Employment Communication- Resumes and Cover letters

Dr. Smita Choudhary

Unit Outline

Types of resumes Components of resumes Language and other guidelines for resumes Types of job application letters Format for job application letters Other letters regarding employment

General Guidelines for Resumes

Focus on future Focus on employer needs Project your personality and strengths Create good first impression Create opportunity for interview

Types of Resumes

1. Chronological format Qualifications and experience in reverse chronological order Education and experience related to position applied for 2. Functional format Experience is varied Experience summarized area wise

Resume Components

Name , address, contact details Career objective Education- college major, degree, name of institution , date of graduation Experience-Designation, name of organization, dates of employment, job responsibilities Special aptitudes/skills Organizations and activities References

Guidelines for Writing Resume Components

Display name ,address, contact details in a prominent position Make career objective specificsummarize area of expertise and career interest Education- highlight special achievements

Experience- include limited experience , job descriptions Use achievement oriented words to describe experience References- seek permission before

Appearance of Resumes
Length- maximum two pages Short paragraphs and concise language Action words Good quality paper White space Easy-to-read typefaces No special effects Grammer, spelling & punctuation

Common Errors in Resume writing

Too long Typographical or grammatical errors No description of job functions Unprofessional appearance Omission of achievements

Job Application Letters

Covers major points in resume Can be solicited or unsolicited Should be a sales letter using techniques of persuasion Can be tailored to a specific position

Types of Job Application Letters 1. Solicited letters Applies for currently available/ advertised position Follows direct organizational plan Subject line with purpose Main idea first- seeking specific position Reasons for applying Friendly close

Types of Job Application Letters

2. Unsolicited letters Applies for position not currently available Can create job openings Saves time and advertising cost Follows indirect organizational/AIDA plan - Gain attention of potential employer - Create interest- relate qualifications to needs of specific position - Induce desire- convince potential employer of major strengths , provide evidence

Other Letters Regarding Employment 1. Recommendation letters- applicants suitability for specific position Relevant information Fairness Legal safeguards 2. Job acceptance letters- direct organizational plan 3. Job refusal letters- indirect organizational plan 4. Thank you letters- follow up after interview