Resumes Packet

Career & Professional Development Center DIVISION OF ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT AND STUDENT EXPPERIENCE

RESUME SKILLS GUIDELINE “Launching Hawks Towards Career Success”

THE RESUME HANDBOOK Welcome to the Workforce!

The American Job Market: A Land of Opportunity and Challenge The American job market is among the most dynamic and competitive in the world.

It’s where you showcase your skills, launch your career, pursue your passions, and—if prepared—achieve meaningful success.

YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING: “How big is the American job market?”

THE ANSWER: ENORMOUS—AND GROWING.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), total employment is projected to increase by 4.0% over the next three years, adding approximately 6.7 million jobs. Two major sectors will drive this growth: ·Healthcare and Social Assistance ·Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

This expansion sends a clear message to you as a new or soon-to-be college graduate:

1.You will face intense competition.

2.You must be prepared—for the challenge ahead.

Industry Employment Growth Outlook

Looking further ahead, from 2023 to This high-growth sector includes employers 2033, employment in Professional, offering specialized expertise in areas such Scientific, and Technical Services is as: expected to grow by 10.5%, more Accounting than twice the projected growth Scientific Research rate of 4.2% for all wage and salary Information Technology (IT) jobs.

Engineering and Consulting Services

Final Thought The American job market is more than a place to find employment—it’s a battleground of ideas, innovation, and ambition. To succeed, you’ll need more than a diploma. You'll need a strategy, resilience, and a mindset that's ready to adapt and evolve.

Welcome to the workforce—let the journey begin.

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KEY AREAS OF JOB GROWTH Healthcare and Social Assistance

WHY IT’S GROWING:

Aging population (more Americans aged 65+) Rise in chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease

WHAT THIS MEANS:

Increased demand for healthcare professionals and support services

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

WHY IT’S GROWING:

Accelerating demand for AI, data science, and consulting Businesses need specialized expertise for compliance, innovation, and digital transformation

Computer and Mathematical Occupations

WHY IT’S GROWING:

Rise in AI and automation Need for strong data infrastructure and cross-sector analytics

IN-DEMAND ROLES INCLUDE:

Software Developers Cybersecurity Analysts

Data Scientists Statisticians

Healthcare Occupations

WHY IT’S GROWING:

Team-based models of care Expansion of preventive care

IN-DEMAND ROLES INCLUDE:

Nurse Practitioners Physician Assistants

Medical Technologists

Community and Social Service Occupations

WHY IT’S GROWING:

Rising awareness of mental health needs Social challenges like addiction, housing insecurity, and

IN-DEMAND ROLES INCLUDE:

Substance Abuse Counselors Mental Health Professionals Family Therapists

family stressors

Implication for Job Seekers:

Whether you’re a student exploring your future or a professional contemplating a change, these industries offer not just job growth—but real opportunities for impact.

Careers at the intersection of technology, healthcare, and social services are shaping the future workforce.

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INTRODUCTION: NAVIGATING YOUR CAREER WITH A RESUME THAT WORKS FOR TODAY’S MARKET In today’s rapidly evolving job market—shaped by innovation, automation, and shifting workforce demands—standing out among a sea of applicants is more challenging than ever.

You may be asking: “How do I set myself apart from the competition?”

The Answer Preparation. Organization. Productivity.

These aren’t just buzzwords—they are essential qualities employers are actively seeking.

And the first place to showcase them is in your resume.

What This Handbook Offers: This Resume Handbook will walk you through how to create a resume that not only meets employer expectations—but helps you exceed them.

Whether you're: Entering the workforce Shifting career paths Aiming for your next promotion This guide will equip you with the tools, tips, and strategies to navigate your journey with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Your Resume Is More Than a List of Jobs—It’s Your Personal Marketing Tool.

It’s a reflection of your: Unique accomplishments Strong work ethic Proven results In today’s results-oriented market, your resume must clearly demonstrate: What you’ve achieved (not just what you were assigned) The results you delivered, ideally backed by numbers Your readiness to grow, especially in sectors like technology, healthcare, and professional services

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Introduction The job market is evolving rapidly—and so are employer expectations. As a result, today’s job seekers face more competition than ever before. You may be wondering: “How do I stand out among a sea of qualified candidates?” The answer lies in preparation—and more specifically, in developing a strategic plan that highlights your strengths through organization and productivity. These qualities are essential not only for workplace success but also for how you present yourself—beginning with your resume.

