Effective Resumes and Cover Letters Get Results

Effective Resumes and Cover Letters Get Results
http://blogs.polkvoice.com/default.asp?item=2204702

At the May meeting of the American Business Women's Association Lakeland Downtown Chapter, guest speaker Dr. Kella Price of the Price Consulting Group held a captive audience with suggestions for writing both resumes and the equally important cover letter. Here are just a few nuggets from that session.

Before you even begin writing or updating your resume, make sure you do your homework about the company or organization for which you are seeking employment. For example, find out what direction the company is taking. What is its mission? What is the company's culture?

Dr. Price shared the top three things every resume should include:
* Key words relevant to the position for which you are applying
* A cover letter
* Achievements (not just a laundry list of job responsibilities)

What should you leave out?
* Age
* Marital status
* Information about physical shortcomings
* Highlights of your weaknesses

When it comes to the cover letter, remember to tie their needs to your experience. Your first paragraph should state the position you are applying for and why you are the best candidate for the job. The next paragraphs should highlight your skills that match the job posting. If the job requirements focus on experience, highlight your experience first. If the requirements focus on education, then highlight your education first. Your last paragraph should summarize why you are the best person for the job and when you will follow up.

Dr. Price reminded everyone to proofread your resume and cover letter. Nothing gets you screened out faster than error-filled pages. If you are interested in professional development programs like this, visit www.lakelandabwa.com for meeting and event information. Lakeland Downtown ABWA would love to have you join us for networking and professional growth.