Watch a quick video on the basics of CVs/resumes and cover letters to get you started.
Tips on creating your first CV, sample templates, and answers to common questions asked. Take me there.
What is a cover letter? Learn how to write one, why cover letters are important, and access templates. Find answers to common cover letter questions. Take me there.
Upload your CV here to send it in for review by someone on our team.
A brief introduction on CVs (resumes) and cover letters…
How to build a CV
A CV is a single-page document highlighting your skills, background, and accomplishments. Select a template and begin building your resume here.
Name: Your full given name as seen on your applications
Contact: Email, phone number, online portfolio.
Professional experience: Previous employment and/or related experience
Projects: Personal or school projects which highlight the application of your skills & knowledge
Descriptions: Concise summary of job responsibilities using key words (What are key words?).
Skills: Technical abilities such as JavaScript, Python, Laser Cutting, 3D printing, etc.
Involvements: Volunteer activities, extracurriculars, etc.
Other sections you may add
hobbies, certifications, education, diplomas, languages, achievements
Key Words for Your CV
Key words are specific words or phrases included in your CV that directly relate to the requirements of the applied position and are critical for an effective CV. The more the key words on your CV match the key words in the job description, the more likely your CV is to get noticed.
Common Questions
What do I put on my resume?
- Educational background
- Professional experiences (previous employment)
- Personal projects
- Volunteer work
- Skills (i.e., Python, JavaScript, 3D printing, etc.)
- Contact information
What if I do not have any previous relevant experience?
That’s okay! Everyone needs to start somewhere. Include other experiences which highlight other desirable skills. For example, a part-time customer service position shows that you are patient with others and have excellent communication skills.
How long should my CV be?
CVs should be no more than a single page.
How should I describe my experiences on my CV?
Experiences should be described by bullet points. These bullet points should be concise with key words and grammatically formatted the same for each experience.
How to write a cover letter
A cover letter is an additional single-page document often submitted with a resume. It is a piece of persuasive writing aimed to introduce yourself and explain why you are fit for the job. Select a template and begin writing your cover letter here.
Common Questions
How is a cover letter different than a CV?
- CVs are in bullet-list format while cover letters are full sentences.
- CVs are an opportunity to go into more detail on things briefly highlighted in your CV.
- CVs should focus more on the impact of your work as opposed to pure technical or objective skills as provided by a CV.
I have no clue where to start. Where can I find examples of cover letters relevant to my field?
You can find plenty of example cover letters for all sorts of jobs here. Find cover letter examples for professions in accounting, education, engineering, and more.
Should I include a cover letter if the application says it is optional, or the employer doesn’t ask for one?
Yes. Always including a cover letter when able shows the employer that you are willing to put in the extra effort.
Who do I address my cover letter to?
Address the cover letter to the recruiter, hiring manager, or direct employer. If you are applying to a larger organization and are not sure, you may address the letter as such:
“Dear Hiring Manager at [organization name]”
How can a cover letter help me with a career change?
A cover letter is a useful tool if you are trying to switch into a new career. While CVs only list experiences, a cover letter is an opportunity for you to explain how your previous experiences can translate to new ones.
Upload your CV for review by our team!