Resume & Letters Guide - Students - Georgia Southern University

What is a Résumé?A résumé is a marketing tool, a personal advertisement, used to help you get an interview. It is a one-page (sometimestwo-page) document that briefly highlights your educational background, experience, and skills. It is not anautobiography. The most effective résumé must be well written, concise, organized and clearly focused on a specific jobtitle and address the employer’s stated requirements for the position. The more you know about the duties and skillsrequired for the job – and organize your résumé round these points – the more effective your résumé will be. Keep inmind there is no one correct way to write a résumé. It depends on your unique education, experiences, and skills.General GuidelinesYour résumé has 20-30 seconds to catch an employer’s eye and get an interview. Make it count!PaperWhen printing your résumé for submission by mail or in person, use high-quality paper in conservative colors (white,ivory, or very pale gray). Do not use paper with visible flecks in it. Use a laser printer to print your document.HeaderUtilize the same header on all documents (résumé and list of references). Include your name and your complete contactinformation. Be certain your email address sounds professional (e.g., not “prettypinkprincess@whatever.com”) and makesure your voicemail message is professional. Do not use your work email address. Put your name at the top of page twoon a two-page résumé .Font & StylingUse a standard font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial, Garamond). Avoid casual fonts like Comic Sans. Text size should be10-11 points. Your name and section headings can and should be a bit larger. Utilize styling tools such as bolding, •bullets, italics and ALL CAPITALS carefully for ease when skimming.OrderReaders lose interest as they read down and across the page. Prioritize information in order of importance, with themost important text up high and to the left where it is most likely to be read.Numbers & AbbreviationsSpell out numbers under and including ten; use the numerical form for numbers over and including 11 (as a general rule),unless they are the first words in a sentence. Spell out abbreviations unless they are unquestionably obvious.FormatFormulate bulleted statements rather than using paragraphs of text:• Use white space between sections of writing as appropriate.• Keep sentences as short and direct.• Maintain uniformity, such as either using periods or not using them after all bulleted statements.• Start each bulleted statement with an action verb. Use present tense verbs for jobs you are still doing, and pasttense verbs for tasks you have completed or are no longer doing.Information to AvoidDo not include personal information such as age, height, weight, health status, marital status, number of children, militaryclassification, photographs, etc. unless it is required for the specific position.Templates and Sample RésumésTemplates and sample résumés will give you an idea of what the format of your résumé should look like. However, thereis no one right way to write your résumé. You can use a template as a guide, but customize it to fit your needs.2 | P age

If you would like to have your résumé critiqued utilize the 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily walk-inhours, drop off or email your résumé to a staff member or contact us to make an appointment.Parts of a RésuméObjectiveAn objective is optional. The purpose of an objective statement is to let the employer know what position or type of job you areapplying for, and your qualifications for that position in a short concise statement. Focus on what you have to offer rather thanon what the job can offer you.EducationThis section should be listed first on your résumé as long as you are in. Begin with your most recent level of education anddegree and list in reverse chronological order. Include the name and location of schools, expected date of completion (not datesof attendance), major fields of study, and degrees received.• Do not list your high school information unless you are a freshman or sophomore applying for an internship.• Your GPA should be included if it is above 3.0.• Honors and awards that are directly related to your academics may also be listed under this section.ExperienceThis section can include full-time, part-time, internship, and volunteer experiences – both paid and unpaid. Start with your mostrecent employer. Give dates of employment, your job title, name of the company, and the company’s city and state.• This section should detail your accomplishments, transferable skills, and important responsibilities. It should not be alisting of your job duties.• Begin each statement using action verbs. See the list of action verbs included in this packet.• Avoid “Responsible for…” or “Duties Included…”• Use numbers and percentages to provide measurable results when appropriate (e.g., number of people supervised;number of children in classroom; size of event; budget you oversaw, etc.).• Use keywords where possible.ActivitiesIt is important to show involvement throughout college in areas other than the classroom. This is an optional section where youcan list campus activities, as well as job-related professional, humanitarian, or other groups. These activities may be worthmentioning, particularly if you were an officer or were active in some other way.Honors & AwardsThis section can showcase any special honors and awards you may have received. If the only awards received were in school,put those under the Education section.Skills & CertificationsList skills such as knowledge of foreign languages, computers (operating systems, relevant applications), and relevantcertifications. Other skills or special abilities (e.g., quick-learner, people-oriented, dynamic public speaker) should bedemonstrated through your experience section.Other SectionsBecause each person has diverse experiences and strengths, there are many different categories that can beincluded in a résumé. This is not a comprehensive list of all of the sections you might choose to include on your résumé.You might also choose to include any of the following sections:• Leadership Experience• Project Experience or Class Projects• Professional Affiliations & Memberships• Relevant Coursework• Community Service• Volunteer Experience• Publications & Research• Conferences & Presentations3 | P age

