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Apr 12th 2023

How to write a professional resume | Ultimate writing guide & tips 2023

Resume writing guideline and tips in 2023 Crafting a professional resume is crucial to make a good first impression on potential employers. However, job seekers may need guidance to create an impressive resume that captures recruiters' interest. Fear not, as Cake — thebest resume builder, is here to guide you through the process of writing a professional resume in 2023. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know to write and create an astounding resume that can help you land your next career move. 📌 TABLE OF CONTENT What Is a Resume? Resume Writing Do's and Don'ts 9 Must-Have Resume Sections The Best Resume Builder What Is a Resume?A resume is a brief summary of skills, experience, and education. Its purpose is to impress potential employers and lead to an interview. While it won't guarantee employment, a well-crafted resume can convince potential employers of suitability for the job. In order to do so, you'll need to have 9 essential key sections on your resume. Keep reading to find out what they are!It's important to note that a resume and a CV serve different purposes. While a resume is typically used for job applications, a CV is usually used for academic pursuits such as post-graduate or PhD programs.You can create a resume using many different tools, like the traditional Microsoft Word,design tool like Canva, or resume builder like Cake. Later one, we’ll instruct you to choose the best online resume builder that is not only free but also help you with all you need! 📖 Further reading: What is a resume? [Definition, elements, writing tips, and examples] Resume Writing Do's and Don'tsWhen writing a resume, there are two common issues that bother us all. Whether you’re a seasoned employee with years of work experience or a fresher who just graduated with no work experience. They are: “What to include in a resume?” and“What NOT to include in a resume?” A professional resume should be able to serve its ultimate purpose, which is to help you land interviews. After reviewing your resume, recruiters and hiring managers should at least be able to learn the three following information:Is the candidate qualified for this job position in terms of skills, knowledge, and experience?What can the candidate contribute to the company based on previous work experience and achievements?How to contact the candidate if they’re qualified? In order to do so, there are five fundamental sections you must include in your resume in order for it to be deemed as “good.” They are:Contact InformationWork ExperienceEducationSkills (technical soft)Achievements and Awards While you can skip sections such as interests and hobbies, some jobs might require it. So you can read this article to know about theoccasions when it's suitable to mention hobbies and interests. What to Include in a Resume:Contact InformationProfile Summary / Career ObjectiveEducationWork ExperienceSkills and QualificationsAwards and AchievementsWhat to Exclude from a Resume:Marital statusPhoto (headshot)Religious preferenceIrrelevant ExperienceHobbies and InterestsComplete mailing address 📙 Further reading:5 Essential Steps to Build A Convincing Resume | Resume Building Guideline 9 Must-Have Resume Sections 1.Resume headline/title A resume headline which is located in the header section of a resume, summarizes your working experience, strengths, and qualifications. It is often used to show recruiters that you’re a perfect fit for the vacancy. To quickly catch the recruiters’ eye, remember to carefully tailor your resume headline/title according to the job applied Here’re some tips for you to refer to while writing a resume headline/title:Utilize keywords: You can refer to the job post and read the description carefully. What are the required qualifications or skills? If you have any of the skills or experience the employer’s looking for, include them in the headline.Keep it concise: A resume title should be short but concise. An ideal headline should be within 10 words.Customize: It is necessary to customize the headline for each resume when you are applying for different job positions since every company has diverse job requirements (even when they’re hiring for the same profession!).Capitalize: In order to catch a hiring manager’s attention quickly, it’s suggested to capitalize the headline. 💡 TIPSWhile adding certain details, such as a profile picture or personal background, may enhance your resume, they can also become a deal-breaker in some cases. As a rule of thumb, only include information that is directly relevant to the job requirements. Adding photos or personal details are typically unnecessary unless specifically requested by the employer. If you still have no idea how to write a professional resume title, here are 2 easy formulas for you: Resume headline writing formulas: 📍 [An adjective describing your personal trait] + [Job title] + with + [Experience] 📍 [An adjective describing your personal trait] + [Job title] + Skilled in/Specializing in + [Skill/Qualification] Resume headline examples:Creative Digital Marketer Specializing in SEODetail-Oriented Baby Sitter with First Aid TrainingMultilingual Translator Skilled in Website TranslationChartered Accountant with Analytical and Interpersonal SkillsGoal-Oriented Sales Representative with 5 Years of Experience in FMCG 📚Further reading:Resume Headline|Examples, Templates, Writing Guide 2. Resume summary/Resume career objectives A professional resume objective can be seen as an extension of your resume headline, more like a resume summary statement. Initially, a career objective on a resume was used to express a job seeker's professional aspirations. Nowadays, the purpose of a resume objective has evolved to become a concise summary of a candidate's qualifications and achievements, highlighting what they can bring to the table. On the other hand, a resume summary is a brief paragraph consisting of 2 to 3 sentences that encapsulate the candidate's relevant qualifications, career objectives, and desired job title. It should emphasize the candidate's skills, experiences, current job search status, and career vision to grab the attention of potential employers. 💡 TIPS It is suggested that freshers and career changers include a career objective or summary in their resume. Like resume titles, resume summaries, and objectives are not strictly required for a resume. However, a good summary/objective can spice up your resume and catch the attention of recruiters. A good resume summary and objectives should be concise, eye-catching, and, most importantly, should be closely related to the job position and the culture of the company you’re applying for.  Concise, eye-catching, and most importantly, it should be closely related to the job position and the culture of the company you’re applying for. How to write a summary/objective for a resume?Keywords: Read through the job post carefully and collect keywords of required skills, experience, and personal traits that match yours. Use them wisely in the personal statement to catch a recruiter’s (or an applicant tracking system’s!) attention.Growth (optional):State your career goals and how the job/company can help you achieve them.Value: Instead of only gabbling about what you can gain from the company, an employer cares more about how you can add value to the company.Accomplishment: Remember to include your accomplishment at work to beef up your objective statement. It can be certification, license, and award that’s relevant to the position. If you would like to highlight any outstanding work performances in the past, don’t forget to utilize numbers!Place at the top: Depending on the format, a career objective should be placed under the resume title or contact information. Here are 2 simple formulas for freshers and career changers to write a good resume objective/summary:  Resume objective writing formula for freshers: 📍 [Your major] graduate with [required skills for the position] skills.Currently seeking a position as a [job title] at [company name], to [career goal].Gained [required experience or ability] experience at [academic/extra-curricular activities], receiving/achieving [achievements or awards]. Career objective example for freshers: Computer Science graduate with proven front-end coding skills. Currently seeking a position as a Frontend Developer at Amazon to leverage coding UX skills to help improve user experience and conversion rate. Gained application development experience at Tata Consultancy Services in internship programs, receiving Best Intern Award for excellent performance.Marketing graduate with outstanding analytical skills. Currently seeking a position as a Marketing Strategist at Facebook to apply my passion knowledge for content writing and marketing strategic planning. Gained social media and offline marketing experience at the student association as Marketing Lead, receiving Student Organization Leadership Awards for outstanding performance. Resume summary writing formula for career changers: 📍 [Previous job title] with [required skills for the position] skills.Currently seeking a position as a [Job title] at [company name], to [career goal].Built [required experience or ability] experience at [work experience], receiving/achieving [achievements or awards]. Resume summary examples for career changers: Patient and detailed-oriented customer service agent with proven communication organization skills. Currently seeking a position as a Product Manager at SoFi, to enhance customer loyalty and user experience. Built problem-solving UX research experience at Delhivery as a Customer Care Specialist, achieving a 30% increase in user retention rate in 3 months.Elementary education teacher with lesson planning classroom management skills. Currently seeking a position as a Classroom Teacher at Merion Elementary School to apply my 10 years of teaching experience to create better educational content. 💡TIPS A professional summary/objective for a resume should be around 30 to 50 words. A summary/objective with more than 100 words is considered too lengthy. 3. Personal details When crafting your resume, it is important to avoid including any irrelevant personal information. Instead, focus on including key details that will help you stand out as a qualified candidate. These details should include:Full nameEmail addressMobile numberCountry and city you’re currently in(Optional) Active links to your portfolio(Optional) Active links to your LinkedIn profile However, there are certain personal details that should never be included in your resume. These details are:AgeMarital statusSexual orientationReligious preferenceSocial Security numberComplete mailing addressIrrelevant social media links 📕 Further reading:Personal Details in Resume|Samples, Formats, Writing Guide 4. Skills (personal skills/technical skills) When it comes to listing skills on your resume, it's essential to tailor them to the job you're applying for. You should categorize your skills into bullet-point lists based on different skill sets and highlight the ones most relevant to the job requirements.There are generally two types of skills to include in a resume: technical skills (hard skills) and personal skills (soft skills). When selecting which skills to include, refer to the job description and highlight the skills that are particularly critical for the position. For instance: hard skills are especially important in a technical job. However, for jobs with no specific hard skills required, like teachers or baristas, you might consider adding computer skills or language skills to your resume.If you have gaps in your employment history, consider using a skill-based resume format (functional resume), which focuses on your skills and qualifications instead of your work history. Remember that it’s not about the number of skills you list but rather the quality and relevance to the position/industry. Ensure that the skills you include can answer the following questions:How are they relevant to the job requirements?How can they make you qualified for the work?How can they add value to the company? 