Some employers are looking for a standard résumé and cover letter. Others may invite you for an interview based on your LinkedIn profile, video or infographic resumé. Talk to people working in your field to find out what will get you through the employer’s door.

Download our Résumé Workbook (PDF) or Résumé and Cover Letter Toolkit (PDF) to get started. Take a resumé and cover letter workshop or book a Résumé Ready appointment with a career peer advisor at Career Exploration & Education.

Graduate students and post-doctoral fellows: Consider attending an Applying for Work or Applying for Faculty Position workshop (part of the Flexible Futures Programming for Graduate Students) to learn about how to effectively communicate your experiences.

Below are some tips before you go.

Résumés

Most employers will spend 10-20 seconds reviewing a résumé. They will take a closer look if you’ve articulated that you have the skills and abilities to do the job. Include experience gained through Work Study positions, internships, part-time and volunteer positions.

Cover letters

Your cover letter is not simply a repetition of your résumé or CV. Use it to highlight connections between how your degree or experiences relate to the position. Tell an employer how you’ll be a good fit for the job and why you’re interested in the role. Research the labour market to understand the organization’s needs and requirements. Determine whether the job and the workplace are a good fit for you.