A well-crafted resume is your first and best opportunity to make a strong impression. Modern resumes must go beyond listing duties and responsibilities. They need to: Highlight key accomplishments Quantify results where possible Align your skills with what employers are seeking This Resume Handbook will guide you step-by-step in building a modern, effective resume. You’ll learn how to: Clearly communicate your value Showcase your unique strengths Navigate today’s job market with confidence and clarity

Start Here: Create a Resume Employers Will Read

Chronological Resume Style This is the most used and widely accepted resume format. It presents your work history in reverse chronological order—starting with your most recent position and working backward (typically covering the past 5–10 years).

Ideal for: Job seekers with steady work experience Candidates showing growth in a single field or career path Why it works: Easy for employers to follow Demonstrates career progression Preferred by applicant tracking systems (ATS)

Curriculum Vitae (CV) Style Used primarily for academic, research, or teaching roles, the CV places emphasis on subject-matter expertise, research, and professional contributions.

Typically includes: Dissertation or thesis summary List of publications (in print or in progress) Relevant coursework and teaching areas Academic and professional experience Professional affiliations Names and contact info for three or more references Note: References should be listed on a separate sheet.

Ideal for: Graduate students or Ph.D. candidates Applicants to faculty or research positions Positions requiring extensive academic qualifications

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REMEMBER: No single resume style works for every employer. A little research into the company and the role can go a long way in tailoring your resume for success.

The job market is evolving rapidly, and with it, the expectations of employers. As a result, the demands placed on job seekers are more competitive than ever. You might be asking yourself, “How do I stand out among a sea of qualified candidates?”

The answer lies in preparation—and more specifically, in developing a strategic plan that highlights your strengths through organization and productivity. These two qualities are not only essential to your success in the workplace but also crucial in the way you present yourself on paper.

A well-crafted resume is your first opportunity to demonstrate these attributes.

Today’s resumes must go beyond listing job duties. They need to showcase your achievements, quantify your impact, and align with what employers are actively seeking. This resume handbook is designed to guide you through the process of building a modern, effective resume. You’ll learn how to communicate your values clearly, highlight your unique accomplishments, and navigate your career with confidence in today’s dynamic job market.

First, Create a Resume that Employers Will Read!!!

First, create a Resume that Employers Will Read!!! The Chronological Resume Style is the most used and readily accepted form of presentation. It consists of a chronological listing of job titles and responsibilities, starting with the current or the most recent job, then working backward to your first job (or five years into the past). This format is good for demonstrating one's growth in a single profession. This approach is the easiest to follow and is often used by jobseekers with limited experience. The Curriculum Vitae Style is used by candidates who are applying for teaching positions in a college or university setting where the vitae can be used rather than a resume. The focus of this style is on knowledge of a subject area, academia, and/or professional experience in classroom teaching, research, publication, and professional activities. The vitae typically include a dissertation or thesis followed by a brief description of either or a list of publications in print or in progress; relevant course work (emphasis on teaching areas); work history; professional associations/memberships; and names and contact information for at least three professional references. Generate your reference list on a separate sheet. REMEMBER No one resume will please every employer, and a little research before you apply will be beneficial to your job search process.

If you need further assistance with deciding on a resume style, please stop in the Office of Career & Professional Development Center.

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RESUMES STYLES The Chronological Resume Style This resume style is the most used and readily accepted form of presentation. It consists of a chronological listing of job titles and responsibilities, starting with the current or the most recent job, then working backward to your first job (or five years into the past). This format is good for demonstrating growth in a single profession. This approach is the easiest to follow and is often used by jobseekers with limited experience.

The Curriculum Vitae Style Candidates who are applying for teaching positions in a college or university setting can prepare a curriculum vitae rather than a resume. The focus of this style is on knowledge of a subject area, academia, and/or professional experience in classroom teaching, research, publication, and professional activities.

The vitae typically include A dissertation or thesis followed by a brief description of either or a list of publications in print or in progress; relevant course work (emphasis on teaching areas); work history; professional associations/memberships; and names and contact information for at least three professional references. Generate your reference list on a separate sheet.

REMEMBER No resume will please every employer, and a little research before you apply will be beneficial to your job search process. If you need further assistance with deciding on a resume style, please stop in the Office of Career & Professional Development Center located in SSC-Suite 2158.

