What makes a Winning resume

Heritage Community College’s Accounting and Payroll Administration program gives the students hands-on Accounting Training that employers demand. The program will teach you to excel in computerized accounting programs such as QuickBooks and other industry-standard software. Students will also learn the accounting fundamentals they need to fully understand the bookkeeping process.

• Tailor your resume for each role: Customize skills, keywords, and experiences to match the specific job description.
• Start with a strong summary: Write a short, focused profile highlighting your major, core skills, and career goals.
• Highlight skills before experience (if you’re a student): Employers value relevant skills, projects, and coursework even if work experience is limited.
• Use action verbs: Start bullet points with strong verbs like developed, led, analyzed, designed, coordinated.
• Focus on achievements, not duties: Show results and impact instead of just listing tasks.
• Include academic projects and internships: Demonstrate real-world application of your knowledge.
• Keep it concise and clean: One page is ideal with clear headings and easy-to-read fonts.
• Use keywords from the job posting: Helps your resume pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Quantify wherever possible: Add numbers to show impact (e.g., increased engagement by 30%).
• Show relevant extracurricular activities: Leadership roles, clubs, volunteer work, or competitions matter.
• List technical and soft skills separately: Makes it easy for employers to scan.
• Avoid generic statements: Prove qualities through examples.
• Proofread meticulously: Spelling or grammar mistakes can cost you an interview.
• Use a professional email and file name: Example: firstname.lastname.resume.pdf.
• End with certifications or additional training: Shows initiative and continuous learning.

How about Cover Letter?

A good cover letter connects your resume to the job and explains why you’re a strong fit in a clear, confident, and professional way.

Key Elements of a Strong Cover Letter

• Personalized opening: Address the employer by name and mention the specific role you’re applying for.
• Clear purpose: State why you’re writing and what excites you about the position or organization.
• Connection to the role: Explain how your skills, education, or experience match the job requirements.
• Relevant examples: Highlight 1–2 specific experiences such as projects, internships, or part-time work.
• Value-focused messaging: Show how you can contribute to the employer, not just what you want from the job.
• Professional tone: Be confident, polite, and concise. Avoid overly casual or generic language.
• Well-structured and concise: Ideally 3–4 short paragraphs on one page.
• Customized for each job: A tailored cover letter performs better than a generic one.
• Strong closing: Reaffirm your interest and invite the employer to review your resume or contact you.
• Error-free writing: Grammar, spelling, and clarity are just as important as content.