💡TIPS Another point to keep in mind is that listing skills are a way to showcase your strengths, so there's no need to include weaknesses unless it's explicitly requested. When organizing your skill section, group them into categories based on the qualifications required for the job. Here are some examples of skill categories for software engineers and designers:Created via CakeCreated via Cake 💡 TIPS It's not suggested to use bars, charts, or ratings to display skill proficiency. These methods lack credibility and are not compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Instead, list skills in bullet points and include objective proof such as licenses, certifications, awards, or accomplishments. 5. Educational qualification An education section can be a vital factor in your resume, especially if you just graduated from college. How to list education on a resume? Educational qualifications should be listed in reverse chronological order, starting with your highest level of education. Usually, it is not recommended to include high school education on resumes. However, if it is your highest degree, it should definitely be included. What do I put for education on a resume? School nameSchool locationDegree levelMajor minorGraduation year (Optional) GPA(Optional)Relevant coursework(Optional)Academic honor (award, scholarship, publication) The content and placement of the education section can be adjusted accordingly to a job seeker’s seniority. Freshers with no or little work experience should make the most of the education section to highlight their achievements and knowledge learned. Some of you might wonder whether it is ok to leave education off your resume. If you’re a career changer with more than 5 years of work experience, simply state the school name, major, and graduation year of your highest level of education. Also, for experienced employees, placing the education section after the work experience section is suggested. How to list education in progress on a resume? If you’re currently in college, you can still list the in-progress degree on your resume with relevant coursework you’ve done. Simply note the expected graduation date beside the starting year.Should I include education on my resume if I didn't graduate? If you did not complete the degree (and you're not going to), it is not suggested to include it on your resume, unless you don't have any other education or training.To list an incomplete degree, you can include the name of the school and program and also relevant coursework you finished. Do note that you should not mislead employers in believing that you've graduated. 📖 Further reading:Education on Resume|Examples, Templates, Writing Guide Created via Cake6. Work experience Work experience is the most important section of a resume. It can fully demonstrate your competency, qualification, and experience in a proper manner. In this section, full-time/part-time/contract/freelance work and internships can all be included as long as they are relevant to the position. How do I write my work experience on a resume?List the past work in a format of reverse chronological order, with 3 - 5 bullet points for each experience to indicate the skills learned and goals accomplished.Use past tense while describing work and goals you’ve achieved, no matter if they’re in your past or current jobs. It is allowable to use present tense for current jobs, but do notice to keep the tense consistent under each item.Make use of action verbs to construct strong statements. Also, adopt active voice instead of passive voice to write sentences, which can create a positive image. Here are 5 tips to keep in mind when writing the work experience sectionCustomize:Tailor-make the resume work experience section for different positions and companies. Read the job description carefully and do research on the corporate culture and industry trends to select the experiences and accomplishments that will help you stand out from other candidates.Consistency:Make sure your work experience appears to align with your career goals or path. “Should I include irrelevant work experience on a resume?” Since there’s a length limit for resumes, it’s only wise to exclude experiences that stray from the current career path. Trial and repeated job duties should also be removed.Keywords: To catch recruiters and Applicant Tracking System’s attention swiftly, insert keywords (e.g., specific skills, qualifications, and requirements) from the job post directly in the sentences.Quantify:Numbers can be eye-catching among a pile of words. Quantifying your achievements and experiences enables employers to understand your value more quickly and precisely.Explanation:Since recruiters can’t be experts in all fields, try further to explain some abbreviations, proper names, and statuses when necessary. Besides, if the resume is meant for a foreign company, do utilize further explanation to highlight your experience. How many years of work history/experience should be on a resume? It depends on the candidates’ seniority levels. Generally speaking, there should be 3 - 5 relevant work experiences (jobs) included on a resume, which can be traced back to 10 - 15 years ago for some senior-level job seekers. 💡TIPS If you are a fresher just out of college, you can include your academic, extra-curricular, volunteer, and internship experiences in college. However, it’s not suggested to add high school experiences on resumes if you’re a college graduate. How to include work projects in resume? Cake is the best online resume builder. Users are able to include maps, links, videos, images, and slides in their resumes to showcase skills and profession. Adding projects and portfolios can make your resume more appealing and professional, especially for designers, software engineers, and marketing professionals. Created via Cake Created via Cake 📖 Further Reading:Work Experience on a Resume|Samples, Formats, Writing Guide7. Declaration in resume Resume declaration is a statement where job applicants assure their potential employers that everything included on the resume is accurate and without any misleading information. It usually comes with the writer’s signature and the date. Declaration for resumes is common during the job application process in India, and it can also be found in companies or organizations with formal application processes (e.g., Traditional enterprises, government agencies, and academic institutions). 💡TIPS Keep your resume declaration statement short and genuine. It's not necessary to have a lengthy statement. Being honest and authentic is key to securing an interview. How to write a declaration in resume? Here’s the resume declaration sample and format.Resume declaration sample and format I, [You Full Name], solemnly declare that all the details above in my resume is true and accurate. I take full responsibility for the correctness of the information mentioned.[You Formal Signature] [Date] 📖Further reading:Declaration in Resume|Formats, Examples, Writing Guide 8.References on resume Reference on a resume is not strictly requested in general cases. Adding references in resumes used to be common in the past, but the trend is now fading out. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that references are not important during the job search process anymore. When should I put references on a resume?If the recruiters specifically request applicants to add references to resumes, or it is clearly indicated on the job posting, you should for sure put references on your resume or attach a reference page/sheet in the mail. How to put references on a resume? It is appropriate to list 1 - 3 references on a resume with the following information:The referee’s full nameThe relationship between you and the refereeThe referee’s current job titleThe company at which the referee’s current workingThe referee’s contact information (e.g., Email, phone number)(optional) A short description of the projects you worked together on 💡 TIPS Remember to start the reference list with the one you had the best working relationship with and to previously confirm the referees’ willingness. If you’ve decided to write references in your resume, your next question might be, “Where to add references in resumes?”. Here are some suggestions:Add a reference section at the end of the resumeAdd a reference page/sheet with the resumeAttach another reference page/sheet with the cover letter mail Since the ideal number of references is around 3 (it’s not suggested to list more than 5 referees considering the quality), simply adding a reference section in a resume would be adequate. 📕 Further reading:References on Resume|Formats, Samples, Templates 9.Hobbies This is one of the most common questions asked by job seekers, “Should I put hobbies on a resume?” Generally speaking, it is not suggested to include hobbies in resumes since usually, they can’t directly prove you’re qualified for the job. However, the following 2 conditions can be the exceptions: Your hobbies and interests are highly related to your profession or the position you’re applying for.For example, writing, blogging, and podcasting can be attractive hobbies on resumes for Brand and Marketing specialists; volunteering and community service can be good hobbies on resumes for people applying for jobs at NGOs; and sometimes, even playing video games can be the best hobby if you’re trying to get into the gaming industry!Your resume is less than a page, and you have nothing else to put on it.If you’re writing your very first resume, and you don’t have any skill, work experience, or major achievement to write in it, the section on hobbies for a resume can be your savior. Due to the lack of experience, the only things you can leverage are your personal traits, characters, and personalities, which can also be associated with your soft skills. Make the most of the hobbies and interests section in your resume to show your future employers that you’re a responsible person, a self-starter, a fast learner, a team player, and even a leader! 📒 Further reading:Hobbies and Interests in Resume|Examples, Formats, Writing Guide What are good hobbies to put on a resume?Here is a list of hobbies and interests to write in resumes:Hobbies InterestsPosition/Company/IndustryPet CarePet industryChild CareTeacher position / Child Care Services IndustryPhotographyPhotographer positionCooking, BakingRestaurants and Food Services industryArt, Sketching, PaintingDesigner positionHistory, Culture, TravelingTour guide position / Tourism IndustryReading, Writing, BloggingWriter position / Publishing industryNetworking, Public speakingSales position / Business development positionLanguages learning, TravelingTourism IndustryWriting, Blogging, PodcastingMarketing positionComputer games, Video gamesGaming industrySports, Exercising and healthcarePersonal trainer position / Fitness industryVideo production, Filming, MoviesVideo editor position / Film and Television IndustryVolunteer work, Community involvementSocial enterprise / NGOsListening to music, Making music, Playing an instrumentMusic industryThe Best Resume BuilderCake is the best free resume builder tool that can help you build an attractive and professional resume in just 10 minutes. With Cake, you can easily create a custom resume that reflects your skills, experience, and achievements. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in your career, Cake provides a range of customizable templates and formatting options to ensure that your resume stands out from the crowd. By using the best free online resume builder, you can be confident that you're presenting your best self to potential employers and increasing your chances of landing your dream job effortlessly.Start your Cake journey today!