Paragraph 1 – Explain your Purpose• Clearly identify the position for which you are applying or state why you would be the right candidate for a specificjob.• If answering an ad or a job posting, state where you heard about the opening. If someone referred you to the position,mention that person’s name.• If you do not know whether the employer has an opening, indicate the type of position you are seeking.Paragraph 2 – Your Sales Pitch• Explain your qualifications and why you are interested in the position and the company.• Generate the reader’s interest in you by referring to an enclosed résumé. Do not repeat your résumé; rather, highlightspecific examples of your experience and qualifications as they relate to the desired position.Paragraph 3 – Your Plan of Action• Identify what you will do next.• Make a request for an interview. If you know you will follow up, state that.• Keep this paragraph short, positive and avoid sounding aggressive or “pushy” in tone.• Thank them for their time and indicate your eagerness to speak with them.• Include your contact information (phone and email address).• At the end, you must include a signature block. Be sure to sign the letter before it is mailed or faxed!Top 10 Cover Letter Mistakes1. Failure to customize. Your cover letter should be tailored to match each specific position that you are applying for.Remember that it tells the hiring manager which position you’re applying for; and it is the introduction to you andyour résumé.2. Too long. Your cover letter should not exceed one page. Get to the point – which is to get them to read your résumé.3. Too short. Most cover letters should be one full page. Many people make them too short because they think thatcover letters don’t really matter. But, keep in mind that the point of the cover letter is to make the hiring managerwant to read your résumé.4. Too casual. Remember that you are not writing a letter to your friend, but to your potential employer. Be polite andfriendly, but not too casual. Use formal business letter format.5. Spelling errors and typos. This simply mistake can cost you the job.6. Addressing the letter, “To Who It May Concern”. Do you like getting junk mail that’s addressed to “currentresident”? Of course not! Neither does the hiring manager of the company you’re applying with. Take the time tolearn about the company and who does the hiring for them. Then, include their name and title in the cover letter.7. Writing vague statements. Your cover letter is the place to make yourself stand out from the crowd. Pick specificachievements to highlight. Use lots of specific adjectives to describe yourself. Match them with the ones in the jobposting if possible. If they want a “highly motivated and outgoing person”, be sure to use those words in your coverletter.8. Long paragraphs. Your cover letter should be easy to read, and easy to skim. Use short paragraphs, sentencesand words.9. Using graphics and pictures. Do not include any graphics and pictures that might distract the reader.10. Forgetting to sign the letter. It give an important personal touchCareer Services will review and critique your cover letter or other employment relateddocuments. Utilize our daily walk-in hours 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., drop off or email yourletter to a staff member or contact us to make an appointment.6 | P age

