A résumé helps potential employers get to know your background and skills so they can determine if you're a strong fit for their open position.

Generally, a résumé should include your education background; experience in other paid or volunteer positions; participation in notable extracurricular activities; hard and soft skills (e.g., software design, communication, customer service, leadership); awards, honors, and credentials; and contact information.

Organization is key. Clearly define each section of the résumé. Be as concise as possible; your résumé should fit on one page unless you are quite far along in your career.

Always ask someone to proofread your résumé. Then, convert to PDF before you submit. Avoid submitting as Word, Pages, etc.

A cover letter helps potential employers get to know the person behind the résumé. Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in a particular position/company, which means it's important to do some research. Carefully review the job description and check out the company's website to get a feel for their mission, values, and culture. Use this information to inform what you write.

Companies want to know why they need you, not why you need them, so the cover letter should also include what you can contribute to the position. Do you have subject matter expertise or direct experience? A proven work ethic or an eagerness to learn new things? You can also cite specific examples of your achievements and explain how these skills set you up to be successful in the new role.

It may seem like a lot to "cover," but your cover letter should still fit on one page. Challenge yourself to make your points in as few words as possible.

Always ask someone to proofread your cover letter. Then, convert to PDF before you submit. Avoid submitting as Word, Pages, etc