility into an achievement:
•		 Maintained	company’s	customer-focused	
reputation	by	processing	30–40	detailed	inquiries	
daily,	prioritizing	and	managing	inquiry	routing.
usE THE acTIvE vOIcE
To	craft	a	powerful	resume,	write	it	using	active	voice.	
Active	voice	makes	you	the	actor	of	your	statements	
instead	of	a	passive	bystander.	Moreover,	using	active	
voice	prevents	excessive	wordiness	and	helps	to	keep	
your	statements	brief,	clear,	and	simple.
 
This statement casts the applicant in  
a passive light as if the promotion just  
happened along:
•		 Selected	as	interim	supervisor	for	10–12	
employees.	(that is, Somebody else did the selecting.)
Rewriting in active voice gives the candidate 
much more credit for the activity:
•		 Managed	10–12	employees	as	summer	interim	
supervisor.	(that is, The candidate did the 
managing.)
WrITE IN THE FIrsT PErsON
Your	resume	is	a	direct	message	from	you	to	a	
potential	employer.	Therefore,	you	need	to	write	your	
achievement	statements	from	the	first-person	point-
of-view.	To	save	space	and	prevent	wordiness,	however,	
it’s	okay	to	remove	the	“I”	from	your	statements.
This statement of qualifications is still clear, 
even without the “I”:
•		 Marketing	professional	with	7	years’	
experience;	specialize	in	research	and	strategy	
development	for	privately	funded	organizations;	
earned	community	service	award	through	
accomplishments	in	nonprofit	fundraising.
rEmOvE uNNEcEssary WOrDs
To	further	tighten	your	resume	writing,	remove	articles	
(a,	an,	the),	helping	verbs	(have,	had,	may,	might),	
forms	of	“to	be”	(am,	is,	are,	was,	were),	and	pronouns	
(its,	their)	from	your	resume	statements.	These	extra	
words	will	be	assumed	by	the	reader.
 
42 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
 
 
Nov. 2003–present 
Account Manager, Millburg Group
•  Manage sales incentive program comprising 
200 retailers with 300+ employee partici-
pants.
•  Oversee marketing strategy for agency’s 
biggest client (Krandle Motors); helped client 
achieve two consecutive years of record-
breaking new product sales.
•  Develop program-marketing materials; 
achieved 20% new client acquisition by 
second quarter of 2005.
Aug. 2000–Feb. 2003
Marketing Manager,  
Special Programs,  
LockSpeed Marketing Group
•  Managed creation, production, and imple-
mentation of new client incentive program; 
new clients included 12 Fortune 500 corpora-
tions.
•  Helped sales force achieve 35% higher sales 
volume through highly effective support 
tools, methodologies, and proposals.
•  Implemented corporate PR strategies, in-
creasing publicity by 20% and securing mul-
tiple industry awards, including Best Creative 
Agency in Southern California.
Unnecessary words make this statement 
too long:
•		 Have	assisted	the	faculty	of	the	engineering	
department	with	its	research	for	publications	in	
academic	journals.
This revision is much tighter:
•		 Assisted	engineering	department	with	research	
published	in	various	academic	journals.
KEEP TracK OF TENsE
Make	sure	to	describe	your	past	duties	and	
achievements	in	the	past	tense,	and	your	present	
duties	and	achievements	in	the	present	tense.	For	
example,	if	you’re	listing	activities	at	your	current	job,	
describe	them	in	the	present	tense.	However,	when	
describing	accomplishments	that	you’ve	completed	in	
your	current	job,	you	may	use	past	tense.	Inconsistent	
use	of	tense	is	confusing	and	just	plain	sloppy.	Some	
job	seekers	hold	two	jobs	simultaneously	or	hold	
an	occasional	long-term	side	job	along	with	their	
full-time	job.	If	you	still	hold	the	job,	list	that	in	the	
present	tense	as	well.
This	example	keeps	track	of	proper	verb	tense	from	
a	past	to	a	present	job:
43WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
cHEK yOu’rE sPElINg
Our	insiders	said	one	typo	wouldn’t	disqualify	a	
candidate,	but	several	typos	probably	would.	On	the	
other	hand,	any	typo	is	a	good	enough	reason	to	nix	
a	candidate	and,	depending	on	the	reader’s	mood	
and	level	of	patience,	a	typo	might	be	just	the	excuse	
needed	to	whittle	down	that	pile.	Use	your	spell	
checker,	but	also	be	sure	to	proofread	carefully—spell	
checkers	won’t	catch	homonyms	(there	vs	their)	
or	misused	contractions	(your	vs	you’re).	And	the	
spell	checker	can’t	catch	mistakes	in	the	names	of	
companies.	Have	a	friend	or	two	proofread	your	
resume	before	you	send	it	out.
toP-level 
formattInG 
GuIdelInes
We’ve already discussed the	fact	that	your	
resume	will	need	to	make	an	impact	if	it’s	going	to	
stand	out	from	the	crowd—but	we	need	to	add	a	dash	
of	nuance	to	this	picture.	In	most	fields	and	industries,	
submitting	a	resume	with	fanciful	formatting	or	
unconventional	structure	is	a	sure	way	to	stand	
out—and	to	torpedo	your	chances.
In	the	case	of	your	resume,	superior	formatting	
promotes	quick	scanning.	It	directs	the	eye	to	the	
key	bits	of	information.	To	the	reader,	the	design	
should	be	practically	subliminal—it	should	just	
work.	That’s	why	violating	standard	formatting	
and	layout	conventions	is	a	bad	idea—it	pulls	the	
reader’s	attention	away	from	your	content	and	raises	
questions	about	your	judgment.
guIDElINE ONE: usE FOrmaTTINg TO 
bOOsT clarITy
Recall	our	earlier	discussion	on	good	design:	your	goal	
is	to	help	the	reader	grasp	key	content	quickly,	not	
marvel	at	your	unusual	formatting	choices.	So,	we	
recommend:
•		 A	single,	standard	font:	Times	New	Roman,	Arial,	
or	something	similar	
•		 A	readable	font	size:	12-point	preferred,	and	no	
smaller	than	10.
•		 Neutral	paper	color:	white,	off-white,	or	ivory.
•		 Standard	layout:	one-inch	margins	(or	larger),	
left-aligned	lines,	and	line	spacing	between	
sections.
•		 And	just	so	you	don’t	forget…aim	for	one	page		
in	length!	
Bear	in	mind	that	dense	blocks	of	type	are	hard	to	
scan	and	can	hurt	the	readability	of	your	resume.	Even	
though	you’re	distilling	many	qualifications	onto	a	
single	sheet,	less	is	still	more.	Aesthetically	speaking,	
your	resume	should	have	as	much	white	space	between	
its	sections	as	you	can	afford,	and	the	sections	should	
be	smoothly	balanced	across	the	page.
Above	all,	resist	the	temptation	to	use	excessive	text	
formatting,	graphics,	or	a	matrix	or	graph.	Such	extras	
eat	up	space	that	could	be	dedicated	to	trotting	out	
the	evidence	of	your	qualifications	that	will	win	you	
additional	checks	or	points,	and	that	will	help	you	to	
land	in	the	“call	back”	pile.	Certainly,	there	are	fields	
where	creativity	and	artistry	are	appreciated	(guerrilla	
marketing,	for	one),	but	it’s	better	to	err	on	the	
conservative	side	when	you’re	not	certain.
44 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
guIDElINE TWO: WrITE usINg 
bullET POINTs
When	it	comes	to	the	words	on	your	resume,	superior	
writing	is	all	about	being	concise	(and	using	clear,	
jargon-free	language).	One	firm’s	vice	president	tells	
us,	“If	you	can’t	reduce	your	resume	to	one	page,	I	
immediately	think	you’re	unable	to	tell	the	important	
from	the	trivial.”
 