Your Resume Should: Provide a summary of your skills, education, experience, accomplishments, and career goals Act as a screening tool for employers to determine interview candidates Capture attention in 30 seconds or less—that’s how long you must make an impression!

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PURPOSE OF A RESUME

A resume is much more than a document—it's your first impression and your personal marketing tool. Its primary purpose is to help you secure an interview by quickly demonstrating your value to potential employers.

RESUME FORMATTING GUIDELINES

Layout & Structure

Use bullet points, not long paragraphs Keep to 1 page (unless experience is highly relevant) Use Microsoft Word to draft Submit your draft to the Career & Professional Development Center for feedback

Grammar & Language Use past tense for previous roles Avoid: Personal pronouns (I, we, me) Abbreviations and unexplained acronyms Slang or informal language

Font & Spacing Font: Times New Roman or Verdana Font Size: 10–12 pt Margins: 1" on all sides

Do NOT Include:

Social Security number Date of birth Photograph Marital status Supervisor names One-word job descriptions

References List references on a separate page Include full name, title, organization, phone number, and email

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PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY This section briefly highlights any expertise you may have in foreign languages, computer operation and programming, technical writing or other areas of excellence that have not been mentioned elsewhere.(e.g., foreign languages, computer programming, research abilities).

This section is optional but useful. It can include: Technical or language proficiency Computer operation and programming Research skills Writing, editing, or project development experience

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY & RESUME SKILLS LIST Use these action phrases to describe your experience and strengths: Supervising, managing, coordinating, planning, directing Conducting investigations, research, evaluation Organizing and interpreting data Preparing reports and recommendations

RESUME SKILLS LIST

Use these action-oriented phrases to demonstrate your academic, professional, and interpersonal strengths: Supervising, managing, coordinating, planning, and directing Conducting workshops and seminars Developing and implementing programs Conducting investigations Preparing recommendations and proposals Organizing and interpreting information or data Analyzing community/organizational needs Recruiting, training, and supervising staff Conducting research, evaluation, and outreach Preparing reports and correspondence Applying organizational and management principles Solving problems and providing critical insight Developing public relations materials Presenting clear written and oral reports

Working effectively under pressure Building strong working relationships Using interpersonal and human relations skills Managing information and planning curriculum or projects Ability to work under pressure Ability to give insight, perspective and critical understanding of situation Conducting research, investigation and evaluation Persuading and influencing others Performing staff and administrative services Investigating, analyzing, and solving problems Developing practical and logical reports Maintaining effective working relationships with others Flexibility, adaptability, and general ability to effectively deal with the unknown Manage information, develop and plan curriculum and project

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8 RESUME WRITING TIPS 01

MATCH YOUR EXPERIENCE TO THE JOB

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EDUCATION SECTION University Name Degree (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, May 2021) Minor (if any) GPA (Only include if 3.00 or above, e.g., 3.25/4.00)

Carefully review the job description.

Match your skills, internships, work, or volunteer experiences to what's required.

Header Format Centered at the top: YOUR NAME (ALL CAPS, Font Size 14) City, State ZIP Code Phone Number Email Address TECHNICAL SKILLS SECTION

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Examples: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) Criminal justice software Computer Science knowledge Medical/testing instruments

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EXPERIENCE SECTION

List experiences in reverse chronological order (most recent first).

Example: XXX Agency, Washington, D.C. 09/08/2021 – Present Intern Assisted supervisor with case notes preparation for weekly hearings.

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HIGHLIGHT TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

Mention: Research projects Relevant coursework (10 related courses) Study Abroad programs Certifications If you self-financed 75–100% of your education

05 PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY / SKILLS SECTION Quick list of your top skills.

Sample skills: Excellent customer service Attention to detail Digital technology Problem-solving

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VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Include name of organization, city, state, brief role or task, and the year.

Use bullet points for clarity.

ORGANIZATIONS/ACTIVITIES Example: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, 2021

Awards/Honors Example: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Scholarship, 2021

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"POWERHOUSE BUZZWORDS"

ACTION VERBS HOW TO USE THESE VERBS EFFECTIVELY

Start each bullet point in your resume with one of these verbs to: Show initiative Demonstrate results Emphasize skills that carry over to any job.

EXAMPLES OF STRONG RESUME BULLET POINTS USING ACTION VERBS Known for its tailored approach, the firm works with startups and mid-sized businesses across a wide range of industries.