People Operations
Apr 10th 2023

How to Write an Independent Contractor Termination Letter (Email Templates+Samples)

Contract Termination Letter SampleBefore getting into writing a contract termination letter, it is very important to know how a relationship between an employer and a contractor works. In short, they always sign a contract that contains the details that both parties need to beware of, and the benefits that both parties will get before getting the contractor to perform a specific task for the company. When the contractor is no longer needed in the company or has completed the assigned task, the contract is naturally terminated by means of a termination letter to end said relationship. A contract termination notice is a written document prepared by the employer to be used to end the business relationship with the contractor, which can be sent in the form of a letter form or an email. Table of Contents:What Isan Independent Contractor Termination Letter?Contract Termination Letter FormatIndependent Contractor Termination Letter TemplatesIndependent Contractor Termination Letter SamplesTips on How to Write an Independent Contractor Termination LetterWhat Isan Independent Contractor Termination Letter?An independent contractor termination letter is a letter used by the employer to legally notify the contractor of the end of the contract. There are three general types of such a letter: Without a cause: When the company decides to downscale or due to some larger market factors that require it to terminate some contractors to save up the costs.With a cause: When the contractor’s work performance or behavior has not met the expectations or violated the rules multiple times after warnings.End of contract: When the contractor’s contract with the company has come to an end and the employer decides not to renew it. The two main purposes of a contract termination letter are that it helps the employer keep track of their termination and outsourcing record, and clarifies the statement telling the contractor that the service is no longer needed.Reasons why a contract termination letter is always necessary: Not only are contracts legally-binding, but also able to affect the company positively or negatively in various ways. Hence, the following are some of the reasons why there are procedures that must be followed when discontinuing a contract with someone, even if that someone is an independent contractor: Ethical/manners: Regarding ethical issues, no one likes to be terminated without being formally informed. Thus, doing so shows that you have good manners in treating outside contractors.Maintaining a good relationship: Secondly, formally terminating the contract with the contractor means that both of the parties have agreed to end the business relationship without ruining it. You never know whether your paths will cross in the future again or not.Company reputation: A contractor does not necessarily work for a single company. Hence, terminating the contract may result in harming the company’s reputation if the termination procedure is not done right. Contract Termination Letter Format Writing an independent contractor termination letter is not much different than writing an employment termination letter. The letter format is as follows:Details of the employer contractorAs is the case with any other types of letter, firstly, you need to include the name, address, and contact information of the employer and contractor. Date of contract terminationIn this section, you need to include the date of contract termination. This informs the contractor of the date of the last working day with the company. Reason(s) for terminationSince you are terminating the contract, you need valid reasons. Lack of productivityThe company has the right to terminate the contract when the contractor procrastinates and does not meet the requirements agreed beforehand.Rule violationWhen signing a contract, there are rules that both parties have to follow. When one party breaks the rules, the contract can be terminated.Criminal behaviorStealing from the company or any other criminal actions are ground for termination.Termination by mutual groundAlthough termination may sound bad, having both sides agree to the termination (settlement agreement) is possible. List of warningsThe next step is to include the list of warnings (including the dates) that you have given to the contractor before terminating him or her. This shows that he or she had been warned prior to being terminated. List of items to be handed inSometimes, contractors are provided with the company's assets or equipment for work purposes. When terminating the contract, these assets must be returned. Hence, the need to state it in the letter. Other detailsAfter all the main elements of an independent contractor termination letter have been completed, you may consider adding other minor details that are relevant based on the nature of the contract and service provided. After all, the more detailed the letter, the less chances of having misunderstandings. Independent Contractor Termination Letter TemplatesContract termination letter template (without a cause) [Date][Employer’s Information][City, State, Zip Code][Contractor‘s Information][City, State, Zip Code] Dear [Contractor’s name], Over the past few months, [Company name] has faced financial challenges due to decreased industry demands affecting our overall profitability. Despite our efforts to explore various strategies, such as expanding into different markets and adjusting advertising rates, we regret to inform you that the current economic circumstances have led to a decision to reduce our workforce, affecting approximately [Number] independent contractors. After careful consideration, we must inform you that your services as a [Position name] are no longer required, and your contract is terminated as of [date]. The HR department will be in touch with you within the next week to discuss the termination process, including details regarding any applicable benefits. Kindly arrange for the return of any company equipment, documents, or materials that were provided to you during the term of your contract. We acknowledge and appreciate the contributions you have made during your time with [Company name], and we sincerely wish you success in your future endeavors. Your final payment will be processed in accordance with the terms outlined in your contract, and all previous payments have been duly processed. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the HR department at [HR contact information]. Sincerely, [Signature] Independent Contractor Termination Letter Template (with a cause - misconduct) [Date][Employer’s Information][City, State, Zip Code][Contractor’s Information][City, State, Zip Code] Dear [Contractor’s name], This letter serves as official notice of the termination of your contract with [Company name], effective as of [date]. Upon conducting a thorough investigation into the significant loss incurred during the [Event name] marketing event, it has come to our attention that you have violated the company’s policy by disclosing product information to other entities. Such a breach is considered an unacceptable violation of our rules and has led to the decision to terminate your independent contractor agreement. Please make arrangements to promptly return any company equipment, documents, or materials to which you had access during the duration of your contract. Any outstanding payments for services or work completed prior to the termination will be processed in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. Should you have any inquiries or concerns, feel free to reach out to me at [email address/phone number]. We appreciate the work you have contributed to [Company name] and regret that this action has become necessary due to the aforementioned policy violation. Sincerely, [Signature] Independent Contractor Termination Letter Template (with a cause - poor performance) [Date][Employer’s Information][City, State, Zip Code][Contractor’s Information][City, State, Zip Code] Dear [Contractor’s name], This letter serves as confirmation of the termination of your independent contractor engagement with [Company name] due to performance issues, effective as of [date]. During the [Duration] you spent in the [Department name] department, it has become evident that your performance has consistently fallen below the expected standard for more than [duration]. Despite receiving warnings on [Date] and [Date], addressing recurring mistakes and emphasizing the necessity of reviewing your work, there has been insufficient improvement. Despite the opportunities provided to enhance your performance, the desired progress has not materialized. Effective immediately, you will no longer be assigned any further tasks. We appreciate the effort you have put forth during your tenure, but unfortunately, the performance concerns have led to this difficult decision. Kindly make arrangements to return any company equipment, documents, or materials that were provided to you during the term of your contract. Any outstanding payments for services or work completed before the termination will be processed in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email address/phone number]. We wish you the best in your future endeavors. Sincerely, [Signature] Independent Contractor Termination Letter Template (end of contract) [Date][Employer’s Information][City, State, Zip Code][Contractor’s Information][City, State, Zip Code] Dear [Contractor’s name], I hope this letter finds you well. This letter serves as formal notice that, in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in our Independent Contractor Agreement dated [insert date of the agreement], your engagement with [Company Name] will be terminated upon the completion of the contract period, as mutually agreed upon. The termination will be effective as of [insert agreed-upon contract end date]. We would like to express our appreciation for the valuable contributions you have made during the course of this agreement. Your professionalism and dedication have been instrumental in the successful completion of the assigned tasks. As the contract comes to an end, we kindly request that you wrap up any remaining work or deliverables by the termination date. Additionally, please ensure that all company property, documents, or materials in your possession are returned to [contact person or department] by [insert deadline]. Any outstanding payments for services rendered up to the termination date will be processed in accordance with the payment terms specified in the agreement. We value the professional relationship we have built with you and wish you continued success in your future endeavors. If there are opportunities for collaboration in the future, we would welcome the chance to work with you again. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact [insert your contact information]. Thank you once again for your contributions, and we wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Sincerely, [Signature] Independent Contractor Termination Letter SamplesLetter for Independent Contractor Termination Sample 1 July 12th, 2023 Lavinson Dickinson, CEO29 Jockey Hollow Dr.West Deptford, NJ 08096 Carla Johanson156 North Catherine Ave.Chesterton, IN 46304 Dear Ms. Johanson, This letter serves as notice to inform you that we will be concluding our engagement with you as an independent contractor with GKK Co., effective as of the 20th of July, 2023. After a careful review, it has been observed that the consistency of your performance in submitting projects for review has been a concern. Several errors have been identified, requiring corrections, and, unfortunately, some of these mistakes have led to significant misunderstandings between our customers and the company. Having been with the company for 14 months, it is regrettable to note that your attention to detail has not improved since the last notice sent to you on the 15th of June, 2023. As a result, we kindly request that you return any company equipment and documents to which you had access during the term of your contract. You may collect your personal belongings on your last day. Any outstanding payments for services or work completed prior to the termination will be processed in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. If you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]. We appreciate the efforts you have contributed during your time with GKK Co., and we wish you success in your future endeavors. Sincerely,Lavinson Dickinson Letter for Independent Contractor Termination Sample 2 5th Oct 2023 Samantha Wu, CEO215 Fawn LaneHallandale, FL 33009Peggy Soh7644 Elm St.Titusville, FL 32780 Dear Ms. Soh, MPH would like to notify you that our engagement as an independent contractor is terminated, effective as of 14th Oct 2023. We have observed instances of missing inventory from the records, and upon investigation, it has come to our attention that you are responsible for the discrepancies. Theft or misappropriation of company property is a direct violation of our policies, and such behavior cannot be tolerated. We kindly request that you promptly return any company equipment and inventory to which you had access during the term of your contract. Alternatively, if the missing inventory cannot be returned, we expect compensation for the full value of the items taken from the retail store. Any outstanding payments for services or work completed before the termination will be processed in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected]. We regret the necessity of this termination and wish you success in your future endeavors. Sincerely,Samantha Wu Tips on How to Write an Independent Contractor Termination Letter 1. Clearly list reasons for termination with evidence (if any) Terminating a contractor without a valid reason may ruin the company’s reputation. If you plan to end the relationship, you need a valid reason. 2. Express appreciation and regret professionally Writing an independent contractor termination letter means you will be losing a hand. Hence, you should express your appreciation for the contractor’s contribution and regret for having to let him or her go professionally to keep up a good relationship. 3. Remember to say thanks Although you are going to terminate the contract, you should always express gratitude. Expressing gratitude at the end of the letter shows your appreciation for the contribution that the contractor has made. 4. Do not use sarcasm, jokes, or inappropriate language No matter what reasons caused the contractor to be terminated, you should still maintain a professional tone in the letter writing. This is because you might be meeting him or her in the future, and you wouldn’t want to end the business relationship unprofessionally. 5. Create a formal subject line when writing or sending a letter via email Sometimes, you might have a contractor who works from home, making you unable to send the contract termination letter to him or her in person. In this case, a professionally written subject line is required to make the email clear. Example: Contract Termination of Services for Cango Business Co. Key Takeaways Using a professional and calm tone when writing an independent contractor termination letter is necessary.The core elements of an independent contractor termination letter are the date of termination, reason for termination, list of warnings, and list of items that need to be returned.Remember to show appreciation for the contractor’s contribution.State everything clearly to avoid misunderstandings.Want to read more HR blogs and recruitment news? Follow our blog for more! Cake is one of the best professional resume builder tools in the market. We also offer other HR-related services like Job Search, Job Posting, Talent Search, Recruitment Services, and Employer Branding.Create Resume — Originally written by RyanGoh —
Cover Letter
Mar 6th 2024

Motivation Letter for an Exchange Program | Writing Guideline [w/ Samples and Tips!]

