FAQs

How do I put together a résumé that actually works?

Avoid using templates. These are often in the wrong format and they can get automatically rejected by applicant tracking systems due to the use of graphics, text boxes, and various style elements that trigger spam alerts.

How do I get through applicant tracking systems (ATS) to make sure my résumé is actually read?

Make sure you tailor your resume to the specific jobs you apply to. Use keywords from the descriptions to show how you are qualified for the role. Avoid using any kind of graphics such as pictures, images, logos, various shapes for bullet points, text boxes, headers or footers. ATS scans can not read inside of these and much of your information can be missed.

How long should my résumé be?

This depends on a number of factors:

1. If you are a career starter with very little or no experience, then your résumé should be only one page. If you are a career changer or advancing in your current industry you could have a two-page résumé, but the second page should be relevant and strongly geared to your industry.
2. If you are applying to federal jobs, research positions, university-level teaching jobs, or PhD positions, then you would have a curriculum vitae (CV) which can be more than two pages. Do not exceed more than four-to-five pages if you have the required and relevant information. Read the job descriptions carefully to know which format the employer expects. If there is any doubt, call the company’s HR department.

What if I’m transitioning to a new career?

Job descriptions will be your best friend. Also, research various companies connected to the new industry to find out more about their service, products, and company culture. This can tell you a lot about the new careers you seek. Use LinkedIn to dig deeper. Check out some LinkedIn profiles and consider conducting an Informational Interview with some LinkedIn connections you make.

How do I address employment gaps?

This depends on what is happening that caused the gaps. Some employment gaps can be due to being a stay-at-home parent, military service, illness, incarceration, etc. The COVID-19 pandemic has also affected job searching, so if you have a year or two of a gap, many career professionals today say don’t worry about it. On your résumé, use year-to-year only. No months. For more than 1+ years, show what productive or volunteer activity you’ve done.

Do I really need a cover letter? And if so, what should it include?

Cover letters are optional, but they can be helpful for those who are career changers or have gaps in their work history. Keep the cover letter brief (three paragraphs). Start with how you found the job and what you know about the company. Then move on to how you believe you’re a good fit. Lastly, close with a positive statement letting the employer know that you are available to meet and to address any questions. Do not ask for an interview. This is up to the employer to invite you to interview, you’re simply stating your enthusiasm for the job.

How do I best prepare for an interview?

Research the company and position. Use LinkedIn and Glassdoor to peer deeper inside the company. Use the company’s own “About Us” page to learn their mission statement and company operational principles. Research sample interview questions and also how to use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique to answer behavioral-based questions.

Do I really need a LinkedIn profile? If so, what should it say?

1. LinkedIn is still today’s “go to” for professional networking and they continuously add and update information and features.
2. LinkedIn can help you build and promote your brand. Recruiters and hiring managers use LinkedIn to also search for talent.
3. A well written LinkedIn profile will give you credibility and will establish you as a trustworthy potential employee.
4. LinkedIn also offers you an excellent opportunity to network with other professionals in your field.
5. With a LinkedIn account, you will be able to continually keep an eye out for various job opportunities that will interest you.