Applying for the Job

You’ve found the perfect job opening, now it’s time to apply for the position and land an interview.

The purpose of your resume and application is to give an employer written evidence of your qualifications. Your resume or application should be as clear as possible and clearly describe to the employer how your qualifications match the job’s requirements. To do this you want to highlight your experience, accomplishments, education and skills that most closely fit the job you’re applying for.

Before you begin your resume or application, it’s important to gather the following facts about yourself:

• Contact Information


• Type of work you are seeking


• Education


• Experience (paid and volunteer)


• Special Skills (computer skills, foreign language proficiency, membership in related organization)


• References

In your resume or application, provide concrete examples that show your skills.

Completing Your Application or Resume

After you’ve gathered all the required information, now it’s time to complete your application or resume. The format for an application is set and you are required to fill in the blanks. It’s important to fill in all information and to not omit any requested information.

For resumes there are a variety of formats you can choose from. Most computer word processors have templates you can use as a template. It’s important that you keep your resume short, easy to read, and targeted to the specific position you are applying for.
Employment Specialists at the Workforce Center can review your resume prior to you sending it out to employers to make sure it flows well and makes sense. To set-up a one-on-one resume review appointment call (970) 498-6600 in Fort Collins and (970) 667-4261 in Loveland. If you are stuck starting your resume, you want to attend a resume workshop at the Workforce Center. To learn more about these workshops or to sign up call (970) 498-6649.

Cover Letters

When sending a resume to an employer, it’s a good idea to send a cover letter. The cover letter allows you to introduce yourself to an employer.

Cover letters are usually no more than three short paragraphs and are used to capture the employer’s attention. Cover letters should include the following information:

• Name and address of the specific person to whom the letter is addressed.


• Reason for your interest in the company or position.


• Your main qualifications for the position.


• Request for an interview.


• Your home phone number.
  

Reference: http://www.bls.gov/oco/oco20043.htm