New Phrases and Vocabulary:
- Tailor:To modify something to make it suitable for a particular purpose.
- Relevant:Related to or connected with something.
- Highlight:To make something prominent or noticeable.
- Quantify:To express something in terms of quantity.
- Keyword:A word that is important in a particular context.
Exercises:
- Identify the keywords in the job description. What skills and experience is the employer looking for?
- Highlight your relevant skills and experience in your resume and cover letter. Use the keywords from the job description to make your resume and cover letter more relevant to the employer.
- Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. For example, instead of saying “increased sales,” say “increased sales by 15%.” This will help employers to see the impact of your work.
Example:
Job description:
We are looking for a Software Engineer with experience in developing and maintaining web applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of Java, JavaScript, and HTML/CSS.
Resume:
Software Engineer with 3 years of experience in developing and maintaining web applications. Proven track record of meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. Proficient in Java, JavaScript, and HTML/CSS.
Cover letter:
I am writing to express my interest in the Software Engineer position at [Company name]. I have 3 years of experience as a Software Engineer at [Previous company name], where I was responsible for developing and maintaining web applications. I have a proven track record of meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. I am also proficient in Java, JavaScript, and HTML/CSS.
In my previous role, I was responsible for developing a new web application that has been downloaded over 1 million times. I also led a team of 5 engineers in the development of a new mobile app that has been praised by users for its ease of use and intuitive design.
I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to be successful in the Software Engineer position at [Company name]. I am eager to learn more about the position and how I can contribute to your team’s success.
Tips:
- Be Specific. Don’t just say that you are a “hard worker” or that you have “excellent communication skills.” Provide specific examples of your skills and experience.
- Be Honest. Don’t exaggerate your skills or experience.
- Be Concise. Your resume should be one or two pages long, and your cover letter should be one page long.
- Proofread Carefully. Make sure there are no errors in grammar or spelling.
By following these tips, you can tailor your resume and cover letter to specific job openings and increase your chances of getting an interview.