what does a resume cover page look like

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What Is a Resume Cover Page?

Definition & Examples of a Resume Cover Page

How a Resume Cover Page Works

• Resume Cover Page Requirements

Examples of a Resume Cover Page

A resume cover page is a letter sent along with your resume when applying for jobs. It provides additional information on your skills and qualifications to a prospective employer.

Here's why you need a cover page and how to write one.

A resume cover page provides detailed information on why you're qualified for the job you're applying for. Don't think of the letter as a summary of your resume. Well-written cover letters explain why you're interested in this specific position and organization and why you're the best candidate for the job.

• Alternate names : Cover letter, covering letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to land an interview. Specificity is essential. If you write a generic letter and use it for every job application, it will show. It sends a signal that you're not that interested in the position and that you're not attentive to detail.

While it might sound overwhelming and time-consuming to personalize each cover page , the groundwork will be quite helpful if you do get an interview. Your research gives you a sense of the organization and how you can contribute it, and you can use that information to inform your interview.

Your cover page is your first impression with a hiring manager. In addition to making a case for your candidacy, take the time to proofread the letter and/or ask a friend or trusted mentor to review it and provide feedback.

The only time you shouldn't send a cover page is if the job posting specifically says not to.

Requirements for a Resume Cover Page

Before you start writing, spend some time  reviewing the job advertisement . A close examination of the ad will reveal what's important to hiring managers. For instance, if the posting mentions the need for organization and time management skills, mention in your cover letter that you're deadline-driven. If the position calls for leadership competencies, mention teams or projects that you've overseen. 

The format of a resume cover page varies slightly depending on whether you're emailing your resume as an attachment or sending it in the body of an email. Here's the standard format for an attachment. 

Standard Cover Letter Format

Your Contact Information

Name Address City, State, ZIP Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer Contact Information  (if you have it) Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Salutation : Dear Mr./Ms. Name: ( begin here if you are sending the cover page in the body of an email)

First Paragraph Provide information on how you found out about the job and why you're applying. Mention the precise job title. 

Middle Paragraphs This section of the cover letter can be one paragraph or several. Use this space to describe your experience, focusing on how it shows that you're a good match for the position and have the necessary qualifications.

Final Paragraph Wrap up your cover page letter here by thanking readers for their consideration, and providing information on how you will follow up. 

Complimentary Close

Respectfully yours,

Typed Signature

Below is a sample resume cover page to help you craft your own.

Sheila Johnson 1234 Dogwood Avenue Knoxville, TN 37914 (123) 456-7890 sheila_johnson@email.com

July 2, 2020

Ms. Alexandra Eliot Hiring Manager ABC Company 3457 Neyland Street Knoxville, TN 37913

Dear Ms. Eliot:

I was very interested to learn that ABC Company is searching for a new Administrative Assistant through your recent posting on Indeed.com. Please accept the attached resume as a sign of my deep interest in this position.

As a recent graduate from Pellissippi State Community College’s Administrative Professional Technology Program, I can offer you advanced Microsoft Office 365 and QuickBooks accounting software skills. I am well-versed in traditional administrative tasks such as database management, data entry (typing 83 WPM), filing, and appointment scheduling.

You specify in your job posting that you're looking for someone with strong web design and social media management experience. Concurrent with my education at Pellissippi State, I also worked part-time as a Social Media Assistant for the Riverside Creative Agency. In that capacity, I helped create and manage new social media accounts on Facebook and LinkedIn for many local businesses. I’m sure that the skills I gained in social media design, SEO, and AdWords will allow me to contribute substantially to the in-house management of your website and social media presence.

My training, practical experience, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence will ensure that I hit the ground running as your next Administrative Assistant. ABC Company is widely respected as one of Knoxville’s best workplaces, and I would love to launch my career with your organization.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.

Sheila Johnson

Type your name at the close of the email followed by your contact information (email and telephone number). Your email  subject line  should include your name and the role you are seeking.

Key Takeaways

• A resume cover page is a letter sent along with your resume when applying for jobs. 
• It provides detailed information on why you're qualified for the job you're applying for.
• Tailor each cover page to the position. Don't just summarize your resume; provide context and make a case for your candidacy. 
• Use an example to help you craft your own cover page. 

What Does a Good Resume Look Like?

What a Good Resume Looks Like | Tips, How-to, Template & Example | Resume.com

In order to land a job interview, you should create a good resume with an overview of your background and expertise that is also visually appealing. Your resume is a hiring manager’s first impression of you, so it’s important to submit a resume that looks good. Learn how to create a standout resume that’s well-designed and has all the right elements.

Why is it important to create a resume that looks good?

