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Writing Winning Resumes and Cover Letters

Approx. 13 hours to complete

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Course Summary

This course teaches you how to create a professional resume that stands out from the crowd. Learn how to showcase your skills and accomplishments effectively to attract potential employers.

Key Learning Points

Understand the purpose and importance of a resume
Identify the key elements of an effective resume
Learn how to tailor your resume for different job applications

Learning Outcomes

Create a professional and effective resume
Tailor your resume for different job applications
Understand the importance of showcasing your skills and accomplishments

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

None

Course Difficulty Level

Beginner

Course Format

Online
Self-paced

Similar Courses

Interviewing Skills
Networking and Building Relationships

Related Education Paths

Notable People in This Field

Richard N. Bolles

Related Books

Description

How can you bring your resume to the top of the pile? How can you present yourself to prospective employers using the language they already speak inside their organization? This course will give you answers to those questions. You will learn how to convert a boring resume into a dynamic asset statement that conveys your talents in the language that an employer understands.

After completing this course, you will be able to: 1. Identify the real purpose of a resume. 2. Identify relevant competencies for a position. 3. Adapt your resumes to Applicant Tracking Systems (resume screening software). 4. Write powerful and convincing accomplishment statements using your accomplishments inventory to strategically assemble the most relevant evidence of competency for a specific position. 5. Use the resume skills tier method to strengthen your resume. 6. Write summary sections and objective statements aligned to a job position. 7. Take advantage of web resources to find power language for your resume. 8. Produce a strong resume in a format that is suitable both to your background and the position you're interested in. 9. Produce strong cover letters that use A.I.D.A. to help you achieve your career goals. 10. Produce effective follow-up letters that help you stand out from the competition.

Outline

Preparing to Write
The Real Purpose of a Resume
Focusing Your Resume
Identifying Relevant Competencies
Understanding 21st Century Competencies
Gathering Your Materials to Write
Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems
Lists of Competencies
Competency Readings
20 Questions
Background Resources
Concept Quiz
Concept Quiz

Writing a Winning Resume
Writing Strong Accomplishment Statements
Using the Resume Skills Tier Method
Writing Summary Sections
Writing Objectives
Finding the Right Words
Using the Resume Dictionary and COCA
Example Accomplishment Statements
Example Resume Tier Method Statements
Example Resume Summary Statements
Action Word Resources
Lists of Competencies
Concept Quiz
Concept Quiz

Choosing a Resume Format
The Most Popular Resume Format
Other Popular Resume Formats
Two Special Resume Formats
Other Special Resume Formats
Electronic, Scannable and Internal Resumes
What You Should Never Put on a Resume
Example Resume Formats
Federal Resume Formats
Concept Quiz
Concept Quiz
Concept Quiz

Writing a Winning Cover Letter
Powerhouse Cover Letters
Constructing the Letter
Creating a Sense of Urgency
The Follow-Up Letter
Example Cover Letter
Concept Review
Concept Quiz

Summary of User Reviews

Learn the art of writing a compelling resume with Coursera's Resume Writing course. This course has received positive reviews from its users. The key aspect that many users found good was the comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of resume writing.

Pros from User Reviews

Comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of resume writing
Easy to follow instructions
Great tips and tricks for creating a standout resume

Cons from User Reviews

Some users felt the course was too basic
Not suitable for experienced professionals
Limited interaction with instructors

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