Applying for a student exchange program abroad is a multi-stage process that is taken over several months. During the application process, exchange programs typically require the same documents, including recent transcripts, recommendation letters, and, most importantly, a motivation letter for the exchange program itself. A motivation letter for an exchange program is a one-page letter that explains your interest in the program you are applying to and the reasons for your candidacy to the program. In the consideration process, admissions committees place enormous importance on candidates’ motivation letter, or sometimes known as motivation essay, for the exchange program. While grades and outstanding recommendations are great, the motivation letter for the exchange program application is a more personal document that provides key information that other documents are unable to. Well-written motivation letters for exchange programs will connect with the reader and thoroughly convince them that you are the ideal candidate for the exchange opportunity! If you are looking to take a step out of your comfort zone and leap on the opportunity of a lifetime, this article will tell you everything you need to know about motivation letters for exchange programs. We will cover everything from tips to writing a killer exchange program motivation letter, to sample motivation letters for student exchange programs so that you can get a comprehensive understanding of how to write your own! TABLEOFCONTENTS Motivation Letter for Exchange Program Example How to Write a Motivation Letter for an Exchange Program in 5 Steps Tips for Writing an Exchange Program Motivation Letter Motivation Letter Template for Exchange Program Conclusion Tips for Writing a Motivation Letter for an Exchange ProgramMotivation Letter for Exchange Program Example Before we begin, it is necessary to first distinguish between a cover letter and a motivation letter. Cover letters are often conflated with motivation letters but are, in fact, completely different and are used in different scenarios. A cover letter is a one-page letter that is written as a part of a job application or other form of an employment application. Cover letters go into detail on an individual's work experience and qualifications that make them the most suitable candidate for a job. On the other hand, a motivation letter is a more personal letter that delves deeper into an individual's interests and suitability for a program. Motivation letters focus less on professional experience and more on personal accomplishments that align with the overall purpose of the letter. To further illustrate the contents of a motivation letter, here is an example of an exchange program motivation letter. Dear Mr. Ethos, I am writing to express my interest in the 2022 Rotterdam University exchange program. For over a decade, I have dreamed of traveling to the Netherlands, both for its natural beauty and vibrant culture, and would like the opportunity to realize my dream through this unique exchange program. There is no better way to learn about a culture than through physically experiencing it. To this end, I would like to experience the culture of the Netherlands while pursuing my Master’s Degree in Architecture and Interior Design from the University of Rotterdam, whose Architecture Department is a trailblazer in the field throughout Europe. From an early age, my parents instilled the importance of learning about new cultures and languages. Of all the countries that I have learned about, the Netherlands has stood out due to its rich history, architecture, and culture. My desire to experience this first-hand translated into me double majoring in Architecture and Dutch in college. During my degree, I also completed an apprenticeship in CallisonRTKL as an Architect's apprentice, where I worked with a team of 7 in designing 6 buildings set for construction in Washington State. I believe that my experience and skills will lend a great hand in my acclimation to life in the Netherlands and will allow me to thrive in my studies during the exchange program itself. Please take a moment to review my attached resume, recommendations, and transcripts. I look forward to sitting down with you to further talk about how this experience will change my life forever! Thank you for your evaluation and I enthusiastically anticipate your forthcoming response! Sincerely, Jack Arno How to Write a Motivation Letter for Exchange Program in 5 Steps Let’s break it down. In this section, we will explain the various parts of a motivation letter for an exchange program. Introduce yourself. Start a motivation letter for an exchange program with a brief introduction of yourself. Include critical information including your motivation for applying and, optionally, the experiences that you have had that makes you a viable candidate for the exchange program. Here is an example of a brief self-introduction from a motivation letter for a university exchange program: “I am writing to express my interest in the student exchange program at Washington University. This program has captivated my attention for years, and I am jumping on the opportunity to realize my dreams into reality.” State your reason for wanting to participate in the exchange program. A motivational essay for an exchange program should, above all, convince the admissions board of your enthusiasm for the program and your ability to succeed and constructively apply your experiences. You can develop this from early in your exchange program motivation letter by building on your reason for wanting to participate in an exchange program in the first place. While this reason is highly personal, it should be worded in an impactful way. Here is an excerpt from a motivational letter for an Erasmus exchange program application: “The Erasmus Mundus program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get the European Experience while studying at world-class universities. The Master’s in Data Science program at Rotterdam University, in particular, is the reason why I am applying to this exchange program. I believe that under the tutelage of Professor John Doe, a pioneer in the technology and programming fields, I would gain valuable experience and insight that would otherwise be impossible at my current university.” Mention your achievements. Although motivation letters for exchange programs place great importance on the illustration of your motivation and capacity to excel in a foreign environment, you are still going for a reason! Mention achievements that are relevant to the purpose of the exchange program. For example, if you are writing a motivation letter for a university exchange program, you would highlight academic achievements. Conversely, if you are writing a motivation letter for a cultural exchange program, you would include achievements that testify to your ability as a cultural ambassador. Let’s expand more on the latter through this excerpt from a motivation letter for a cultural exchange program: “From an early age, my parents found it necessary to provide me with the space to become aware of my culture and its wonders. I have spent most of my childhood and formative years working with my local UNESCO branch to provide cultural presentations to international exchange students and represent my country on the international stage through presentations and performances. I believe that participating in this cultural exchange program in Taiwan is a unique opportunity for me to spread awareness of my country to others, and hopefully learn from the Taiwanese experience in the process.” Explain your goals for joining the exchange program. Your motivation letter for the exchange program you are applying to should show your vision beyond receiving the exchange opportunity. You can do this by elaborating on your personal/professional goals concerning the exchange program. Here is an example of describing your personal goals in this extract from a motivational letter for an Erasmus exchange program: “Given my major in East European Studies, I believe that participating in the Erasmus program would be an incredibly valuable experience and will provide a unique perspective on my studies that I am not able to get in my American university. I wish to apply what I learn directly and experience from the Erasmus program to my master’s degree thesis on European integration theory, which I would ultimately like to leverage into a future job in the EU private sector.” Express your appreciation. Finally, close off your exchange program motivation letter by expressing your appreciation to the admissions committee for evaluating and considering your application. Be proactive in your closing by indicating your excitement to hear from them and to continue communications through further correspondence and interviews. To demonstrate a strong closing, here is an excerpt taken from a motivation letter for a university exchange program: “Per your request, please take a moment to review my attached resume, recommendations, and transcripts. I look forward to sitting down with you and the admissions committee to discuss in greater detail exactly how I can excel in this unique experience. Thank you for your evaluation and I enthusiastically look forward to speaking with you soon!” Cake is the best free resume builder that allows you to easily create a resume online. With tonnes of free resume templates and examples, you can have a resume in just a few clicks. Moreover, you can download your resume in PDF formats for free. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!Create Resume Tips for Writing an Exchange Program Motivation Letter Let’s take your exchange program motivation letter to the next level with these tips to boost the effectiveness and impact of your letter! 💡 Explain your reasons well. Fulfill the fundamental purpose of your motivation letter for the exchange program by ensuring that your reasons for applying are well-explained. Oftentimes, exchange program motivation letters are filled with word filler (to reach a word limit) or stray from the original focus of the letter. Student exchange motivation letters are typically one-page in length (unless explicitly stated otherwise) for the sake of brevity and conciseness. This means that you have very limited space to convince the admissions committee of your candidacy for your program of choice. To this end, you must make sure that every sentence of your student exchange motivation letter is purposefully and intentionally written! We recommend reviewing your motivation letter for your student exchange program several times after writing to check for pertinence. You can also ask friends, family, or your professors for their opinions. Do: “I would like to challenge myself through this exchange program by increasing my cultural awareness and intelligence in a country that I have admired for years.”Don’t: “I wanna travel because the city I live in is boring.” 