Whether you're applying for your first job, looking for a new opportunity, or making a career change, your resume and cover letter are often your first chance to make an impression. The good news? You don't need to start from scratch every time you apply.
A few strategic updates can make your application more relevant, polished, and focused on what an employer is actually looking for.
Start With Your Resume
Your resume should tell the story of what you can do and the value you can bring to an organization. Before submitting an application, take a few minutes to make sure your resume is current.
1. Update the basics
Check that your resume includes your most recent:
Job or internship experience
Education and certifications
Skills
Volunteer or leadership experience
Awards or accomplishments
Contact information
Relevant projects or professional experiences
You don't necessarily need to include everything you've ever done. Focus on experiences that are relevant to the type of position you're seeking.
2. Look at the job description
This is one of the most important steps. Read the job posting carefully and look for skills, qualifications, responsibilities, and keywords that the employer emphasizes.
For example, if a job description says the employer is looking for someone with "project management," "customer service," and "team leadership" experience, look for opportunities to demonstrate those skills on your resume. If you've done those things, use similar language when describing your experience.
3. Focus on accomplishments—not just responsibilities
Instead of simply listing what you were responsible for, show what you accomplished.
Instead of:
Responsible for social media posts.
Try:
Created and scheduled social media content to increase engagement and promote upcoming events.
Think about:
What did you accomplish?
What did you improve?
Who did you help?
What problem did you solve?
Can you include a number or measurable result?
Even small accomplishments can make a difference.
4. Keep it easy to read
Your resume should be easy for a busy employer to scan quickly.
Use:
Clear headings
Consistent formatting
Bullet points
Short, specific descriptions
Professional fonts
Plenty of white space
For most early-career professionals, one page is often enough, but don't force your experience onto one page if doing so makes it difficult to read.
Now Refresh Your Cover Letter
Your cover letter shouldn't simply repeat your resume. Instead, use it to connect your experience to the specific position you're applying for.
1. Tailor it to the position
Avoid sending the exact same cover letter to every employer.
Start by identifying:
What does the employer need?
Then explain:
How can my experience help meet that need?
For example, if you're applying for a position that involves working with students, you might highlight your experience tutoring, mentoring, volunteering, leading student organizations, or working in customer service.
2. Show, don't just tell
Instead of saying:
I am a strong leader and excellent communicator.
Give an example that demonstrates those qualities. For example:
As president of my student organization, I coordinated a team of 12 members, organized monthly meetings, and helped plan three campus events.
The example gives the employer evidence of your skills rather than simply listing them.
3. Explain why you're interested
Your cover letter is a great place to show that you have done your homework. Mention something specific about:
The organization
The position
Its mission
The work it does
Why the opportunity interests you
Employers want to know that you're interested in this position, not just looking for any job.
4. Keep it focused
A cover letter doesn't need to be a full essay about your life. Aim for three to four short paragraphs:
Paragraph 1: Introduce yourself and the position you're applying for.
Paragraph 2: Highlight one or two experiences or skills that connect to the position.
Paragraph 3: Explain why you're interested in the organization or opportunity.
Paragraph 4: Thank the employer and express interest in discussing the position further.
Before You Hit "Submit"
Take one last look at your application. Ask yourself:
Is my contact information correct?
Does my resume include my most recent experience?
Did I remove outdated or irrelevant information?
Did I use keywords from the job description where appropriate?
Did I highlight accomplishments instead of only responsibilities?
Did I tailor my cover letter to this specific position?
Did I address the correct organization and position?
Did I check for spelling and grammar mistakes?
Does everything look professional and easy to read?
One More Tip: Get a Second Set of Eyes
Even after you've read your resume and cover letter several times, it's easy to miss mistakes. Ask a professor, career advisor, mentor, colleague, friend, or fellow alum to review your application. They may notice something you've overlooked or have suggestions for highlighting your experience. And remember: your resume and cover letter don't have to be perfect—they need to clearly communicate what you bring to the table.
Take a little time to customize your application for each opportunity, and you'll be better prepared to show employers why you're a great match for the position.
Ready for Your Next Application?
Don't wait until you're applying for a job to update your resume. Set a reminder to review it every few months and add new experiences, skills, accomplishments, and certifications as you gain them. That way, when the right opportunity comes along, you'll be ready to apply.
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