This isn’t going to be like my usual Organize, Please installments. Instead, it’s just useful tips when you’re applying for jobs or internships.
We have been collecting applications for Sweet Lemon Magazine and a few things have stood out to us. I’m not an expert about resumes, but after reading applications from “the other side” I know a few things that will instantly put your application out of the running. These are super quick fixes that may not give your application a specific “edge,” but it will definitely make sure you’re not shooting yourself in the foot.
- Email addresses. Take note of where you’re applying. If blogging is important, you may want to use your blog email address. However, use this with discretion. It has to “fit” the personality of the job you’re applying for. The best option? Use your university given email address. Credibility right away. Next best option? Email address with your name. Worst option? 2cute4u9189xoxo at gmail dot com.
- Resumes. Definitely meet with a career center counselor to revise, edit, and all around perfect your resume. Keep it relevant! I know, it’s hard to fit everything you do on ONE PAGE! Impossible!!!! I think it’s best to have a few different resumes for different types of jobs your applying for. Have a resume that focuses on your writing accomplishments, have another for research, and another with political focus.
- Answer the questions. If the application asks you what your school-related activities consist of, say what your school-related activities are. If the application asks what community service you participate in, say what you do for community service. Don’t throw information in just to say you did other cool stuff.
- Put your best foot forward. An application is much less personal than an in-person (or even phone interview). I used to have the impression that my resume would be read on its own, now I realize that when I apply for something, it’s more about how one application stands out from the next. When we were reading the Sweet Lemon applications, there were so so so many good ones with GREAT ideas! But at the end of the day, we had to chose the best ideas.
- There’s a mold. So you applied for something and didn’t get it? Don’t take it personally. I know it’s hard to believe that, but it’s true. For example, you can be an amazing writer and an amazing person, but if you don’t have the specific expertise that the company is looking for, you might not get the job.
And the best advice I can give?
If you don’t apply, you have a 100% chance of not getting the job. So apply!
xoxo
sometimes it's best to stick with your first and last name at a gmail or yahoo account because university emails expire quickly after graduation! so if you submit your resume to a company and they keep it on file and contact you 6 months after graduation- they may not have a way of reaching you since your email will not work! just a tip I've picked up!
Amazing post! Thanks for sharing 🙂
x
Eek, I definitely do not rely on my university email account. Notoriously bad servers and inboxes that are full with 30 emails… I definitely use my name @ gmail!
Great advice, Carly! I'll be sure to keep some of this in my mind this spring!
great tips!
Those are really cool tips for both the beginners and experienced. Your resume is your first impression on the recruiters and many people ruined it by making some silly mistakes like inappropriate headings and font size. Although, nice effort. Cheers.