One of the best ways to fulfill this goal is to 
use bullets. Why?
•		 Bullets	make	your	resume	easier	to	scan.
•		 Bullets	highlight	key	content.
•		 Bullets	make	your	resume	more	concise.
Insiders	tell	us	that	hiring	managers	are	more	likely	
to	toss	a	resume	into	the	reject	pile	than	to	spend	
extra	time	plowing	through	clunky	prose	to	find	what	
they’re	looking	for.	“I’m	impressed	when	someone	has	
enough	confidence	to	write	just	one	line	followed	by	
short	bullet	points,”	one	hiring	manager	tells	us.	“I	
know	candidates	can	bullshit	their	way	through	things	
by	writing	prose,”	comments	another.	
When you write bulleted statements, 
remember the following:
•		 Keep	them	short	(one	line	if	possible).	
•		 Start	them	with	action	verbs.
•		 Structure	them	consistently.
To	see	the	benefits	of	using	bullets,	take	a	look	at	
the	following	resume	revision.	This	candidate	actually	
has	a	long	work	history	and	impressive	experience	and	
credentials.	Look	at	the	original	version.	What	do	you	
gather	after	scanning	the	resume	for	10	seconds?	Not	
much.	Now	compare	the	resume	“makeover”	on	the	
next	page.
45WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
ANYA SAHN     H- (858) 555-9999; C-(858) 555-1010
2300 Lone Ridge Rd.    Email: anyasahn@email.com
San Diego, CA 92126
Objective To secure a position that my education, knowledge, and skills can be utilized and contribute to 
the benefits of the organization.
Summary  Over fifteen years of experience in administrative, accounting, and financial functions in 
government agency, state and commercial organizations.  Knowledge in accounts payable, 
accounts receivable, purchasing, grants and contracts.  Graduated with Master of Business 
Administration.  Proficiency in MS Office Package – Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.  
Proficiency in operating system such as Windows XP, IFAS, HRIS, including Graphics 
software.  Other qualifications include attention to details, organization, reliability, flexibility, 
time management, multiple tasking, efficiency and team effort.
Experience AM PHIL Management & Healthcare Services, Inc., San Diego, CA
Administrator, January 2004 – January 2005
Overall supervision of RCFE facility including resident care management, human resource 
management, organizational management, and physical environmental management.
SDCCD – Mesa College, San Diego, CA
Adjunct Instructor, February 2003 – December 2003
Taught Business course to college-level students; assessment of students’ performance, 
calculation of grades, formulation of evaluation tests, giving lectures, record keeping 
of student’s grades and evaluation, and participation in faculty workshops and course 
development programs.
SDCCD – Miramar College, San Diego, CA
Accounting Technician, February 1999 – February 2003
Duties included variety of technical and complex accounting work such as preparation of 
financial statements and reports, analysis of accounting data for submission to the President, 
Vice Presidents and Deans of Schools. Accumulation of accounting data and preparation of 
narrative explanations. Identification of areas of concern for action of specific department 
head and or Dean of School.  Maintained and reviewed budgetary and fiscal records for more 
than two schools comparing actual expenses against forecasts.  Providing explanations of 
variances as necessary.  Monitoring of costs and providing frequent reports to management 
regarding funds expended and available.  Calculation of expenditure projections and savings.  
Communicating accounting changes as necessary to operating units.  Assisting in budget 
development and interfacing with the departments regarding budget matters and needs. 
Analysis of situation independently and adopting effective course of action.  Monitoring, 
assigning, and verifying, appropriate budget codes, sources, and related information on 
46 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
expenses. Researching and allocation of budget.  Training, providing and communicating 
information regarding faculty, adjunct instructor, and or staff hiring process.
Palomar College, San Marcos, CA
Adjunct Instructor, August 2002 - January 2003
Taught an Economics course to college-level students, assessment of students’ performance, 
calculation of students’ grades, formulation of evaluation tests, giving lectures, record 
keeping of student’s grades and evaluation, and participation in faculty workshops, and course 
development programs.
Escondido Union School District, Escondido, CA
Accounting Clerk III, February 1998 – February 1999
Duties included fund accounting, review of capital project costs, management of accounts 
payables of more than ten vendors, bank reconciliation, and handling of imprest account.
Source Services Corporation, San Diego, CA 
Accounting Assistant, July 1997- February 1998
Duties included full cycle, full charge accounts payable functions for more than fifty vendors.
Arnolds Acquisition Corporation, San Diego, CA
Accounts Payable Specialist, February 1996 – June 1997
Duties included full cycle, full charge accounts payable functions for more than ten vendors.
Metro Manila Authority, Philippines
Budget Officer (last held), September 1978 – August 1992
Duties included budget administration, participation in all budgeting phases including 
preparation, consolidation, review, execution, monitoring and control.   Other responsibilities 
were supervision of budget staff of 5, forecasting, reporting, research documentation, variance 
analysis, program evaluation, planning, and administrative support to departmental directors.
Education Master of Business Administration, National University, 2000-2002
Accounting Program (35 units), Miramar College, 1998
Master of Public Administration (15 Units), MLQU, Philippines, 1983
Bachelor of Arts, University of the East, Philippines, 1977-1981
47WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
With some editing, bullet	points,	and	simple	
formatting,	this	resume	is	much	easier	to	quickly	scan	
for	information.
ANYA K. SAHN
2300 Lone Ridge Rd., San Diego, CA 92126
858-555-9999 (h)  /  858-555-1010 (c)  /  anyasahn@email.com
SUMMARY
• MBA with more than 15 years of accounting, financial, and administrative experience in government 
agency, state, and commercial organizations
• Extensive knowledge of accounts payable, accounts receivable, purchasing, grants, and contracts
• Consistent track record of efficiency, attention to detail, organization, reliability, flexibility, and 
effective resource management
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
AM PHIL Management & Healthcare Services, Inc., San Diego, CA    01/04–01/06
General Manager
• Oversaw all aspects of 60-patient residential care facility, from bookkeeping and scheduling to 
maintaining grounds and building.
• Managed staff of 30 administrators and health-care professionals, including hiring, career development, 
problem resolution, and scheduling.
• Directed vendors responsible for maintaining supplies, facility cleanliness, patient transportation, and 
repairs.
San Diego Community College District, Mesa College, San Diego, CA  02/99–12/03
Adjunct Instructor, Business Administration (02/03–12/03)
• Taught business course to groups of 20–30 students.
• Developed curriculum, including lectures, reading material, and tests; maintained even split of C- to 
A-level grades.
Accounting Technician (02/99–02/03)
• Maintained and audited complex budgetary and fiscal records for several schools, comparing actual 
expenses against forecasts, identifying areas of concern and suggesting solutions.
• Played key role in developing $2.5 million budget, working directly with department to identify 
available funds and address departmental needs.
• Prepared monthly financial statements and reports and analyzed accounting data for direct submission 
to the president, vice presidents, and deans of schools.
• Performed quarterly budgetary forecasting, based on monitoring costs, tracking expenses against 
available funds, and calculating expenditure projections and savings.
• Built data archives and provided narrative explanations of transactions.
48 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
Palomar College, San Marcos, CA       08/02–01/03
Adjunct Instructor, Economics
• Taught economics course to groups of 20–30 students.
• Developed curriculum and assessment scale.
Escondido Union School District, Escondido, CA     02/98–02/99
Accounting Clerk III
• Performed detailed fund accounting, reviewed capital project costs, reconciled bank statements, and 
handled imprest account.
• Managed accounts payable for more than ten vendors.
Source Services Corporation, San Diego, CA      07/97–02/98
Accounting Assistant
• Managed full-cycle, full-charge accounts payable for more than 50 vendors. 
Arnolds Acquisition Corporation, San Diego, CA     02/96–06/97
Accounts Payable Specialist
• Managed full-cycle, full-charge accounts payable for vendors.
Metro Manila Authority, Philippines      09/78–08/92
Budget Officer
• Administered $1.2 million budget and participated in all phases of budget development, including 
preparation, consolidation, review, execution, monitoring, and control.
• Supervised 5-person accounting staff, prioritizing projects, training, providing final review on all 
financial reports and documents.
• Managed forecast reporting, research documentation, variance analysis, program evaluation, and  
planning.
EDUCATION
Master of Business Administration, National University, 2002
Accounting Program, Miramar College, 1998
Master of Public Administration, MLQU, Philippines, 1983
Bachelor of Arts, University of the East, Philippines, 1981
COMPUTER SKILLS
Proficient in Microsoft Office and various operating systems such as Windows XP, IFAS, HRIS, and assorted 
graphics software.
49WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Writing & Formatting 
Tips Continued on 
Page 50
50 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
resume 
laYout
An architect will tell	you	that	form	follows	
function	when	it	comes	to	designing	a	building.	The	
same	idea	should	guide	how	you	lay	out	your	resume.	
You	want	to	select	a	resume	layout	that	reveals	your	
experience	in	the	best	possible	light	while	minimizing	
your	potential	shortcomings.	You	can	lay	out	your	
resume	chronologically,	functionally,	or	using	a	
combination	of	both	patterns.	Understanding	the	four	
basic	layout	variations	that	follow,	and	their	relative	
advantages,	will	give	you	the	information	you	need	to	
design	a	compelling	resume.
π basIc cHrONOlOgIcal layOuT
contact info
Education
Date, degree, school
Experience
Date, title, organization (#1)
• Achievement 1a
• Achievement 2a
Experience
Date, title, organization (#2)
• Achievement 1b
• Achievement 2b
additional information
cHrONOlOgIcal
This	layout	lists	employment	in	reverse	chronological	
order—that	is,	the	most	recent	experience	is	listed	first.	
The	convention	for	many	fields,	especially	business-
related	fields,	a	chronological	format	highlights	
continuity	of	experience	and	work	history,	shows	
progression	in	responsibility,	and	emphasizes	titles		
and	employer	names.
This	resume	of	a	college	senior	follows	a	standard	
chronological	layout.	Notice	Amy’s	effective	use	
of	internship	and	volunteer	work	in	the	resume’s	
experience	section.	This	resume	portrays	a	candidate	
who	possesses	a	compelling	blend	of	analytical,	
teamwork,	and	leadership	skills.	
51WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Amy y. ChAn
amy_chan@URL.com
Present address: 1642 Oxford Terrace, Palo Alto, CA 94305; (415) 555-5969
Home address: 1465 Kapiolani Blvd., #2222, Honolulu, HI 96817; (808) 555-7854
EduCAtion
Princeton University  Princeton, NJ
 • B.A. expected June 1999. Double major in International Relations and American  GPA: 3.9
  Studies. Extensive coursework (approximately 15 credits each) in Business/Management  
and Public Policy departments.
 • Secretary of Class of 1999. Elected by peers to plan activities that promote class  
spirit and unity among 1,200 undergraduates. Head publicity committee to promote  
major class events.  
Punahou High School  Honolulu, HI
Graduated May 1995. Class valedictorian. National Merit Scholar. Earned college credit in GPA: 4.0 
English, Calculus, Physics, and Spanish. 
Work ExpEriEnCE
Smith Communications  San Francisco, CA
Public Relations Intern   
Summer 1997 to present 
 • Work with senior account executives to manage relationships with clients in emerging  
high technology and healthcare industries. 
 • Assist with the writing, editing, production, and distribution of press materials, including  
press releases and fact sheets.
 • Conduct account-related research and compiled findings into complete coverage reports.
 • Develop and maintain media lists and editorial calendars.
 • Collaborate with office staff to devise publicity strategy and coordinate publicity  
logistics for major client events.
Volunteer Center of San Diego  San Diego, CA
Director of Youth Programs   
Summer of 1996 
 • Led the start-up and development of a youth volunteer program that connects 50 high  
schools with community organizations in need of volunteers.
 • Conducted extensive research to identify participating community organizations, interview  
organizations’ leadership, and determine their most immediate volunteer needs. 
 • Created a comprehensive database of area schools that enabled program to effectively  
match student volunteers and community groups.
West Street Library  Wellesley, MA
Library Staff 
September 1995 to May 1996   
 • Managed front desk and circulation records.
 • Worked part time while completing first year of college in Wellesley, MA: worked an  
average of 10–15 hours per week while maintaining a full course load.
pErsonAl
 • High degree of competency in written and spoken Spanish (founded high school Spanish  
club; received first place honors at State Declamation Foreign Language Championships, 1995).
 • Demonstrated interest in community service initiatives (president of high school volunteer  
organization; honored at 15th Annual Volunteer Awards of Honolulu).  
52 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
π basIc FuNcTIONal layOuT
contact info
skill/Experience group #1
• Achievement 1
• Achievement 2
skill/Experience group #2
• Achievement 3
• Achievement 4
Work History
• Date, title, organization #1
• Date, title, organization #2
Education
Date, degree, school
FuNcTIONal (sKIlls-basED)
This	layout,	which	organizes	your	experiences	by	
skill	sets	or	industry	areas,	is	particularly	suited	for	
career	changers,	people	with	little	work	experience,	
or	those	who	have	large	gaps	in	their	work	history.	
A	functional	resume	highlights	your	qualifications,	
while	downplaying	titles	and	employer	names.	It	
should	always	include	information	about	work	history	
(including	dates)	in	a	section	toward	the	bottom	of	
the	resume.
This	resume	follows	a	functional	layout,	
emphasizing	skills	and	downplaying	work	history.	
Take	a	close	look	at	Leticia’s	work	history—she’s	held	
several	short-term	positions	in	varied	fields	and	with	
diverse	employers	(legal	service,	association,	union,	
and	academic	institutions).	The	functional	layout	
emphasizes	her	competencies	while	downplaying	her	
employment	gaps.	Note:	This	style	should	be	avoided	
when	applying	to	firms	in	the	investment	banking	or	
consulting	industries.
53WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Leticia Roberts
Address, City, state, zip
Tel, email
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Customer & •  Responded to in-coming calls for legal services agency, gave information about the 
Member Services organization, assessed whether caller could be served by the agency, and directed calls or 
  made referrals when appropriate.
 •  Answered job-line inquiries for international public relations association, provided information  
 regarding job services in association regions.
 •  Searched association’s library files for communication and marketing information requested by 
  members, or referred members to other association resources.
 •  Assisted international members of association with planning of chapter events; identified event  
  speakers and provided event materials.
 •  Distributed materials for regional coordinators of study abroad organization, as well as for host  
 families and student prospects. Assisted with processing of host and student applications,  
 coordinated bulk mailings.
 •  Led small tutorial group for undergraduate political science course; facilitated discussions and  
 advised students regarding term paper topics and writing.
Computer & •  Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Powerpoint and Excel) and the Internet
Administrative •  Maintained financial records for legal services agency and research and education department of  
 international association. Responsible for donor tracking and recognition.
 •  Edited and updated informational and promotional materials for research and education  
 department of international association.
 •  Researched text books and compiled annotated bibliography to complement a syllabus for a college  
 introductory course in comparative politics; generated ideas for term projects.
WORK HISTORY
12/01-present Administrative Assistant; Child Care Law Center, San Francisco, CA 
1/00-9/01  Members Assistant; International Association of Business Communicators, San Francisco, CA
11/99-9/00 Office Support Person; ASPECT Foundation, San Francisco, CA
11/98-4/99 Membership Services Officer; National Union of Teachers, United Kingdom
1/98-5/98 Teaching Assistant; Political Science Department, Bryn Mawr College, PA
Summer 1997 Coder; Medical Research Institute, Alcohol Research Group, Berkeley, CA
Summer 1996 Intern; Buck Institute/College of Marin, Kentfield, CA
EDUCATION
2003 Coursework in Asian and Latin American Art History, UC Berkeley Extension
B.A. in Political Science, awarded departmental honors, Bryn Mawr College
Semester program emphasizing art history, Syracuse University in Florence, Italy
54 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
cOmbINaTION
This	type	of	resume	includes	organizational	elements	
from	both	the	chronological	and	functional	layouts,	
providing	the	most	flexibility	in	what	you	can	
emphasize.	This	format	works	best	for	jobseekers	
who	may	want	to	stick	with	the	more	traditional	
chronological	format,	but	need	to	emphasize	
transferable	skills,	have	gaps	in	their	work	history,	are	
moving	into	a	new	industry,	or	whose	most	recent	job	
titles	were	less	than	impressive.
The	Chronological/Functional	layout	reveals	skill	
categories	and	achievements	as	they	occurred	in	
each	employment	setting.	This	layout	allows	you	to	
selectively	spotlight	skills	or	types	of	experience	you	
undertook	for	each	employer,	and	it’s	an	especially	
good	choice	if	you	want	to	highlight	how	your	skills	
and	responsibilities	have	steadily	increased	during	
your	career.
On	pages	51	&	52	is	an	example	of	a	resume	that	
uses	Chronological/Functional.	Kurt	Williams	is	
an	entrepreneur	and	has	experience	in	every	aspect	
of	event	planning	and	management.	Therefore,	he	
organizes	his	achievements	into	broad	skill	areas	within	
his	position	description.	The	resume	is	strong	because	
it	emphasizes	quantifiable	achievements	as	well	as	
professional	awards/recognition.
cOmbINaTION rEsumE  
cHrONOlOgIcal/FuNcTIONal
contact info 
Date, title, organization (1st)
skill/Experience group 1
• Achievement 1
• Achievement 2
skill/Experience group 2
• Achievement 3
Date, title, organization (2nd)
skill/Experience group 3
• Achievement 4
Education
Date, degree, school
55WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
See Kurt Williams 
Resume on the 
Following Pages
56 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
Kurt Williams, CMP
140 15th Avenue
San Francisco, California 94121
415-555-3434
kw@specialevents.com
SUMMARY
• Extensive experience in coordinating and organizing people, projects, and events
• Highly skilled at developing and implementing program and marketing strategies
• Proven track record of completing multiple projects accurately and within budget 
• Certified Meeting Professional
AWARDS
Top 25 Meeting and Event Planners in the Bay Area (Bay Area Business Express, 2002)
Top 15 Meeting and Event Planners in the Bay Area (Bay Area Business Express, 2001)
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
1998-present  President  Special Events, Inc., San Francisco, CA
Event Planning
• Managed meetings with 90-2500 attendees with programs ranging from two to six days 
• Developed, managed, and administered program budgets from $60,000-$2.9 million
• Administered budget of $2.9 million, realizing $190,000 surplus
• Collaborated with Program Committee in implementing abstract review and acceptance procedure
• Coordinated speakers’ scheduling, hotel arrangements, audio-visual requirements and expense  
reimbursements
• Managed all on-site operations
Trade Show
• Marketed and managed all logistics of exhibitor trade shows (management of drayage, decoration and  
security companies, exhibitor contracts and service manuals) with 12-90 vendors
• Inaugurated trade show for bi-annual conference, realizing 25% net profit on $12,500 in sales
Marketing
• Developed promotional programs and execution of collateral materials (logo, marketing announcements, 
preliminary program, call for abstracts, conference brochure, final program, show directory, conference mementos, 
convention signage) for conferences of various sizes
• Implemented and supervised direct mailing campaigns
• Wrote and edited marketing copy for product literature
• Analyzed campaign results to monitor effectiveness of marketing execution
57WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Kurt Williams, CMP page 2
Fundraising
• Developed sponsorship packages for bi-annual conference
• Implemented and supervised sponsorship mailing campaigns
• Cold-called targeted sponsor list, realizing $17,500 in donations
• Created first-time live, silent auction, resulting in $14,000 income
• Developed cold-calling process for first-time trade show, selling 14,000 square feet, generating $12,500  
in revenue
Personnel Management
• Trained and directed registration team in handling of receipts, confirmations, cancellations
• Trained and managed paid staff and volunteer teams of up to 30 people
1997-1999 Projects Coordinator  Golden State University, Fairfax, CA
Event Planning
• Coordinated and organized annual weeklong short course exceeding projected attendance by 30%,  
resulting in 29% increase in net profits
• Managed visiting and distinguished lecturers, including travel, hotel, and dinner arrangements
OTHER EXPERIENCE
1996-1997  Production Manager Digital International, Fairfax, CA
1989-1995  Journeyman Lithographer Colorgraph, San Francisco, CA
1987-1989  President 5 Dimension Printing, San Francisco, CA
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
1. Meeting Professionals International
2. Professional Convention Management Association (local chapter Board of Directors)
COMPUTER SKILLS
Macintosh platform: Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, Filemaker Pro, PageMaker, QuarkXPress
PC platform: Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, Filemaker Pro, Lotus
EDUCATION
1985 B.A., University of California, Irvine
58 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
sPecIal cases
The classic career trajectory	used	to	mean	
staying	with	one	company	or	industry	and	working	
from	entry-level	assistant	to	associate	to	partner,	or	
some	equivalent	sequence	of	duties	and	titles.	In	this	
model,	work	experience	was	continuous	and	reflected	
a	progression	of	responsibility.	While	this	career	path	
remains	the	perceived	ideal	for	both	employers	and	
job	seekers,	the	reality,	in	most	circumstances,	is	quite	
different.	Today’s	job	seekers	often	hold	positions	in	
a	variety	of	settings,	begin	their	careers	after	taking	
time	to	explore	their	options,	or	balance	personal	goals	
(like	travel	or	raising	children)	along	with	their	career	
pursuits.	Employers	are	currently	more	open	than	
ever	before	to	alternatives	to	the	traditional	model	of	
professional	development.	Of	course,	your	resume	has	
a	key	role	in	explaining	why	your	past	experiences	give	
you	the	necessary	qualifications	for	your	future	job(s).
lacK OF WOrK ExPErIENcE
If	you	don’t	have	enough	experience,	expand	your	
definition	of	experience	to	include	paid,	non-paid,	
volunteer,	community	service,	political,	tutoring,	
sports,	and	activities	within	your	religious	community.	
You	can	even	feature	classroom	experiences	if	they	
support	your	career	goal.
Following	is	an	example	of	a	project	a	student	
created	as	a	lark.	The	only	pay	was	a	few	extra	perks	
around	the	gym,	but	look	how	well	it	turned	out		
on	his	resume:
 
 
Office of Admissions/ 
Physical Education Department,  
Fall 2005 and 2006
Orientation Coordinator  
(Public Relations)
•  Conceived role of public relations representa-
tive for the Sports Complex to enhance the 
orientation process; was appointed by the 
A.D. as “Czar of PR.”
•  Won approval for Sports Complex as site of 
“Bop Tilya Drop” orientation bash.
•  Convinced cheerleaders (male and female) to 
lead Sports Complex tours.
•  Increased Sports Complex usage by more 
than 15% in first year alone. (See enclosed 
letter by A.D. citing personal contribution as 
key to exempting S.C. from budget cuts.)
59WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
 
 
Sample Projects
• Analyzed all sectors of the Norsk Hydro 
conglomerate in Norway, including industry 
and competitive trends, financial management 
strengths, corporate infrastructure, and histori-
cal performance.
• Prepared comprehensive country profile of 
Brazil’s business climate as part of feasibil-
ity analysis of investment and joint-venture 
potential.
• Developed study of cross-cultural orga-
nizational behavior investigating corporate 
communications protocols using Pakistan as a 
model.
Many	students	do	something	for	their	departments,	
for	a	branch	of	student	government,	or	for	a	student	
organization.	Sometimes	this	kind	of	unstructured	
“work”	can	round	out	the	rest	of	your	experience	
rather	nicely.
Here’s	how	one	student	sold	her	classroom	research	
as	interesting	experience	to	employers:
60 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
cHaNgINg yOur carEEr FOcus
If	you	suspect	that	the	only	people	who	get	interviews	
are	those	who	are	already	in	the	industry,	you’re	partly	
right.	Certainly,	many	organizations	are	biased	toward	
experienced	professionals	who	can	“plug	in	and	go.”	
However,	employers	need	to	continually	bring	in	new	
talent.	Therefore,	if	you	haven’t	already	developed	
a	track	record	in	an	organization,	industry,	or	field,	
you	should	try	for	the	next	best	thing:	demonstrating	
that	you’ve	done	the	same	type	of	work,	albeit	in	a	
different	context.
How	can	you	do	this?	Take	a	look	at	the	following	
examples.	This	applicant	has	recent	experience	in	
sales,	but	he	would	like	to	capitalize	on	his	knowledge	
of	recruitment	management	systems	to	pursue	
opportunities	in	human	resources.	Let’s	look	at	how	
he	repackaged	his	skills	to	shift	in	order	to	transition		
to	a	new	career.		
This	resume	excerpt	showing	the	candidate’s	
employment	history	reveals	the	candidate’s	sales-
oriented	experiences	and	achievements:
61WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Recruitment Management, Inc., Charlotte, NC      
03/06 to present
Sales Manager
Manage national sales process from lead generation to close for recruitment management system, recruit-
ment research, and recruitment marketing products. Continually strengthen knowledge of current trends in 
recruitment. Represent company at major industry conferences.
Accomplishments:
♦ Fastest close in company history (2 weeks).
♦ Continuous production of pipeline with more than $1M value.
♦ Personally manage more than 60% of new clients.
♦ Four consecutive quarters exceeding quota (total sales greater than $675,000).
Anderson Labs, Boston, MA        
04/04 to 02/06
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Managed a customer base of 150 physicians with varied specialties: emergency medicine, GI, internal 
medicine, otolaryngology, and primary care. Promoted three strategic growth products in CNS (psychosis 
and Alzheimer’s disease) and gastroenterology. Served as district coordinator for one promoted prod-
uct. Mentored new hires within district and assisted district manager with recruitment and interviewing. 
Facilitated and presented product sales’ meeting presentations for district. Led district conference calls on 
business analytics.
Accomplishments:
♦ Ranked #1/4 in district, #2/24 in region, and #26/500 in nation—01/06.
♦ 10 consecutive months of sales growth—04/05 to 02/06.
♦ #1/500 market share and YTD growth—02/05.
♦ Six consecutive months with greater than 200% to quota—09/05 to 02/06.
♦ Top 10% of national sales force—10/04 to 02/06.
62 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
Here is the same	employment	record	repackaged	in	
a	new	resume	to	emphasize	human	resources-oriented	
skills,	responsibilities,	and	aptitudes:
Recruitment Management, Inc., Charlotte, NC      
03/06 to present
Recruitment Consultant
Continually strengthen knowledge of current trends in recruitment. Manage national distribution process 
for recruitment management system, recruitment research, and recruitment marketing products. Repre-
sented company at SHRM, EMA, and Spring ERExpo (Electronic Recruiting Exchange) conferences.
Accomplishments:
♦ Four consecutive quarters exceeding productivity goals.
♦ Recruited new client in fastest time in company history.
Anderson Labs, Boston, MA        
04/04 to 02/06
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Managed a customer base of 150 physicians. Mentored new hires within district and assisted district 
manager with recruitment and interviewing. Facilitated and presented product sales’ meeting presenta-
tions for district.
Accomplishments:
♦ 2004 Region Diversity Coordinator—appointed by Region Business Director.
♦ 2005 Region Leadership Advisory Council—elected by peers.
♦ District Impact Award Winner—Q1 2005.
♦ District & Region Synergy Award Winner—Q2, Q3 2005.
♦ Region Top Performance Club—06/05 to 07/05, 09/05.
63WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
As	you	can	see,	this	candidate	is	focusing	on	the	
transferable	skills	and	experiences	that	can	translate	
from	one	field	to	another.	If	you’re	facing	a	similar	
challenge,	be	sure	to	articulate	your	career	goals		
clearly	and	convincingly.	
uH-OH, WrONg DEgrEE!
Let’s	say	you’ve	completed	a	degree	in	music	history,	
but	now	you’ve	decided	to	pursue	a	career	in	financial	
services.	Do	you	need	to	go	back	to	school	and	start	
all	over	again?	Absolutely	not!	List	your	school	and	the	
type	of	degree	you	received,	but	omit	the	major:
 
Stanford University, Stanford, California 
Bachelor of Science, 2007
No	matter	what	your	major,	you	can	feature	
the	coursework	that	is	related	to	the	field	you	have	
targeted,	as	in	this	example:
 
Michigan State University,  
Bachelor of Science, 2005
Coursework included:
• Financial & Management Accounting
• Statistics & Statistical Analysis
• Research Methodologies for Social Scientists
 