Analyzed client needs to develop personalized case strategies, improving resolution time by 30%.

Organized community outreach events, resulting in a 25% increase in local engagement.

Trained three new employees on administrative systems and procedures, reducing onboarding time.

Created and implemented a filing system that improved document retrieval efficiency.

Directed a team of 5 interns during the summer program, achieving 100% project completion on time.

Resolved customer complaints effectively, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate.

Results The following action verbs are work skills that are transferable from position to position and should be utilized in your resume Accepted Achieved Adapted Adjusted Administered Advised Allocated Analyzed Anticipate Appraised Approved Arranged Assembled Assessed Assigned Assisted Balanced Budgeted

Classified Collected Communicated Compared Compiled Composed Computed Conceived Conceptualized Conducted Confronted Constructed Consulted Contracted Controlled Converted Created Critiqued

STRONG ACTION WORDS MATTER Try: Prepared and analyzed monthly budget reports, reducing discrepancies by 15%.

Delegated Demonstrated Detailed Determined Developed Devised Diagnosed Directed Discovered Displayed Dissected Distributed Doubled Drafted Dramatized Earned Edited Effected

Evaluated Expanded Experienced Experimented Explained Facilitated Financed Formed Formulated Founded Generated Governed Grouped Guided Handled Headed Imagined Implemented

Investigated Justified Led Made Maintained Managed Mapped Mastered Measured Negotiated Nominated Observed Operated Ordered Organized Originated Overcame Participated

Provided Recognized Recommended Recorded Recruited Rectified Screened Served Shaped Simplified Solved Transcribed Transformed Translated Utilized Validated Verified Wrote

RESUME TIP: MIX & MATCH VERBS WITH RESULTS Always pair your action verbs with measurable results or specific tasks. This helps employers clearly see your impact.

For example: Instead of: Worked on budget reports.

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References As you apply for jobs, you will often be asked to provide the names and contact information of people who can speak to your qualifications. These individuals are your employment references.

On Your Resume

Include the phrase: References Available Upon Request This keeps your resume focused and concise while signaling to employers that you have a prepared reference list available.

Sample Reference Sheet

(Use the same header as your resume) Jane Doe 123 Campus Drive • College City, ST 00000 (123) 456-7890 • janedoe@email.com PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES 1. Ms. Angela Johnson Marketing Supervisor Bright Futures, Inc. 789 Business Parkway Metroville, ST 00000 (555) 123-4567 ajohnson@brightfutures.org 2. Mr. David Brown Career Development Advisor Chopin University Career Center 123 Career Services Building College City, ST 00000 (123) 555-7890 dbrown@chopin.eduShape

Final Tips Print your reference sheet on high-quality resume paper. Bring several copies of the interviews.

How to Prepare a Reference Sheet

Create a separate document titled "Professional References" and use the same header (your name and contact info) as on your resume.

Each reference should include: Full Name Job Title Organization Address Phone Number Email Address

Important Guidelines for Using References Ask permission before listing someone as a reference.

Provide each reference with a copy of your current resume.

Discuss your career goals and target positions with your references.

Share job descriptions of positions you are applying for.

Maintain reference letters (if available) in a credential portfolio or digital file.

Who Should Serve as References?

Select individuals who can speak to your skills, professionalism, and qualifications —preferably in a professional setting.

Recommended references include: Former or current employers Professors who know your academic work well Professionals you have worked with on internships, volunteer projects, or group assignments Advisors from student organizations or leadership programs

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CURRICULUM VITA DARA R. WILSON dararwilson@mail.umes.edu

Current: 4176 Wink Lane #103, Princess Anne, MD 21853 | (410) 651-2314 Permanent: 2400 Woodland Blvd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745 | (301) 505-9758

Education University of Maryland, College Park – College Park, MD Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science, Expected June 2024 Dissertation: “Political Profiles of Political Action Committees in Recent American History” Howard University – Washington, DC Master of Public Administration, Expected May 2024 Thesis: “Multi-County Solid Waste District Consolidation” University of Maryland Eastern Shore – Princess Anne, MD Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Magna Cum Laude, May 2020

TEACHING EXPERIENCE Instructor – American Party Politics University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD September 2020 – June 2024 Developed course syllabus and reading list Taught 20–30 students using multimedia instructional methods Supervised undergraduate tutors Designed and graded exams (short answer, essay, and multiple-choice) Instructor – Introduction to Political Science University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD September 2020 – May 2024 Created course outlines and delivered lectures in large-format classes Developed and graded exams Provided academic advising to first-year students