Your resume is a representation of you and your abilities. It not only showcases your experience and skills but it also lets hiring managers see how you present yourself. For example, a clean and organized resume shows the effort you put into the design while also displaying your organizational skills. A well-designed resume with all the right elements can make it easier for hiring managers to determine who you are and what skills you can bring to their company.

What are the best things to include in a good resume?

Here are some tips for what to include in a good resume:

White space

Using white space effectively will help the sections of your resume to stand out. It’ll also make for a cleaner design. Be sure to leave spaces between the sections and text of your resume.

Even margins

Consider one-inch margins at the minimum on all four sides.

When you select a font for your resume, make sure it’s easy to read. The more legible your font is, the easier hiring managers can understand your resume. You should also use the same font on your cover letter for consistency.

Minimal number of fonts

Stick to two fonts at most in order to create a more cohesive resume. While it’s best to use one font, you can use two so long as they’re complementary. For example, use one serif and one sans serif font. You should also limit their use and use one for the body text and another for the headings.

Minimal text styling

If you decide to bold or italicize any of your fonts, do so sparingly. You should avoid underlining completely.

Clear section headings

Make sure your headings are a little bigger than your body text to avoid confusion. You can also use all caps when styling your resume headings. This will help the hiring manager to scan your resume more easily.

Ideal length

Try to keep your resume down to a single page. This will ensure you’re including only the most relevant information.

Most important sections

Lastly, make sure you’re only including the most important sections on your resume. This includes your contact information, a heading, a summary or objective, your work experience, education, skills and any additional sections such as your certifications or hobbies.

How to create a well-designed resume

Here are the steps to follow when creating a good, well-designed resume:

1. First, select the right fonts

Your font selection can make or break your resume. Find one or two simple fonts that are legible. If you’re using two, make sure they complement one another. Consider Garamond, Gill Sans, Cambria or Lato.

2. Second, consider using color

If you’re applying for a job in the art or design industry, consider using color to add a personal touch to your resume. Make sure to use color carefully and if you’re selecting a paper color, make sure it complements your font color. The text on your resume should remain legible. Refer to the color theory when selecting your resume colors.

3. Third, consider your spacing

Next, you should determine what margin sizes to use. You also need to determine the spacing between sections of text. Make sure to leave white space to help improve legibility and make your resume look cleaner overall.

4. Fourth, create an outline

Before inputting all of your information, create a general outline with all of the headings you plan to use. A resume outline can help you organize your thoughts and will also help you list only the most relevant information.

5. Fifth, include relevant information

Input all of your information to the various sections of your resume. Include your work experience, relevant skills, your contact information and more. Make sure everything you include serves a purpose and is placed under the right heading.

6. Finally, review your resume

Finally, create some distance between you and your resume and analyze how it looks. If your resume looks cluttered, you’ll need to make adjustments. Create more spacing between sections or increase the size of headings if needed. It’s also important to read through your resume to ensure it flows and makes sense.

Resume template

Here is a template for a good resume:

[First and last name] [Phone number] [Email]

[Qualifications, resume summary or objective heading]

[Statement with your qualifications, summary or objective.]

[Experience]

[Job title 1] [Company name] [Years worked] [Job duties]

[Job title 2] [Company name] [Years worked] [Job duties]

[Job title 3] [Company name] [Years worked] [Job duties]

[Education]

[Degree and major] [Years attended] [University name]

[List of hard and soft skills]

[Additional sections such as certifications or hobbies and interests]

Resume example

Here is an example of a good resume:

Jonah Smith 555-555-5555 [email protected]

Highly accomplished and creative designer with years of experience working in different industries. Exceptional team player with strong communication skills and willingness to learn. Highly skilled in client relations and maintaining steady feedback from project inception to completion.

Senior Graphic Designer Blue Dot Agency 2019 – Present

• Lead the design and development of company rebranding
• Lead a team of 10 graphic designers and manage design content calendar
• Delegate tasks to the design team and provide guidance on all project aspects
• Meet with clients to ensure all graphic design needs are met
• Review all design projects before they’re sent to clients for approval
• Ensure design budget is met

Graphic Designer He Brews Coffee 2014 – 2018

• Developed logos for marketing material
• Created marketing material including brochures, signs, newsletters and advertisements
• Managed 5 projects at a given time and completed each by their deadline
• Consulted with the senior graphic designer on a daily basis
• Recommended graphic design options to senior leadership

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, 2010 – 2014 California Bay University

• Communication skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Design software

Best in Show, California Poppy Art Show, 2018

Most Dynamic Design, California Design Institute, 2017

If you need help writing a resume, use our data-backed resume builder .