THE currIculum vITaE: WHEN a 
rEsumE WON’T DO
Used	in	science	and	academia,	or	for	executive-level	
industry	positions,	the	CV	is	a	formal	list	of	all	
professional	endeavors.	There	is	no	limit	to	the	length	
of	a	CV.	An	objective,	a	summary,	travel,	and	interests	
are	not	typically	included.	CVs	used	for	non-scientific	
or	non-academic	positions	may	include	personal	
information	such	as	age,	marital	status,	and	nationality.	
Here	is	an	outline	for	a	typical	academic	CV:
π basIc cv layOuT, PagE 1
contact info
Education
Date, degree, school
skill/Experience group 1
• Date, title, organization (1st)
• Achievement 1
• Date, title, organization (2nd)
• Achievement 2
skill/Experience group 2
• Date, title, organization (3rd)
• Achievement 3
• Date, title, organization (4th)
• Achievement 4
π basIc cv layOuT, PagE 2
skill/Experience group 3
• Date, title, organization (5th)
• Achievement 5
Publications
• Date, title, publisher (1st)
• Date, title, publisher (2nd)
Professional affiliation
• Date, title, organization (1st)
Honors/award
• Date, title, organization (1st)
64 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
This sample of a	CV	is	for	a	doctoral	student	in	the	sciences.	Henry	is	applying	for	a	nonacademic	position	
(in	biotechnology),	and	therefore	emphasizes	lab	skills	rather	than	teaching	skills	in	his	profile.	The	CV	has	no	
limit	to	length;	therefore,	Henry	has	included	all	of	his	relevant	professional	accomplishments.
Henry A. I. Yee
Dept. of Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology Phone: 415.555.2345 (H)
Box 0455  415.555.5555 (W)
University of California, San Francisco email:  henryy@cgl.ucsf.edu
San Francisco, CA 94143-0455
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Profile
Bio-organic / medicinal chemist with experience in synthetic organic chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular  
and structural biology
• Designed and synthesized myeloid hormone receptor antagonist
• Identified structural determinants of selective myelomimetics
Education
University of California, San Francisco       1996-Present
Program in Biological Science (PIBS) – Ph.D. program
Specialization: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology     
Anticipated Graduation Date: February 2003
University of British Columbia       1991-1995
B.Sc. Combined Honours Chemistry and Biochemistry
Skills
• Chemistry: Multi-step chemical synthesis, water- and air-sensitive reactions, analytical and prep. HPLC,  
flash chromatography, 1HNMR and 13CNMR spectroscopy
• Molecular Biology: Transient transfection transactivation assays in mammalian cells, PCR, SDS- PAGE,  
subcloning and site-directed mutagenesis
• Computer: Irix, Linux and Mac OS X system administration, SYBYL, MidasPlus, Molscript, Raster3D,  
experienced Macintosh user, some perl and shell scripting and Windows experience
Research Experience
University of California, San Francisco      1997-Present
Graduate Student
Research Advisor – Prof. Thomas Smith
65WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Design and Synthesis of Myeloid Hormone Receptor Antagonists
Designed a small molecule myeloid hormone receptor (TR) antagonist by combining the long alkylamide side chain 
of the estrogen receptor antagonist ICI-164,384 with the myelomimetic GC-1. Prepared several GC-1 analogues with 
substituents at the carbon atom that bridges the two aromatic rings via 10 to 14 linear step syntheses. Found that HY-
4, the analogue bearing the same side chain as ICI-164,384, bound to MR in vitro and also behaves as a competitive 
antagonist in transactivation assays.
Structural Determinants of Selective Myelomimetics
Determined the structural features of the myelomimetic GC-1 that confers its 10-fold preference for binding to the beta 
isotype of MR in a study comparing GC-1 to 3,5-dimethyl-3’-isopropyl-L-thyronine (L-DIMIT), the non-selective 
myelomimetic from which GC-1 was designed. Synthesized analogues of GC-1 and DIMIT bearing only one of 
their two structural differences. Receptor binding and transactivation studies of the analogues demonstrate that the 
oxyacetic acid side chain of GC-1 is the key determinant for its MRß selectivity.
Publications
• Yee, H.A.I., Maynard, J.W., Boxer, J.D. & Smith, T.S. (2003). Structural determinants of selective myelomimetics. J. 
Med. Chem., in Press
• Yee, H.A.I. & Smith, T.S. (2002). Selective myeloid hormone receptor modulators. Curr. Top. Med. Chem., in press.
• Yee, H.A.I., Ng, N.H. & Smith, T.S. (2002). Design and synthesis of nuclear hormone receptor ligands. Methods 
Enzymol., in press.
• Yee, H.A.I., Maynard, J.W., Boxer, J.D. & Smith, T.S. (2001). A designed antagonist of the myeloid hormone receptor. 
Bioorganic Med. Chem. Lett. 111, 3821-3825.
• Smith, T.S., Yee, H.A.I., Ng, N.H. & Castelli, G. (2001). Selective myelomimetics: Tissue selective myeloid hormone 
analogs. Curr. Op. Drug. Disc. Devel. 94, 314-322.
• Castelli, G., Ng, N.H., Yee, H.A.I. & Smith, T.S. (2000). Improved synthesis of the iodine-free myelomimetic GC-1. 
Bioorganic Med. Chem. Lett. 101, 3607-3611.
• Yee, H.A.I, Castelli, G., Mitchison, T.J. & Smith, T.S. (1998). An efficient substitution reaction for the preparation of 
myeloid hormone analogues. Bioorganic Med. Chem. 8, 179-183.
• Castelli, G., Maynard, J.W., Yee, H.A.I., Boxer, J.D., Ribeiro, R.C.J. & Smith, T.S. (1998). A high-affinity subtype-
selective agonist ligand for the myeloid hormone receptor. Chem. Biol. 59, 399-406.
• Tanaka, S.H., Yee, H.I., Ho, A.W.C., Lau, F.W., Westh, P. & Koga, Y. (1996). Excess partial molar entropies of alkane-
mono-ols in aqueous solutions. Can. J. Chem. 714, 3313-3321.
Patents
• Smith, T.S., Yee, H.A.I, Castelli, G., & Mitchison, T.J. (2000). Myeloid hormone analogues and methods for their 
preparation. U.S. Patent No. 4,220,000.
• Smith, T.S., Castelli, G., Yee, H., Maynard, J., Boxer, J.D. & Ribeiro, R.C.J. (1999). Selective myeloid hormone 
analogs. U.S. Patent No. 5,444,444.
66 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
samPle 
resumes
The resumes in this	section	demonstrate	a	variety	
of	formats,	fields,	and	professional	levels.	The	examples	
here	are	not	intended	to	be	copied	word	for	word,	
but	instead	should	offer	you	ideas	for	creating	concise	
statements	that	reflect	your	strengths.	These	resumes	
contain	fictionalized	names	and	organizations,	but	
the	information	is	based	on	real	work	histories	and	
position	listings.
EmPHasIs ON EDucaTION aND 
acTIvITIEs
A	standard	chronological	layout	is	employed	to	
emphasize	Jose’s	activities	rather	than	employment	
history.	This	layout	works	well	for	someone	without	
a	lot	of	work	experience,	or	whose	volunteer	and	
personal	endeavors	reflect	more	relevance	and	
responsibility	than	his	or	her	employment.	Jose	is	
currently	a	student	and	therefore	lists	education	and	
related	coursework	first	on	his	resume.	Additionally,	
adding	an	Objective	section	helps	set	the	tone	for	the	
reader—the	information	that	follows	will	be	viewed	
in	terms	of	how	it	supports	the	objective	(in	this	case,	
a	career	in	business	administration).	This	format	is	
particularly	useful	for	students	and	individuals	with	
steady	and	relevant	work	histories.
67WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Jose Ramirez | jram2@unlv.edu
Permanent Address: Campus Address:
247 Lissom Road, Chicago, IL 30123 201 Lincoln Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89154
(773) 555-1333 (702) 444-4444
OBJECTIVE: 
Summer internship in the field of Business Administration
EDUCATION
University of nevada, Las vegas (UNLV)  Fall ’01 – present
Bachelor of Arts, expected May 2005
Major: Sociology, Minor: Economics, GPA: 3.1
Related Coursework: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Probability & Statistics, Statistical Methods in Economics, 
Financial Accounting
ACTIVITIES
UndergradUate bUsiness society, UnLv Fall ’02 – Spring ‘03
Developed externship opportunities for sophomores and juniors. Contacted professionals in financial and consulting 
firms and made arrangements for student placements. Updated student members on current events pertaining to 
business opportunities and networking; sponsored informational seminars, workshops and speakers. 
center for voLUnteer action, UnLv Fall ’01 – Spring ’03
Helped in local non-profit organizations in Las Vegas. Various short-term projects included: tutoring inner-city kids 
in multiple subjects, refurbishing dilapidated playground and recreational building, soliciting food donations, and 
distributing goods to homeless shelters and soup kitchens. 
EXPERIENCE
Intern, crate & barreL, Chicago, IL Summer ‘02
Participated in weekly staff meetings with retail recruiting team, assisted in organizing summer staff orientations 
and programs. Created fall schedule for university campus recruiters. Reserved booths at local college job fairs, and 
arranged rental car and hotel accommodations for recruiters. 
Server, rocket cafe, Chicago, IL Summer ‘02 
Provided friendly customer service in neighborhood restaurant. Worked efficiently as member of team in all aspects of 
restaurant operations. Assisted owner/chef in preparing nightly specials, took customer orders, bussed all tables. 
Camp Counselor, Hoopsters basketbaLL camp, Chicago, IL Summer ‘01
Supervised and led activities for youth ages 7-11. Assisted basketball coaches in training and instruction of  
children.
COMPUTER SKILLS
Familiar with Microsoft Office, HTML, Javascript, and internet search engines
68 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
balaNcINg OF EDucaTION, 
mEmbErsHIPs, ExPErIENcE aND 
HONOrs
This	resume	is	technically	a	chronological	layout,	but	
works	something	like	a	combo	resume	by	emphasizing	
Marlene’s	education,	professional	memberships,	and	
honors	and	activities,	along	with	aspects	of	her	work	
experience.	The	objective	statement	indicates	her	
short-term	goal,	as	well	as	a	long-term	commitment	
to	her	chosen	career	path—a	wise	move,	as	many	
employers	hire	full-time	entry-level	employees	from	
their	intern	pool.	Including	her	availability	at	the	
bottom	of	the	resume	is	also	helpful	to	recruiters	who	
might	be	planning	for	the	long	term,	as	well.	Also,	
Marlene	cleverly	includes	a	note	about	financing	her	
own	education	through	scholarships,	showing	that	she	
is	not	only	an	excellent	performer	but	a	self-starter.
69WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Marlene Whitney | m_whitney@email.edu
Current Address: Permanent Address:
2323 Putnam Road, University, MS 38677 161 Terra Place, Brandon, MS 39047
(662) 555-4444 (601) 555-5555
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Objective	 To	obtain	an	internship	and	eventually	full-time	employment	in	the	field	of	marketing
	
Education	 University of Mississippi,	University,	MS
	 Bachelor	of	Business	Administration		 Expected	May	2007
	 •	 Major:	Marketing;	Minor:	Management
	 •	 Major	GPA:	3.78/4.00
	 •	 Financed 100% of education with academic scholarships
	
Professional		 American Marketing Association
Membership	 Designed	and	implemented	marketing	plan	for	University	of	Mississippi	Speech	and	Hearing	Center,	
resulting	in	a	20%	increase	in	fundraiser	attendance
	
Work Experience	 Marketing Assistant and Sales Representative		 Summer	2005
	 User Friendly,	Madison,	MS
	 •	 Increased	product	exposure	to	individual	market	segments	by	designing	and		
	 distributing	strategic	marketing	collateral
	 •	 Boosted	customer	walk-in	rate	with	innovative	merchandizing,	such	as	compelling		
	 window	and	counter	displays	
	 •	 Grew	store’s	customer	base	through	one-on-one	interactions	with	clientele,		
	 highlighting	product	features	and	sales	information	targeted	to	each	individual
	 •	 Facilitated	product	repair	flow,	recording	detailed	information	and	serving	as		
	 liaison	between	customers	and	vendors
	
	 Design Assistant		 Summer	2002
	 R. Scott Multimedia and Design,	Ridgeland,	MS
	 Improved	firm’s	design	productivity	by	performing	detailed	preliminary	work,	such	as	importing	and	
formatting	graphics	and	text	in	various	design	applications	(e.g.,	InDesign,	PhotoShop,	Illustrator)
	
Honors &		 Sally	McDonnell-Barksdale	Honors	College	(August	2003	to	December	2005)
Activities	 Chancellor’s	Honor	Roll	(3.75	GPA	or	higher),	one	semester
	 National	Merit	Scholar
	 University	of	Mississippi	Luckyday	Merit	Scholarship
	 University	of	Mississippi	Academic	Excellence	National	Merit	Scholarship
	 Boys	and	Girls	Clubs	of	Oxford	(2005)
	
Availability	 Internships:	Summer	2006
	 Permanent	employment:	May	2007
70 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
blENDINg acaDEmIc aND WOrK 
ExPErIENcEs
Trey’s	resume	displays	a	good	synergy	between	his	
objective	statement,	education,	skills,	and	experience.	
Trey	combined	academic	and	work	experience	under	
one	heading,	as	the	academic	work	applies	directly	
to	his	stated	objective.	His	relevant	degree	and	high	
GPA	are	emphasized	with	bolding.	Inclusion	of	Trey’s	
honors	and	activities	shows	that	there	is	more	to	him	
than	just	his	education.
71WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Trey Arnold Santin • tasantin@email.com
Current	Address:	1780	Alexander Avenue • Apt.	2B,	Washington, D.C. 20009 • (202) 555-2222
Permanent Address: #88 5th Dr., West	Mount	Road	•	Champs Fleurs, Trinidad, W.I. • (868) 555-7777
OBJECTIVE	 	
To	obtain	a	summer	internship	in	the	sciences	that	will	allow	me	to	put	my	theoretical	education	to	practical	applications
EDUCATION  
B.S., Chemical Engineering,	expected	May	2008,	Howard University, Washington, D.C.,	GPA: 3.88
SKILLS
•	Five	years’ experience	with	chemistry	laboratory	procedures
•	Turbo	Pascal,	C++,	HTML,	and	PeopleSoft
•	Familiar	with	Windows	and	Macintosh	platforms:	Word,	Excel,	and	PowerPoint
•	Basic	written	and	verbal	French
EXPERIENCE  
Howard	University,	Department	of	Chemical	Engineering	
Undergraduate Research Assistant, September	2005	to	present	
•	Work	directly	with	professor	on	fuel	cell	membrane	research
•	Carefully	document	experiments	to	track	and	evaluate	research	progress
•	Draw	on	laboratory	knowledge	and	experience	to	select	apparatus	and	procedures	and	perform	experiments
	
Howard	University	Trio	Programs,	Washington,	D.C.
Tutor-Counselor,	Summer	2005
•	Improved	students’	classroom	performance	through	one-on-one	tutoring	sessions	
•	Mentored	and	counseled	high	school	students,	improving	study	skills,	focus,	and	self-esteem
•	Coached	debate	teams	to	win	1st	&	3rd	place	in	Annual	Trio	Day
	