Other LettersProspecting LettersThe purpose of this letter is to inquire about possible vacancies, have someone read your résumé, and to generate aninterview.Networking LetterThis letter is sent to individuals requesting information about a career or company. Normally, a résumé is not attached tothis type of letter because the focus is on generating information not generating job offers! It's excellent used as a way toask for an informational interview.Follow-Up LetterA letter requesting the status of your application while noting your continued interest in the position. You should alsooffer to provide any additional information that would assist the employer in making a decision. Due to time sensitivity,this letter is often emailed.Interview Confirmation LetterOnce an interview appointment has been made between you and a prospective employer over the telephone, it issometimes best to follow-up that conversation with a confirmation letter or email indicating:• Restatement of the date and time of the interview appointment• Other pertinent details discussed on the phone• Your appreciation of the employers further consideration of your qualificationsPost-Interview Thank You LetterThis is one of the most important yet least used letters in a job search. It is used to show good will and appreciation. Athank-you letter should always be sent with 24 -48 hours after an interview. It can be a handwritten note, business letter orsent via email. A well written thank- you reminds the employer who you are, your background and qualifications, showsyour enthusiasm and continued interest and conveys your sincere appreciation for their time.Job Offer Acceptance LetterCongratulations if you've made it to this stage in the job search! This letter is sent to an employer when an offer has beenmade. Use it to accept the offer and confirm the terms of employment (start date, salary, medical examinations, etc.).It is an excellent way to positively reinforce the employer's decision to hire you.Job Offer Letter of DeclinationA letter sent to formally decline an offer of employment or to remove you from consideration as a candidate. Rejecting anemployment offer must be done thoughtfully. Indicate that you have carefully considered the offer but that it was not thebest job fit for this stage in your career. Do not say that you have obtained a better job. You want to express your thankswhile keeping the door open for future contactJob Offer ClarificationThis letter is used to clarify any details about a job offer which can help you in making a decision. You can requestclarification in two ways: over the phone or formally by letter.7 | P age

Iwanna JobbFirstName_LastName@georgiasouthern.eduCurrent AddressPermanent Address3 Eagle Avenue 123 Parents StreetStatesboro, GA 30458 Hometown, USA 98765(912) 681-5197 (980) 765-4321ObjectiveEducationRelevantExperienceTarget the organization or the title for which you are applying. Keep it short and simple!Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GABachelor of Arts (or Science) in (Major), Graduation Date, GPA (if 3.0 or higher)Most Recent Employer, City, StatePosition Held Date held position (Month, Year)• List your duties & responsibilities – something you did or learned• Cite an accomplishment you achieved while working (need at least 2)• Begin each bullet with an action verbPrevious Company(s) You Worked At, City, StatePosition Held Date held position (Month, Year)• List at least two, up to five duties• Concentrate on accomplishments, skills, and responsibilitiesProjectExperienceRelevantCoursesLeadershipExperienceHonorsComputerSkillsSkillsActivitiesProject Name/Class Name, Semester, YearGeorgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA• List goals, objectives, & outcome of the project• Begin each bullet with an action verb● Class Title(s) in bullet format (not every course, but only those that support your objective)If you need a filler or have little experience in your fieldPosition Title, Organization Name –describe accomplishmentsPosition Title, Organization NameDean’s List, Awards, Scholarships, HOPEIf you have earned a scholarship, or were recognized for some type of achievement ,list it.Outline your technical skills, list all programs you know or are familiar with.● Outline your talents, name proven abilities that support your objective● Specify 2-4 skills that relate.● Use bullet formatOrganization Name, Date of Involvement (2007 – Present)If you belong to a club, organization, sorority, and/or fraternity, list it along with any leadership positionsheld and dates.8 | P age