💡 Highlight any experience abroad that you already have. An individual may be the most academically qualified candidate for an exchange program but lack the personal maturity to thrive in a foreign environment. That said, if you have any experience traveling (or living) abroad, it's usually a great addition to any motivation letter for an exchange program! Experiences abroad, especially those taken on your own (or, at least, without parental supervision) are a great way of convincing admissions officers that you will be able to live and thrive in a foreign environment. In your motivation essay for your exchange program, including one or two of your formative international experiences and detail how they have helped you develop as a person. Avoid including extraneous information that does not contribute to the point of your motivation letter. Below are examples of how you should and shouldn't phrase this part of your motivation letter for an exchange program. Do: “My formative years were spent traveling around the US and Mexico with my parents, who sought to instill a sense of independence and proactiveness from an early age. I have also become fluent in Spanish, which is an invaluable language to have since I am applying for an exchange to Madrid.”Don’t: “My parents took me to Canada and the plane ride was really cool. I like flying so I would love to go on an exchange program far away!” 💡 Show how your personality suits living/studying abroad. Build on the previous section of your exchange program motivation essay by connecting your international experiences, your personality, and how the combination suits living and studying abroad. School is hard enough without the burden of living away from home, so show that you have what it takes! But what if you lack international experience? No problem! Although having and mentioning your experiences abroad is a great way to boost the message of your motivation letter for an exchange program, it is definitely not a must-have. In its place, describe personal experiences and how they have built your personality to be independent and fully capable of thriving in a foreign environment. Here are some ways you can (and also shouldn’t) include these ideas in your motivation essay for an exchange program. Do: “Whether it be helping around the house or engaging in community service, I have dedicated my teenage years to become as self-sufficient and independent as possible. I consider myself highly self-motivated, which I believe will greatly benefit my day-to-day experiences when living abroad.”Don’t: “My parents let me babysit my siblings, so I would say that I’m pretty independent. This would be super helpful when living by myself in another country” 💡 Illustrate how you can contribute to the community of the place you are going to. Although altruism exists in an ideal world, it very rarely does so in reality. The motivation letter for your exchange program of choice should clearly outline how you intend to apply the knowledge and experiences you had throughout your exchange program to your society and the society of the place you are going to. Admissions officers need to know that you are applying to their program with a purpose in mind, rather than just doing so for the traveling it brings! Here are a few ways you can phrase this in a motivation letter for an exchange program. Do: “This experience would be life-changing. Not only will the exchange year allow me to uniquely develop, both personally and professionally, but would give me the international perspective I need to be able to better serve my people and country.”Don’t: “The exchange program would be super cool and I would have some awesome stories to tell my friends when I get home!” 💡 Follow the essay prompt properly (if any). Finally, pay attention to the application’s contents before writing your motivation letter for the exchange program. Some programs provide essay prompts for you to base your motivation letter on so that exchange program applicants can create a focused essay that provides the exact information that is desired!Motivation Letter Template for Exchange Program Finally, combine everything you have learned and use this template of a motivational letter for an exchange program as a guide to writing your own! [Your name][Your job title/position] (if any)[Your home address][Your email address][Your telephone number] Date [Name of Admissions Officer][Job title of Admissions Officer][University/Organization name][University/Organization address] Dear [Mr./Ms./Mrs.][Admissions Officers last name], I am writing to express my interest in the [name of exchange program] at [university name]. [give a brief reason for your candidacy]. This exchange program, as described, is the perfect opportunity for me to develop both personally and professionally. I believe that my interests and qualifications make me an ideal candidate for this unique opportunity. For years, I have [expanded on the reasons that you are applying for the exchange program]. [Talk about your experience and professional qualifications and how it translates to your candidacy for the exchange program you are applying to]. My [connect 1 or 2 personal achievements that relate to the exchange program and how they will help you survive and thrive in the foreign country and the program]. [if you are fluent in the native language, you can also include that here]. I believe that these skills and experiences will allow me to thrive and excel in this program. Please take a moment to review my [list the attached documents that were requested as part of the application package for the exchange program]. Should the need for further documentation for clarification of existing material arise, I can be contacted at any time through my [email and telephone information]. [Thank the admissions officer/committee for reading your letter]. [Include a call to action that expresses how much you look forward to hearing from them]. Sincerely, [Signature] [Your full name] Conclusion Writing an impactful motivation letter for an exchange program is no easy task, but it's well worth the time! Here are some key takeaways for you to consider when writing your own: Your exchange program motivation letter should make you stand out against the competition. Remember that motivation letters are more personal than cover letters, so use that to your advantage in telling your story!When writing a motivation letter for an exchange program, aim to connect your personal experiences with reasons that you will succeed, should you receive the opportunity to travel.Pay attention to the application information! Sometimes, universities/institutions will include an essay prompt on which to base your exchange program motivation letter! Find this article helpful? Follow us for more!— Originally written by Alexander Coye —
Portfolio
Mar 12th 2026

Best Front End Developer Portfolio Examples [+How-to guideline]

Created by CakeResumeTABLEOFCONTENTSWhy You Should Have a Front End Developer PortfolioWhat to Include in a Front End PortfolioHow to Create a Front End PortfolioTips for Creating the Best Front End Portfolio8 Front End Portfolio ExamplesIf you're a front end developer, having a portfolio for front end is crucial as it's a social proof to showcase your skills and expertise, and provides potential clients and employers with concrete examples of their work.Today, more and more new businesses are launching on the internet – shifting from traditional brick and mortar stores to online stores – and front-end developers have become one of the most highly-demanded jobs. In order to survive in the competitive field and be noticed, a front end portfolio is a must-have for anyone who has been in the industry for some time or who is considering getting on the bandwagon. A front-end developer's main duty is to integrate programming technology and design in creating an appealing user interface (UI) website or web application that is easy to use. To work efficiently, front end developers need to be able to communicate well to understand the goal their clients are aiming for. Front end developers often collaborate with other IT professionals, like web developers, to make sure how the code strings affect the design. We have put together the ultimate list of ways to create (or optimize) a winning front end developer portfolio along with some examples. We'll discuss what content to put on your portfolio for front end developers, explore the steps to create a front end portfolio from scratch, and unveil industry tips to improve your front end developer portfolio. And remember front end developer portfolio is not a resume.Why You Should Have a Front End Developer PortfolioA high-quality portfolio for front end developers requires time and effort to build, but it is an essential step that cannot be neglected. Why all the hype? This is because with front end portfolio, you can: Showcase your skill set. What better ways to display all you can offer to a potential client in one place if not through your personal front end portfolio? You can show off both your design and coding skills with a front end developer personal website. Naturally, you want your portfolio to look its best. Therefore, pouring your 100% into making an impressive front end developer website portfolio is necessary. Demonstrate your commitment to learning. Once you have made your mark on the internet with the presence of your front end developer portfolio, you need to maintain it to keep it relevant. As technology continues advancing, cutting-edge methods and new programming trends will also evolve. Meaning you need to stay on top with your skill game, and it should transfer to your front end developer website portfolio. Increase your chances of getting hired. Aside from the traditional technical resume you provide, potential employers or clients usually require you to include your front end web developer portfolio to be submitted with your application as a way to gauge your practical skills and personal style to see if you fit the job. Without one, your chance will automatically be gone if your competitors have theirs. Increase your visibility. Having a front end developer portfolio provides a pathway for potential clients or employers to find you, especially if you work freelance. This will also help previous clients to recommend you to others who might need your service. More traffic on your freelance front end developer portfolio website means more people will know about your expertise, and there will be a higher chance for people to require your services. Archive your past projects. You have to admit, after dwelling in the industry for a few years and completing many projects in the past, it will get harder to keep track of the accomplishments or milestones you achieved. A front end developer portfolio also serves as an inventory system for your completed projects. When you need to provide proof of a specific project you did 7 years ago, for instance, you can simply go over your front end portfolio.To learn more about what a portfolio is, read this blog to find out more! What to Include in a Front End Developer PortfolioThe first key of constructing your front end developer portfolio is identifying the information that should be included. Let's break down the basic content all front end developer portfolios should have: 1. Home page / Cover page This landing page of your front end portfolio website is the first thing that people see. Make sure you create an inviting design so they are keen to stick around and browse through your front end portfolio. 2. Works / Projects Highlight some of your completed works on your front end developer portfolio projects section. Keep in mind that in this section, you want to illustrate your individual style and skills. So choose projects that are relevant to those. 3. Skills Elaborate what design tools and programming languages you are adept with. Mention the skills that you can actually demonstrate. Trustworthiness is a vital aspect of your front end developer portfolio. If your client requests you to work with something that you aren't proficient in and you end up doing a poor job at it, it will only damage your credibility. 