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE Research Associate University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD September 2026 – June 2027 Conducted qualitative research on the role of lobbyists in shaping social legislation Consulted with local government officials on study findings Research Assistant Schoolcraft County Commission, Manistique, MD September 2023 – May 2024 Performed historical research on multi-county solid waste consolidation Presented findings to county commissioners

PUBLICATIONS Wilson, Dara R. “Welfare Reform and the Clinton Administration.” Journal of Policy Studies, Vol. 21, No. 2, April 2024, pp. 44–60.

Wilson, Dara R. “Ethics: Politics as Usual.” Political Science Quarterly, No. 30, October 2022, pp. 72–85.

Wilson, Dara R. “Lobbying for Social Change.” Journal of Policy Studies, Vol. 11, No. 4, May 2021, pp. 43–74.

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS American Political Science Association American Association of Professors Maryland Political Science Association

MILITARY SERVICE United States Marine Corps August 2023 – August 2025 Rank: Sergeant | Role: Communications Specialist Collected and packaged classified communications for shipment Honorably discharged

HONORS & AWARDS To highlight academic excellence, scholarships, fellowships, or service-related recognitions

LANGUAGES If you are proficient in any language (especially relevant for academic, public policy, or international work).

CONFERENCES & PRESENTATION 4. REFERENCES

A key section in academia. Include papers presented, panels attended, or speaking roles.

You can either: Include a “References Available Upon Request” line, or List 3–5 full references on a separate page, especially for academic or federal positions.

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CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME LAUREN CHEN HOUSTON, TX LAURENC@MAIL.COM (321) 654-9876 PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Financial Advisor with 7+ years of experience delivering financial/investment advisory services to high-value clients. Proven success in managing multi-million-dollar portfolios, driving profitability, and increasing ROI through skillful strategic planning, consulting, and financial advisory services.

Professional Experience

Senior Financial Advisor WELLS FARGO ADVISORS, Houston, TX August 2015–Present Deliver financial advice to clients, proposing strategies to achieve short- and long-term objectives for investments, insurance, business, and estate planning with minimal risk Develop, review, and optimize investment portfolios for 300+ high value clients with over $190M AUM (Assets Under Management) Ensure maximum client satisfaction by providing exceptional and personalized service, enhancing client satisfaction ratings from 88% to 99.9% in less than 6 months Work closely with specialists from multiple branches, managing investment portfolios for over 800 clients with over $25M in assets under care Financial Advisor SUN-TRUST INVESTMENT SERVICES, INC., New Orleans, LA July 2012–August 2014 Served as a knowledgeable financial advisor to clients, managing an over $20.75M investment portfolio of 90+ individual and corporate clients Devised and applied a new training and accountability program that increased productivity from #10 to #3 in the region in less than 2-year period Partnered with cross-functional teams in consulting with clients to provide asset management risk strategy and mitigation, which increased AUM by 50% Financial Advisor MAVERICK CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, New Orleans, LA July 2009–August 2011 Served as the primary point of contact for over 15 clients Managed the portfolios of several major clients with over $8.5M in total assets

Education LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY, Baton Rouge, LA May 2009 Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (concentration: finance), Honours: cum laude (GPA: 3.7/4.0)

Additional Skills Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) Outlook, Salesforce, TFS Project Management Fluent in English, Spanish, and French

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HOW TO CREATE A WINNING FIRST IMPRESSION IN YOUR COVER LETTER & JOB SEARCH CORRESPONDENCE

Why Include a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is like wrapping paper on a gift—it sets the tone for your resume. It introduces you to the employer, highlights your communication skills, and draws attention to your most relevant achievements and qualifications.

A STRONG COVER LETTER: Demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role and organization

Connects your experience directly to the job opportunity

Two Types of Cover Letters: Letter of Inquiry – You are asking about job openings.

Letter of Application – You are applying for a specific position.

Encourages the employer to take a closer look at your resume

REMEMBER: Focus on what you can do for the organization, not what it can do for you!

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COVER LETTER FORMAT “LETTER OF APPLICATION” Your Address Your Phone Number Your Email Address Date Recipient's Name Title Company Address City, State ZIP Code Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name]:

Opening Paragraph

State the reason for writing.

