What should a resume look like? This question has brought anguish to many searching for a job. This is especially true in the present environment of high unemployment. We hope to help alleviate any concerns you may have on how to type a resume. A resume is a summary of your job experience according to the actual job being applied for. Many make the mistake of sending a mass produced resume regardless of the job being offered. A professional resume will have a high content of active verbs. An example is making reference to your ‘team building’ experience. A good resume will also include an introductory cover letter.

The resume is what gets you in door. It is what it takes to get the call for an interview. Many perspective employers like to see how well the candidate has done at working with others. Working closely with people daily can tax one’s diplomatic skills. An employer wants to see how you deliver under stressful or trying circumstances. This is one of many skillsets that can be offered to your potential employer.

In addition to experience relevant to the job you are seeking a resume that contains pertinent education information. Any kind of business education will be of help. If you have the ability to deal with numbers, for example, you may be called to work with the books. Management skills can be gained through business management classes and political science courses. You may have skills in typing or writing. English classes are some key points that you may want to hit upon.

Now for the big question. What is a cover sheet for a resume? The cover sheet or cover letter is possibly the most important part of a resume. You can leave a good impression with a quality cover letter. It is the first thing the employer will see. It is a way to set yourself apart from the others. A cover letter consists of three basic parts. Those three parts include the header, main body (two to three paragraphs) and conclusion. We touch on the basics of the cover sheet here. More details are to come.

The header should include your name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number and email address. Follow this with the date after single spacing. Single space again and include the employer name (if you have one), title, company, address, city, state, and zip code. Single space and then include the salutation if you know the person’s name. If not leave it out.

The main body should include the job position you are seeking and who referred you if you have a name to drop. Follow this with what you have to offer the company. They have no interest in what you want at this point. Stick with what they want and how you can help them. This is the moment where you will explain your resume’s content not repeat it. This is a good way to let them know what you have to offer the company.

In conclusion you will want to thank them for considering you and let them know how you plan to follow up. I will be writing soon on how to write a thank you and follow up letter.

It has been said that you can’t make a second first impression. Follow your resume with confidence in the interview and you should do well. Most important, don’t take it personally if you don’t get the job. Use the experience as a spring board to a successful next interview.

Author's Bio: 

David believes that quality of life with good health through weight loss is most important. He investigates and writes on these subjects at dietreviewsreview.com.