U.S. Probation & Pretrial Office
Western Missouri
Workforce Development > Job Readiness > Resumes, References & Cover Letters
Job Readiness | Job Seeking | Interviewing | Resources | For Employers
Resumes, References & Cover Letters
Chronological Resumes list work experience beginning with most recent position held. Use this type of resume when:
- You have demonstrated experience in the field for which you are applying
- Your strongest work experience is reflected in your most recent job
Sample Template 1 (pdf) (Word)
Sample Template 2 (pdf)
Functional Resumes are organized by specific skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Use this type of resume when:
- You are re-entering the workforce after a long absence
- You have gaps in your work history
- Your work history is not related to the job you want
- You are just entering the job market
Sample Template 1 (pdf) (Word)
Sample Template 2 (pdf)
Resume Tips
- Must be type-written
- Use bulleted lists to emphasize strengths
- Describe skills with action words
- Check for spelling and grammatical errors
- Consult with a workforce development specialist or career counselor at FEC
- Emphasize your accomplishments and transferable skills
- Don't forget to include your volunteer experience and work done while incarcerated
- Focus on skills you enjoy using
Cover Letters
Cover letters accompany your resume and are designed to capture the employer's attention by highlighting the specific skills that the employer is seeking. There is no standard cover letter. Make your cover letters job-specific by using the skill words that appear in the job description.
Employment References
Carefully choose four employment references that compliment your resume. Possible references are current or former supervisors, colleagues or co-workers, contacts made while volunteering. This list should include the reference's name, title, company, and phone number. Inform your references when they may be contacted by prospective employers. This type-written list is given to the prospective employer at the time of the interview, or can be included in the resume.
Creating an Email Account
When starting an email account, create an address that incorporates your name, your initials, and/or your profession. Make it as easy as possible.
Example: JohnDoe78@email.com
Start a free email account