WRITING A RESUME AND
JOB APPLICATION
LETTER
A RESUME
• A resume is a self-promoting document with the aims of
giving a quick overview as well as providing effective and
interesting details that might help you secure the job
offered.
• It contains a summary of your qualifications and personal
background. Figure 7.1 is an outline of a resume:
The following is a sample resume in figure 7.2
Important points to note when writing a
Resume
a) A resume together with a job application letter represents you in
writing.
Therefore, in order to impress a would-be employer, it is vital that the
resume is meticulous.
This can be achieved by following the tips stated in the next slide:
Name
Address
Date
Job Objectives *Mentions Job
Personal Information *Gives Personal Data
Education
Work experience
Activities *Mentions Activities and Interests
Skills
References
Adapted from: Lagan, J. (2000) Figure 7.1
Nisha Bt. Abd. Kadir
Figure 7.2: Sample No. 19, Taman Indah 2, Jalan Ketoyong,
35900 Tanjong Malim
resume Perak Darul-Ridzuan
20 August 2003
JOB OBJECTIVES A position requiring innovation and advancement in the computer technology
field.
PERSONAL Age 24, single, excellent health
INFORMATION
EDUCATION 2000 to present
University Malaya, Malaysia
B.S. Computer Science, ( Graduate, August 2003).
MAJOR COURSES Programming Languages
Data Structures
Information technology Management
Computer Systems Management
Computer Design
Assembly Language
Robotics and Automation
RELATED COURSES Discrete Mathematics
Calculus
Logic
Business Management
Marketing and Entrepreneurship
WORK EXPERIENCE 2000 to present Malaysian Student Finance Center
• Part-time programmer
• Purchasing and maintenance of computers
ACTIVITIES University Malaya
• Chairman of Computer Design Club
• Three term treasurer of business management Club
SKILL Competent in C++, pascal, COBOL, Visual Basic. Variety of interests-music,
cycling, writing, politics.
REFERENCES Chairman
Dr Lillian Khoo
Malaysian Student Finance Center
Faculty of Information Technology
Jalan Kelang Lama, University Malaya,
54450, Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
•The computer is very useful when you are writing a resume. The word
document application enables you to type tidy resume. Then print the
resume on a fine quality paper, size 8 ½ by 11 inches.
•Make sure your resume has the same margin on all sides.
•Capitalize all headings. Use wide margins, single space within sections
and double space between sections
•You may use a model resume to guide you.
•Write your educational and employment particulars backward in time.
• Length does not show quality. Make your resume precise and concise.
The best is to type you resume in only one page and include only the
most essential particulars.
• Your resume must be free from errors. Therefore, proofread your resume
carefully so that there are no spelling mistakes and the sentences are
correctly structured. You may also get someone proofread your resume or
use the spell check feature in the computer to recheck your resume. This
is very important as the presentation of the resume not only shows its
quality but it may reflect your personality
b) Always remember that a resume should highlight strengths and not
weaknesses. Therefore, do not state your grade point average if it is low.
However, you may add a heading such as “Special Awards” if you have
been bestowed awards worth mentioning.
c) You need to inform the people concerned before listing them as your
reference on the resume. Other than that, you may provide the address
of a placement office that could provide references if required.
Job Application Letter
Job application letter, which is also known as the cover letter is
submitted with the resume in order to provide a brief introduction as
well as attract the attention of a potential employer. It should also
emphasize the main details provided in your resume.
Important Points to Note When Writing A Job Application
Letter
a) A job application letter should include the following details:
• You need to state clearly that you are applying for the job advertised and also
mention where you saw the job advertised in the first paragraph of your letter.
• The second paragraph of your letter should give information regarding your
qualifications and experience. Usually this paragraph also introduces your
resume to the potential employer.
• The concluding paragraph indicates you are available for an interview.
Example:
I would like to apply for the post of… as
advertised in todays issues of…
With reference to your advertisement in… on…, I
am writing to apply for the position of…
(b) The following is a list of tips in order to produce a tidy job
application letter:
• The letter should have a formal layout.
• The letter is not an essay: therefore, you should keep it short. (not
more than one page long).
• Finally, when closing the letter, end it with “Yours Sincerely” or “Kind
regards” and do not forget to sign your letter.
I am available for an interview at any time but would appreciate two days’ notice I
can be contacted on/at...
Sample of a Job Application Letter
Title: Applying for the position of assistant computer programmer at the
Putra World Trade Center.
Classroom Activity:
Find a job advertised in a newspaper column that suits your interest and
also qualifications. Write a resume and job application letter based on
the samples provided.
No.19, Taman Indah 2,
Jalan Ketoyong,
35900 Tanjong Malim,
Perak Darul Ridzuan
Mr. Halim Bin Othman
Manager of Human Resources,
Inspire Investments Inc.,
54600 Kuala Lumpur. 20 August 2003
Dear Mr. Halim,
I am applying for the position of assistant computer programmer, which was
advertised Aug. 14 with career services center at The Putra World Trade Centre.
The position seems to fit very well with my education, experience, and career
interests.
According to the advertisement, your position requires excellent communication
skills, computer literacy, and a B.S degree in computer science. I will be
graduating from university Malaya Malaysia this month with the required degree. I
understand the position also requires a candidate who is team- and detail oriented,
works well under pressure, is able to deal with people in departments throughout
the firm. These are skills I developed both in my course work and as a part-time
programmer in the Malaysian student finance center.
My background and goals seem to match your requirements well. I am confident
that I can perform the job effectively, and I am excited about the idea of working
for a dynamic and nationally recognized investment management firm.
If you would like to schedule an interview or otherwise discuss my interest in this
position, please call me at 012567889. I will be available at your convenience.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
(NISHA BT. ABD. KADIR)
