Posted on April 18, 2013 with No Comments
Choosing the content for a resume can be difficult beside sections such as your name and contact information, “Education” and some form of “Relevant Experience”. A section to consider including is “Relevant Coursework” for the following reasons:
Listing rigorous classes under “Relevant Coursework” can exhibit traits such as “hardworking”, “determination, “strong work ethic” and many more that cannot be explicitly stated in a resume. Relevant Coursework describes the knowledge and extent of technical skills. Another use of this section includes filler; if you cannot quite fill up one full page for a resume, relevant coursework can help you get there.
Now, the mechanics of relevant coursework consist of formatting and placement/priority. There are two formatting options: list and bullet point. Choosing between the two is a matter of preference, but the bullet point format with two columns is usually preferred as it optimizes space and is easy to decipher. I would suggest listing between 4 to 8 relevant class titles, not course numbers since class numbers do not mean anything outside the University.
Placement or priority of a relevant coursework section should be taken seriously. The ideal location for Relevant Coursework is a separate section beneath Education or a subsection of Education, as it flows better between sections.
These are the most effective approaches for a Relevant Coursework section. I hope you feel prepared to incorporate your own Relevant Coursework section into your resume.
~Randall, Career Peer Advisor
Posted on March 11, 2013 with No Comments
Cindy Conquest, ‘10
Bachelor of Arts in Biology (Neurobiology), Bachelor of Arts Spanish
Recruiter/ Managing Director with Readak Educational Services
Working in HR, you must see a lot of resumes every day. What helps a candidate stand out?
Sometimes with resumes, less is more. I see resumes that resemble a wordy mockup of an autobiography. Candidates should be able to fit their relevant qualifications on a single, well-structured page. My company often hires for entry-level positions, so we know our applicants will generally be young and have limited experience. I’m looking for quality of experience over quantity. The best resumes are clear and concise. Keep in mind that relevant skills can come from a wide variety of experiences.
How do you suggest that students follow up on an application most effectively?
A short and sweet follow-up note is always good. Sometimes I am so swamped that I haven’t had a chance to review a particular application and a well-worded note from a candidate will draw my positive attention to that application. The follow-up is most effective right around a week after submittal. It is important to stay in touch with tact.
Once someone makes it to the interview stage, what can they do to seal the deal?
The age-old firm handshake test still rings true. Consistent eye contact shows self-confidence and honesty. Be well-poised and professional, yet amicable and approachable. Your words and anecdotes should show what they can contribute to the company. Have some well-worded questions of your own that follow up on the research you’ve done. Finally, a thank you note is always well appreciated.
What are some frequent mistakes that you see applicants making?
Typos in resumes/cover letters show lack of attention to the application process. E-mails shouldn’t be written in the same colloquial language that students would use to write to their peers. A red flag in the interview process is when an applicant walks in the door with questions that can easily be answered from our website. Do your research and nicely demonstrate your knowledge.
Want to learn more?
Attend Savvy Seniors Workshop: Job Countdown, Wed, March 13th, 4:15pm, L&L E-166 (With Special Guest Alison Keefe a Recruiter from Green Mountain Coffee Roasters!)
Attend Readak’s Information Session regarding positions as Traveling Teachers! Wed, March 13th, 6pm, L&L E-166
Tags: advice, alumni, Career, career path, Employers, etiquette, events, Experience, how to, job search, Jobs, On Campus Recruiting, photos, resume, Savvy Seniors, search, tips, your first job
Category: Dress to Impress, Employer Advice, Event, Interviewing, Job Searching, Uncategorized, resume
Posted on December 13, 2012 with No Comments
How long do employers look at your resume? 1 minute? 30 seconds? The answer is an average of 6 seconds. In order to maximize your potential in the allotted time, it is recommended that you personalize it to the reader. Employers read numerous resumes and if the information is not clearly connected to the job, they will skip your resume. The proper format and material is just the beginning of the process. Consider the following pointers:
- Error Free and Grammatically Correct Documents – A mistake in any application document risks the reader rejecting your candidacy for lack of attention to detail. Proofread your documents!
- Concise Writing Style – Employers prefer a writing style that utilizes action verbs and an active voice; passive writing is not recommended. Address the important points directly to keep the audience’s attention.
- Experience vs. Academics –Many employers look at Relevant Experience, which could permit excluding your GPA only if it is not required. However, if academics are emphasized then consider including honors, awards, GPA, etc. Technical skills are always desired for both experience and academics.
- Formatting – Organizational techniques such as Reverse Chronological Order, ordering by most recent to least recent, and consistency, maintaining the same format for all sections will give you an advantage. This will assist the reader to find key information and allow them to navigate your resume effortlessly. Formatting is key. An effective resume will draw the reader’s attention/interest in approximately 6 seconds.
- Include Hometown Address When Applying Locally- Applying near your hometown could provide an advantage due to locality.
- Honesty – Truthfully listing your experiences allows for easier conversation with an interviewer.
~ Randall, Career Peer Advisor
Tags: advice, Career, Employers, etiquette, how to, Jobs, photos, resume, tips
Category: Helpful Resources, Job Searching, Uncategorized, resume
Posted on October 18, 2012 with No Comments
You came to the Job Fair, talked to employers, dropped off resumes and collected some business cards. Now what?
- Follow up! Let employers know that you appreciated meeting them and express interest in their organization’s opportunities.
- Learn more! Explore the company’s website, follow the company on Linked-In and evaluate fit with your interests.
- Prepare for an Interview!
Still looking?
Catamount Job Link
Part Time Jobs & Internships
Information for Specific Career Fields
Internship Hop: Thursday, October 31st 1:30-4pm, L/L E-Building (Career Services)
The I-Hop is a Resource Fair to help you identify opportunities!
We’re here to support you:
Drop-ins: L/L E140, Monday – Thursday: 1-4pm
Davis Center Drop-ins: Rosa Parks Room, Tuesdays: 11am-1pm
~Kala
Tags: advice, Career, Employers, etiquette, events, Experience, how to, internship hop, internship search, Internships, Interviewing, Job Fair, job search, Jobs, Networking, On Campus Recruiting, photos, resume, search, tips
Category: Career Exploration, Catamount Job Link, Dress to Impress, Employer Advice, Event, Helpful Resources, Internships, Job Searching, Networking, On-Campus Interviews, Uncategorized, resume
Posted on April 12, 2012 with No Comments
Commencement is just six weeks away! If you don’t already know what you are doing and how to get there, here are some tips and advice to get you going.
Not Sure what you Want to Do?
You’re not alone!
What can you do today to prepare for tomorrow?
Take one small step towards your goals!
More Great Advice!
100 Blog Posts Every College Senior Should Read
Quint Careers: Job Search Advice for College Seniors: Job Hunting in Times of Uncertainty
Linked In Founder Shares Advice: Take Intelligent Risks
6 Tips for Success all College Seniors Should Know
~Kala
Tags: advice, Career, career connection, career path, Catamount Job Link, how to, Interviewing, job search, Jobs, Networking, online identity, photos, resume, Savvy Seniors, search, social media, tips, your first job
Category: Career Exploration, Dress to Impress, Helpful Resources, Job Searching, Networking, Uncategorized, online identity, resume, social media
