Cover Letters
TRUE or FALSE: You don't need to edit your cover letter for each job that you apply for.
FALSE. You always need to edit your cover letter to match the position that you are applying for.
Where do you list the languages you speak on a resume?
...In a new section. If the job posting explicitly lists other languages as an asset, preferred or required, include any additional languages that you speak fluently under a new section titled as ‘Languages.’ It is important to clearly state fluency for each language, including English.
In a job ad, what is the difference between a requirement and an asset?
A requirement is something that you need, and an asset is something that is good to have, but not necessary for you to be a successful candidate.
TRUE or FALSE: You can ask your best friend for a work reference.
FALSE. A reference can come from a colleague, supervisor, manager, or a volunteer coordinator.
Your friends are not professional references, they are personal references. A personal reference is a reference given by an individual who knows you in your personal (not work-related) life. Most employers require professional references, but personal references are acceptable ONLY if the employer specifically requests one.
Why is having a routine (or a schedule) important?
Having a steady schedule will help you to stay organized and manage your stress levels!
Why should your cover letter be in your own words?
When submitted online, your cover letter and resume may be scanned by a plagiarism checker. If you copy your cover letter from other sources, your application will be flagged and not acknowledged by the hiring manager.
What file format, font size and font type do you need for your resume? How many pages should your resume generally be?
The font size should be 10 to 12, in Arial or Calibri (or a similar font) and it should be submitted in PDF unless specified otherwise. Your resume should be 2 pages in length.
Give some examples of key words in a job advertisement.
Set-up, clean-up, provide, monitors, directs, interacts, assists, supervises, positive, nurturing, professional, safe, forms, documenting, etc...
On your references page, you should always list your references in this order.
List your references in alphabetical order! Make sure that you have the right amount of references (3 is usually the standard unless stated otherwise).
Stretching, yoga, sports, dance, exploring or walking in nature, jogging, gardening, playing a musical instrument, and playing with a pet! Whatever activity brings you happiness and makes you feel good about yourself is a joyful movement.
What is the best way to address the individual you are submitting your application to?
a) Mr. or Mrs.
b) Dear Hiring Manager
c) To whom it may concern
The correct answer is B (Dear Hiring Manager).
What types of words should you NEVER use in a resume?
Do not use slang or shortened versions of words (like didn’t, or they’ve).
Use past tense when describing your accomplishments. If you are speaking about a current job, write them in present tense.
Why do you need to think about your future when you read a job ad?
You want to see if the job aligns with your values, beliefs, and future career goals, as well as if the position will potentially pay the salary that you want!
When you create your references list, make sure that you have your previous employer/volunteer coordinator's full name, job title, phone number, and work location/organization...what other piece of information do you need?
Their email address!
If you feel overwhelmed, you can...
Take a break and do something else for a while! It's OK to take breaks and rest.