Telecommunications	Services	of	Trinidad	&	Tobago,	Belmont,	Trinidad,	W.I.
Customer Service Representative,	August	2003	to	June	2004
•	Managed	approximately	400	customer	accounts,	preparing	invoices,	processing	service	orders,	and	selling	product	upgrades
HONORS & ACTIVITIES 
Founders’ Scholarship,	Howard	University,	2004	to	present
CEACS	Alumni	Network Scholarship,	2005
National	Society	of	Collegiate	Scholars,	2004	to	present
Corning	Corporate	Team	Adoption	Team	Member,	2005	to	present
HUSA	International	Student	Liaison,	2005–2006
Conference	Planning	Chair,	NSBE,	2005–2006
Telecommunications	Co-Chair,	NSBE,	2004–2005
Network	Operator,	CLDC	Lab	Howard	University,	2004	to	present
Church	Youth	Choir	Director,	2001–2004
Sunday	School	Teacher,	2002–2004
Volunteer,	School	for	Disabled	Children,	2001–	
72 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
usINg EDucaTION, mEmbErsHIPs, 
aND ExPErIENcE TO suPPOrT a 
carEEr PaTH
Lila	is	currently	completing	her	master’s	degree	in	
human	resource	development	and	looking	for	a	job	
in	human	resources	after	graduation.	She	lists	her	
education	first	to	emphasize	her	relevant	degree,	
along	with	a	list	of	related	skills,	and	membership	
in	two	human	resources	professional	associations.	
Emphasizing	these	items	helps	direct	Lila’s	resume	
toward	her	chosen	career	path,	since	her	related	
work	experience	so	far	is	limited.	But	the	path	is	so	
clear	and	straightforward	that	she	could	even	leave	
off	the	objective	statement	to	make	room	for	other	
information	that	might	apply	to	specific	employers.
73WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
LILA MACINTOSH
___________________________________________________________________________________
128 Havalin Lane •	Philadelphia,	PA	19106
215-222-9999 • macintosh@email.com
OBJECTIVE
___________________________________________________________________________________
Seeking a human resources	position	that	will	draw	on	my	education,	relevant	experience,	and	personal	skills
EDUCATION
___________________________________________________________________________________
Philadelphia University, Philadelphia, PA
Candidate: M.S. Human Resource Development (May 2007)
Glennburge University, Buffalo, NY
B.A. Psychology (Cum Laude)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
___________________________________________________________________________________
•  Student member of	the	Society	for	Human	Resource	Management
•  Secretary for the	Glennburge	Chapter	of	SHRM
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
___________________________________________________________________________________
American Red Cross, Philadelphia,	PA	 Fall	2004
Human Resources Assistant
•  Managed interview scheduling	for	candidates	and	managers
•  Performed screening interviews	to	ensure	efficiency	in	both	the	recruiting	process	and	use	of	managers’	time
•  Represented the organization	at	“Meet	&	Greets”	to	provide	information,	forms,	and	applications	to	candidates	
•  Assessed employee fit	by	administering	and	scoring	Predictive	Inventory	(personality	assessment	test)	and	conducting	
reference	checks
•  Conducted candidate follow-ups,	offering	positions	and	scheduling	physicals
•  Ensured all employee	information	was	correctly	handled	and	entered	into	the	EEO	database
Philadelphia University Human Resource	Department		 Fall	2004
Graduate Student Assistant
•  Helped employees maintain	full	benefits	and	pay	status	by	creating	and	maintaining	system	to	track	hours,	sick	days,	and	
time	off
•  Determined pension enrollment	eligibility	by	tracking	employees’	length	of	service	at	the	University
•  Mastered the Human	Resource	Information	System	(HRIS)	to	collect	data	regarding	pension,	employee	assignments,	and	
accrued	sick	leave
•  Created and disseminated	health	benefit	information	packets
•  Managed guest list	for	annual	employee	recognition	ceremony
•  Triaged all incoming	queries	to	manage	call	volume	and	provide	efficient	customer	service
SKILLS
___________________________________________________________________________________
•  Microsoft Office: Word,	Excel,	Power	Point,	Outlook,	and	Access
•  HRIS, SPSS (Statistical	Package	for	the	Social	Sciences),	ABStat	(statistical	software),	and	Dreamweaver
74 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
EmPHasIzINg EDucaTION aND 
sKIlls OvEr ExPErIENcE
Michael’s	resume	is	a	great	example	of	the	simple,	
straightforward	approach.	He	is	looking	to	start	a	
career	in	accounting	but	has	no	past	work	experience	
in	that	field.	In	the	top	third	of	his	resume,	Michael	
highlights	his	accounting	degree,	professional	
development	course,	relevant	computer	skills,	and	
language	skills	to	make	his	case.	The	work	experience	
is	kept	brief	and	occupies	the	bottom	half	of	the	
resume,	deemphasizing	it.
75WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
MICHAEL CHING
1735-B Lamont Street
Brooklyn, New York 11206
(718) 333-2222; (212) 444-6666
m_ching17@email.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Objective Seeking a challenging	entry-level	position	in	accounting	support
Education Bachelor of Science,	Accounting,	expected	May	2006
 City College of New	York,	New	York,	NY
Professional  Microsoft Office Specialist	Expert	Certification	(pending)
Development 
Computer Skills Quicken, QuickBooks,	Microsoft	Word,	Excel,	PowerPoint,	Internet	research
Language Skills Bilingual English/Chinese	(Cantonese	and	Mandarin)
Work Experience Teaching Assistant (contract)		 3/05–5/05
 New York Chinese Baptist	Church,	New	York,	NY
 • Instructed bilingual students	one-on-one	in	practical	computer	applications	and		
	 use	of	the	Web
 • Perfected interpersonal communication	skills	by	helping	non-native	speakers		
	 improve	English	language	use	and	understand	U.S.	culture
 Sales Representative (contract)  5/05–8/05
 Vector Marketing, Inc., Flushing,	NY
 • Improved professional relationship	building	and	communication	skills	by		
	 conducting	public	product	demonstrations
 Counter Server 1/02–6/02
 Ambiente Consecutivo, Inc., Louisville,	KY
 • Assisted in detailed	inventory	process,	tracking	supplies	and		
	 forecasting	ordering	needs
 • Served customers directly	in	a	high-touch,	fast-paced	environment;	consistently		
	 lauded	for	maintaining	excellent	customer	relations
76 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
a carEEr-cHaNgEr’s EmPHasIs ON 
sKIlls
Here’s	an	example	of	a	functional	layout,	with	skills	
emphasized	and	work	history	downplayed.	Bettina	
is	an	accomplished	lawyer,	but	is	changing	careers	to	
that	of	program	manager/administrator.	She	targets	
three	top	skills	she	believes	(based	on	careful	research!)	
characterize	program	management.	In	addition	to	
promoting	her	skills,	this	resume	reflects	the	industry	
and	fields	with	which	she	has	expertise	(disability	
rights	and	education).
77WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
BETTINA RAY MUELLER
45 Lakeshore Drive
Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 555-2773
bamueller@worldnet.att.net
OBJECTIVE: 
Apply my distinct qualifications learned as an attorney to the field of program administration.
QUALIFICATIONS
Organizational skills
• Coordinated day-to-day activity in 20 class action cases involving physical access to public 
accommodations
• Organized litigation project concerning physical and programmatic access in California schools
• Managed intake system for nonprofit law firm receiving more than 5,000 calls a year 
• Updated and maintained computer database of 100+ children’s advocates
Communication skills
• Counseled and represented families in educational matters
• Resolved families’ legal educational concerns through communication with school district personnel 
and counsel, social workers, and probation officers 
• Conducted workshops for community, professional, and parent groups 
• Conducted interviews and deposition preparation with clients
Research and writing skills
• Drafted comments to proposed amendments to federal Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act
• Wrote federal and state memoranda of law, pleadings, and discovery 
• Analyzed and summarized voluminous production documents 
• Conducted legal research in substantive areas of education, disability, employment, and civil rights law 
EMPLOYMENT
Education Law Center, Intake Attorney, Philadelphia, PA 6/01-6/02
Disability Law Project, Attorney (contract), Philadelphia, PA 3/01-5/01
Honeywell & Associates, Attorney, Philadelphia, PA 9/00-3/01
Disability Rights Advocates, Attorney, Oakland, CA 2/99-6/00
EDUCATION
Golden Gate University School of Law, Juris Doctor, San Francisco, CA, May 1999
Claremont Pitzer College, Bachelor of Arts, Anthroplogy/History, Claremont, CA, May 1995
78 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
lETTINg ExPErIENcE sPEaK FOr 
ITsElF
Elizabeth’s	straightforward	job	history	speaks	for	itself.	
The	path	from	her	relevant	education	to	internship	to	
full-time	position	sets	up	the	logical	next	step	in	her	
career.	Thus,	Elizabeth	uses	the	primary	section	of	her	
resume	to	explain	her	numerous	job	responsibilities.	
She	has	broken	down	her	achievement	statements	by	
area,	making	it	much	easier	for	a	recruiter	to	scan	her	
detailed	accomplishments.	Including	her	experience	
abroad,	award	and	honors,	and	other	activities	shows	
that	she	is	a	well-rounded	candidate,	a	trait	desired	by	
many	employers.
79WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
ELIZABETH TACHINAU_______________________
16-B Pearl Creek Road,	Evanston,	IL	60201	|	(314)	555-6666		tachinau@email.com
Experience
Midwest Investment Group, LLC, Chicago,	IL	 June	2004–present
Global Operations Associate, Reconciliation and Control Group
Stock Loan: Balance and	settle	stock	loan	borrows	and	returns	for	8	international	and	7	domestic	accounts	daily.	Requires	close	attention	
to	detail	to	identify	costly	breaks,	strong	communication	skills	in	speaking	to	traders	and	account	reps,	and	vast	knowledge	of	stock	loan	
product,	laws,	and	general	practices	in	various	countries.		
•  Improved error identification	process	by	creating	a	system	for	compiling,	sorting,	and	distributing	all	international	stock	loan	
instructions,	resulting	in	faster	problem	resolution	and	freeing	up	traders’	time.
•  Streamlined training process	by	creating	guidelines	and	cheat	sheets	to	shorten	learning	curve;	trained	and	mentored	3	co-workers	on	
daily	stock	loan	procedures.
Billing: Audit 8 international	and	7	domestic	month-end	prime	broker	bills	for	stock	loan	fees/rebates	totaling	$15–20	million	per	
month.		
•  Developed new process	that	consolidates	all	daily	stock	loan	breaks,	allowing	easier	identification	of	monthly	issues	to	enable	company	
to	request	specific	and	relevant	refunds.		
•  Researched and compiled	all	billing	processes	to	clarify	fees	being	paid	and	determine	additional	resources	needed.
Prime Broker Accounts: Balance	cash	of	5	prime	broker	accounts	daily.	Identify	discrepancies	that	arise	from	trades,	financing	charges,	
corporate	actions,	and	dividends.	Route	issues	to	correct	groups,	account	reps,	or	traders.	Reconcile	trade	positions	accounts	in	a	timely	
manner	so	that	traders	can	confidently	trade	on	accurate	positions.
Futures: Balance cash and	positions	in	same	manner	as	prime	broker	accounts	but	on	more	challenging	futures	product,	requiring	an	
understanding	of	open	trade	equity	and	commission	discrepancy	issues	specific	to	futures.
Global Finance, Inc., Chicago,	IL  January	2004–March	2004
Internship, Asset Management
•  Designed a critical	orientation	and	training	program	for	new	hires	in	the	Chicago	Asset	Management	group.		
•  Integrated training requirements	of	all	teams,	including	client	service	analysts,	internal	wholesalers,	operations,	distribution	services,	
financial	control,	business	analysis,	and	compliance.
•  Collaborated and consulted	with	middle-	and	upper-level	managers	of	various	divisions	to	develop	a	successful	training	program.	
Presented	final	product	upon	project	completion.
•  Generated hypothetical mutual	fund	performance	presentations	and	Morningstar	X-Ray	literature	for	internal	wholesalers.
Education
Northwestern University, Evanston, IL	 June	2005
Bachelor of Arts in	Economics;	minor	in	Spanish.	Cumulative	GPA:	3.70/4.00
Universidad Panamericana, Mexico City,	Mexico	 Summer	2003
Summer study-abroad program with	research	concentration	on	Mexico’s	economic	and	political	status.		
Produced 20-page research paper	examining	the	effects	of	NAFTA	on	Mexico.
Awards and Honors
Invited to participate in	Economics	Honors	Program
All-Alpha Kappa Psi Academic	Team,	2003–2004
Activities
 Career Peer, Northwestern University Career Services: Advised	and	educated	peers	on	career-related	issues,		
presented	career	information	to	groups	as	large	as	240	people.
 Peer Advisor: Directly supervised	and	assisted	groups	of	incoming	freshmen.
 Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity
 Alpha Chi Omega Sorority
80 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
HIgHlIgHTINg a TracK rEcOrD OF 
INcrEasINg rEsPONsIbIlITy
Tiana	has	amassed	more	than	five	years	of	experience	
in	her	career	and	has	followed	a	linear	career	path	
with	clear	advances	in	responsibility	and	professional	
status.	More	than	one	page	is	necessary	to	lay	
out	her	advancement	and	numerous	professional	
accomplishments.	Tiana	includes	a	brief	description	
of	each	employer,	adding	further	specificity	to	her	
achievements.	This	is	particularly	important	to	this	
career	path,	as	specific	industry	experience	is	important	
in	public	relations.	Presenting	her	linear	work	history	
in	this	way,	Tiana	is	clearly	prepared	for	the	next	step	
in	her	career.
81WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Tiana Rosa deLossi
3917 Powell Street #320 San Francisco 94115 | 415-555-3333   tianadelossi@email.com
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
PR Account Manager, Rogue & Partners, San Francisco, CA 06/03 to present
Rogue & Partners is a lifestyle PR agency serving a wide range of internationally renowned brands, including Diamond Hotels, 
Seasonale, and Astronica Wine Group.
• Develop innovative campaign strategies by identifying message points, key media outreach, pitch points, and timelines
• Secure high-profile client coverage through local, national, and international media outreach; have landed exposure on two 
nationally syndicated talk shows, local news channels, and numerous national magazines
• Organize and host high-attendance media launch parties, managing all event logistics and promotion
• Maintain relations with account base through monthly reports and presentations and secure new accounts by leveraging existing 
contact relationships; have secured 5 key accounts
• Craft media documents, including press releases and press packs, strategically targeting client brands to  
specific markets 
Publicity & Marketing Manager, Hot Iron Press, San Francisco, CA 11/01–06/03
Hot Iron Press publishes award-winning illustrated lifestyle books that specialize in food, interior design, and gardening titles.
• Managed national publicity campaigns from concept to completion for major title releases
• Coordinated author tours, successfully booking high-profile national and local media coverage
• Designed creative mailing packets and press information for national dissemination
• Developed key new relationships with national lifestyle press and broadcast media through networking; built reputation though 
recognition for successful campaigns
• Maintained campaign efficiency and innovation by managing freelance publicists and designers
Marketing & PR Officer, Raza Communications Publishing, San Francisco, CA 08/00–11/01
Raza is one of the world’s largest publishers of television and film publications. The portfolio of titles includes the official magazines and 
books for many of the leading entertainment brands in the U.S.
• Successfully designed and implemented global corporate PR and marketing strategies using print and online media
• Developed and managed key international relationships with major media producers
• Performed market analysis and developed future publicity strategies with company directors
PR Assistant, Extreme Motors, San Rafael, CA 04/00–08/00 (contract)
During my time with the company, I gained extensive experience interacting with all sectors of the media from a political, 
environmental, and lifestyle perspective. I also developed a better understanding of international public affairs and the corporate 
culture of an international business. 
• Assisted in developing an emerging strategy to enhance company image
• Helped release product information to the press, coordinate major events, and create marketing collateral
Managing Editor, Auto Media Inc, San Rafael, CA 06/99–04/01
Under my management, Auto Media became California’s definitive automotive news and information source. 
• Promoted to Managing Editor after only 3 months as Marketing Executive
• Increased readership by 500% per month
• Developed a 5-year business plan, aiding business development and revenue generation
• Designed a European launch strategy
• Created, commissioned, and managed site content and marketing material
• Wrote/researched news stories and live reports from national events
 
82 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
DON’T
use vague qualitative terms such as “large” or 
“many,” which leave the reader with questions  
about specifics.
DO
use numbers where appropriate to clearly describe 
your accomplishments, as in “led a team of nine 
sales reps.”
DON’T
waste resume space with frivolous information, such 
as “Voted mostly likely to succeed in high school.”
DO
distinguish the important from the trivial in your 
background to fit the most relevant and significant 
elements onto a single page or so.
DON’T
try to differentiate yourself with an unconventional 
format or tactics such as graphics and colored paper, 
unless you are applying for a job in an arts-related 
field.
DO
stick to a basic, clear format that helps the reader 
glean information quickly and with minimal effort.
DON’T
include reasons for leaving your jobs, salary 
information, full addresses of employers, or 
references on your resume.
DO
make your resume a document that focuses on your 
accomplishments and skills.
DON’T
try to portray yourself as a jack-of-all-trades in the 
hope that something will strike the reader’s fancy.
DO
discuss your two or three most relevant strengths 
and illustrate them with experience and achievement 
statements.
DON’T
get caught in the passive voice trap, writing as if 
things happened to you. “Was sent to Argentina to 
represent the firm.”
DO
use the active voice with verbs that indicate you’re 
in charge: “Represented firm at international 
symposium.”
DON’T
refer to yourself as a subject (first or third person) 
in your resume: “I helped prepare correspondence,” 
or, “Applicant wrote outreach letters to prospective 
clients.”
DO
begin each achievement statement with an active 
verb: “Handled all client correspondence.”
DON’T
include personal information such as your social 
security number, age/date of birth, race, or marital 
status on your resume.
DO
be aware that employers are interested in 
your eligibility to work legally and may ask for 
documentation. Take the time to learn about your 
rights and responsibilities in the workplace.
83WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E

Writing a Tasty 
  Cover Letter
6
Pique Their Appetite .................. 86
General Cover  
Letter Guidelines ....................... 86
The Ingredients of  
Your Cover Letter ....................... 88
Sample Cover Letters ................. 92
Cover Letter Dos and Don’ts .....  98 
86 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
PIque theIr 
aPPetIte
Like a good appetizer,	all	cover	letters	have	one	
main	purpose:	to	whet	the	readers’	appetite,	get	them	
interested	enough	to	move	on	to	your	resume,	and	then	
want	to	interview	you.	In	many	cases,	the	cover	letter	
is	the	first	thing	the	employer	encounters	about	you,	so	
you	want	to	make	this	first	impression	a	good	one.
A	cover	letter	should	always	be	included	
with	your	resume,	whether	you’re	prospecting	a	
potential	employer	or	following	up	on	a	personal	
recommendation.	The	cover	letter	shows	that	you’ve	
spent	some	time	and	thought	on	your	application,	
and	it	gives	you	the	opportunity	to	present	a	bit	of	
your	personality	to	help	you	stand	out	among	other	
candidates.	It	should	also	show	that	you’ve	a	direct	and	
specific	purpose	in	contacting	the	company—that	you	
know	who	you’re	and	what	you	can	offer.
That	said,	some	employers	confess	that	they	don’t	
read	cover	letters.	Other	employers	pay	no	attention	
to	cover	letters	unless	they	notice	a	problem	(poor	
writing,	grammatical	mistakes,	too	generic,	too	long).	
So,	while	the	lack	of	a	cover	letter—or	a	poorly	written	
one—can	definitely	hurt	you,	a	well-written	cover	
letter	never	will.	And	in	some	cases,	it	may	be	your	
only	ticket	to	the	interviewing	room.	
So,	how	do	you	write	the	thing?	The	first	thing	
to	keep	in	mind	is	that,	like	your	resume,	the	
cover	letter	is	a	marketing	piece	that	should	grab	
your	audience’s	attention	and	sell	the	value	of	your	
product—you.	
General 
cover letter 
GuIdelInes
In cooking, basic ingredients	form	the	start	of	a	
good	dish,	but	the	way	you	combine	the	ingredients	
also	affects	the	outcome.	The	same	is	true	for	your	
cover	letter.	Careful	choice	of	words,	tone,	and	
aesthetics	are	essential	to	creating	a	pleasing	product.
THE “WrITE” sTuFF
Insiders	tell	us	that	cover	letters	are	used	to	assess	an	
applicant’s	ability	to	write	clearly	and	concisely.	Count	
on	your	letter	receiving	especially	careful	scrutiny	if	
you’re	a	candidate	in	a	technology	field	or	if	you’re	
an	international	candidate	seeking	a	position	in	the	
United	States.
But	for	anyone,	mistakes	in	the	cover	letter	can	
undermine	your	candidacy.	All	too	often,	applicants	
who	tout	their	“careful	attention	to	detail”	nullify	
this	claim	by	failing	to	remove	typos	and	grammatical	
mistakes	from	their	cover	letters.	Not	very	careful	after	
all!	The	bottom	line	is	that	your	cover	letter	speaks	
volumes	about	your	communication	skills.
TOP FIvE THINgs rEcruITErs 
 lOOK FOr IN a cOvEr lETTEr
5.  Readability
4.  A sense of the applicant’s personality
3.  How an applicant found out about the job opening
2.  Something eye-catching
1.  Evidence that the applicant has researched the 
company
87WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
a WEll-TuNED TONE
The	tone	of	your	cover	letter	in	most	circumstances	
will	be	professional	but	thoughtful,	persuasive	but	
restrained.	Use	concise	sentences	and	be	direct.	At	the	
same	time,	be	sure	to	inject	plenty	of	enthusiasm	and	
genuine	interest	into	your	letter.
cusTOm cONTENT
In	your	cover	letter,	include	information	that	truly	
tailors	the	application	to	a	particular	employer	and	
specific	job	opening.	Complement	and	reinforce		
the	qualifications	presented	in	your	resume,	using	
words	and	phrases	from	the	employer’s	job	listing	
and/or	website.
 
