Résumé and Cover Letter Writing

15 seconds to capture the reader's attention. Key words. . . accomplishments. . . impact and results. That's the stuff that résumés are made of. Your résumé needs to convey your skills and expertise – the value you bring to the position to which you're applying – quickly, efficiently, and with impact.

Are you getting the visibility you deserve?

My résumé writing process includes:
• a thorough interview to identify your skills and accomplishments
• research on your target occupation(s), industries, and companies
• recommendation on most marketable format and style
• identification of occupational and industry key words
• the application of nationally-recognized guidelines and trends

A Few Words about Accomplishments
Depending on the scope of responsibility and occupational level of the position, as well as the industry, you may want to highlight and bring attention to different skills. This is particularly true for career changers who are re-positioning their skills for a new career path or in a new industry. In each example below, several skills shine. And, depending on what you want to highlight (i.e., what's most relevant to the position), there are numerous ways to communicate the same information using distinct action words (verbs).

Example 1:
• Directed and implemented innovative initiative to integrate art, education, and community development, raising $100K to support new program.
• Raised $100K and generated extensive media coverage for innovative initiative integrating art, education, and community development.

Example 2:
• Spearheaded new initiative to strengthen partnerships with foundations and led major donor campaign. Results: $250K in new revenue.
• Led major donor campaign and strengthened foundation partnerships, resulting in $250K in new revenue.

Example 3:
• Led and executed niche marketing strategy to gain media attention, resulting in 20% increase in program attendance and12% increase in membership.
• Redesigned marketing strategy, gaining 20% increase in program attendance and 12% increase in membership.
• Generated 20% increase in program attendance and 12% increase in membership by designing and leading implementation of niche marketing strategy.

Cover Letters

Cover letters are a critical part of your job search. They complement your résumé and allow you to customize your presentation to each position and company. Check out one of the most effective, most innovative, and most compelling examples I've ever seen: http://jasonzimdars.com/svn.

Jason (see above link) simply used these guidelines to communicate: You (the company) are the best. You deserve the best. I'm that guy!

Three guidelines to create impact and encourage the recipient to read everything – and contact you!
1. Make a compelling connection – show that you know their business, mission, goals by referring to products, services, customers, industry challenges, or trends.
2. Build a bridge – demonstrate how your skills and expertise are directly relevant to the position and a fit for their needs.
3. Create an enthusiastic closing – include a brief statement of motivation/enthusiasm and express your desire for an interview.

Does your résumé need a makeover?
Do your cover letters grab the reader's attention?
Contact me for a free résumé review or to schedule an appointment.