The Resume

Not all job application require a cover letter. One good example is when you were recommended for the job by job search company or friend. The person who recommended you would have already provided your background to the prospective employer and probably put in a good word or two for you.

Besides the cover letter, the next important document is the resume. When drafting your resume, you should not have a one-fit-all resume for the reason that not all jobs are alike. You should however keep a standard template and modifying each template to suit the job you are applying.

As rule-of-thumb, the standard template is one with your static personal data and educational background while you should vary your emphasis on your experiences depending on the job you are applying for. These general rules should apply.

DOs

• Sequence your work experience in chronological order showing current job first.
• Put additional emphasis on work experiences that is relevant to the job you are applying for.
• Highlight your achievement with concrete examples.
  
• Put it down in easy to read and point form format.
  
• Provide a referee who can vouch for you. Please let your referee know if you are using his/her name.
• Include a recently taken good quality photograph.
  

DONT's

• Leave gaps in your resume. Interviewers and HR specialists are trained to pick up gaps. If you do have gaps, be prepared to explain.