Résumé - ChronologicalYour Name 1 Eagle Lane, Statesboro, GA 30460 555.555.5555 mail@mail.comOBJECTIVETo obtain a Programmer position at Google.EDUCATIONBachelor of Science in Computer Science, May 2012Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GARELATED COURSES Database Programming Network Administration Web page Design Computer Software Engineering Programming Visual Basic Operating System PragmaticsTECHNICAL SKILLSSystems: Windows Vista UNIX LINUXSoftware: Microsoft Office Suite Adobe Photoshop DreamWeaver FrontPageProgramming Languages: C C++ Å HTML XHTML Java Visual BasicRELATED EXPERIENCEStudent Assistant, September 2009-PresentDepartment of Computer Science, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA Maintain department website including content, programming, and troubleshooting Create graphics and other visual elements to include on website Assist staff with administrative tasksSenior Project, Spring 2012Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA As part of a four-member team designed, developed and implemented a web based survey system Created beta database program to organize survey results and provide easy access Utilized XHTML on an Apache Tomcat Server to write programIntern, May 2011-July 2011The Game Shop, Atlanta, GA Located and correct programming code in prototype software Brainstormed new ideas for gamming scenarios in staff meetings Assisted with the development, testing and implementation of fantasy game productsOTHER EXPERIENCECareer Educator Intern September 2009-June 2010Georgia Southern University Career Services, Statesboro, GA Helped students, alumni, and other populations with career resources Aid staff in administrative duties and at on-campus events Present workshops on office services and résumés to classes and student groupsACTIVITIESAssociation for Computing Machinery (ACM), Member Fall 2008-Present Participated in regional and national programming competitionAlpha Beta Alpha Honor Society, Member Fall 2008-PresentIntramural Soccer, 2008-2009Habitat for Humanity, Spring 20109 | P age

Résumé – Functional TemplateJane Smith123 Eagle Court Statesboro, GA 30458 (912) 555-1234 jsmith@gsueagles.comSummary of Qualifications• For the summary limit it to 4-6 bulleted statements highlighting your strongest attributes• List achievement or skills that would relate to the position applying for• List these as short bulleted statements• This is where you begin to sell yourself to a potential employerAreas of EffectivenessInterpersonal and Teamwork Skills• List achievement, skills, experience in this functional area• Begin each bullet with an action verb• List in short bullet format• List 4-6 statements describing your experience from your past positions.• Try to list significant achievements, awards, accolades, etc.Customer Service and Sales Skills• List achievement, skills, experience in this functional area• List in short bullet format and begin each bullet with an action verb• List 4-6 statements describing your experience from your past positions.• Try to list significant achievements, awards, accolades, etc.Managerial and Supervisory Skills• List achievement, skills, experience in this functional area• List in short bullet format and begin each bullet with an action verb• List 4-6 statements describing your experience from your past positions.• Try to list significant achievements, awards, accolades, etc.Marketing and Public Relations• List achievement, skills, experience in this functional area• List in short bullet format and begin each bullet with an action verb• List 4-6 statements describing your experience from your past positions.• Try to list significant achievements, awards, accolades, etc.EducationGeorgia Southern University, Statesboro, GABachelor of Business Administration in Management, May 2012 GPA 3.4Employment HistoryJob Title, Company Name, City, State, Dates of EmploymentJob Title, Company Name, City, State, Dates of EmploymentJob Title, Company Name, City, State, Dates of EmploymentComputer SkillsMicrosoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, SAP10 | P age

