Unit 2. Writing a resume and a letter of application

1. Recommendations on writing a CV.

A CV (“curriculum vitae” or “resume”) is essential if you are applying for a new job or for a promotion within your own company, or even register as a a delegate at a conference. Some information must be given in your CV, some in your letter of application. There are no fixed international rules about this: different countries have different practices.

2. Match the words (1-7) to the definitions (a-g)

1. confidence	a. liking to have everything tidy
2. neatness	b. connected with what is happening, being discussed, done, etc.
3. modest	c. ability to do something expertly and well
4. to highlight	d. believe in oneself or others
5. relevant	e. having or showing a not too high opinion of one's merits, abilities
6. skill	f. ready to help, to do what is needed, asked, etc.
7. willingness	g. to give prominence or emphasis to

3. Points to keep in mind:

1. Honesty. Tell the truth. Employees do verify resumes.

2. Confidence. You are asking someone to hire you and pay you money. If you are too modest or too unsure of your abilities, no one is going to hire you.

3. Neatness. The layout should be stylish and conservative, easy and attractive to read.

4. It is brief. It is presumably one page in length, in “telegraphic style”.

5. It is without error. Spelling, grammar, and punctuation must be impeccable.

4. Comment on why the following resume is effective enough, using exercises 2, 3.

ROBERT E. BROWN

5340 Tower Avenue

Bolton, MA 01437

(413)848-7653

JOB OBJECTIVE Automobile mechanic in car dealership

EDUCATION Northwest Technical College

Large engine repair (night courses)

Bolton High School Graduated June, 1983

Major course emphasis:

Auto Mechanics I, II, III

Small Engine Repair

Power Mechanics

EXPERIENCE

2002 – present Frank's Texaco Service

Auto mechanic, gas station attendant (part time)

• Numerous customers

• 88% customer satisfaction

• Own automotive tools

2004 – present Restored several stock cars

• Was asked to display one car at Bolton Mall

• Sold two cars at 50% profit

AWARDS AND

MEMBERSHIP

2002-2003 Member, Bolton High School Automotive Club

2004 Stock car entry took 3^rd place, Dade Country Fair

REFERENCES Available upon request

5. The letter of application.

The letter of application can be important and normally contains four paragraphs in which you should:

• confirm that you wish to apply and say where you leant about the job,

• say why you are interested in the position and relate your interests with those of the company,

• show that you can contribute for the job by highlighting your most relevant skills and experience,

• indicate your willingness to attend an interview (and possibly say when you would be free to attend).