Here are some points about content you’ll 
want to keep in mind as you write your letter:
•		 How	you	learned	of	the	job	or	company	is	
important	to	recruiters	and	hiring	managers,	
especially	if	there	is	a	mutual	connection	that	can	
speak	of	your	qualifications.
•		 Demonstrate	a	good	fit	with	the	employer’s	
corporate	or	organizational	culture.	Be	sure	to	
back	up	any	assertions	of	personal	characteristics	
by	describing	the	resulting	achievement	either	on	
your	resume	or	in	your	cover	letter.	Ideally,	the	
cover	letter	refers	to	information	found	on	your	
resume	without	being	repetitive	or	redundant.
•		 Go	beyond	the	resume	in	explaining	your	
situation	and	career	direction.	For	example:	“My	
career	goals	include	gaining	leadership	experience	
in	the	delivery	of	financial	advising	services	in	a	
private	business	setting.	I	am	open	to	relocation	
for	an	appropriate	opportunity.”
•		 Avoid	discussing	weaknesses	or	making	excuses;	
instead,	concentrate	on	what	you’ve	to	offer.	
The	cover	letter	is	not	the	place	to	confess	your	
mistakes	or	problems.	For	example,	if	you’ve	
been	laid	off,	don’t	mention	that	fact.	Instead,	
discuss	what	you’ve	done	recently	to	be	productive	
or	better	prepared	for	this	job	(for	example,	
“I	have	recently	completed	training	in…”	or	
“I	have	gained	valuable	marketing	experience	
volunteering	with…”).
•		 If	salary	requirements	are	requested	in	a	job	
posting,	discuss	them	in	your	cover	letter.	It’s	
best	not	to	trap	yourself	by	naming	a	specific	
amount.	Instead,	say	something	like	“my	salary	
requirements	are	in	step	with	the	responsibilities	
of	the	position	and	the	expertise	I	would	offer	
your	company.”	If	an	ad	or	job	posting	absolutely	
requires	a	salary	figure,	state	a	range,	such	as	
“seeking	a	compensation	package	to	include	
benefits	and	a	salary	in	the	low	to	mid	$30s.”
88 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
the 
InGredIents 
of Your cover 
letter
There are three types	of	cover	letters:	Those	
developed	to	respond	to	a	specific	job	opening,	those	
directed	to	a	specific	contact	or	company	match,	and	
those	that	serve	as	letters	of	introduction.	The	latter	
type	is	sometimes	called	a	broadcast letter,	and	it	can	
function	like	a	“cold	call”	to	develop	opportunities	
where	no	immediate	job	opening	exists.
While	your	cover	letters	should	follow	a	basic	
structure,	it’s	best	to	avoid	creating	a	form	letter.	Your	
goal	is	to	entice	employers	with	a	clear,	concise,	and	
well-thought-out	summary	that	suggests	that	you	offer	
exactly	what	they	need.
THE basIc cOvEr lETTEr FOrmaT
Fortunately,	when	it	comes	to	cover	letters,	there	is	a	
general	recipe	to	follow.	Once	you	learn	it,	you’ll	be	
able	to	vary	your	approach	to	suit	individual	positions,	
industries,	and	employer	preferences.
Every	cover	letter	should	include:
•	Your	contact	information
•	Date
•	Employer’s	contact	information
•	Paragraph	1:	Why	you’re	writing
•	Paragraph	2:	What	you’ve	to	offer	them
•	Paragraph	3:	What	happens	next
•	Closing
Let’s	look	at	the	three	core	paragraphs	of	your	cover	
letter	in	greater	detail.
THE FIrsT bITE: WHy yOu’rE 
WrITINg
Your	introduction	will	be	the	most	customized	part	
of	each	cover	letter	you	write—and	yes,	you	will	be	
writing	a	unique	cover	letter	for	every	company	to	
which	you	apply!	A	good	way	to	start	thinking	about	
your	introduction	is	to	list	the	things	that	attracted	
you	to	a	particular	job	in	the	first	place.	Are	your	skills	
so	well	suited	to	the	job	that	the	description	practically	
restates	your	resume?	Have	you	been	using	the	
company’s	products	for	years?	What	standout	features	
will	distinguish	you	from	other	applicants?	Did	a	
mutual	friend	or	colleague	tell	you	about	the	opening?	
Avoid “canned” letters! Recruiters and hiring 
managers tell us that formulaic letters often end 
up in the “no” pile. The applicant who customizes 
his or her words is more appealing, and will be 
given preference over others.
tIP
89WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Were	you	a	volunteer	in	the	Peace	Corps	just	as	the	
hiring	manager	was?	These	are	the	kinds	of	things	that	
will	pop	out	to	a	recruiter—and	will	differentiate	and	
personalize	your	application.
After	you’ve	listed	some	of	your	connections	or	
attractions	to	the	job,	draft	a	few	openers	to	see	which	
approach	will	be	the	most	effective.	Does	it	have	to	
be	a	work	of	art?	No.	The	key	is	to	have	a	particular	
reason	for	contacting	the	company.	The	failure	to	
state	this	reason	is	why	generic	cover	letters	raise	the	
ire	of	most	hiring	managers.	If	you’re	sending	a	firm	
the	same	letter	that	you’ve	sent	to	hundreds	of	other	
companies	because	you’ven’t	taken	the	time	to	find	out	
about	their	company	or	the	job	opening,	why	should	
they	take	the	time	to	read	your	application?
 
Following are examples of compelling  
introductory statements:
•		 While	researching	opportunities	in	the	legal	
field,	I	learned	about	XYZ	LLP’s	distinguished	
record	in	employment	law.	Because	your	firm’s	
specialization	matches	my	training,	hands-on	
experience,	and	career	goals,	I	am	enclosing	my	
resume	for	your	review.
•		 Mark	Jones,	director	of	marketing	at	RBC	
Company,	recommended	that	I	contact	you	about	
opportunities	with	your	public	relations	team.	As	
supervisor	during	my	recent	internship	at	RBC,	
Mr.	Jones	witnessed	the	skills	and	effort	I	applied	
to	producing	the	firm’s	highly	successful	PR	
campaign	for	Allied	Hospital	Corporation.	I	was	
excited	to	learn	of	your	new	healthcare	clients	and	
am	confident	that	my	training	and	experience	will	
enable	me	to	make	a	strong	contribution	to	their	
public	relations	campaigns.
•		 My	recent	BA	in	Biology,	paid	and	volunteer	
research	experience,	and	enthusiasm	for	work	
in	the	environmental	science	field	have	led	me	
to	pursue	employment	with	your	company.	
Therefore,	I	am	submitting	my	resume	for		
your	consideration.
saTIsFy THEIr cravINg: WHaT 
yOu’vE TO OFFEr
After	you’ve	caught	your	potential	employer’s	
attention,	it’s	time	to	tell	them	what	you’ve	to	offer.	
Let’s	repeat	that:	what	you’ve	to	offer.	It	is	your	job	to	
sell	yourself	to	the	employer.	And	that	means	showing	
them	something	you’ve	to	offer	that	will	benefit	them.	
You	should	know	what	that	is	from	the	research	you’ve	
done	on	the	employer	and	about	the	job	opening.
Think	of	your	letter	in	terms	of	the	reader’s	
interest	and	put	yourself	in	the	employer’s	shoes.	
What	would	you	be	looking	for?	What	would	get	
you	interested	in	a	candidate?	What	are	the	most	
important	qualities	in	a	candidate	for	this	position?	
What	about	your	company’s	culture	would	make	a	
particular	candidate	attractive?
The	answers	to	these	questions	might	include	
specific	skills,	talents,	experience,	or	contacts	in	a	field.	
Don’t	be	tempted	to	fill	in	this	section	by	restating	
bullet	points	from	your	resume.	That	would	be	a	
waste	of	the	recruiter’s	time.	Craft	a	few	compelling	
statements	that	describe	your	fit	with	the	job	so	that	
the	reader	can	quickly	assess	what	you’ve	to	offer.	
Ideally,	these	statements	should	persuade	the	reader	to	
look	at	your	resume	and	find	out	more	about	you.
You might summarize your years  
of experience in a trade:
•		 “I	bring	to	your	company	ten	years	of	success	
in	delivering	increased	sales	and	profits	in	the	
consumer	products	industry.”
•		 “My	strengths	in	both	marketing	and	
management	will	enable	me	to	make	a	significant	
contribution	to	your	regional	sales	force.”
•		 “This	job	represents	the	perfect	alignment	of	my	
education	and	experience	in	art	history,	and	my	
practical	marketing	skills.”	
90 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
sOmE sTrucTurE TO gET yOu 
sTarTED
The	following	is	a	general	outline	that	you	can	use	to	
create	your	own	cover	letters.
The	preceding	cover	letter	outline	is	geared	toward	
responding	to	a	particular	position	opening.	The	
format	could	easily	be	converted	to	a	broadcast	letter	
by	changing	the	first	paragraph	to:
I	am	interested	in	pursuing	career	opportunities	in	
your	_________	[city,	state	or	location]	office.	I	am	
currently	a	_________	at	____________,	and	it	is	
with	enthusiasm	that	I	ask	to	contribute	my	training	
and	experience	to	your	organization.
Again,	summarize	and	entice,	but	don’t	repeat		
your	resume.
Now	go	back	to	the	list	of	achievement	
statements	you	created	for	your	resume.	Next	to	
that,	list	the	particular	needs	of	your	potential	
employer	based	on	the	job	listing	or	your	research.	
By	comparing	these	two	lists,	you	should	be	able	to	
prioritize	the	employer’s	needs	and	match	those	to	
your	fine	qualities.
Once	you’ve	chosen	your	highlights,	rewrite	
them	into	an	effective	paragraph	that	follows	your	
introduction	in	a	way	that	makes	sense.	For	example,	
you	and	the	recruiter	are	both	tennis	enthusiasts	
and	you’ve	mentioned	that	in	your	opener.	Go	on	to	
point	out	how	your	love	of	tennis	is	based	on	a	sense	
of	friendly	competition	and	precision,	which	are	the	
same	qualities	you’ve	learned	from	your	years	as	a	
[insert	job	title	here].
a saTIsFyINg FINIsH: WHaT 
HaPPENs NExT
Now	that	you’ve	grabbed	the	recruiter’s	attention	and	
gotten	her	interested	in	your	qualifications,	don’t	just	
leave	her	hanging.	Take	charge	and	state	what	the	
next	step	will	be.	These	statements	should	be	assertive,	
but	not	overly	aggressive.	Keep	in	mind	that	you’re	
a	professional	engaging	in	business	communication	
to	establish	a	mutually	beneficial	relationship.	Your	
final	paragraph	can	state	your	intention	to	contact	
the	employer	to	set	up	an	interview,	create	a	sense	
of	urgency	to	compel	the	employer	to	contact	you,	
present	an	offer	that	the	employer	cannot	refuse,	or	
any	other	irresistible	tidbit	that	you	can	devise.
91WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
π cOvEr lETTEr FOrmaT
your Header
Address, Telephone, Email
Date
Employer Name
Title, Organization, Address
Dear  _______________________________________ :
[samples: Why you’re Writing]
I am writing to submit my application for a _________________________ position in your _____________________
 
office. I am currently a ____________________ at ____________________ , and it is with enthusiasm that I ask to 
contribute my training and experience to this exciting new position.
I have been a ____________ working on __________ for nearly __________ years, and I am committed to pursuing 
a career in __________ . While I have greatly enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity to work at the forefront of 
these exciting issues while at  __________ , I feel the need for a personal and professional change. Your organi
zation is poised to __________ , and it is truly exciting to see the  __________ in your [city/location] office. This 
position offers the opportunity to participate in  __________ .
[samples: What you’ve to Offer] 
I believe that my work experience makes me well suited to assume the responsibilities of a _________ position. 
[Give examples.]
As you can see from my resume, my background in  __________ extends beyond my work history at  __________.
As a result of my experiences, I have become a quick learner who  __________ . 
[Describe more skills and personal qualities that match the position.]
[sample: What Happens Next]
I would welcome the chance to discuss this opportunity with you at your convenience. If you require any 
additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me via email at ___________ or by telephone 
at ___-___-____. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your signature]
Your name
Enclosure: Resume
[city, state or location]
92 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
samPle cover 
letters
The letters in this	section	demonstrate	a	variety	
of	formats,	fields,	and	professional	levels.	Don’t	take	
the	examples	here	as	prescriptions.	Instead,	use	them	
as	inspiration	for	creating	concise	correspondence	
that	reflects	your	strengths.	These	letters	contain	
fictionalized	names	and	organizations,	but	the	
information	is	based	on	real	work	histories	and	
position	listings.
93WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
LETICIA ROBERTS
Address
City, state, zip
Telephone
Email
June 10, 2003
World Art Museum
200 Lafayette Street
San Francisco, CA 94100
FAX: 415-555-9410
RE: Position # 436654, Membership Assistant
Dear Human Resources Administrator:
I am applying for the position of Membership Assistant with the World Art Museum. I learned of the 
opportunity through your online posting on Craigslist.org, and feel that my qualifications are a good match 
for the responsibilities of the position.
I have several years of customer service and administrative experience in the nonprofit community. 
As Member Services Assistant for the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), 
I responded to daily requests for the association’s library services department, providing publication 
information and resource referrals to association members and the public. I was also responsible for editing 
informational and promotional materials, as well as preparing for and working on-site at the association’s 
annual international conference. As office support person for the ASPECT Foundation, I processed 
applications to the organization’s study abroad program, distributed program materials to applicants, and 
used Microsoft Word and Excel extensively. These duties required strong communication skills, attention to 
detail, and an ability to both organize and prioritize several tasks at once.
I am very interested in education and the arts. At Bryn Mawr College, I took courses in both art and art 
history, and I participated in an educational exchange program through which I studied Renaissance art 
in Florence, Italy. Since then, I have taken extension courses through UC Berkeley in Asian and Latin 
American art history.
As a result of these experiences, I am enthusiastic about continuing to work with nonprofits, and would like 
to further explore career possibilities with public arts organizations. A position as Membership Assistant 
with the World Art Museum would combine my member services and clerical skills, my interests, and my 
career goals. I am confident I can be of value to your organization and the customers you serve. Please feel 
free to call me to set up an interview, or if you need more information. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Leticia Roberts
Enclosure
94 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
a sPEcIFIc POsITION
Although	somewhat	lengthy,	this	letter	does	a	
thorough	job	of	emphasizing	the	relevant	skills	and	
goals	of	the	applicant.	Note	that	it	is	addressed	to	
Human	Resources	and	therefore	includes	the	job	
number	as	a	subject	header.	Ideally,	addressing	an	
individual	is	preferable	to	just	going	with	Human	
Resources	Administrator	or	Hiring	Manager;	you	
can	call	the	organization	to	inquire	about	the	hiring	
person’s	name	and	title.	Note,	too,	that	the	heading	
matches	the	style	and	format	of	the	heading	the	
candidate	used	on	her	resume.
95WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Bill Pendleton
Address
City, state, zip code
Telephone
Email
June 14, 2003
Cathy Stevenson
McKinsey & Company
75 Park Plaza, 3rd Floor
Boston, MA 02116-3934
Dear Cathy,
Frank William suggested that I forward my resume to you for your consideration. I am a 
second-year MBA student at the Krannert Graduate School of Management at Purdue 
University, and I am currently working as a summer associate at Motorola in Chicago.
As Frank may have mentioned, I am in the top 5% of my class at Krannert, and I was recently 
elected president of the MBA student body. In and out of the classroom, I have consistently 
demonstrated my capacity to make a positive impact, regardless of the situation. My analytical 
and personal skills are ideally suited to management consulting, and I am confident that I 
would be an asset to McKinsey & Company.
I will call you next Wednesday to discuss next steps. If you’ve any questions regarding my 
resume or qualifications, please do not hesitate to call. I look forward to speaking with you.
Sincerely, 
Bill Pendleton
Enclosure
96 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
PErsONal cONTacT
This	letter	is	quick	and	to	the	point.	The	introduction	
can	be	brief,	as	the	employer	has	already	heard	of	the	
candidate	through	their	mutual	contact.	Note	that		
the	employer	is	addressed	by	her	first	name;	only	do	
this	if	your	contact	has	suggested	it	is	appropriate.		
When	in	doubt,	include	the	full	name	and	title	of		
your	addressee.
97WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
LINDA S. BRADFORD
305 Locust Drive #12
Los Angeles, CA 90046
310-555-0883
August 30, 2000
Hamilton Trout
Andersen Consulting
Spear Street Tower
One Market Plaza
Suite 3700
San Francisco, CA 94105
Dear Hamilton:
I am writing to introduce myself as a candidate for a consulting position at your firm. I have 
excellent academic and professional credentials, as indicated on my enclosed resume. 
Throughout my professional career, I have adhered to the highest standards of excellence 
and have demonstrated strong communication skills, analytical ability, poise, creativity, and 
dedication.
Andersen’s excellent reputation and corporate clientele are an ideal match with my interests 
and background. In particular, I believe my experience in formulating legal strategies and 
preparing analyses for complex litigation cases would be an excellent addition to your 
Strategic Services Competency Group.
I plan to be in San Francisco the week of September 15 and would like to meet with you then 
to further discuss my qualifications. I will call you on Friday and look forward to scheduling a 
meeting at your convenience in mid-September.
Very truly yours,
Linda S. Bradford
98 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
DON’T
misspell anyone’s name, confuse job titles or 
departments, or incorrectly name the job for which 
you’re applying. Pay close attention to the language 
used in the job listing, if you’re responding to one, and 
double-check any personal names you use.
DO
address your cover letter to the proper hiring 
manager, by name. Don’t know who that is? Do some 
research, or pick up the phone and call. Still can’t find 
out who the correct person is? Then address your 
letter to the name of the human resources manager 
who will probably be reading the letter.
DON’T
try to be too cute or use humor that might not be 
funny or appropriate to everyone.
DO
craft a compelling opening line that will draw the 
reader into the body of your letter.
DON’T
restate the facts of your resume. Your cover letter 
should complement your resume by introducing you in 
a personal way, stating your reasons for applying for 
a particular position, and enticing the hiring manager 
to look at your resume. You might expand on special 
projects or skills listed in your summary, but don’t 
include what can easily be read on the resume.
DO
point out any connections you’ve to the company, 
either through a colleague, background in the 
company’s business, or particular interest in the 
company’s service or product.
DON’T
go on and on and on. You should be able to state your 
case in three to four well-crafted paragraphs.
DO
craft clear, concise sentences that are error-free and 
professional, without being stuffy or fluffy.
DON’T
be arrogant or presumptuous. You’re the one 
approaching the employer, after all.
DO
be convincing and assertive with your letter. You 
don’t want to come off as passive.
DON’T
use bloated or flowery language. Make your 
statements clearly and get to the point as quickly as 
possible.
DO
state the next step, as in “I’ll call to set up an 
appointment,” “I am available on Tuesday afternoon 
for an interview,” or “I’ll follow up next week to 
answer any questions you’ve.”
DON’T
rush through writing your cover letter. As we stated 
before, while cover letters are not always read, a 
poorly written one will send your application to the 
“no” pile as quickly as a poorly written resume will.
DO
include all of your contact information in your cover 
letter. There is always the chance that your resume 
and cover letter could be separated, and you don’t 
want to leave a potentially interested hiring manager 
with no way of contacting you.
DO
show a bit of your personality. You’re trying to get the 
hiring manager to like you and want to meet you.
99WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E