4. Services Dedicate a page on your front end developer website portfolio to describe what kind of services you provide and the work you specialize in. Be concise because your specialties are the things that distinguish you from your competitors.💡 Pro Tip: A front end developer portfolio skills section is to indicate what you can do, while the front end developer portfolio service section is to suggest what you are willing to do. Be sure to differentiate these two parts. 5. “About me” section Putting a short bio on your front end developer personal website will help people connect with you on a more personal level. Hiring managers or potential clients don't only look for qualifications from your skills and experience. It is equally important for them to get to know the people they will potentially work with as an individual. You can even put your photo, as long as it is appropriate for a portfolio. 6. Contact information Your email address (or phone number) should be easy to find in your front end portfolio so that people can be more likely to contact you if they're interested to inquire about service. Industry-specific social media accounts such as GitHub, Dribbble, or LinkedIn can also be included. 7. A downloadable resume Provide options for people to view your information, therefore, linking the front end developer website portfolio to your resume for people to download is fundamental. How to Create a Front End Developer PortfolioThe next step after gathering all of the above data is to actually start building. Follow the steps below to create your front end portfolio that wins clients and employers. Step 1: Design the layout. A front end developer website portfolio should be easy on the eyes. After all, it is exactly what you are good at. Planning how your content is viewed is extremely crucial as it will either attract or repulse people to look at your portfolio. You should also consider optimizing the user experience (UX) through the layout of your choosing. Step 2: Select a suitable website or portfolio builder. With many resources out there – each with its own pros and cons – you have the option to utilize a portfolio builder or make a front end portfolio website from scratch. A personal website portfolio for front end developers lets you be as creative as you want, with absolutely no restriction! But it might take a significant amount of time. Meanwhile, using a portfolio builder will save you a lot of time. CakeResume's free portfolio maker offers customizable templates for you to choose from, giving you some front end developer portfolio inspirations to create your personalized front end portfolio. Create your online presence and personal branding by creating your very own online portfolio. Check out these creative online portfolio designs and portfolio examples, and create your very own online portfolio for free on CakeResume!Create Portfolio Step 3: Insert relevant works/projects. Your projects are one of the core components of your front end portfolio. Illustrating your know-hows through projects allows potential clients or recruiters to evaluate your competencies for the job. If you don't have any paid gigs yet, don't worry! Try making a few websites to demonstrate your skills in building a few visually pleasing and smooth-functioning web pages. After completing paid projects, you can update your front end developer portfolio with them. Step 4: Briefly describe your projects. Context matters the most when it comes to portfolio making. Having a short description of the project that you included with each of your front end developer portfolio projects helps people understand what the project was about and what the goals were and what your work and thought process was like. You just need to write a few sentences and leave the rest for the interview. Step 5: Include some testimonials. Positive reviews from previous clients or employers will never be overlooked by potential clients or recruiters. A testimonial can range from a few sentences of good words for a specific project or a complete review of your performance. The more testimonials you can get on your front end developer portfolio, the easier for other people to entrust work to you. Tips for Creating the Best Front End Developer PortfolioMore tips for you to get the best front end portfolio result: 💡 Quality over quantity. Your front end developer portfolio projects should be mindfully selected to suit your style, skills, and overall portfolio design. 💡 Highlight the resources for and takeaways from each project. You can highlight what resources you used for the projects you include and what you learned from them to show that you are constantly improving. 💡 Check disclosure rights of projects. When including your front end developer projects for your portfolio, always confirm with your client or employer whether you are allowed to disclose the project before it is launched. 💡 Exclude irrelevant social media accounts. Exclude social media accounts such as Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, unless those accounts are professionally tailored to support your portfolio, as they can come off as rather informal. 💡 Show off your personality. Be yourself! Don't forget to splash some personality into your front end web developer portfolio. This can be a huge selling point in the eyes of recruiters and potential clients. Front End Developer Portfolio ExamplesIf you're still stuck on how to start, browse online for some front end developer portfolio inspirations. You might come across a developer that specializes in the same thing as you do and see how they make their front end developer portfolio stand out. Here are the best places to find front-end developer portfolio examples:1. CakeIf you are looking for a job at a tech startup or a structured corporation, Cake is an excellent resource for seeing how developers balance a technical "Project Portfolio" with a traditional CV. Since the platform is built for recruiters, you can find examples of portfolios that don't only focus on the end product but also the impact, such as "improved page load speed by 30%" or "built a responsive UI using React and Tailwind." It’s a great place to learn how to talk about your code in a way that proves your value to a business.👉See front-end developer portfolio examples at Cake2. BehanceWhile often associated with designers, Behance also has developer portfolio examples which can show the evolution of a web project form a wireframe to a live, interactive site. Through examples on Behance, you can learn how to present your code as a visual masterpiece, showing off your GSAPanimations or Three.js experiments.👉See front-end developer portfolio examples at Behance3. AwwwardsAwwwards features a "Developer Award" category for sites that demonstrate exceptional code quality and performance. It's the best place to see experimental layouts and animations that push the boundaries of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.👉See front-end developer portfolio examples at Awwwards4. CodePenCodePen is a platform where you can find examples of specific features like navigation menus, hover effects, or complex animations. Every "Pen"also shows the source code behind the effect, so you can learn exactly how another developer built a specific part of their portfolio. This way, you can see portfolio examples and also find code snippets that you can adapt and improve for your own projects.👉See front-end developer portfolio examples at Codepen5. GitHubIn GitHub, particularlyGitHub Profile READMEs,you can find thousands of examples where developers use markdown, icons, and live-updating stats to showcase their tech stack and open-source contributions. This is the best place to learn how to let your actual code and commit history speak for your consistency and skill level.👉See front-end developer portfolio examples at Github6.BestfoliosBestfolios is a curated directory of portfolios from developers working at top tech companies like Google, Meta, and Apple. You can find examples of Technical Case Studies that don't just show a finished website, but explain the specific coding challenges the developer faced and how they solved them. It’s a perfect reference for learning how to structure your own projects to impress high-level engineering managers.👉See front-end developer portfolio examples at Bestfolios Find this article helpful?Follow us for more insightful articles.Build Your Front-End Developer Portfolio with CakeCake is your all-in-one career solution. Use our online resume builder for an ATS-friendly resume, complete with hundreds of free, professional resume templates and examples. Optimize your application instantly with Cake AI Resume Checker and generate a compelling cover letter with Cake Cover letter AI. Beyond documents, Cake helps you grow: build an online portfolio, find opportunities on our job portal, and establish your personal brand. Ready to simplify your job search and make success a piece of cake? Start using Cake now! --- Originally written by Teresa Edria ---
Resume & CV
Aug 26th 2025

How to Write Subject for Job Application Email | Email Template, Tips & Examples

Created by CakeResumeTABLEOFCONTENTSWhy Are Email Subject Lines Important?How to Write an Email Subject Line When Sending Your Job Application (+Examples)7 Tips for Writing the Best Subject Line for an EmailHow to Write an Email when Sending a CV7Tips for Sending a CV via EmailEmail Templates to Use When Applying for a JobAre you guilty of deleting emails before opening them? If you are, don't be because you're not alone.Many people automatically delete their emails before even reading them, especially if those emails aren't from someone they already know or aren't considered valuable. But"What does that have to do with a job searching process?" you may ask. Well, since many recruiters still receive job applications via email, an eye-catchingWell, many recruiters actually still receive job applications via email unless they specify you to apply through a designated platform. And although job portals provide all the convenience you can imagine—for instance, you can fill out your information once and any recruiters can see it, sending your resume or CV through email is more personal. In this article, we'll show you why writing an interesting and effective email subject when sending a resume/CV is important, how to write an email's subject line when applying for a job with some practical examples. Without further ado, let's jump right in!Why Email Subject Lines Are Important?Most people with a full-time job will have dozens of emails waiting to be opened. Recruiters and hiring managers are no exception. One way to avoid having your CV email application from being tossed into the trash folder is having the appropriate subject line in your application email. When sending your resume/CV, an effective email subject will immediately convey to the recipient that the email content is indeed important for them and that they should read it. What a way to portray a good first impression, right? Aside from that, the email subject line is also a way for you to advertise yourself (and we'll tell you how in a moment).How to Write an Email Subject Line When Sending Your Job Application (+Examples)The importance of having a catchy email subject line when sending a resume/CV isn't only about grabbing the recruiter's attention, it's also about convenience.Here are several factors make recruiters and hiring managers to open your email: 1. Purpose of the email It is important to clearly state the purpose of your email in the subject line. Vague subjects may deter busy recipients from opening your message. You can use keywords such as "Job Application" or "Application for" in the subject line for better communication. Alternatively, you can mention "CV" to signal the content of your email. 