Resumes & Cover Letters
What is the purpose of a resume?
To summarize your skills, education, experience, and qualifications for a job.
What should you wear to a job interview?
Professional/business attire appropriate to the company.
What does it mean to be punctual?
Arriving on time (not late).
What is a career vs. a job?
A career is a long‑term path in one field; a job is a position to earn money.
What are soft skills? Give one example.
Interpersonal, nontechnical skills (e.g., communication, empathy, teamwork).
What section of the resume lists your schools or degrees?
Education
What is the best way to greet your interviewer?
Why is cell phone use often discouraged at work?
It can distract, appear unprofessional, interrupt workflow.
What kind of test helps you discover your career interests or strengths?
Career interest inventory, aptitude test.
Name a skill that makes someone a good team player.
Listening, collaboration, reliability, flexibility.
What is a cover letter and when should you send one?
A letter sent with your resume that explains why you're a good fit; send it with your job application.
Why is it important to research the company before the interview?
To understand their mission, values, ask informed questions, show your interest.
How should you handle a conflict with a coworker?
Discuss calmly, listen, find compromise, escalate if necessary.
What is a SMART goal? Give an example.
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time‑bound. e.g. “I will complete certification X by June.”
Why is time management important in the workplace?
Helps meet deadlines, stay organized, reduce stress.
Name two common resume mistakes you should avoid.
Typos, generic objective, too much detail, poor formatting.
What does the interviewer mean when they ask: "Tell me about yourself"?
A brief summary of your background, strengths, and why you're qualified.
What is professional communication, and how is it different from texting?
Clear, respectful, formal vs. casual, slang, emojis, informal tone.
What are three things to consider when choosing a career?
Your interests, salary, job outlook, education needed, environment.
What does it mean to have a growth mindset?
Belief that abilities can improve through effort, learning, and resilience.
What's the difference between an application and a resume?
A resume is a concise, tailored marketing document showcasing your skills, experience, and achievements to a potential employer.
Name three questions you should ask the interviewer at the end of an interview.
What does success in this role look like? What opportunities for growth? What’s the team like?
List three traits of a professional employee.
Responsibility, integrity, accountability, respectfulness, punctuality.
What is a career pathway, and why is it important?
A series of education/training steps toward a long‑term career; helps planning and clarity.
Describe a time when you had to solve a problem creatively.
Answers vary