Getting a Job

Finding work can seem like a full-time job in itself.

But the harder you search, the better the job you'll get. Nobody likes looking for a job. It's tedious and time consuming. You have to steel yourself for rejections and forge ahead. But remember: All you need is for one employer to say, “You're hired.”

The Résumé

One of the most important tools in your job hunt is your résumé, a document that summarizes your employment experience, education, and other information a potential employer wants to know. Many job postings will instruct you to send in your résumé.

Reviewing résumés is the employer's first step in eliminating candidates for a job, so you'll want to make sure yours is as well-prepared as it can be.

The Cover Letter

When you send out a résumé, accompany it with a cover letter addressed to a particular individual—ideally, the hiring manager. You should mention your interest in the company and where you learned about the job opening. Your cover letter is an opportunity to highlight or add detail to points in your résumé. Keep your letter brief, however.

Heading Include your name, address, phone number, and any other contact information, such as fax number or e-mail address.

Objective Identify the type of position you seek.

Education Outline your educational achievements (degrees, diplomas, or certificates earned).

Experience Describe your work experience and the job skills you have demonstrated.

Activities and Other Skills Provide any other information pertinent to the job you seek.

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