Résumé - FunctionalCAROLINE AIKEN1 Eagle Rd. Apt #1 (555) 555-1212Statesboro, GA 30458email@georgiasouthern.eduOBJECTIVETo obtain a sales position in the sales and marketing field.SKILLS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTSMarketing and Customer Service■ Provided excellent customer service support including professional handling of a call center’s customerinquiries, credit authorizations and resolving payment/billing and escalated account issues■ Educated service staff to augment customer service by increasing profits through suggestive selling■ Gained extensive knowledge in market research through class projects and intensive coursework■ Discussed various topics in courses including: consumer behavior, product/service mixes, brandingand packaging channels of distribution, pricing, and advertisingLeadership and Management■ Assisted in managing daily operations and customer service department, ensuring optimum service andsatisfaction of an upscale restaurant.■ Accountable for development of employees, sales and customer service at Starbucks establishments withannual sales revenue up to $1,500,000■ Cross trained, supervised, and evaluated activities of associates (20-25)■ Provided group/one-on-one intensive training to new associates, including classroom instruction/workshops,mentoring, and providing feedback to associates, and facilitating presentations.Computer and Languages■ Extensive language training in Spanish including a study abroad experience in Madrid, Spain with completeimmersion in the language and culture.■ Proficient/knowledgeable: Microsoft Windows XP, Office XP (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)■ Knowledge and experience in several Point of Sale Systems (POS)EDUCATIONBachelor of Science in International Trade, Minor: Marketing GPA: 3.6GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY, Statesboro, GA – May 2012Activities: Georgia Southern University Delta Sigma Pi and Dove IncorporatedWORK EXPERIENCEStarbucks Coffee, Statesboro, GA Certified Barista November 2010‐PresentMcAlister’s Deli, Statesboro, GA Waiter June 2010 – November 2010First Data, Statesboro, GA CSR/Associate trainer June 2009 – February 2010Arby’s Roast Beef, Statesboro, GA Shift Supervisor November 2008 – June 200911 | P age

Résumé - FederalJoe Eagle123 Southern Drive (912) 555-1212 (Day)Statesboro, GA 30458(912) 666-1212 (Evening)Joe.eagle@georgiasouthern.eduVeteran's Preference: N/AFederal Civilian Status: N/ACountry of Citizenship: U.S.A.DATE OF BIRTHMonth Day, YearANNOUNCEMENT Announcement #0000000000, Job Title (GS #)EDUCATION Georgia Southern University — Statesboro, GA 30460Degree: Bachelor of Science Degree, May 2012Major: Biology Major GPA: 3.85/4.0 Overall GPA: 3.2/4.0Academic Honors: Graduated Magna Cum Laude, Dean’s List 2008-2012Relevant Coursework: List any classes that you have taken that are relevant to the job inwhich you are applying.Statesboro High School, Statesboro, GA 30458College preparatory curriculum, Received Diploma, June 1999HONORS/ Dean’s List, 2009, 2010, 2011AWARDS Golden Key Honor Society, 2010 - 2012CERTIFICATIONSTRAININGCOMPUTER SKILLSLANGUAGE SKILLSList any certifications that you may haveLeadership Skills for a Global Society, LeadersSHAPE ConferenceGeorgia Southern University Spring 2010Proficient in Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Works, WordPerfect 7.0, SPSSand the Internet.Bilingual - Proficient in Spanish and English. Able to interpret and translate documentsand correspondence for both Spanish and English.EMPLOYMENT Job Title Company Month Year – Month YearHISTORY Company Hours: # of hours worked/weekPhysical AddressEnding Salary: $ per hourCity, State ZipBeginning Salary: $ per hourSupervisor: First & Last Name, Phone # May Contact: Yes or NoList ALL of your duties and responsibilities in sentence/paragraph format. Begin eachsentence with an action verb. Try to be as descriptive as possible, but concise.Accomplishments: Make sure to include any accomplishments achieved.12 | P age

EMPLOYMENT Job Title Company Month Year – Month YearHISTORY Company Hours: # of hours worked/weekPhysical AddressEnding Salary: $ per hourCity, State ZipBeginning Salary: $ per hourSupervisor: First & Last Name, Phone # May Contact: Yes or NoList ALL of your duties and responsibilities in sentence/paragraph format. Begin eachsentence with an action verb. Try to be as descriptive as possible, but concise.Accomplishments: Make sure to include any accomplishments achieved.VOLUNTEER Title Dates of InvolvementEXPERIENCE Organization Name Hours: # of hours worked/weekPhysical AddressUnpaidCity, State ZipSupervisor: First & Last Name, Phone # May Contact: Yes or NoList ALL of your duties and responsibilities in sentence/paragraph format. Begin eachsentence with an action verb. Try to be as descriptive as possible, but concise.Accomplishments: Make sure to include any accomplishments achieved.ACTIVITIES Organization Name Dates of InvolvementOrganization NameDates of InvolvementOrganization NameDates of Involvement13 | P age

