English 421: Technical Writing

Based on your cover letters and resumes thus far, I believe that the following information will be key in the revision process.

Below, please find some resume and cover letter writing resources:

Statements to Avoid on Your Cover Letter:

• When I saw you announcment for a skilled laborer at Cudjoe Key, I made writing this letter my first priority. Of course, I've already applied online. But, the more I thought about this opportunity, the more it seemed a perfect match for both of us. And so I wanted you to have a good deal more than the usual, impersonal, application to show you how great I am.
• I can really improve your sagging company and pull your dismal sales out of the gutter. Plus, I can redesign your crappy website.
• I'm going to get a lot of experience when I use your company as a stepping stone on to bigger and better things.
• Even though my last boss really sucked, I managed to be a great employee anyways.
• I don't have any experience at all in your field, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.
• I'm not a great worker, but I do think outside the box and show my street smarts.

Good resume job descriptions are specific and target skills listed in the job ad. Here are a few from "Best Resumes for College Students and New Grads":

• Served as company chairperson for American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, securing 27% employee participation in event
• Tired newly hired stylists in cutting and coloring techniques
• Designed business website including navigation strategies, logos, graphics, iconcs, and routing
• Conducted DNA analysis using PCR and 3D gel Electophoresis
• Closed restuarant nightly, recording deposits of up to $4,000
• Enforce school policies and mediate conflict issues for 63 residents
• Provided detailled written weekly progress reports to accounting, research, and management personnel
• Organized company food drive that solicited 560 canned items for local food bank
• Determined placement and promotion of Point of Purchase displays to attact customer attention
• Increased sales 23% by implementing print-based advertising campaign within local Greek organizations
• Directed all calls on 6-line phone to appropriate recipient within 30 seconds
• Organize sales floor to ensure clean and orderly appearance
• Operate pumps, engines, and other heavy equipment
• Maintained 400 entries in Microsoft Access customer database
• Performed quality control tests on all apples according to Washington State Produce regulations

Some good action verbs for use in your Job Application Project materials:

• Verbs Galore!