My Iona

Résumés & Cover Letters

A résumé is a brief written account of your personal, educational and professional qualifications and experience. Résumés are your own personal “marketing tool” designed to grab and attract the attention of potential employers. A résumé should interest an employer in getting to know more about the product (you)!

To get started:

  • Make a list of your accomplishments, skills, and interests
  • Use action verbs to begin each bullet point
  • As you participate in new experiences, be sure to add them to your resume

A cover letter should reflect yourself and should go hand in hand with your resume. Your resume is a running list of your experiences and accomplishments, while your cover letter elaborates on those experiences and should align with the position you are applying for.

Tips for a cover letter:

  • Thoroughly read the job description for the position you are applying for. You want to use keywords in your cover letter that can be found in the description.
  • Avoid addressing your letter as “To Whom It May Concern." Your letter should be addressed to a specific person if you cannot find a specific name, do some research on the company’s website.
  • Keep your letter short. It should be no more than 3-4 paragraphs.
  • Be confident and show your strongest skills!

Have questions about resumes and cover letters? Meet with a Career Coach and check out our handouts in Handshake for more information!

Meet with a Career Coach

Resources in Handshake