Central Michigan University

The following samples provide a number of different "looks" that could be used when developing a resume and cover letter. Resumes and cover letters are individual documents (or opinions) so there is no "right" or "wrong" formats or techniques; however, there are some basics that all documents should adhere to:

• Generic resumes and cover letters do not exist; each document should be customized to the specific position you are seeking

• If you embellish or stretch the truth on your job search documents you will probably get caught or tripped up on this information an interview or through the reference check process

• Be specific and concise (2 page resumes are fine, but is all the information relevant to the position your are seeking?)

• Is your format eye-appealing and does it draw the reader in or make them skip over your résumé and cove letter?

CMU Career Services Sample Resumes and Cover Letter

• Action Words (breathe some life into your job descriptors by using action words/verbs instead of "Duties include:"!)

• Reference Page

• Yule B. Sharpe (chronological)

• Ben Fine (chronological)

• Ima Teacher (chronological)

• Sherrie Valencia (functional)

Samples from Other resources

• Job-Seeker Web Resume Samples (from Quintessential Careers)

• Resumes and Letters (from Monster.com)

• Sample Dynamic Cover Letters for Job-Seekers (from Quintessential Careers)

• Sample Resumes (from Jobweb)

• Sample Web Curriculum Vitas (from Quintessential Careers)

Video Resumes

Ever thought about ditching the paper and posting a resume video? 

• Video Resume Information (from CareerTV)

Great Reads

Still need more information and resources regarding résumés and letters?!  Check out the following links for interesting articles and more opinions regarding these documents.

• Links to Multiple Articles (from CareerJournal.com: The Wall Street Journal Executive Career Site)

• Seven Executive Resume Strategies (from MSN Careers and careerbuilder.com)