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Resumes and Interviewing

Set yourself up for success!

As a Cavalier, you’ll receive guidance on writing resumes and cover letters along with examples from Career Coaches. Email careerdevelopment@jccc.edu or stop by SC 252 where you can:

  • Pick up your “Resumes and Correspondence Best Practices” and “Interviewing Tips” booklets.
  • Bring a draft of your resume and cover letter for a critique.  
  • Request registration login to Big Interview to practice interviewing skills.
  • Schedule a formal recorded Mock Interview Practice Session.
  • View Career Spots Videos to hear advice from employers, career counselors, and fellow students on a wide range of job-search topics.

Resumes

A strong, professional resume and cover letter will help you stand out in a crowded field of jobseekers. Together, these are your most effective tools to market yourself and obtain an interview. They include:

  • A summary of your best qualifications, skills, attributes, talents, and relevant achievements
  • Factual, accurate, and results-oriented information
  • Details specific to both you and the job you are seeking

Types of Resumes

Resumes can be chronological or functional. Choose the format the best presents the information you want to emphasize to a potential employer. Most employers are more familiar with the chronological format.

Use the chronological format to:

  • Call attention to stable work history
  • Highlight upward mobility, accomplishments and promotions in your career field
  • Apply for a job in a traditional company or field
  • Look for a job in the same field as your previous job(s)

Use the functional format to:

  • Showcase expertise
  • Pursue a new career
  • Emphasize education, if you are new graduate
  • Return to the workplace after an absence

Resume Content

  • Write 3-5 concise bullet points for a compelling summary of qualifications.
  • Describe how can you add value to the company’s bottom line.
  • Start with the most relevant and impressive experience and formal training .
  • Customize your content to suit the job.
  • Always include a cover letter.

Review Before You Share

  • Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
  • Use present tense for a current job and past tense for past jobs.
  • Start each accomplishment with an action verb.
  • Use industry buzz words.

Interview Quick Tips

Prepare for the Interview

  • Update your voicemail. It should sound professional and use both your first and last name.
  • Research the company and industry: use websites like CareerBuilder, Dice, Glassdoor, Indeed, and LinkedIn.
  • Know who will be interviewing you.
  • Confirm time, date, and place.
  • Practice common interview questions.

Organize your pitch to the common question, “Tell me about yourself.”

  • Highlight relevant skills and experience.
  • State career goals.
  • Showcase how you would benefit the company.