Mention your degree, major, graduation date.

Specify the job title or type of work.

Mention how you found the job (referral, job posting, etc.).

Express interest in the company or role

Middle Paragraph(s)

Expand your background and qualifications.

Highlight achievements, experience, and skills relevant to the job.

Demonstrate knowledge of the company.

Refer to your resume.

Mention willingness to relocate if applicable.

Closing Paragraph

Request a personal interview.

Restate your phone number.

Offer providing additional information.

Thanks to the reader for their time.

Sincerely, Handwritten Signature (if mailed) Your Name Enclosure(s): Resume

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Sample Cover Letter “LETTER OF APPLICATION”

Ann Carter-Jones 11868 Academic Oval Princess Anne, MD 21853 410-313-7234 AnnJ@mail.com January 27, 20XX Ms. Mary Parson VP of GSK 7425 Westmore Lane Philadelphia, PA 21853 Dear Mr. Parson: In May 20XX, I will graduate with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. I am writing to apply for the Control Systems Engineer position at your San Diego facility.

Your company has always impressed me with its innovative products, especially those used in our lab. I was particularly excited to read about your new microcomputer project in control systems. My academic training and summer work experience directly support this direction.

Enclosed is my resume. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team. I can be reached at 410-651-6448.

Sincerely,

Ann CArter-Jones

Ann Carter-Jones Enclosure: Resume

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WHAT COMES NEXT POST-INTERVIEW

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POST-INTERVIEW THANK YOU LETTER Restate your interest in the position.

Thanks to the interviewer.

Reiterate how your skills align with the role.

Keep it professional and brief.

THANK YOU LETTER AFTER INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW Express appreciation.

Confirm the details discussed.

Mention your excitement for the opportunity.

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WITHDRAWING FROM CONSIDERATION Be gracious and appreciative.

Politely declined the opportunity.

Leave a positive impression of future opportunities.

FINAL POINTERS 1. Use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

2. Avoid excessive abbreviations.

3. Be clear, concise, and consistent.

4. Stick to a 1-page resume (2 pages max).

5. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each position.

6. Send resumes on high-quality paper.

7. Always proofread!

8. Do not forget to follow up professionally.

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SAMPLE COVER LETTER “LETTER OF INQUIRY” Author's Address Author’s phone number(s) Author’s email address Date Person's Name, Title Company Street Address City, ST Zip Code Dear ____________________: Opening Paragraph: State the reason for the letter, your degree/major/graduation date, name of the position for which you are applying or type of work, and if relevant, indicate which resource you learned of the opening. If an employee of the company suggested you apply, you should mention the individual's name. You should explain in two or three lines why employment with that company interests you.

Middle Paragraph(s): The items covered in this paragraph may require two or more additional paragraphs to complete your statements. This is the main section of your letter and should be treated with care. Indicate why you are interested in the company, position, its products, or services, and what you can offer to the employer. If you are a recent graduate, explain how your academic background makes you a qualified candidate for the position. If you have some practical work experience, point out your specific achievements or qualifications. If necessary, refer to your resume now. Use this paragraph to make a positive statement about your skills and abilities; if applicable, indicate willingness to relocate.

Closing Paragraph: Indicate your desire for a personal interview and your flexibility as to the time and place. Repeat your telephone number in the letter and offer any assistance to facilitate a timely response.

Sincerely, (Handwritten signature)

Name of Author Enclosures (If a resume or other information is enclosed, be sure to refer to it in the letter

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SAMPLE COVER LETTER “LETTER OF INQUIRY” Alexander Aronowitz 125 Pearl Street Miami Beach, FL 92651 410-331-6171 A.Aronowitz@gmail.com October 27, 20xx Mr. John Parson, Area Manager Hewlett-Packard Company 16399 W. Bernado Drive San Diego, CA 92717 Dear Mr. Parson: May 20xx, I will be graduating from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. I am writing to explore the possibility of employment as a Control Systems Engineer at your San Diego facility.

Early in my course work at University of Maryland Eastern Shore, I seriously began considering future employment with Hewlett-Packard Company. We use some of your products in our laboratory work, and their design, precision, and reliability are impressive. More recently, however, I noted in a professional computing journal that you are undertaking a new project to apply microcomputers in automatic control systems. Many of my electives were in the field of control systems and computers, and I also worked for three summers in microcomputer applications.