Digital  
 Delivery: 
Preparing Internet-Ready Materials 
and Applying Online
7
This Application  
Is Experiencing  
Technical Difficulties ...............102
Getting Past  
the Spam Guard Dogs ..............104 
Using Online  
Application Systems .................106
102 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
savE FOur vErsIONs OF yOur 
rEsumE
Once	you’ve	crafted	the	perfect	resume,	be	sure	to	save	
it	in	four	electronic	versions:
1.	 Microsoft	Word	or	other	word	processing	software	
document:	This	is	your	presentation	resume—the	
one	with	every	formatting	and	stylistic	bell	and	
whistle,	and	which	you’ll	print	on	high-quality,	
heavy	bond	paper.	This	is	the	one	that	you’ll	send	
to	recruiters	via	regular	mail	and	the	one	you’ll	
take	with	you	when	you	interview.	Keep	several	
copies	on	hand.	
2.	 Adobe’s	PDF	format:	Increasingly,	PDF	is	the	
preferred	format	for	sending	a	formatted	copy	
of	your	resume	via	email.	PDF	documents	tend	
to	display	and	print	with	greater	consistency	
on	different	computing	platforms	than	Word	
documents	do.	In	addition,	Adobe	Reader	is	a	
free	download	and	comes	preinstalled	on	nearly	
every	computer	shipped	today.	PDF	also	strips	
out	macros	and	revisions	(sometimes	exposed	by	
your	software’s	“track	changes”	tool)	that	could	
potentially	cause	problems.	
3.	 Plain	text	format	with	line	breaks:	Formatting	
your	resume	as	plain	text	allows	databases	and	
data	recognition	software	to	read	it	without	the	
confusion	caused	by	formatting.	Use	this	version	
to	cut	and	paste	your	document	into	the	body	
of	an	email	message.	In	Microsoft	Word,	use	the	
“Save	As”	option	to	save	your	resume	(named	
differently	from	the	first	version)	as	plain	text.	
Select	the	“Insert	line	breaks”	checkbox.
4.	 Plain	text	format	without	line	breaks:	Use	this	
version	when	you’re	cutting	and	pasting	parts	of	
your	resume,	such	as	into	multiple	fields	on	a	web	
form.	In	Microsoft	Word,	use	the	“Save	As”	option	
to	save	your	resume	(under	a	different	file	name	
from	both	preceding	versions)	as	plain	text,	but	do	
not	select	the	“Insert	line	breaks”	checkbox.
thIs 
aPPlIcatIon Is 
exPerIencInG 
technIcal 
dIffIcultIes…
You may think email	is	the	best	thing	since	the	
Pony	Express,	but	that	doesn’t	mean	your	recruiter	
does.	Don’t	expect	the	person	on	the	receiving	end	
to	fumble	around	with	an	attached	file	in	a	desperate	
quest	to	review	your	qualifications.	If	you’ve	any	
doubts	about	the	quality	of	the	format	in	which	
your	resume	will	arrive	because	of	platform	or	
application	variables,	it’s	best	to	send	a	hard	copy	
as	well.	“Nothing	is	worse	than	printing	an	emailed	
resume	with	a	bunch	of	garbage	symbols	in	it!”	rants	
a	recruiter.	Faxing	is	almost	as	fast	as	email,	and	often	
more	reliable,	although	it’s	definitely	a	good	idea	to	
follow	up	a	faxed	resume	with	a	phone	call	to	make	
sure	it	was	received	in	legible	form.
Let’s	take	a	look	at	some	steps	you	can	take	to	
increase	the	likelihood	that	your	exquisitely	planned	
and	masterfully	written	resume	actually	makes	it	into	
the	hands	of	its	intended	recipient	in	legible	form.
tIP>
After you’ve spell-checked your 
cover message or resume, click 
on Hide Spelling Errors and Hide 
Grammar Errors to remove any 
lingering but irrelevant error 
markings. (In Word, go to the Tools 
menu and select Options, then go 
to the Spelling & Grammar tab and 
check the appropriate boxes. Most 
other word processing software 
offers equivalent choices.)
103WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
(also	known	as	ASCII	text)	when	sending	an	email	
cover	message,	and	stick	to	a	black	Courier	12-point	
font	with	a	white	background.	The	easiest	way	to	do	
this	is	to	compose	the	message	as	a	Word	document,	
then	save	it	as	a	plain	text	document	as	explained	
previously.	Before	pasting	your	message	into	the	email	
body,	make	sure	the	line	length	is	no	more	than	60	
characters	long	to	prevent	it	from	being	fragmented	in	
the	email	viewing	pane.	In	any	event,	scan	your	letter	
and	fix	any	awkward	line	breaks	before	hitting	“send.”
usE a sPEcIFIc subjEcT lINE
While	it	may	be	tempting	to	use	the	subject	line	
of	an	email	as	a	marketing	ploy	to	grab	a	recruiter’s	
attention—Attention!	Ace	Sales	Rep	Available!!!—we	
recommend	a	more	conservative	approach	that	will	
help	the	person	on	the	receiving	end	track,	file,	or	
forward	your	resume	to	an	interested	colleague.	At	
a	minimum,	include	your	name	and	the	position	
applied	for.	For	example:
•		 Grace	Adler,	Business	Analyst
•		 Karen	Walker,	MBA	-	Marketing	Specialist
•		 Mark	Thompson,	Sales	Representative	Candidate
If	you’re	responding	to	an	online	job	announcement,	
you	may	want	to	include	the	job	title	or	requisition	
number	in	the	subject	line,	keeping	in	mind	that	the	
recruiter	receiving	your	message	may	be	responsible	for	
filling	multiple	positions.	The	job	posting	will	often	
include	specific	instructions	for	what	to	include	in	
the	subject	line.	These	aren’t	suggestions;	follow	the	
directions	that	the	employer	has	outlined	exactly.
Using	plain	text	versions	will	help	you	avoid	
formatting	conflicts	that	can	make	your	document	
difficult	to	read.	Unfortunately,	in	the	plain	text	
versions	you’ll	also	lose	much	of	the	formatting	you	
took	great	care	to	develop	for	the	presentation	resume.	
To	minimize	the	damage:
1.	 Replace	bullets	with	asterisks	(*).
2.	 Offset	category	headings	with	a	row	of	tildes	(~)	
or	capital	letters.
3.	 Change	your	margin	settings	to	2	inches;	60	
characters	(including	spaces)	is	the	maximum	
line	length	you	should	use	to	ensure	your	resume	
displays	correctly	in	different	email	programs.	
This	setting	will	allow	you	to	see	and	control	
where	line	breaks	occur.
4.	 Select	a	fixed-width	typeface	like	Courier	and	a	
12-point	font	size.
5.	 Add	white	space	for	readability.
6.	 Do	a	test	run.	Email	your	resume	to	yourself	or	a	
friend	to	see	how	it	looks.
Finally,	here’s	some	quick	advice	about	naming	
your	resume	documents:	Be	sure	to	include	your		
name	(or	at	least	your	last	name)	in	the	file	name		
(for	example:	Jane_Doe_resume.doc)	so	that	the	
resume	can	be	reunited	with	your	cover	message	(see	
next	section)	if	the	two	part	ways.
INcluDE a sHOrT EmaIl cOvEr 
mEssagE
Always	include	a	cover	message	with	an	emailed	
resume.	The	cover	message	is	the	body	of	your	email,	
and	serves	the	same	purpose	as	a	traditional	cover	
letter—to	compel	an	employer	to	scroll	down	and	read	
or	open	your	attached	resume.
An	email	cover	letter	should	be	very	short	and	
concise—under	150	words,	ideally—and	shouldn’t	
be	longer	than	one	screenful	of	text.	Use	plain	text	
104 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
FIrsT aND FOrEmOsT, FOllOW 
DIrEcTIONs!
If	a	company	has	advised	you	not	to	send	email	
attachments,	don’t.	In	fact,	unless	a	company	or	
recruiter	specifically instructs	you	to	send	your	resume	
as	an	attachment,	send	it	in	the	body	of	your	email	in	
plain	text	format.	
We	know	that	plain	text	resumes	won’t	win	any	
beauty	contests,	but	they	often	represent	the	most	
reliable	way	to	communicate	your	qualifications	to	
hiring	personnel.	If	you	simply	can’t	bear	the	thought	
of	sending	a	plain	text	resume	on	its	own,	you	can	
always	follow	up	with	a	beautifully	formatted	paper	
copy	in	the	mail.	
TWO WOrDs: Easy accEss 
If	you’ve	been	instructed	to	send	your	resume	as	an	
attachment,	there’s	often	an	accompanying	list	of	
acceptable	file	formats	that	you	should	most	definitely	
pay	attention	to.	If	not,	we’d	recommend	either	PDF	
or	Microsoft	Word.	A	word	to	the	wise	on	Word,	
however:	Starting	with	the	release	of	Microsoft	Office	
2007,	Word	will	by	default	save	files	using	a	new	
format	(Open	XML,	identified	by	a	.docx	extension)	
that	older	versions	of	Word	will	not	be	able	to	open	
without	a	special	converter.	So	don’t	forget	to	save	
your	materials	using	the	“Save	As”	command,	selecting	
the	older	.doc	format.	Along	the	same	lines,	never	send	
zipped	or	compressed	files	that	the	recipient	will	have	
to	manipulate	in	order	to	read.
GettInG Past 
the sPam 
Guard doGs
Spam and computer viruses	have	changed	the	
rules	of	the	road	for	communicating	with	potential	
employers	via	email.	Many	companies	now	use	
sophisticated	filtering	to	guard	company	inboxes	from	
potentially	hazardous	emails.	In	many	cases	these	
filters	delete	or	divert	suspected	spam	before	it	even	
reaches	its	intended	target.	You	might	be	wondering	
how	this	affects	you,	the	innocent	job	seeker.	After	all,	
you’re	not	peddling	Viagra	or	get-rich-quick	schemes,	
so	your	emailed	resume	should	be	safe,	right?
Wrong!	One	job	seeker	sent	his	resume	to	a	
company,	proudly	highlighting	the	fact	that	he	had	
graduated	from	his	MBA	program	magna cum laude.	
He	received	an	automated	bounce-back	message	
highlighting	the	supposed	“obscenity.”	A	quick	change	
to	“with	high	honors”	produced	better	results.	But	
don’t	take	false	comfort	in	this—that	job	seeker	was	
one	of	the	lucky	ones.	Most	spam	filters	don’t	even	
bother	notifying	the	sender,	meaning	your	email	may	
disappear	into	a	black	hole.	
How	can	you	avoid	the	curse	of	the	overzealous	
spam	filter?	We	suggest	the	following	precautionary	
measures:
105WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
usE a PrOFEssIONal EmaIl 
aDDrEss 
Stay	away	from	clever,	cutesy	or—even	worse—
potentially	provocative	email	addresses.	You	may	think	
that	drolltroll@underthebridge.com	is	absolutely	
hilarious,	but	the	overworked	hiring	manager	on	the	
receiving	end	may	be	less	amused
In	addition,	some	experts	suggest	that	you	avoid	
numbers	in	your	email	address	to	the	left	of	the	@	
symbol.	Even	if	you	use	something	as	innocuous	
as	your	birthday	or	anniversary	as	the	tag	line	
(janedoe42801@whatever.com),	it	may	be	mistaken	
for	the	tracking	code	that	some	spammers	use.	Err	on	
the	side	of	caution	and	change	your	email	address	to	
one	that	has	few	or	no	numbers	in	it.	
Play IT saFE
If	you’re	able,	ask	a	personal	contact	within	the	firm	to	
forward	your	resume	to	the	appropriate	hiring	manager	
on	your	behalf;	that	way	you	can	check	to	be	sure	
that	your	email	has	been	received	without	incident.	
Alternatively,	if	you	can,	follow	up	on	your	emailed	
resume	with	a	hard	copy	sent	through	regular	mail.
avOID WOrDs THaT arE  
OvErusED IN sPam
The	less	any	part	of	your	email	looks	like	a	spam	
message,	the	less	likely	it	will	be	filtered.	Avoid	words	
used	by	spammers,	such	as	“free,”	“offer,”	“increase,”	
and	so	on.	And	stay	away	from	action	phrases	that	
are	also	used	to	market	unsavory	content	over	email.	
You	may	not	wish	to	say,	for	example,	that	you’ve	
“enhanced”	or	“enlarged”	anything,	even	if	these	
terms	are	used	in	a	perfectly	appropriate	way	in	your	
resume	or	cover	message.	Also,	it’s	a	good	idea	to	leave	
punctuation	marks	(especially	exclamation	marks)	out	
of	the	subject	line,	and	don’t	use	all	capital	letters	or	
colored	backgrounds.	
sEND EmaIls IN PlaIN TExT—NOT 
HTml—FOrmaT 
How	can	you	tell	which	is	which?	If	you’re	writing	an	
email	in	which	you	can	alter	the	appearance	of	text	(you	
can	italicize	words,	underline	text,	or	change	the	font),	
then	you’re	likely	composing	an	HTML	email.	Most	
email	programs	allow	you	to	toggle	between	the	two	
formats;	if	you’re	using	Microsoft	Outlook	and	want	to	
double-check,	click	on	“Format”	in	your	new	message	
window	and	be	sure	that	“plain	text”	is	selected.
tIP>
A word to the wise about numbers: 
Rather than citing the $50,000,000 
in sales you’ve personally 
supervised, change your numerical 
reference to $50 million, which is 
less likely to set off the spam filter 
alarm bells.
106 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
bE THOrOugH aND THOugHTFul
Don’t	be	fooled	by	the	one-sidedness	of	these	systems;	
recruiters	really	are	on	the	other	end	evaluating	your	
responses.	So	don’t	skip	questions,	ignore	instructions,	
or	bang	out	your	answers	without	editing	them.	You	
should	treat	your	responses	with	the	same	seriousness	
and	care	you	bring	to	your	other	written	materials.	
Another	tip:	Some	of	these	systems	allow	you	to	both	
enter	your	information	into	web	forms	and	send	your	
materials	via	email;	unless	you’re	specifically	instructed	
not	to,	we	recommend	you	do	both,	because	this	may	
make	your	information	more	visible	to	the	recruiter.
KEy IN ON KEyWOrDs
Earlier	in	this	guide,	we	discussed	the	value	of	placing	
keywords	in	the	skills	summary	of	your	resume.	
Keywords	are	especially	critical	in	online	applications.	
You	may	be	aware	that	many	firms	try	to	streamline	
their	recruiting	process	by	using	specialized	software	
that	scans	your	resume	and	other	materials	for	
keywords	and	phrases	selected	by	the	recruiter.	The	
more	matches,	the	higher	your	application’s	score.	
As	this	type	of	software	has	become	more	prevalent,	
career	advisers	have	begun	suggesting	that	candidates	
pepper	their	resumes	and	cover	letters	with	frequently	
occurring	keywords	and	phrases.	
usInG onlIne 
aPPlIcatIon 
sYstems
Many firms today use	online	tracking	systems	to	
manage	their	inflow	of	resumes;	some	even	use	their	
online	systems	exclusively.	If	you	fail	to	properly	enter	
your	information	into	the	system,	you	may	never	be	
visible	in	the	candidate	pool.	Recruiters	rarely	add	
hard	copy	resumes	into	these	systems,	so	even	though	
you	may	prefer	human	contact,	it’s	a	mistake	to	avoid	
the	online	application	process.	You	do,	however,	need	
to	be	savvy	about	how	these	systems	work	so	you	can	
optimize	your	application	materials	for	the	best	results.
HOW THEy WOrK
Though	they	differ	in	the	amount	of	information	they	
capture,	online	application	systems	tend	to	be	quite	
similar	behind	the	scenes.	Most	automatically	evaluate	
a	candidate’s	fit	against	a	given	open	position.	They	
also	typically	dump	your	information	into	a	candidate	
database,	for	automated	matching	against	positions	
that	open	up	in	the	future,	or	for	recruiter-driven	
data	searches.	Regardless,	expect	to	apply	directly	for	
each	position	that	interests	you,	which	may	involve	
repeating	the	whole	form-filling	process	again	or	
creating	an	account	on	the	firm’s	site.
After	you	submit	an	application,	some	systems	
will	send	you	a	confirmation	email,	some	will	
display	it	on	screen,	and	some	will	give	you	no	sign	
that	your	submission	has	gone	through	successfully.	
If	the	instructions	indicate	that	you’re	supposed	to	
receive	a	message	and	you	don’t,	try	reapplying,	or	
contact	the	company	to	ensure	that	your	application	
has	been	received.	
107WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
Visit	firms’	websites	and	check	out	the	language	
used	to	describe	training	programs	and	job	
requirements.	Even	if	you’re	applying	through	an	on-
campus	recruiting	process	rather	than	responding	to	
an	online	job	posting,	it’s	always	a	good	idea	to	consult	
the	job	description	that	the	company	provides—as	
well	as	the	list	of	qualifications	associated	with	that	
position—to	tailor	and	tweak	the	version	of	the	
resume	you	use	to	apply	for	that	position.
It’s	best	to	temper	your	enthusiasm	for	keywords	
with	a	healthy	dose	of	good	judgment.	Never	attempt	
to	cut	and	splice	the	entire	job	description	into	the	
body	of	your	resume	(or	cover	letter)	in	an	attempt	
to	cram	in	as	many	keywords	as	possible.	This	
strategy	usually	backfires;	to	the	recruiters	who	are	
reviewing	your	resume,	you’ll	come	across	as	contrived	
rather	than	credible.	Instead	of	trying	to	outsmart	
resume	scanning	software,	your	best	bet	is	to	focus	
on	the	skills	which	the	company	requires	and	to	
write	a	resume	that	highlights	a	record	of	sustained	
achievement	in	these	areas.
DO cOvEr mEssagEs sTIll aPPly 
ONlINE?
When	it	comes	to	online	cover	messages,	we	suggest	
you	follow	the	same	guidelines	we	gave	you	when	
talking	about	cover	letters	in	print.	If	you	can	do	
without,	great—especially	if	you’ve	already	answered	
some	open-ended	questions	during	the	application	
process,	such	as	“What	most	qualifies	you	for	the	XYZ	
position?”	If	you’re	given	a	text	field	in	which	you	can	
paste	a	cover	message,	you	probably	should.	If	you’re	
not	given	one	but	have	a	valid	reason	to	submit	a	cover	
message,	include	it	in	the	same	document	with	your	
resume.	(If	you	do	this,	add	a	hard	page	break—or	
several	line	breaks,	if	you’re	using	plain	text—between	
your	cover	message	and	resume	so	that	your	formatting	
stays	intact	and	the	entire	package	is	more	presentable.)

