Ideally, job candidates will prepare their materials ahead of the job search in order to best tailor their documents to match the skills and experiences required for the role. However, sometimes job opportunities require a quick turnaround and it is best practice to have your materials ready at all times. Use the tips below so you’re always ready to apply!
If you need additional support, Career Services offers a workshop to help you refine your application materials.
How to Get Noticed: Resumes and Cover Letters
Resume Writing
For a first time job seeker, resumes generally stick to one page and highlight the relevant skills and experience for the role. Resumes typically include bullet points which start with an action verb that identifies what skills were used in previous experiences, how the skills were utilized, and what the result was from the task at hand.
CU students can use their SSO to register for a VMOCK account, upload their resume and get real time feedback 24/7.
Cover Letter Writing
Cover letters are one page qualitative documents that are written in a letter format to a hiring manager or hiring committee. Cover letters should be specific to the role you are applying for and should address the questions: “Why are you interested in applying for this role” and “What relevant skills and experiences do you have for this position”. Your cover letter connects the dots for the hiring manager– it answers the question “I can do this job based on my ____ experience”. Cover letters should NOT be a summary of your resume.
Interviewing
Interviewing, like many things, is a skill. Use this time to show skills through detailed examples of your previous work. At this stage of the job search process, you are being evaluated for how your skills match the role and how your values align with the organization.
One of the most challenging aspects of the interview process is verbally communicating how your skills and previous experiences are relevant to the new position. Interview Stream allows candidates to record themselves, in real time, and evaluate their answers to ensure the message they are delivering is unclouded.
LinkedIn is a fantastic tool to explore industries and connect with working professionals. Your LinkedIn should be up to date with experiences and a clear summary/objective of your goals. Not all industries use Linkedin but it is a good tool to show your online presence. Optimize your LinkedIn profile by utilizing the Aspire feature through your VMOCK account. The Forever Buffs network is another great professional branding tool, exclusive to the CU Buffs community.
References
You should have professional references in the back of your mind during your search process, but not all companies or roles require them. You should be formally asking your references for permission to ensure they understand your job search timeline. It can be good practice to give your references updates based on when you apply as well. Email is typically a fine form of communication and you should use people you trust and can speak to your character and work skills.
Additional Materials
Additional materials, such as writing samples, DEI statements or transcripts, may be required to apply for a job. Connect with a career advisor for support with these materials.
