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Applying for a Job
Resumes and application forms. Resumes and application forms are two ways to provide employers with written evidence of your skills and knowledge. Most information is common to both the resume and application form, but the way the information is presented differs. Some employers prefer a resume while others require an application form.
What Goes Into a Resume
A resume summarizes your qualifications and employment history. It usually is required when applying for managerial, administrative, professional, or technical positions. Although there is no set format, a resume should contain the following information:
- Name, address, and telephone number.
- Employment objective. State the type of work or specific job you are seeking.
- Education, including school name and address, dates of attendance, curriculum, and highest grade completed or degree awarded.
- Experience, paid or volunteer. Include the following for each job: Job title, name and address of employer, and dates of employment. Describe your job duties.
- Special skills, knowledge of machinery, proficiency in foreign languages, honors received, awards, or membership in organizations.
- Note on your resume that "references are available upon request."
There are many ways of organizing a resume. Depending upon the job you are applying for, you should choose the format that best highlights your skills, training, and experience. It may be helpful to look at different examples. Examples can be found in a variety of books and publications available through public libraries or career guidance centers. Also, ask someone to read your resume and suggest ways to improve it.
In completing an application form, make sure you fill it out properly and follow all instructions. In general, the same type of information is included on an application form as in a resume. Don't omit any information asked for and be sure to check that all information provided is correct.
Cover letters. A cover letter should be sent with a resume or application form, as a way to introduce yourself to employers. It should capture the employer's attention, follow a business letter format, and should generally include the following information:
- The name and address of the specific person to whom the letter is addressed
- The reason for your interest in the company or position
- Your main qualifications for the position (in brief)
- A request for an interview
- Your phone number
Interviewing. An interview gives you the best opportunity to show an employer your qualifications, so it pays to be well prepared. Each interview is different, however. The box below provides some helpful information.
Howard N Fullerton, Jr
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Pilot_M@bls.gov
Last modified: March 4, 1996
URL: http://stats.bls.gov/oco/oco20042.htm
Cite: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 1996-97, UM-St. Louis Libraries Edition, derived and modified by Raleigh Muns July 20, 1996, from http://stats.bls.gov/ocohome.htm
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