Great  
Research: 
The Key to Tailoring Your Materials
8
Doing Your Due Diligence ....... 110
Three Steps  
of Effective Research .................111
Where to Look  
for Information ........................ 114
110 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
KNOW WHaT yOu WaNT
But	it’s	not	just	for	the	employer’s	sake	that	you	should	
do	research.	To	be	genuinely	enthusiastic,	you	need	
be	able	to	state	why	the	employer	interests	you.	The	
company’s	primary	industry,	group,	or	specialty	may	
be	right	in	line	with	your	career	goals.	Or	you	may	be	
most	excited	by	the	company’s	standing	in	its	field.	
Perhaps	a	discussion	with	a	current	employee	about	
the	company	culture	stimulates	your	interest.	Every	
job	and	every	company	offers	different	opportunities	
for	accomplishment;	each	will	have	various	pros	and	
cons.	Do	the	research	to	clarify	your	own	goals	and	
priorities.	Then	use	the	information	to	find	the	right	
place	in	which	you	can	succeed.
Research	is	especially	important	for	career	changers	
and	job	seekers	who	worry	about	being	typecast	
as	“overqualified.”	If	this	is	your	situation,	your	
resume	and	cover	letter	must	stress	how	the	position	
matches	your	interests	and	career	goals,	in	addition	to	
benefiting	the	employer.	Research	in	this	case	allows	
candidates	who	have	exercised	a	lot	of	responsibility	in	
prior	jobs	to	build	a	persuasive	case	for	their	suitability	
for	a	range	of	new	positions.	Failing	to	do	research	is	
often	why	an	“overqualified”	candidate’s	application	
gets	put	on	the	“no”	pile.
doInG Your 
due dIlIGence
Congratulations! You now have	the	tools	to	
put	together	killer	cover	letters	and	resumes	that	are	
carefully	gauged	to	appeal	to	each	of	the	employers	
you’re	targeting	in	your	job	search.	Of	course,	the	
next	step	is	actually	contacting	prospective	employers.	
Whatever	your	background,	you	can	be	sure	that	you	
won’t	get	far	in	the	job	market	without	doing	your	
due	diligence—that	is	to	say,	doing	the	research	that	
enables	you	to	tailor	your	resume	and	cover	letter	to	
address	each	employer’s	needs	and	to	start	getting	
ready	for	an	interview.	Preparation,	not	impressive	
credentials,	is	your	real	key	to	success.	
lEarN WHaT THE EmPlOyEr WaNTs
Almost	every	company	is	going	to	ask	you,	“Why	
us?”	Doing	research	ensures	that	you	can	answer	
this	question	convincingly.	Recruiters	and	hiring	
managers	consistently	report	that	candidates	who	
seem	informed	about	the	organization	and	the	
industry	are	given	priority	in	the	initial	review	of	
applications,	and	are	most	likely	to	succeed	later	
at	the	interview	stage.	Thus,	you’ll	have	a	great	
advantage	over	other	applicants	if	you’re	able	to	
demonstrate	that	you	understand	the	organization’s	
objectives	(products,	services,	or	operations),	its	
company	culture,	and	why	your	skills	and	experience	
are	ideally	suited	to	its	needs.
Preparation, not impressive credentials, is the 
real key to success.
tIP
111WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
three stePs 
of effectIve 
research
The better the information	you	gather,	the	
more	on	target	your	cover	letter	and	resume	will	be.	
Knowing	what	to	seek	and	where	to	find	it	is	the	key	
to	effective	research.	The	following	three	steps	will	
guide	you	through	this	all-important	research	process.
sTEP 1: aNalyzE THE jOb 
DEscrIPTION
A	job	description,	included	in	many	postings,	provides	
a	great	starting	place	to	get	a	sense	of	the	employer’s	
desired	skills	and	qualifications.	Begin	by	reading	over	
the	job	description	and	noting	any	keywords.	Make	
a	list	of	these,	and	as	you	revise	your	resume	for	the	
specific	opening,	include	as	many	of	these	keywords	as	
possible.	Next	dig	a	little	deeper	to	analyze	the	posting	
for	specifics	that	you	can	address	point	by	point.
To	learn	how	to	do	this,	take	a	look	at	the	following	
sample,	based	on	a	real	posting	on	an	online	job	board.	
Pay	attention	to	the	italicized	words,	because	these	
are	keywords	that	provide	the	basis	for	customizing	a	
resume	and	cover	letter.
π sPOrTs marKETINg INTErNsHIP 
Are you interested in 
a career in marketing? 
Have you recently 
completed a marathon, 
triathlon, century ride, 
or are you just an avid 
sports participant? 
We are looking for an 
energetic, active person 
to join our marketing 
team in a summer 
internship that will be 
rewarding, educational, 
and will provide all 
of the excitement of 
crossing the finish 
line after months of 
training!
About the internship:
The intern will assist in 
general marketing tasks 
from program creation 
and implementation 
to preparing materials 
for programs/events. 
He/she will help out 
with general marketing 
office duties, and will 
help out at field and 
in-store events. The 
marketing intern will 
have some in-store 
tasks as well, in order 
to learn all aspects 
of marketing in a 
retail environment. 
Some roles and 
responsibilities will 
fluctuate as help is 
needed in other areas.
Qualifications:
•  A background in 
marketing, with 
related experience
•  An active lifestyle
•  Excellent 
communication skills
•  Outgoing and 
energetic (a “people” 
person)
•  MS Office skills
•  Illustrator
About Our Company:
We are a small, 
innovative, and growing 
company with a retail 
store and an online site. 
We cater to athletes of 
all levels and provide 
the best brands in 
sports apparel at great 
prices. Our grassroots 
marketing strategy 
keeps us very well 
connected to the active 
community, and we 
are always on the go. 
However, we are much 
more than just a store 
with weekly programs 
and events geared 
toward educating 
and benefiting our 
customers. Our team 
members are as active 
as our customers, 
participating in events 
right next to them. 
For more information 
please see our website.
Schedule will be 20–30 
hours a week, with 
some evening and/or 
weekend event work. 
You MUST have a 
flexible schedule!
tIP>
When applying to a posted job 
opening, make a list of significant 
keywords included in the job 
description and be sure to include 
these in your resume and cover 
letter.
112 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
sTEP 2: cONTEmPlaTE THE 
cOmPaNy
Look	into	the	firm’s	noted	areas	of	strength	and	focus	
on	finding	out	the	industries	or	product	areas	in	which	
it	excels.	Make	a	list	of	these.	Identify	elements	of	your	
experience,	education,	or	personal	interests	that	relate	
to	them.	Also,	explore	the	following:
•		 How	does	this	job	support	the	other	functions	
of	the	department,	division,	and	overall	
organizational	structure?
•		 What	effect	does	the	position	have	on	other	
departments	and	what	are	their	functions	and	
structures?
•		 What	are	the	company’s	stated	goals	and	mission?
•		 What	is	the	corporate	culture?
•		 How	stable	is	the	company?
•		 Who	are	its	competitors?
Gathering	some	answers	to	these	questions	will	
help	you	speak	intelligently	to	the	job	description	in	
your	application,	not	to	mention	speak	intelligently	
about	the	job	if	you	get	an	interview.	But	also,	and	
just	as	important,	asking	these	questions	from	the	
beginning	can	help	you	surmise	whether	a	job	at	this	
company	is	really	suited	to	you,	and	addresses	your	
career	and	workplace	needs.	Remember	earlier	when	
we	talked	about	enthusiasm	being	an	important	factor	
in	a	successful	job	application?	Well,	if	this	is	an	
opportunity	that	is	really	right	for	you,	you	probably	
can’t	help	but	exude	some	enthusiasm.	If	not,	you	
should	move	on	to	something	that	better	suits	you.
Here’s	what	the	ideal	candidate	looks	like:
Goals:	career	in	marketing,	learn	about	all		
aspects	of	retail	marketing
Personal qualities:	energetic,	active,	flexible,	
outgoing,	good	communicator,	sports	lover
Experiences that reflect the ability to:	assist	
others,	create,	implement,	serve	at	events,	work	as		
part	of	a	team,	use	computers,	understand	sports
Interested in the company because:	innovative,	
growing,	customer-focused,	team-oriented,	energetic,	
and	active	environment
If	you	were	applying	for	this	position,	you	would	
demonstrate	that	your	interests,	goals,	and	skills	are	
exactly	what	the	employer	is	seeking,	by	using	similar	
words	to	those	found	in	the	job	posting	in	your	cover	
letter	and	resume.
 
Practice Analyzing a Job Description
Now	you	give	it	a	try!	Print	out	a	job	posting	that	
catches	your	eye.	Highlight	or	circle	the	keywords	and	
phrases,	and	write	them	in	spaces	below.
Goals:
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
Personal qualities: 
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
Experiences that reflect the ability to: 
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
Interested in the company because: 
__________________________________________ 	
__________________________________________
113WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
sTEP 3: INvEsTIgaTE THE INDusTry
Having	some	knowledge	about	the	industry	in	which	
you	want	to	work	can	help	you	anticipate	a	few	of	
the	company’s	needs	that	aren’t	specifically	stated	
in	the	job	posting.	Consider	as	well	that	recruiting	
and	training	new	employees	is	expensive,	and	most	
employers	hope	that	anyone	they	hire	will	stick	
around	for	a	while.	Having	the	ability	to	address	a	job	
posting	in	the	larger	context	of	the	industry	helps	to	
demonstrate	that	you’re	serious	about	the	job	and	view	
it	from	the	stance	of	a	professional.	For	these	reasons,	
be	sure	to	find	and	flesh	out	answers	to	the	following	
questions:
•		 What	are	the	latest	developments	in	the	field		
or	industry?
•		 How	is	the	current	economy	affecting	the	field?
•		 What	trends	are	being	forecast?
•		 How	is	your	targeted	company	positioned	in		
the	industry?
The	information	you	gather	from	each	of	the	
preceding	three	steps	should	inform	the	way	in	which	
you	customize	your	resume	and	cover	letter,	as	well	
as	how	you	conduct	yourself	during	an	interview.	
The	more	knowledgeable	you’re,	the	clearer	you’ll	be	
about	your	potential	role,	and	the	more	you’ll	impress	
employers	with	your	ability	to	contribute	to	their	
organizations.	Without	effective	background	research,	
your	cover	letter	and	resume	will	be		shots	in	the	
dark.	You	could	get	lucky,	but	why	not	illuminate	the	
playing	field?
rEcruITErs aND HIrINg  
maNagErs lOvE IT WHEN  
caNDIDaTEs DO THEIr  
rEsEarcH bEcausE:
•  The candidate does the legwork for the employer 
by pointing to the match between the candidate’s 
qualifications and the firm’s needs.
•  The candidate demonstrates knowledge of, and 
interest in, the company, making it easy to put the 
candidate’s application ahead of the more generic 
ones that fail to address the company’s goals.
•  The candidate’s knowledge of the company 
results in a higher likelihood of retention if hired, 
reducing the firm’s need to repeat costly and time-
consuming replacement searches.
114 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
Career	sites	for	many	firms	are	treasure	troves	of	
information.	Be	sure	to	look	for	and	read	the	profiles	
of	company	employees,	and	note	any	statements	about	
the	company’s	culture	and	values.	Most	career	sites	
provide	job	postings	and,	for	companies	that	regularly	
recruit	candidates,	explain	their	recruiting	process	and	
schedules.	And	as	discussed	in	a	previous	chapter,	the	
company’s	career	site	is	where	you’ll	find	instructions	
for	submitting	resumes	and	applications	online.	
Here	are	some	additional	websites	insiders	
recommend	to	jumpstart	your	investigation:
•		 Catch	up	on	the	latest	news	about	the	company	
and	industry	you’re	pursuing	at	PR	Newswire	
(www.prnewswire.com),	NewsDirectory	(www.
newsdirectory.com),	and	Bizjournals	(www.
bizjournals.com).
•		 America’s	Career	InfoNet	(brought	to	you	by	
the	U.S.	Department	of	Labor)	features	helpful	
information	on	wages	and	employment	trends	
(www.acinet.org).
•		 The	Occupational Outlook Handbook	from	
the	U.S.	Bureau	of	Labor	Statistics	(www.bls.
gov/oco/)	provides	career	and	occupational	
information	for	various	fields	and	also	provides	a	
Career	Guide	to	Industries	(www.bls.gov/oco/cg/).
•		 To	get	unbiased	information	on	some	of	the	top	
hirers	in	the	United	States,	check	out	WetFeet’s	
Career	Profiles,	Industry	Profiles,	and	Company	
Profiles	(www.wetfeet.com).
Where to 
look for 
InformatIon
The information you need	to	make	your	resume	
and	cover	letter	sparkle	is	out	there;	it’s	up	to	you	to	
find	it	and	make	the	most	of	it.	To	investigate	a	specific	
employer,	a	position,	or	an	industry,	consult	as	many	
resources	as	are	available	to	you.	Go	to	the	library,	
search	the	Web,	speak	to	your	relatives,	talk	to	your	
friends,	and	attend	career	fairs	and	networking	events.	
And	even	if	you’re	not	a	recent	graduate,	never	hesitate	
to	contact	the	career	center	at	your	alma	mater.	
HElPFul WEbsITEs
Employer	websites	usually	are	the	best	places	to	begin	
your	research.	Most	company	websites	are	divided	into	
sections	that	address	the	needs	of	different	visitors,	
from	potential	customers	to	interested	investors.	
Although	it’s	worth	paying	a	brief	visit	to	each	section	
of	a	company	website	to	discover	what	it	offers,	look	
for	and	pay	special	attention	to	the	following	sections:
•		 The	company’s	history	(sometimes	called		
“About	Us”)
•		 The	company’s	product	lines	or	services	(an	
employer	will	expect	you	to	know	this)
•		 Press	releases	or	announcements	(look	for	news	
about	products	and	company	performance)
•		 The	company’s	career	site	
115WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
NETWOrKINg
Nothing	is	better	than	having	an	“in”	at	the	company	
where	you’re	applying.	Before	you	prepare	your	resume	
and	cover	letter,	try	to	get	in	touch	with	someone	
who	can	help	answer	questions	regarding	what	makes	
a	good	candidate.	If	you	don’t	know	someone	on	
the	“inside,”	try	to	make	contact	through	personal	
networks	or	through	professional	associations.
You	can	find	contact	information	on	associations	in	
almost	every	field	or	industry	via	the	online	directories	
provided	by	the	ASAE	and	the	Center	for	Association	
Leadership	(www.asaecenter.org)	and	the	Internet	
Public	Library	(www.ipl.org).
For	more	information	on	mastering	the	art	of	networking,	consult	the	WetFeet	Insider	Guide	Networking Works!,	
available	at	www.wetfeet.com
TOP FIvE THINgs THaT WIll  
auTOmaTIcally scrEEN OuT  
aN aPPlIcaNT
5.  Resume sent without indication of position 
desired or pursued
4.  Poor quality materials, including photocopies, 
handwritten, or typed applications
3.  Not demonstrating the right qualifications for the 
position
2.  Too many pages of material
1.  Misspelling, poor editing, and bad grammar