Cover Letter – TemplateYour Street addressCity, State ZipDateNameTitleCompanyStreet AddressCity, State ZipDear Mr./Ms. Employer:(Address the letter to a specific individual. Do the research necessary to find the name of the individual hiringfor the position-if you cannot locate the individual, use a reference line in place of the salutation.)First paragraph: Why are you writingIndicate the reason for writing, the specific position or type of work for which you are applying, and how youlearned of the opening. Express your knowledge about and enthusiasm for this particular organization, itsproducts, or its services.Second paragraph: What you have to offerIndicate what you can do for the employer. This is your opportunity to convince the employer that you canmake a unique contribution to their organization. Do your research! Highlight your skills, experience,knowledge, personal qualities, academic background, and accomplishments most relevant to the job description.Link these positive features to ways you can benefit the employer. Use specific examples to support claims youmake about yourself. Link your strengths and examples to the employer’s needs and to the stated jobrequirements. You may refer to the enclosed résumé, but try not to repeat the exact information that the readerwill find there. If necessary, this can be two paragraphs.Third paragraph: What happens nextConclude by restating your interest in the position and the organization. Refer the reader to the enclosed résuméor application form that summarizes your qualifications, training, and experience. Indicate your desire for apersonal interview and repeat your contact information (i.e. phone number and email address). Close with astatement that will encourage a response. For example, state that you will be in the city where the organizationis located on a certain date and would like to set up an interview. Or, simply state that you will call on a certaindate and time to inquire about an interview. Thank the individual for their time and consideration.Sincerely,Your handwritten signature (in blue or black ink)Your Typed Name15 | P age

Cover Letter – Full-Time Job9066 Herty Street Apt CStatesboro, Georgia 30458September 2, 2011Ms. Jane GreyDirector of PersonnelLarge Bank Corporation111 North StreetAtlanta, GA 32121Dear Ms. Grey:I am writing to express my interest in the marketing research position you advertised in the August 20 th edition of theAtlanta Journal Constitution. With my undergraduate research background, my training in psychology and sociology, andmy work experience. I believe I could make a valuable contribution to Large National Bank Corporation in this position.In May 2013, I will complete a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Georgia SouthernUniversity. As part of the requirements for this degree, I am involved in a senior marketing research project which hasgiven me experience interviewing and surveying research subjects and assisting with the analysis of the data collected. Ialso have completed a course in statistics and research methods.In additional to academic work, my experience also includes working part-time as a bookkeeper in a small, independentlyowned restaurant with an annual budget of approximately $150,000. Because of the small size of the business, I havebeen exposed to and participated in most aspects of managing a business, including advertising and marketing. As thebookkeeper, I produced monthly sales reports that allow the owners to project seasonal inventory needs. I also assistedwith the development of ideas for special promotional events and calculated sales proceeds after each event in order toevaluate its success. My résumé, with additional information about my qualifications, is enclosed.I believe that the combination of my business experience and social science research training is well-suited to themarketing research position you described. Would you please consider my request for a personal interview to discuss myqualifications and to learn more about this opportunity? I shall call you during the week of October 23 rd to discuss further.Should you need to reach me, please feel free to contact me at 912-555-1212 or via email atjohnsmith@georgiasouthern.edu.Sincerely,John SmithJohn SmithEnclosure: Résumé & References16 | P age

