Unit 14 Employment Communication Resumes and Cover Letters

Unit 14 Employment Communication – Resumes and Cover Letters Unit 14 Business Communication

Unit Outline 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Types of resumes Components of resumes Language and other guidelines for resumes Types of job application letters Format for job application letters Other letters regarding employment Unit 14 Business Communication

General Guidelines for Resumes �Focus on future �Focus on employer needs �Project your personality and strengths �Create good first impression �Create opportunity for interview Unit 14 Business Communication

Types of Resumes �Chronological format - Qualifications and experience in reverse chronological order - Education and experience related to position applied for �Functional format - Experience is varied - Experience summarized area wise Unit 14 Business Communication

Resume Components �Name, address, contact details �Career objective �Education - College major, degree, name of institution, date of graduation �Experience - Designation, name of organization, dates of employment, job responsibilities �Special aptitudes/Skills �Organizations and Activities �References Unit 14 Business Communication

Guidelines for Writing Resume Components �Display name, address, contact details in a prominent position �Make career objective specific – summarize area of expertise and career interest �Education –highlight special achievements �Experience – include limited experience, job descriptions �Use achievement oriented words to describe experience �References – seek permission before listing on resume Unit 14 Business Communication

Appearance of Resumes �Length – maximum two pages �Short paragraphs and concise language �Action words �Good quality paper �White space �Easy-to-read typefaces �No “special effects” �Grammar, spelling & punctuation Unit 14 Business Communication

Common Errors in Resume Writing �Too long �Typographical or grammatical errors �No description of job functions �Unprofessional appearance �Omission of achievements Unit 14 Business Communication

Job Application Letters �“Covers” major points in resume �Can be solicited or unsolicited �Should be a sales letter using techniques of persuasion �Can be tailored to a specific position Unit 14 Business Communication

Types of Job Application Letters Solicited letters � Applies for currently available/advertised position � Follows direct organizational plan Subject line with purpose Main idea first – seeking specific position Reasons for applying Friendly close 1. Unit 14 Business Communication

Types of Job Application Letters 2. Unsolicited letters � Applies for position not currently available � Can create job openings � Saves time and advertising cost � Follows indirect organizational/AIDA plan Gain attention of potential employer Create interest – relate qualifications to needs of specific position - Induce desire – convince potential employer of major strengths, provide evidence - Ask for action – indication of specific opening in future - Unit 14 Business Communication

Other Letters regarding Employment Recommendation letters – applicant’s suitability for specific position � Relevant information � Fairness � Legal safeguards 2. Job acceptance letters – direct organizational plan 3. Job refusal letters – indirect organizational plan 4. Thank you letters – follow up after interview 1. Unit 14 Business Communication