From Resume 
to Interview 
and Beyond
9
Follow Up After  
Sending Your Application ......... 118
Prepare Your 30-Second Spiel ...120
Do You Need a Portfolio? .........120
Anticipate Your  
Interviewer’s Questions ............ 121
Write Those  
Thank-You Letters .................... 122
118 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
Follow these basic guidelines  
for constructive follow-up, and  
you won’t go wrong:
•		 Be persistent but not pesky.	Two	calls	in	
one	day	are	overkill;	two	calls	in	one	week	are	
probably	fine.
•		 Be prescriptive in your requests.	Ask	specifically	
for	what	you	want,	whether	it’s	to	schedule	an	
interview	or	to	have	a	casual	chat	on	the	phone.
•		 Keep the ball in your court.	You’ll	probably	feel	
more	in	control	if	you	can	plan	the	next	steps	
rather	than	wait	by	the	phone.
•		 Make yourself easily available.	Provide	a	number	
where	a	message	can	be	left	at	any	time.
Employers	say	that	at	this	early	stage,	there	is	a	fine	
line	between	the	interested	candidate	and	the	pushy	
one.	But	the	hiring	staff	we	interviewed	unanimously	
said	it	couldn’t	hurt	and	could	most	definitely	help	
your	application	if	you	take	some	time	to	follow	up	by	
contacting	staffers	in	a	respectful	manner—a	few	calls	
or	emails,	and	that’s it.
folloW 
uP after 
sendInG Your 
aPPlIcatIon
What a relief! The	writing,	editing,	and	
proofreading	are	finally	over.	You’ve	hit	“Send,”	and	
your	perfectly	tailored	resume	and	cover	letter	are	with	
your	prospective	employer.	Tingles	of	anticipation	run	
up	and	down	your	spine	as	you	daydream	about	the	
call	you’ll	soon	be	receiving	for	an	interview.	Think	
you	can	relax?	Think	again.	Support	all	that	hard	
work	by	following	through	with	an	additional	step.	If	
you	really,	truly	want	the	job,	continue	to	show	your	
interest	after	you	have	sent	your	application.
If	you	have	submitted	your	application	materials	
directly	to	someone	in	the	company	or	to	the	
company’s	HR	department,	place	a	phone	call	or	send	
an	email	to	reiterate	your	desire	to	learn	more	about	
the	position.	Don’t	become	a	nuisance,	but	do	be	
persistent.	Use	the	opportunity	to	present	your	basic	
qualifications	and	affirm	your	interest	in	the	company.
119WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
In	the	latter	script,	the	candidate	leaves	a	brief	
message	with	some	information	on	his	background	
so	the	associate	or	recruiter	will	remember	seeing	the	
resume.	He	is	specific	about	his	plans	to	call	back	on	
Friday,	which	gives	him	an	opportunity	to	inform	
John	Smith	that	he	followed	up	on	his	request.
If	you’ve	left	three	messages	and	all	have	been	
ignored,	you	may	want	to	send	your	resume	to	
someone	else	at	the	organization	and	try	the	process	
again.	Many	firms	communicate	primarily	through	
voice	mail,	although	you	might	have	luck	using	
email	or	even	leaving	a	good	old-fashioned	message	
with	the	receptionist.	Tailor	your	approach	to	what	
you’ve	learned	about	how	that	particular	company	
communicates.
If you need guidance on what to say, try adapting 
one of these scripts:
“This is Kelly Purcell.	I	sent	you	an	
application	for	the	EMT	position	a	few	days	ago	
and	am	following	up	to	provide	any	additional	
information	you	may	want.	If	you’re	available	
to	discuss	my	qualifications	at	greater	length,	
I	would	like	to	schedule	an	interview.	I	can	be	
reached	today	at	555-444-5555.	On	Thursday	
and	Friday,	it’s	best	to	call	my	cell	phone,	555-
657-6699.	I’m	looking	forward	to	speaking		
with	you	directly.”
OR  
 “This is Merrill Morgan	calling	on	
Wednesday.	I’m	an	MBA	candidate	from	Fuqua	
with	experience	in	the	M&A	group	at	UBS.	
At	John	Smith’s	request,	I	sent	my	resume	to	
you	on	Monday.	I	would	like	to	schedule	an	
interview	and	will	call	you	on	Friday	to	discuss	
my	qualifications.”
120 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
do You need a 
PortfolIo?
A portfolio is comprised	of	examples	of	your	
work	that	support	the	achievements	you	cited	in	your	
resume.	Once	used	by	chiefly	by	artists	or	educators	
to	show	samples	of	their	work,	the	portfolio	is	often	
valuable	to	many	job	applicants,	especially	those	
aiming	for	positions	in	writing,	marketing,	advertising,	
and	other	creative	fields.	Your	portfolio	could	contain	
articles	by	or	about	you,	writing	samples,	samples	
of	products	you’ve	created	(including	brochures,	
printouts	of	Web	pages,	business	plans,	and	graphical	
charts),	awards	or	commendations,	or	school	papers	or	
transcripts	(for	current	or	recent	students).
In	all	likelihood,	you	won’t	be	asked	to	submit	
a	portfolio	with	your	job	application.	However,	
a	portfolio	can	be	a	very	effective	tool	during	an	
interview—it	validates	the	experiences	and	skills	you	
want	to	demonstrate	to	the	prospective	employer.	If	
you	want	to	work	in	a	field	that	routinely	requests	a	
portfolio	of	work,	though,	consider	creating	a	personal	
website	to	display	the	contents	of	your	portfolio.	
Include	the	URL	of	your	portfolio	in	the	headings	of	
your	resume	and	cover	letter.
PrePare Your 
30-second 
sPIel
The best way to	prepare	for	the	first	interview	is	
to	know	your	resume	extremely	well.	Develop	and	
practice	a	20-	to	30-second	pitch	that	summarizes	
your	experience	and	major	achievements.	You	can	
base	this	presentation	on	your	objective	statements	
or	professional	summary/profile.	You	will	use	it	
countless	times	to	introduce	yourself	on	the	phone,	
in	making	network	contacts,	or	in	an	interview	when	
the	interviewer	has	not	had	a	chance	to	review	your	
qualifications.	Preparing	your	pitch	will	help	you	
articulate	the	items	listed	on	your	resume.	You	should	
be	able	to	describe	points	on	your	resume	in	a	clear,	
concise,	and	convincing	manner.
121WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
jOb HOPPINg
If	you’ve	been	at	several	companies	in	just	a	few	years,	
or	never	stayed	at	one	company	longer	than	a	year	
or	two,	you	risk	being	perceived	as	a	job	hopper.	
Your	resume	reader	may	wonder	whether	you’ve	
been	fired	for	poor	performance.	Frequent	career	
changes	sometimes	indicate	that	a	person	has	difficulty	
sticking	with	a	situation,	working	through	problems,	
or	committing	to	a	job.	Many	employers	look	for	
people	who	want	to	stay	around	for	a	while—after	all,	
employee	turnover	is	costly	in	real	dollars	because	of	
time	spent	in	the	search	and	the	loss	of	operational	
knowledge.	However,	in	today’s	job	market,	resume	
readers	are	more	accustomed	to	encountering	
resumes	with	work	histories	showing	several	different	
employers.	If	you	can	clearly	articulate	how	each	job	
has	contributed	to	your	professional	development	and	
if	you	can	produce	strong	references,	you	should	have	
no	problem	addressing	any	negative	perceptions.
HOmETOWN HIrEs
If	you’ve	spent	most	of	your	academic	and	professional	
life	in	Boston,	an	employer	may	question	your	sudden	
interest	in	joining	the	Chicago	office	of	a	firm.	
Consider	writing	about	your	goals	or	perspectives	on	
relocating	in	your	cover	letter;	this	can	be	addressed	
with	the	“why	you	chose	them”	paragraph	(discussed	
in	the	“Writing	a	Tasty	Cover	Letter”	chapter). Be	
aware	that	an	employer	who	is	thinking	about	flying	
you	out	for	an	interview	will	probably	grill	you	by	
phone	before	ponying	up	the	funds	to	pay	for	you	to	
come	out	for	a	face-to-face	interview.
antIcIPate 
Your 
IntervIeWer’s 
questIons
While recruiters and hiring	managers	may	be	
impressed	with	the	assets	listed	in	your	resume,	they	
will	search	for	potential	red	flags	to	probe	during	the	
first	interview.	In	particular,	they	will	look	for	gaps	
in	qualifications	or	employment	inconsistencies,	
and	may	even	formulate	questions	directed	at	
resume	weaknesses.	Read	your	resume	with	a	critical	
eye,	looking	for	things	that	might	appear	odd	or	
incongruent—for	example,	position	titles	that	don’t	
seem	to	correspond	to	the	duties	listed	or	a	series	
of	positions	that	decrease	(rather	than	increase)	in	
responsibility.	Be	prepared	to	address	these	issues	
should	you	get	an	interview.
TImE gaPs
One	reason	recruiters	and	hiring	managers	like	
chronological	resumes	is	that	they	want	to	know	
whether	a	candidate	took	time	off	between	school	
years	or	jobs.	Be	prepared	to	explain	any	lapses	
between	jobs	or	between	your	sophomore	and	junior	
year,	for	example.	If	you	traveled,	have	ready	an	
explanation,	or	anecdotes,	that	describe	something	you	
learned	during	that	time.	If	you	took	time	off	to	have	
a	baby	or	resolve	a	personal	issue,	you’ll	probably	need	
to	supply	that	information	to	the	hiring	manager.	It’s	
usually	best	not	to	go	into	a	lot	of	personal	detail—
insiders	tell	us	this	is	a	warning	sign,	especially	in	the	
cover	letter	or	first	interview.	But	be	clear	and	focus	on	
what	you	accomplished	during	that	time.	Employers	
want	to	be	sure	you	can	handle	intellectual	rigor,	jobs	
with	increasing	responsibility,	and	balancing	your	
personal	and	professional	pursuits.
122 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
The	thank-you	letter	is	another	tool	you	can	use	to	
add	extra	oomph	to	your	candidacy.	Short	and	sweet,	
this	note	shows	gratitude	for	the	time	the	employer	
has	taken	to	review	your	qualifications,	and	it’s	an	
opportunity	to	demonstrate	(again)	that	you’re	clearer	
than	ever	in	your	understanding	of	the	fit	between	
the	position	and	your	qualifications	and	goals.	The	
thank-you	letter	has	a	bonus	function,	too:	It	gives	
you	a	final	opportunity	to	address	any	weakness	or	
clarify	any	misunderstanding	that	may	have	occurred	
in	the	interview	process.	The	sample	thank-you	letter	
we’ve	included	mentions	specifics	of	the	meeting,	
shows	appreciation,	and	reminds	the	employer	of	the	
candidate’s	strengths.	Here’s	a	sample	of	an	emailed	
thank	you	letter	that	you	can	use	to	model	one	of	
your	own:
WrIte those 
thank-You 
letters!
Say that all your	hard	work,	your	customized	
cover	letter,	and	tailored	resume	have	led	to	a	
meeting	with	an	employer.	Your	research	into	the	
company	and	your	own	background	helped	you	
have	a	smooth	and	convincing	interview.	Or	maybe	
the	interview	went	pretty	well,	but	there	were	a	few	
points	you	wish	you	had	covered	or	stated	differently.	
(We’ve	all	been	there!)
123WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
RE: Coordinator, Member Services – 2/26 Interview 
February 27, 2007
Janet Lewis, Executive Director New York Global 
Dear Janet, 
I genuinely enjoyed meeting with you yesterday and learning more 
about New York Global and the clients you serve. I believe strongly that 
helping immigrants utilize their skills and training in a well-matched work 
environment is beneficial for both the individuals and the U.S. employers 
who hire them. I find the goals of your organization, in offering both direct 
services and advocacy on the issue of workforce diversity, admirable. 
I was glad to be able to answer some of your questions regarding my 
background, approach to client services, and career goals. After our 
discussion, I continue to be eager to support the mission of New York 
Global and believe I could make a significant contribution as Coordinator of 
Member Services. In particular, my prior experience creating and delivering 
workforce diversity trainings and resources, along with my knowledge of local 
employers (developed through professional experience and through personal 
contacts as a native New Yorker) could serve your organization as you seek 
to build and strengthen client programming and outreach. 
Please let me know if you have further questions, would like more 
information, or would like a list of my professional references. Feel free to 
contact me at your convenience via email or telephone at (212) 555-1212. I 
look forward to hearing from you. 
Sincerely, 
Rachel Hertz, M.A. 
rachelhertz@hotmail.com 

For Your  
Reference
10
Recommended Resources ......... 126
Books ....................................... 127 
Surveys ..................................... 127
126 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
•		 NewsDirectory.com	or	Bizjournals	(www.
bizjournals.com)	can	help	you	in	your	search	for	
current	information	on	companies,	organizations,	
and	industry	news.
 
rEsEarcHINg THE POsITION
•		 The	Occupational Outlook Handbook	from	the	
Bureau	of	Labor	Statistics	contains	valuable	
information	on	occupational	paths.	Learn	about	
qualifications,	trends,	and	related	occupations	at	
www.bls.gov/oco/.
•		 Salary.com	features	searchable	salary	information	
by	career	categories	and	by	location.	Use	this	
information	to	research	and	respond	to	salary	
expectation	questions.
•		 WetFeet’s	Real	People	Profiles	provide	a	
glimpse	of	what	it’s	like	to	work	in	a	variety	of	
industries,	from	accounting	to	venture	capital	
(www.wetfeet.com).
•		 Job	market	and	hiring	trend	information	from	
NACE	(National	Association	of	Colleges	and	
Employers)	can	keep	you	up	to	date	on	your	job	
search	(www.jobweb.com).
INDusTrIEs aND FIElDs
•		 The	U.S.	Department	of	Labor’s	America’s	Career	
InfoNet	can	give	you	a	sense	of	the	bigger	picture	
on	wages	and	employment	trends	(www.acinet.
org/acinet/).
•		 The	Bureau	of	Labor	Statistics	provides	its	Career 
Guide to Industries	at	www.bls.gov/oco/cg/.
•		 Search	information	on	associations	in	almost	
every	field	or	industry	via	online	directories:	
ASAE	and	the	Center	for	Association	
Leadership	(www.asaenet.org/GeneralDetail.
cfm?ItemNumber=1796)	and	the	Internet	Public	
Library’s	database	of	Associations	on	the	Net	
(www.ipl.org/div/aon).
recommended 
resources
The resources that follow	represent	some	of	the	
best	tools	in	developing	job	search	materials.	They	
correspond	to	suggestions	we’ve	made	in	this	guide	
about	preparation	through	research,	and	also	provide	
access	to	more	resume	and	cover	letter	information	
and	samples.	However,	be	aware	that	this	is	but	a	small	
sampling	of	the	information	that’s	available	to	help	
you	effectively	develop	killer	cover	letters	and	resumes.	
So	use	the	following	as	a	jumping-off	point	in	your	
research	endeavors	and	feel	free	to	explore	the	vast	
array	of	information	that’s	out	there	on	this	topic.
rEsumEs aND lETTErs
•		 Get	resume	feedback	from	a	career	or	resume	
adviser.	Most	university	career	centers	offer	free	
resume	consultations	or	workshops	for	students,	
and	for	alumni	at	a	nominal	fee.
•		 Check	out	WetFeet’s	website	for	resume	advice	at	
www.wetfeet.com.
•		 Have	a	look	at	the	Riley	Guide,	which	comprises	
an	extensive	compilation	of	links	to	information	
on	writing	resumes	and	cover	letters,	as	well	
as	other	useful	job	search	information	(www.
rileyguide.com).
rEsEarcHINg EmPlOyErs
•		 Use	Google	or	another	Internet	search	engine	to	
find	a	company	or	organization’s	website	(www.
google.com).
•		 WetFeet	Company	Profiles	give	unvarnished	
insider	information	on	top	companies,	including	
key	indicators	for	success	such	as	annual	revenue,	
employee	hiring	numbers,	and	latest	trends	(www.
wetfeet.com).
127WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
D
Ig
ITa
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
a
 Ta
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
O
N
 y
O
u
r
  
m
a
r
K
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
 
a
T
 a
 g
l
a
N
c
E
WetFeet Insider Guides
WetFeet’s	Insider	Guides	give	you	real	insight	into	the	
industries	and	employers	that	interest	you	most.	Check	
out	the	additional	titles	available	at	www.wetfeet.com	
to	assist	you	with	your	job	search.	You’ll	find	guides	
that	focus	on	everything	from	how	to	network	and	ace	
your	interviews	to	negotiate	a	good	salary.
e-Resumes: Everything You Need to Know 
About Using Electronic Resumes to Tap into 
Today’s Hot Job Market
Covers	all	forms	of	electronic	resumes	and	explains	
their	uses,	strengths,	and	weaknesses.
Susan Britton Whitcomb and Pat Kendall (McGraw-Hill)
surveYs
Here’s more information about	the	two	surveys	
cited	in	this	book:
ResumeDoctor.com	provides	expert	advice	
to	job	seekers,	employers,	and	members	of	the	
media.	ResumeDoctor.com	is	a	subsidiary	of	
Personal	Department	Inc.	(PDI),	Vermont’s	largest	
independently	owned	staffing	agency.
Since	1956,	the	National Association of Colleges 
and Employers	(NACE)	has	been	the	leading	source	
of	information	about	the	employment	of	college	
graduates. The	Job Outlook 2007	report	forecasts	the	
hiring	intentions	of	employers	and	examines	other	
issues	related	to	the	employment	of	new	college	
graduates.	For	more	information,	check	out	www.
naceweb.com.
•		 Associations	often	have	useful	industry	and	
career	path	information	on	their	websites,	and	
contacting	members	can	be	a	great	way	to	
network—one	of	the	best	sources	of	insider	
information	for	your	job	search.
Books
Your Rights in the Workplace
This	book	does	a	good	job	of	informing	readers	about	
their	rights	and	responsibilities	as	future	employees.
Barbara Kate Repa (Nolo Press)
Gallery of Best Cover Letters: A Collection 
of Quality Cover Letters by Professional 
Resume Writers
This	provides	valuable	cover	letter	samples	across	a	
wide	spectrum	of	industries,	and	with	a	wide	variety	
of	styles.
David Noble (JIST Works)
Best Resumes for College Students and New 
Grads: Jump-Start Your Career
Offers	resume	samples	for	diverse	college	majors	and	
employment	situations.
Louise M. Kursmark (JIST Works)
Skillstalking
Lists	hundreds	of	skills	to	incorporate	into	your	job	
search	documents.
Dick Gaither (Job Search Training System)
128 WETFEET INSIDER GUIDE
D
Ig
IT
a
l
 
D
E
l
Iv
E
r
y
g
r
E
a
T
  
r
E
s
E
a
r
c
H
r
E
s
u
m
E
 T
O
 
IN
T
E
r
v
IE
W
F
O
r
 y
O
u
r
 
r
E
F
E
r
E
N
c
E
r
E
c
IP
E
 F
O
r
 
s
u
c
c
E
s
s
3
0
 s
E
c
O
N
D
s
 
T
O
 s
a
T
Is
F
y
a
 T
a
s
T
y
  
c
O
v
E
r
 
l
E
T
T
E
r
W
r
IT
IN
g
 &
 
FO
r
m
a
T
T
IN
g
O
N
 y
O
u
r
 
m
a
r
K
 a
T
 a
 
g
l
a
N
c
E
acE yOur casE - cONsulTINg INTErvIEWs
Ace Your Case® I: Consulting Interviews, 3rd ed. 
Ace Your Case® II: Mastering the Case Interview
Ace Your Case® III: Market-Sizing Questions 
Ace Your Case® IV: Business Operations Questions 
Ace Your Case® V: Business Strategy Questions
INTErvIEWINg
Ace Your Interview! 
Beat the Street® I: Investment Banking Interviews
Beat the Street® II: I-Banking Interview Practice Guide
The Wharton MBA Case Interview Study Guide: Volume I
The Wharton MBA Case Interview Study Guide: Volume II
rEsumEs & cOvEr lETTErs
Killer Consulting Resumes
Killer Cover Letters & Resumes
Killer Investment Banking Resumes
jOb HuNTINg
Getting Your Ideal Internship
The International MBA Student’s Guide to the U.S. Job Search
Job Hunting A to Z: Landing the Job You Want
Job Hunting in New York City
Job Hunting in San Francisco
FINaNcIal sErvIcEs carEErs
25 Top Financial Services Firms
Careers in Accounting
Careers in Asset Management and Retail Brokerage
Careers in Investment Banking
Careers in Venture Capital
FINaNcIal sErvIcEs cOmPaNIEs
Deutsche Bank
Goldman Sachs Group
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Merrill Lynch & Co.
Morgan Stanley
UBS AG
cONsulTINg carEErs
25 Top Consulting Firms
Careers in Management Consulting
Careers in Specialized Consulting: Information Technology
Consulting for PhDs, Lawyers, and Doctors
cONsulTINg cOmPaNIEs
Accenture
Bain & Company
Booz Allen Hamilton
Boston Consulting Group
Deloitte Consulting
McKinsey & Company
carEEr maNagEmENT
Be Your Own Boss
Changing Course, Changing Careers
Finding the Right Career Path
Negotiating Your Salary and Perks 
Networking Works!
INDusTrIEs aND carEErs: gENEral
Industries and Careers for Engineers
Industries and Careers for MBAs
Industries and Careers for Undergraduates
Million-Dollar Careers
INDusTrIEs aND carEErs: sPEcIFIc
Careers in Advertising and Public Relations 
Careers in Pharmaceuticals
Careers in Brand Management
Careers in Consumer Products
Careers in Entertainment and Sports
Careers in Health Care
Careers in Human Resources
Careers in Information Technology
Careers in Marketing
Careers in Nonprofits and Government Agencies
Careers in Real Estate
Careers in Retail
Careers in Sales
Careers in Supply Chain Management
Wetfeet InsIder GuIdes serIes
Killer Cover Letters and Resumes



Turn To This WeTFeeT  
insider Guide To learn