2. Position title When applying for jobs, it's important to include the job title in the email subject line. This not only helps the recruiters keep track of the applications, but it also makes it easier for you to manage and search for your applications if you're applying for multiple positions at different companies. Here's an example: Subject: Application for Digital Incubator Venture Lead 3. Job location (if applicable) If you're applying for a vacancy at multinational corporations, who often mention explicitly the job location in the job description, it's advice to include the name of the city or country on the email subject line for clarification. Let's look at the example below: Subject: Application for Digital Incubator Venture Lead_Philippines 4. Position ID (if applicable) Sometimes, big companies that have many job openings will also have a job reference ID number for them to streamline their internal procedure. Omitting the job ID from your email subject line when sending your resume/CV (if they have one) will cause your email to be removed even before they see your CV. Here's an example: Subject: Application for Digital Incubator Venture Lead_Job #554225_Philippines 5. Referral (if applicable) A referral is similar to a recommendation, but it is more like an introduction to the person in charge of hiring. If you already know someone who's working for the company you're applying to, you can reach out to them and ask whether they'd be willing to help to refer you to the recruiter. Let's have a look at the example: Subject: Referred by John Hopkins_Application for Digital Incubator Venture Lead_Job #554225_Philippines 6. Your name You want to approach someone on the other end, that’s why you’re sending your CV by email. So make sure to let them know who you are first. Here's an example: Subject: Sarah Mandela CV_Digital Incubator Venture Lead _Referred by John Hopkins_Job #554225_Philippines💡 Pro Tip: You can also consider mentioning the company's name on the CV email subject, but keep in mind that it should not be overly lengthy. Unless the company has a specific format on how to write a subject for sending CV applications, there is no absolute order for which information should go first. However, it is important to consider what information is the most important, and that information should go first.7 Tips for Writing the Best Subject for an Email 💡 Thoroughly check the instructions when applying via email. When sending your CV to some companies, remember that they may have specific guidelines for email subject line. For instance, consider the following job posting as an example. If there are any similar requirements specified in the job listing, make sure to follow the instructions correctly. 💡 Avoid a long subject line. A clear and concise email subject line when applying for a job application should be between 40-60 characters. Any email subject line that is longer than that would not show fully in the inbox page. Another point to remember is that you want your email subject to be phone screen friendly too, so make sure to keep it short and brief. 💡 Select formal and professional words. It is important to maintain a professional tone of voice when composing an email, especially if it is for a job application. However, certain abbreviations are acceptable to include in your email if they're widely recognized and accepted in the position/industry you're applying for. This can show that you are knowledgeable in the field and understand the industry-specific language. Just be sure to use them appropriately and sparingly, as overuse can make your email appear unprofessional. 💡 Utilize punctuations. Choose one type of punctuation such as hyphen (-), low dash (_), or colon (;) to separate different types of CV mail subject information and use it consistently, for example: Jeremy Borne CV - Application for Product Manager - Job #12345 - New JerseyReferral from Poppy Bloom: Lina Lin, CV for Stylist Assistant Position at Sheina StyleApplication_Web Developer at IX Tech_Job Posting #0000_CV Attached 💡 Add a personal touch. Remember what we do when we receive an email that looks like from bots or sounds like bot? We delete it without a second thought. To prevent this from happening to your job application emails, make sure to add a little bit of personal touch (where applicable). 💡 Always send using a professional email address. When sending your CV via email, it's important to use an appropriate email address that the receiver can easily recognize. If you haven't had it already, consider create an email address that includes your full name, or at least part of it, and avoid using numbers or childhood nicknames that may not be recognizable. Professional Email Address Examples:[email protected]@[email protected] Unprofessional Email Address examples:[email protected]@[email protected] 💡 Go over and proofread the job applicationemail subject line. Make sure that there is no spelling or grammar mistake, and that your email subject for sending your CV matches the content of the email. It's important to spell the company's name correctly and ensure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes.How to Write an Email for Sending a CV Now that you have your resume/CV, you've read the job description, and are ready to compose your email. The next step is to actually write an email that attracts recruiters and convince them to give you a phone call. Here are four simple steps to follow: Write an Effective Email Subject Line Again, this is highly important as it determines whether or not the recruiter will open your email. Make sure to follow the subject line format as above. Compose the Message Content Start by warmly greeting the recruiter or hiring manager by name (if possible). Then introduce yourself briefly and let them know your intention when sending the email In the second paragraph of your email, write a short sentence inform the recipient that you have attached your CV and cover letter files. If the company does not require a cover letter, you may include a brief version of it in the email body, keeping it concise and limited to 2-3 paragraphs. Close Your Email Professionally If your application email subject line creates the first impression, the closing sign offs are just as important as it leaves a lasting impression. Always express gratitude for their time and consider including an invitation to meet and discuss in person. Even better, you can show enthusiasm for the job by telling the recruiters that you are always open for an interview. Include your personal contact details after your professional email signature. Make sure that they clearly know who you are and how to reach you. Here's an example: Best regards,Damian Franz +99-6565-1234[email protected] 📚 Further reading: What to Write in an Email when Sending a Resume [+Examples Tips] 7 Tips for Sending a Resume/CVvia EmailBelow are some more tips to make sure your email for sending CV is crafted to perfection: ✨ Pay attention to the requested file type. Each employer has their own preferred method of reviewing applications because perhaps their system only accommodates certain file types. If they require you to provide a PDF, don't attach a Word file (.docx or .doc), follow instructions given.💡Pro Tip: If no specific file types are specified in the requirements, always send a PDF file to avoid formatting errors. Alternatively, you can send the link to a digital CV. ✨ CV and cover letter files should be named correctly. Name these two files as clearly and short as possible to avoid confusion, e.g. "Mitch Anders-CV.pdf" and "Mitch Anders-Cover Letter.pdf". You can also use punctuations to separate information here.💡Pro Tip: Unless you are specifically required to attach your cover letter as a separate document, your cover letter more often becomes the content of your email. Make sure to check the requirements again. ✨ Aim for 3-5 sentences per paragraph. Keeping the paragraph short and concise can help recipients who open their mails on mobile device have a better reading experience. ✨ Mention that your resume orCV is attached in the email (and don't forget to attach the file). Different email providers have different layouts and ways to display their email content. It's advisable to inform the recipient about the attached document. ✨ Invite them to meet in person. Be respectful and cordial in your invitation; before closing your email, a simple "I'm looking forward to your reply and will be glad to meet for further discussion" is always nice to have. ✨ Use a professional email signature to sign off your email. Email signature is more than just for branding purposes. It provides ease for people to find you and know who you are professionally.The essential aspects of a professional email signature are:Full nameProfessional titleCompany name (if any)Phone numberEmail address Meanwhile, you could also include some of these optional elements:(Professional) social media linksCompany or personal logoPhoto (headshot)Disclaimer ✨ Include links to your personal portfolio website in your job application email. This includes LinkedIn, GitHub, online portfolio, and others that are relevant to your profession. This allows recruiters to see you beyond the resume or CV that you provide.Email Templates to UseIf you're having trouble writing an email to send your resume, don't worry! We have a multipurpose template available for you to use immediately. Subject: [Your name]_Application for [Job Position]_[Job ID]_at [Company Name] Dear [Hiring Manager's name], My name is [Your Name]. I would like to apply for the [Job Position] at [Company Name]. Enclosed is my CV and cover letter for your reference. I have [number of years] years of experience in [field], with a proven record of [insert a quantifiable major accomplishment that's relevant to the job]. As someone who is [insert your skills] and has extensive knowledge in [insert your specialization or field], my goal is to [insert your objective in applying to this company] at [company's name]. I look forward to meeting you in person to discuss further about your goals for this role and my potential contribution to your company. Thank you for your time. Sincerely,[Your name] [Your professional title] [Your email address] [Your phone number] [Your professional social accounts or website] Not getting the responses you deserve? Let our AI resume checker reveal what's keeping your resume from getting noticed.Reveal Issues Now --- Originally written by Teresa Edria---
Portfolio
Jan 25th 2022

Best Video Editor Portfolio with Examples [Porfolio Making Guideline]