I have enclosed my resume, which provides additional information about my undergraduate work and campus activities. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how my education and experience would be consistent with your needs. Thank you for your time and consideration. If you need any further information, I can be reached at 410-651-6448.

Sincerely,

Alexander Aronowitz Enclosure: Resume

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THE POST- INTERVIEW "THANK YOU LETTER" 2400 M Street Washington, D.C. 20032 Shellb1@mail.com September 5, 2023 Ms. Harriet Jones, Employment Specialist Office of Personnel University of Maryland Eastern Shore Princess Anne, MD 21853 Dear Ms. Jones: Thank you for the chance to interview yesterday for the Assistant Director position. I enjoyed meeting you and Mr. Samuel Brown, the Director of Human Resources. The information you provided regarding the University of Maryland Eastern Shore was highly informative.

Your university is growing in a direction that parallels my interest and career goals. The interview with you and your staff confirmed my initial positive impressions of the university. The educational training and work experience that I have acquired would enable me to further enhance my skills in the areas of program planning, training, management, supervisory, and research. I feel I will progress steadily through your training program and become a productive member of your team.

Again, thank you for your consideration. If you need more information, please contact me at 410-651-5555.

Sincerely,

Shelley B. Beatty

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THE POST-INTERVIEW "THANK YOU, LETTER," FOR AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW

527 Jefferson Davis Hwy Crystal City, VA 25810 mkwhite@hotmail.com October 24, 2021 Mr. Keith West, Accounting Unit Manager U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General 4596 R. St., NW Washington, DC 21001 Dear Mr. West: I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to work for the U.S. Department of Labor. I am pleased to accept the position as an Accountant within your company. The position entails exactly the kind of challenges we discussed in the interview. I feel that I will be a positive asset to the team and provide the type of support needed.

As discussed, I shall begin work on February 15, 2000. In the interim, I shall complete all the necessary employment information and locate housing. I plan to move to Washington, D.C. within the next two weeks and would like to deliver the paperwork to you personally. At that time, we can handle any remaining items pertaining to my employment. I will call you next week to schedule an appointment.

Sincerely, Monica K. White

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SAMPLE INTERNSHIP LETTER STUDENT ADDRESS 1111 Any street New York, New York 21200 COMPANY ADDRESSES HERE Mr. John Boss Chief operating officer Boss Inc. 1111 Any street New York, New York 21200 Dear Mr. Boss: The Career and Professional Development Center, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, suggested I contact you about my marketing interest. A company of your caliber and outstanding Sales record as listed in the Wall Street Journal is where I would like to acquire hands-on experience and enhance my skills in the field of marketing. As a marketing student, I am writing to inquire about an internship at Boss Inc. for the summer.

As reflected in my resume, I have worked for the Xerox Corporation as a summer intern. In this position, I worked on projects and calculated business spreadsheets.

As a result of this internship, I will be able to further enhance my time management, organizational, communications, interpersonal, analytical, and marketing skills. If I am given the opportunity to intern with Boss Inc., This will provide me with the foundation needed to compete in the workforce upon graduation. I believe my education and past work experience will allow me to contribute productively to your achievements as a company.

Enclosed, you will find a copy of my resume for review. If you need further information, I can Be reached at 212-123-1234 and my email address is jlife@gmail.com I will contact you next week to see if you are receiving my resume.

Sincerely John Life Enclosure: Resume

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WITHDRAWING FROM CONSIDERATION Cia Rodriguez

1204 West Haven Blvd.

Alexandria, VA 21574 September 5, 2022 Ms. Sonya R. Leake Director of Personnel Financial Corporation 176 19th Ave. New York, NY 19156 Dear Ms. Leake: It was indeed a pleasure to meet with you last week regarding the Budget Analyst position. As I discussed with you during our meetings, one purpose of an interview is to explore areas of mutual interest and to assess the differences between the candidate and the position. After careful consideration, I have decided to withdraw from your offer of the position.

I want to thank you for taking the time to interview and giving me the opportunity to learn about your company. You have a fine staff, and I would have enjoyed working with them. Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Cia Rodriguez Cia Rodriguez

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University of Maryland Eastern Shore Career and Professional Development Center Student Services Center 2nd Floor, Suite #2158 Princess Anne, MD 21853 Monday – Friday / 8am - 5pm (410) 651-6447 careerservices@umed.edu www.umes.edu/careers