Job Search Strategies: How to Make Your Resume and Cover Letter Shine

Looking for a new job can be exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. Your resume and cover letter are often the first impression you make on a potential employer. They need to stand out from the crowd, tell your story clearly, and show why you're the right person for the job.

Here’s how to craft a resume and cover letter that get noticed.

Start with a Strong Resume

Your resume is a snapshot of your skills, experience, and accomplishments. A good resume is clear, easy to read, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Tips for a great resume:

Keep it short and focused: One page is best for most people. Two pages are okay if you have a lot of relevant experience.
Use clear headings: Separate sections like Education, Experience, and Skills so employers can scan quickly.
Use bullet points: Highlight what you did at each job, focusing on results.
Tailor it: Use keywords from the job description. If a job asks for “project management skills,” mention your experience managing projects.
Quantify your achievements: Numbers make your impact clear. For example, “Increased sales by 20% in six months” is more powerful than “Helped increase sales.”
Choose a clean layout: Stick to simple fonts and consistent formatting. Avoid graphics unless you’re in a creative field.

Highlight Skills That Match the Job

You may have many talents—but not all of them are relevant to every job. Focus on the skills that matter most for the role.

Look at the job ad and note the key skills they want.
List those skills clearly on your resume under a “Skills” or “Core Competencies” section.
Show how you’ve used those skills in past roles, with examples.

If you’re changing careers or don’t have much experience, highlight transferable skills like communication, teamwork, or organization.

Write a Cover Letter That Tells Your Story

Your cover letter is your chance to connect with the employer on a personal level. It's where you explain why you want the job and how you’re a great fit.

What to include:

Introduction: Mention the job you’re applying for and where you found it.
Why you’re interested: Show that you understand the company and why you want to work there.
Why you’re qualified: Highlight your top strengths and how they match the job.
Call to action: End by thanking them and saying you're looking forward to the next step.

Tips:

Keep it to one page.
Personalize it for each job.
Avoid copying your resume—use the letter to tell a story or give examples.
Address it to a specific person if you can.

Write a Cover Letter That Tells Your Story

Stand Out with a Professional Touch

A few small touches can make a big difference:

Use a professional email address: Ideally, one that includes your name.
Proofread carefully: Typos and errors can hurt your chances.
Save your documents as PDFs: This keeps formatting clean when employers open them.
Name your files clearly: For example, “Jane_Doe_Resume.pdf” looks more polished than “resume_final2.pdf.”

If you’re applying online, make sure your resume is readable by applicant tracking systems (ATS). Use standard headings and avoid putting key info in graphics or tables.

Final Thoughts

Finding a job takes time, patience, and effort—but a strong resume and cover letter can open doors. Be honest, be clear, and always focus on how you can help the company succeed.

Think of your resume and cover letter as a way to introduce yourself before the interview. Show your strengths, keep it professional, and let your personality shine through.

You’ve got this!