Cover Letter – Internship9066 Herty Street Apt CStatesboro, Georgia 30458September 2, 2011Ms. Jane GreyDirector of Human ResourcesABC Magazine111 North StreetAtlanta, GA 32121Dear Ms. Grey:I am responding to your fall internship posting placed on Georgia Southern University’s Eagle Career Net.After reviewing the job description, I believe my academic and leadership background in news writing andediting makes me an ideal candidate for your internship as an Editorial Assistant.Since 2009, I have been a member of the university’s newspaper staff where I constantly apply classroomknowledge to real world applications. In this environment, I work with a small team of sports writers as well asa larger newspaper staff to produce a weekly publication. My ability to work with the team members to edit andwrite copy while always meeting strict deadlines would be an asset to your magazine.My résumé is enclosed, but I look forward to meeting with you in person to discuss how my skills andexperience would benefit your company. Please contact me at (912)-555-5555 or jsmith@georgiasouthern.eduat your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.Sincerely,John SmithJohn SmithEnclosure: Résumé & References17 | P age

Prospecting Letter –Internship9066 Herty Street Apt CStatesboro, Georgia 30458September 2, 2011Mr. R U HiringPersonnel DirectorAtlanta History Center190 W. Marietta CenterAtlanta, GA 30305Dear Mr. Hiring:I am currently a junior at Georgia Southern University seeking a summer internship that will enable me todevelop my skills managing historical exhibits and apply the concepts learned in my undergraduate studies. Ibecame acquainted with the Atlanta History Center by reading your recruitment literature at the GeorgiaSouthern University Office of Career Services.As you will note in the enclosed résumé, I have had a volunteer experience with the Milledgeville HistoryHouse. In addition, I have worked as a customer service specialist in a retail setting. These and otherexperiences have enabled me to begin to develop a variety of skills including problem-solving, interpersonalcommunication, and time management. Therefore, I know that I would be able to make a meaningfulcontribution to your organization.I would like the opportunity to further discuss summer internship opportunities with you in person. I am fromAtlanta and plan to be home during my Spring Break March 16-20. I will contact your office in about twoweeks to discuss the possibility of meeting during that week.Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you soon.Sincerely,John SmithJohn SmithEnclosure: Résumé & References18 | P age

Prospecting Letter –Full-Time Job9066 Herty Street Apt CStatesboro, Georgia 30458September 2, 2011Mr. J. B. PriceDirector of College RecruitingYou Buy It Stores4500 Sunshine DriveChicago, IL 60601Dear Mr. Price:I have been reading about You Buy It Stores in the Georgia Southern University Eagle Career Net and wouldlike to inquire about employment opportunities in your management training program. I want to work in retailmanagement and would like to relocate to the Chicago area.I shall receive my Bachelor of Arts degree in English this May. Although I studied English, my interest inbusiness started with my membership in the Future Business Leaders of America organization while in highschool and developed further through a variety of sales and retail positions during college. My internship withNordstrom’s convinced me to pursue a career in retailing. When I researched the top retailers in the Chicagoarea, You Buy It Stores emerged as having a strong market position, an excellent training program, and areputation for excellent customer service. In short, you provide the kind of professional retail environment Iseek.My résumé is enclosed for your consideration. My education and experience match the qualifications requiredof your management trainees, but I would like to learn more about the intricate qualities that you seek in yourmanagement team. I know from customer and supervisor feedback that I have the interpersonal skills andmotivation needed to build a successful career in retail management. Further, my practical experience gives meconfidence in my career direction and in my ability to perform.I am very interested in talking with you further about possible employment opportunities with You Buy ItStores. I will plan to call you in the next two weeks to see if we can arrange a meeting time that is convenient toyour schedule.Thank you very much for considering my request. I look forward to talking with you.Sincerely,John SmithJohn SmithEnclosure: Résumé & Reference19 | P age

Networking LetterYour AddressCity, State, ZipDateMr./Mrs. ________Job TitleCompany NameAddressCity, State, ZipDear Mr./Mrs. _______________,I was delighted to find your name in the Georgia Southern University Eagle Career NetMentoring database because I am seeking an opportunity to speak with an experiencedprofessional regarding career opportunities in (state the career field). Although I havehad an internship with (company name), I am hoping to learn more about (state whatyour areas of interest are).As an intern for (company name), I gained/learned (state the knowledge acquired) .I have developed (state the skills you developed) through my studies in (subject/courses),participation in (name the student/professional organizations you are involved in), and (stateany other experience you have had i.e. study abroad experience). My goal is to find the bestway of presenting my skills and abilities to potential employers.I would greatly appreciate having an opportunity to talk with you about your work and yourpoint of view on effective job search strategies for graduating seniors like me. I will callyou in the next week to see if we might be able to arrange a convenient time to talk. In themeantime, feel free to contact me at (phone number) or by email at (email address).Thank you for considering my request.Sincerely,(Handwritten signature)(4 spaces here)Your name, typed20 | P age

