In this course, we explore techniques to help you construct a resume and cover letter to help you stand out among other job candidates. We study several formats you can apply to various situations and learn how to assess your professional skills to be more competitive in today's job market. Finally, we learn how to turn an average resume and cover letter into a polished and effective marketing tool.
In this unit, we discuss the function and purpose of a professional resume. We explore three traditional resume formats: a conventional resume, a functional or skills-based resume, and a chronological resume. We also look at examples of CVs to help you present your credentials to potential employers in the academic world or other positions that require a different type of resume called a curriculum vitae (CV). You will notice that the type of resume you choose depends largely on what you want to market about yourself and who your audience is.
Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.
Now, let's focus on the key components your resume should contain. Consider the categories you wish to include to highlight your significant accomplishments, professional skills, and other pertinent information. How should you organize these components to showcase your abilities to a potential employer? In this unit, we will examine common design elements and simple techniques to format and style your resume. After all the effort you have put into your resume, you want your target audience to read it! You should include an effective cover letter to accompany your resume. This unit provides helpful information to formulate this vital marketing tool.
Completing this unit should take you approximately 3 hours.
You do not need to be technically skilled to create an attractive resume. You can strengthen the language and organization of your resume by using action verbs, keywords, and clear headings or markers. Always edit and review your resume and cover letter to ensure their quality. It is often helpful to ask a friend to review your materials. Be sure to tailor your application materials to a specific position opening. In this unit, we continue the theme of developing marketing tools to introduce yourself, communicate your qualifications, and express your interest in the job. Clearly state how you would provide the ideal solution to the employer's hiring needs.
Completing this unit should take you approximately 3 hours.
Please take a few minutes to give us feedback about this course. We appreciate your feedback, whether you completed the whole course or even just a few resources. Your feedback will help us make our courses better, and we use your feedback each time we make updates to our courses.
If you come across any urgent problems, email contact@saylor.org.
Take this exam if you want to earn a free Course Completion Certificate.
To receive a free Course Completion Certificate, you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on this final exam. Your grade for the exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again as many times as you want, with a 7-day waiting period between each attempt.
Once you pass this final exam, you will be awarded a free Course Completion Certificate.