Resumes: Tips for Making the Best First Impression

November 18, 2021

The old adage "You never get a second chance to make a good first impression," puts a lot of pressure on your first interaction with a person you want to impress. Luckily for those seeking a new job, you have plenty of time to prepare, cull, and review your first impression—your resume.

Writing a resume can be confusing and stressful, but it is a vital step in securing a job interview. 

The Capitology Blog sat down with Connie Harrington, Capitol Technology University's Associate Director of Career Development and Employer Relations, to discuss the importance of resume building and tips on making the best first impression.

Question: If a resume is a first impression, do you have three top tips for making a good first impression?

A: 1. Use a suitable resume format that highlights your skills and matches those listed in the job posing. This is important because online application systems called Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan for these words. If they are not in your resume, you will not go forward in the screening process. Career Services used one of the top formats ideal Capitol majors.

2. Revise your resume for each position you are applying for to ensure you match the skills listed by the employer and do the same for your cover letter (which should be submitted with your resume). 

3. Be prepared to discuss your skill sets and how they can benefit the employer.

Q: What do you think is the most misunderstood aspect of a job search?

A: The process. It requires more than just searching and applying for jobs online. In a competitive market, you need a solid strategy for how you plan to pursue employment opportunities. Networking is the key to expediting a job search.

Networking Resources:

Q: How are resumes reviewed by employers and how, if at all, does this impact the way applicants should write their resume?

A: Today, resumes are not read, they are scanned.  An ATS is searching words to screen people out, and, therefore, if you do not know how to maneuver through the system, you may never go forward.  When a person reviews a resume, they take about 6 seconds to determine whether to move it forward or reject it. The most relevant information must be in the focal point (the top third of the resume) and the required skill set listed throughout to get to an interview.

Q: As a freshman or sophomore, how can early college students set themselves up to earn a job in their field?

A: Gain knowledge and experience within your desired occupation/industry through clubs and organizations, internships,  participation in professional associations, and leadership roles.

Q: What practical steps should soon-to-be or recent college graduates take to land their dream job?

A: Have a career plan, set realistic goals and expectations. Learn and follow the job search process and use the available resources through Career Services.

   Virtual Step-by-Step Resources:

·     LinkedIn: The Student Job Hunting Handbook

Q: What is the purpose of the Career Services department at Capitol Tech?

A: To prepare students for the workforce through individualized career planning, helping to develop a personalized strategic plan based upon strengths, interests, values, personality, and specific goals, including areas such as:

  • Career exploration
  • Resume and cover letter writing assistance
  • Job search coaching and support
  • Personal branding/ social media management
  • Strategies for locating internships
  • Interview preparation - attire, types, process, and mock interviews
  • Assistance interpreting job descriptions, offers, and employment packages
  • Salary negotiation

Q: Where can students interested in learning more about the Career Services get more information or contact you?

A: Assistance, additional information, and resources are available in the Department of Career Services. You can schedule meetings via email at careers@captechu.edu, through Symplicity, and by calling 240-965-2494.

Virtual Resources: