Over the past two weeks we’ve discussed how to craft a great resume, from a clean style and format to eye-catching content. This week we’ll talk about one a common issue: how to send your resume.
In the past, sending a resume was easy. You printed out your cover letter and resume, put them in an envelope, stuck on a stamp and off it went to Human Resources at your company of choice. Today, almost all hiring is done through e-mail. While this is faster and more efficient, unfortunately, it also leaves room for technological snafus. Use the following tips to make sure your information gets where it needs to in order to help you land that job!
Follow Directions: Your first priority should always be to follow any directions given by the person hiring. Many companies will request a specific format, such as a Word Document or PDF, or others may prefer a submission by fax. Regardless of your preference, always follow the directions you have been given.
Cover Letter: There has been some confusion on this topic. In the past, people would often attach their cover letter to the e-mail as a separate document. Nowadays, it is more appropriate and accepted to copy and paste your cover letter into the body of your e-mail. Since e-mail is accepted as a standard mode of communication, simply treating your e-mail itself as the cover letter is the best way to go.
Subject: Always include the position you are applying for in the subject line of your e-mail. The person who is hiring is most likely inundated with submissions. Keeping your desired position clearly in the subject line makes it less likely yours will get lost in the shuffle.
Attachments: If no particular type of attachment is specified, you may use whatever format is easiest for you to attach your resume. While Word Documents are widely accepted, I’ve found that PDF is usually the safest way to go. A PDF is an image file, as opposed to an editable document, so you know what you’re seeing is exactly what they’ll be seeing. If the person hiring has requested that you do not use attachments, simply copy and paste your e-mail into the body of your e-mail below your cover letter. Use a simple font, and avoid formatting—things often get altered from one e-mail service to another.
Want more great tips for professional business communication? Want to improve the way you speak and interact with others in the workplace? A corporate speech-language pathologist can help! Visit us at www.corporatespeechsolutions.comor call us at 917-841-2965 to find a professional business communication coach who is right for you!