All the preparation you have done in the steps described in the previous sections will have laid the groundwork for your job search. Having a solid understanding of the industry and career you are interested in, developing your skills and experience to become a strong candidate, and networking and developing contacts in your field, will allow you to demonstrate your fit for the job.
This section includes resources on:
- Resumes
- Cover Letters
- Effective Interviewing
- Employment References
Resumes
Presenting your transferable skills, technical skills, personal qualities and achievements in a way that connects with employer needs and requirements is key to being invited to an interview. It can be a challenge to translate your scholarly achievements from your CV to a resume in a way that connects with employer priorities and requirements. The following section explains the differences between the two documents and provides tools for ensuring your resume makes a strong connection with your intended employer. You may book an appointment on CLNx to have your documents critiqued, and also check out the "Know Yourself" module on Quercus which can assist you in extracting skills to put on your resume.
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Wondering how to move from a CV to a resume? Read this insightful article.
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Great tips on writing a targeted resume for alt-ac positions but applies to anyone transitioning from a CV to a resume.
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A toolkit explaining the principles of effective resume writing.
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Sample resumes for a variety of positions.
Cover Letters
Once you have a resume that targets and connects well with your specific position and employer, a great cover letter is within reach. Use these articles to learn how to make a great cover letter.
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A primer explaining the principles of effective cover letter writing.
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A useful cover letter checklist and a list of action words you can use when writing your cover letter.
Interviews
Interviews can be a nerve-wracking part of finding the position you want but this need not be the case. With practice and preparation, you can effectively anticipate and respond to the types of questions you are likely to be asked.
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A primer explaining the principles of effective interviewing
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To research interview questions and get insights about hiring practices of companies you are applying to, use Glassdoor Canada and search under the “Interviews” tab.
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An online interview preparation tool available through the CLN with your Utorid. Look under the Resources tab for Big Interview
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A list of innovative interview questions for inspiration when preparing your own. Research your company and know which ones will play well for a specific situation.
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All about thank-you letters. Yes, they are required and often factor into hiring decisions!
Employment References and Salary Negotiations
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Some advice on negotiating your salary and benefits in a job offer.
updated July 2023