Interview Confirmation Letter9066 Herty Street Apt CStatesboro, Georgia 30458September 2, 2011Ms. Alice KeaganHiring DirectorHanging Upside-Down, Inc.P.O. Box 633Savannah, GA 31322Dear Ms. Keagan:I enjoyed speaking to you on the telephone today, and am delighted to have the opportunity to meet with youand further discuss employment opportunities as an Office Manager with Hanging Upside-Down, Inc.As we discussed, I will arrive at your office in Savannah at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 12. At this time, Iwill also deliver the application for employment that you indicated I need to complete prior to our meeting.Thank you again for your time and consideration, I am looking forward to meeting with you.Sincerely,John SmithJohn SmithEnclosure: Résumé & References21 | P age

Post-Interview Thank You Letter9066 Herty Street Apt CStatesboro, Georgia 30458September 2, 2011Ms. Katherine OrtizDirector of DevelopmentWLMR - Channel 5710656 Columbia ParkwayAtlanta, GA 31301Dear Ms. Ortiz:Thank you for the opportunity to meet with you to discuss the Assistant Director of Development position atWLMR – Channel 57. I enjoyed our interview very much.This opportunity sounds exciting and challenging for someone with my energy level and commitment to publictelevision. The Assistant Director of Development position offers an experience suited for someone with myskills and abilities.I would be happy to provide any additional information that you many need regarding my candidacy.Thank you so much for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.Sincerely,John SmithJohn SmithEnclosure: Résumé & References22 | P age

Follow-Up LetterYour AddressCity, State, ZipDateMr./Mrs. ________Job TitleCompany NameAddressCity, State, ZipDear Mr./Mrs. _______________, (unless you were instructed to use first name):In the first paragraph, you should remind the recipient of the interview that took place, alongwith the date. You can also include a little bit of information on what was discussed or keythings that will help remind the reader of that particular interview and the position you appliedfor.In the body of the letter, tell the employer that your interest in the company still remains high.Reiterate your strengths briefly and how you would be an asset to the company. Also includethat you would like to be contacted on the company's decision, whether or not you are offeredthe position.In the closing, thank the reader for his or her time and state a specific action statement. Forexample, I will call your office on Tuesday afternoon to talk about the next steps. Be clear thatyou are flexible in meeting again.Sincerely,(Leave 4 spaces for your signature)Your signature in blue or black inkYour typed name23 | P age

Job Offer Acceptance Letter9066 Herty Street Apt CStatesboro, Georgia 30458September 2, 2012Ms. Katherine OrtizDirector of DevelopmentWLMR - Channel 5710656 Columbia ParkwayAtlanta, GA 31301Dear Ms. Ortiz:I want to thank you for offering me an opportunity to join you development team at WLMR – Channel 57. I amvery pleased to accept the Assistant Director of Development position. I believe that this position is exactly thekind of work I want to do and I know I will serve you organization well.As we discussed, I shall begin work on October 1, 2011. In the meantime, I will complete all necessaryemployment forms and locate housing. I plan to be in Atlanta within the next two weeks and would like todeliver the paperwork to you personally. At that time, we can handle any remaining items pertaining to myemployment. I will call next week to schedule an appointment with you.I have enjoyed my interviews with you and I look forward to beginning my career as a part of your developmentteam.Sincerely,John SmithJohn SmithEnclosure: Résumé & References24 | P age