Résumés & Cover Letters

We’re so glad you’re here! Résumés and cover letters are two of the most essential documents in your professional journey, which can make the process feel a little intimidating and daunting. This is why we’ve dedicated an entire page to guidelines, examples, numerous resources, and videos to support you in creating your materials. For industry-specific advice, be sure to check out the Career Communities’ pages. When you’ve completed a draft of your résumé or cover letter, please consider making an appointment through Handshake to go over your document(s) with a CLS adviserwe’d love to work with you!


Bright yellow table with a computer keyboard, coffee cup, plant, pen, glasses, and a clipboard with a resume attached on top

Résumé Examples

View some CLS-created versions to inspire your own résumé!

Purple folder ripped to reveal the words Cover Letter underneath

Writing Cover Letters

Guidance on how to get started, including an example.

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Key Resources

A hub of essential tips and common questions.

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Jobscan

Our newest tool will help your materials secure an interview!

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The Pros and Cons of a Video Resume

The Pros and Cons of a Video Resume

A video resume is a high risk / high reward job search tactic.

It is a supplemental approach that is increasingly welcomed by major employers (many of whom use video questions as part …

By Resume.io
Use professional field-tested resume templates that follow the exact "resume rules" employers look for. Easy to use and done within minutes!
Read more

Résumé Builder: Virtual Experiences with Forage

Students: Are you seeking to build skills over a school break (or even a weekend)? You can engage in free, short virtual work simulations through Forage. Committing just a few hours can help you to better understand career pathways, build …

By Robin Bourjaily
Robin Bourjaily Assistant Director, Exploratory Career Community
Read more

5 Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Your First Job

Applying for your first job can be intimidating. Luckily, there’s a way to significantly improve your chances of getting hired: including a cover letter in your application whether it’s required or not. Doing so shows a level of professionalism that …

Read more

Resources

Build Skills

LinkedIn Learning courses are available to all current students.  For Alumni Access please visit LinkedIn Learning to start an account.

30-Minute Resume Refresh

Taught by Sho Dewan
Your resume should evolve as you do in your career. Learn how to quickly revamp the look and content of…

Writing a Resume

Taught by Stacey Gordon
View Stacey’s LinkedIn Newsletter Finding a great job starts with writing a great resume, one that speaks to your personal…

Designing a Resume for Creatives

Taught by Ina Saltz
Whether you’re a recent college grad or a seasoned professional, your resume is the most important career document in your…

Writing a Cover Letter

Taught by Jenny Foss
Cover letters matter. When done right, they spell out clearly who you are, what you have to offer, and—most importantly—why…

Cover Letter Tips

Taught by Jenny Foss
Cover letters offer job seekers an opportunity to explain how their education, skills, and experiences line up directly with the…

How to Highlight Your Job Skills

Taught by Chris Taylor
There are many skills that people possess in order to do their jobs successfully and competently. You have skills you…

Find Your Dream Job: Interview Techniques and Resume Writing

Taught by Chris Croft
View Chris’s LinkedIn Newsletter Find your dream job. This course is for people who want to be excited to go…

Optimize Your Resume for Applicant Tracking Systems

Taught by Jenny Foss
Job seekers typically understand that there’s some sort of digital barrier standing between them and the jobs they see advertised…

Nano Tips for Writing a Resume with Sho Dewan

Taught by Sho Dewan
Welcome to our Nano Tips series, where LinkedIn Learning creators deliver impactful lessons in literally seconds. In this installment, learn…

Firsthand Vault Guides

Contact Us

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Address

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1103 Park Street
Grinnell, IA 50112

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Wednesday 8:00am–5:00pm
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