How do you write a good cover letter?

What is a Curriculum Vitae?

While it may be tempting to call any resume a Curriculum Vitae because the Latin sounds more impressive, a CV is different from a resume. For one thing, a resume is a concise list of contact info, a brief overview of education and experience to give the employer a snapshot in just a minute of reading of the applicant. A Curriculum Vitae is intended to provide a fuller picture of the applicant and is a more detailed view. A resume is typically one page and not more than two. A CV may be two to four pages.

A Static CV versus a Dynamic CV

A static CV is one that has been written once and is never updated with new achievements or work history. This is one mistake you do not want to make, your CV should change with you. A dynamic CV is one that reflects the applicants current activities and vision for the future. The reader should get the impression that the applicant is committed to his or her work and that he or she is always growing in the field. A dynamic CV should emphasize current involvement as well as past experience.

• Resume and CV writing workshop

What to Include in a CV

A CV should include the same basic information as a resume, such as contact information, education, experience and references. However, you need not worry too much about being concise (but avoid being verbose) and can give a fuller picture of your education and experience. Include publication, awards, positions, fellowships and grants. Describe in slightly more detail each item. Be upbeat and positive and your CV should reflect the passion you have for your work.

• Tips from Purdue University on job descriptions.
• Guide from Darthmouth

What not to include in a CV

It is a good idea not to be overly formal or overly casual on your CV, but to be professional. Avoid personal information that is not relevant, jokes, sarcasm, cute e-mail addresses, negative comments. At the other extreme, avoid referring to yourself in the 3rd person, colorful paper, fancy fonts and pompous, long-winded sentences. Be straight and to the point, but don't be afraid to let your personality shine through. Also, make sure that your CV is free of mistakes and inaccuracies.

• Items not to include on a CV or Resume

Formatting and Fonts

As mentioned above, fancy fonts are not what employers are looking for. Your CV should be very conventional and easy to read. Use fonts such as Times New Roman and make the size between 10 -12. You should also use some bold for section headings.

• Example CVs
• Standard and European Examples
• Examples from Oklahoma State University

How to write a cover letter

Many people find writing a cover letter to be the hardest part of the application process, but it needn't be. You do not need to reiterate everything in your CV, but your cover letter should be a like a film trailer or a highlight of what the employer will read. Think of it as an introduction and an opportunity to explain certain parts of your CV. The cover letter should be no more than one page long.

• Cover Letter Steps
• Cover Letter Examples
• Guide for writing Cover Letters

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