Tips From the Pros: How to Write a Resume and Cover Letter

Writing resumes and cover letters that capture the attention of recruiters and pass through resume scanners can sometimes feel hard to tackle. That’s why we asked Niki Bratchette from our Talent Acquisition team to share her best advice with job seekers.

Make an impression in your next job application using Niki’s tips, and if you’re ready to make your career a force for good, visit our website to find a job opening!

What should I include in my resume and cover letter?

Job description keywords:

“It's a good practice to include keywords from the job description in your resume. This helps recruiters scan applications for specific keywords to match candidates with job openings.”

Past work experience:

“It's recommended to include most — if not all — relevant experiences on your resume, even if it’s an internship you had in college! These experiences can showcase your skills, work ethic and professional growth, which can be valuable to potential employers.” 

Customization for the job description:

“When writing a resume or cover letter, focus on highlighting relevant skills, experiences and achievements that directly relate to the job you’re applying for. It’s a great idea to tailor the cover letter to the specific job requirements and company culture.”

What should the layout of my resume and cover letter look like?

Organization:

“In my experience, some common layout mistakes on resumes and cover letters include using inconsistent formatting and poor organization of the information an applicant is trying to convey. A concise layout with organized information can make a great impression.” 

Length:

“Generally, a resume should be one or two pages long. For most candidates, going beyond two pages can be a distraction unless there is extensive relevant experience that justifies the additional pages. For cover letters, aim for 2-3 paragraphs that summarize your relevant experience.” 

Font and size:

“Overall, this level of detail can depend on the specific job, but I would recommend using easy-to-read fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. For readability, keep the font size at 10-12 points and utilize headings to make information easy to browse and digest.”

We hope you’ll use this information to apply for a position with the Red Cross! 😉 If you’d like to learn more, visit our careers page here.

Tap here to connect with Niki Bratchette and learn more about job opportunities at the American Red Cross.