Created by CakeA video editor portfolio is an art gallery where it displays peoples’ masterpieces, waiting for people to visit and find out what is inside. It is a collection of videos that have been put together in a carefully designed way to better deliver the video editor’s concepts. So, are you one of the video editors who are still scratching your head struggling to create the perfect portfolio that belongs to you?If you are planning to showcase your accomplishments to get a better job, attract more customers, or even go for further studies, you are at the right place. Here, we offer you some tips and hints to make a portfolio for a video editor. TABLEOFCONTENTSWhat Is a Video Editor Portfolio?3 Steps for Making a Video Editor PortfolioWhat Should Be Included in a Video Editor PortfolioTips on How to Make a Video Editor PortfolioTips for Making a Video Editor Portfolio Without Experience What Is a Video Editor Portfolio?A video editor portfolio works pretty much the same as any other portfolio. It is a simple web page that is filled mostly with videography from a single video editor. The trigger to communication between you and your customers, employers, and institutes depends on how impressive your portfolio may be. This means that a video editor portfolio does not only depend on the visual effects, but the content and presentation too. Learning how to select good-quality videos when creating your video editor portfolio is very crucial. It is because a great portfolio can bring many benefits. As mentioned above, a well-made video editor portfolio will be your way of communication between you and your possible customers. However, visibility comes before the communicating part. Therefore, having a video portfolio webpage helps in increasing your chance of being viewed. Other than that, your video editor portfolio will be your proof of accomplishments. Just like what photographers and videographers do, a video editor’s work can only be shown through social media platforms. However, a social media account is not a good proof of work because it is rather informal. Since these exposures can only be limited to targeted audiences, namely, social media users, a portfolio comes in handy to showcase to your potential employers, customers, and institutes. 3 Steps to Make a Video Editor PortfolioUnlike a normal paperwork CV or documented resume, a portfolio for video editors is mostly found digitally as a file or on a website. Follow these simple steps to create your very own video editor portfolio that can showcase your skills best.Step 1:Choose the Platform for Making the Portfolio You can choose to use some free online portfolio websites such as Squarespace, Renderforest, and Cake to help complete your portfolio. These websites provide a good amount of examples for video editor portfolio and free-to-use templates. You can follow the guide and design your portfolio easily. Here are the best portfolio websites that you can refer to: 💡CakeCake online portfolio maker Like Squarespace and Renderforest, Cake provides sources, tips, and templates for you to create your portfolio. It is a website that helps people in building their portfolios or resume. It also allows people to hunt for jobs online. Moreover, it is a free website for everybody to use. 💡 SquarespaceSquarespace webpage Squarespace has been quite popular lately. It is shared by most photographers and YouTubers online promoting its broad usage and simple designs that everybody can use. It has a 14-day trial before you have to pay 12$ per month to continue using it. 💡 RenderforestRenderforest webpage Renderforest is a website that provides you with a place to create your portfolio. It is well designed to be user-friendly as it is easy to use. You can also share your work there for exposure. This video editor portfolio website is free for simple usage, but if you need more functions and memories, you will have to start paying. After having an eye on the video editor portfolio website, you can choose a video editor portfolio template that you want to use. You can start compiling materials. You’ll have to upload your basic personal information up into your portfolio webpage for people to know about the owner of the artwork. To make it easier, you can fill in the contents you have in your resume to let the target audience know more about you. Step 2: Compile the Material to Be Included in Your Video Editor Portfolio Then, you can start selecting the best works that are suitable to be put into the video editor portfolio. A video editor portfolio website’s template has the location where you want to upload the video set. You need to make a brief description of your works after uploading them to let audiences know more about the work. A description also helps explain the videos, so that the audiences will not get lost when watching. Step 3: Design an Attractive Thumbnail for Each Project. You can also design a thumbnail for every project. Audiences can click into it to see more of the detailed works or it may be a link towards your social media account such as Instagram so that they can contact you and see some of your other works. What Should Be Included in a Video Editor Portfolio1. Contact Information Contact information always comes first before putting down your works into the video editor portfolio. This is an essential part as potential clients who are interested in your work will need it to get to you. You don’t want to miss out on every possibility of getting clients. You could include your email address, phone number, and social media account (if any). 2. Your Works After filling out your contact information, you can start arranging your videos. This is the main body of your presentation that will attract potential customers. Don’t forget the tips mentioned above! Complete your video maker portfolio with your latest best works. 3. Video Descriptions Although videos can speak a lot, brief descriptions of your work below or somewhere near the video are also needed. It is to ensure your audiences know what they are watching and reviewing. You can include a short sentence as a description for every video to keep it simple and clean. 4. Resume Before completing your video maker portfolio, also include a resume/CV to help introduce more about yourself. A portfolio works on showing your capabilities in video editing, but a resume shows all of your accomplishments and experiences through words in a listed form. Tips on How to Make a Video Editor PortfolioBy now you should have a clearer idea on what you have to do to create your very own video editor portfolio. But perhaps, you’re still not quite sure if you can nail your video editor portfolio making. In that case, read the below 5 tips to level-up your video editor portfolio quality. 💡 Include your best and recent works.When building a video editor portfolio, it should contain only the latest best works from you, just like cookies that leave the oven an hour ago before putting them on the shelf for sales. It is not recommended to upload every work that you have. Your skills improve through a series of video making, which makes the quality of the later video a better option. You should filter out the ones that have some flaws in them, and keep only the works that the majority of people like in your video editor portfolio.💡 Showcase works that can show off your own style.Relating to the tip above, you should let your works speak for you by choosing the works that best represent yourself in showcasing your style when picking out the best works for your video editor portfolio. Instead of selecting different kinds of videos that you have made, try putting a series of videos that have a similar style in your portfolio. This helps in targeting your audiences by letting them know what you can provide. By doing this, your video editor portfolio will also be set apart from the others. 💡 Include a personal introduction so potential clients can get to know you.Other than uploading works onto your video maker portfolio, you should drop in a simple but unique and interesting self-introduction to help your potential clients to know more about you other than your works. This works the same as resume writing where you fill out the part of “Tell me about yourself”.💡 Include a strong CTA.Call to action (CTA) words or phrases such as View, Watch me, and Contact me can be very helpful when creating a video editor portfolio. Since a video editor website portfolio works online, using CTA increases the interaction rate of potential clients with your works. Therefore, inserting them will help you know more about your audience’s preferences and also improve the reach.💡 Keep your videos short.When creating a video editor portfolio, your content will mainly be videos. However, clients do not want to watch the whole video as it is time-consuming to know if you are the right person. Keep your videos short before uploading them onto the portfolio. This means you might have to edit a shorter version of the full video, then insert a CTA that links to the full video.Cake’s free online resume builder and portfolio maker is suitable for creative and design professionals. With our user-friendly portfolio-making tools, anyone can make their online portfolio hassle-free. Create your video editor portfolio now!Make Portfolio Tips for Making a Video Editor Portfolio Without ExperienceIf you are a beginner in video editing who needs help with suggestions in building your video-making portfolio, you are at the right place. Here are some tips that can come in handy. ✨ Create videos out of stock footage.If you don't have much experience in video editing but are still interested in making your portfolio of video editors. You can try putting something together with online stock footage. Artgrid.io is a website that provides stock footage of anything that you can think of. You can try using this to create something without needing to buy an expensive recorder or go out for actual footage.Stock footage on Artgrid.io ✨ Refer to more video editor portfolios online. You should look up and refer to more video editor portfolios before building one since there are many video editors out there with extraordinary portfolios. You might get inspired with a unique idea by some of the video editor portfolio. ✨ Practice self-learning through online resources. If you plan to learn video editing, there are always online seminars or YouTube videos that provide much help. But before heading into video editing, you will have to make the right choice on video editing software. Many editing software can be used such as Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro, but it is always better to choose based on what suits you best. Creating a video editor portfolio is important. It helps showcase your accomplishments to the audience and potential clients. If you are a video editor, stop waiting and start creating. --- Originally written by Ryan Goh---
Resume & CV
Jun 16th 2022

Crafting an Outstanding Biodata: Format Tips and Sample Templates

Biodata formats, popular in south Asian countries, such as India,contain information about you and can serve a couple of purposes --introduce you to your potential employer or life partner.But how can you create a biodata format for a job that no employer can resist? What should you include in a job biodata? What are some tips that can assist you in crafting the perfect job biodata? These are the questions that this article will answer.Read on to learn all you need to know for making a killer job biodata!Table of Contents:What Is a Biodata Format?How to Create Biodata Formats for Job Hunting?Biodata, Resume, and CV: What Is the Difference?Tips for Making the Best Bio Data for Job📚Further Reading: Wondering how to make the perfect biodata for marriage? Check out the latest matrimonial biodata format on Cake!Boidata Sample - Shah Rukh Khan (Created by Cake, Click to view complete resume and download) What Is a Biodata Format? Should you check the Cambridge University Dictionary, you’ll learn that the official definition of the biodata is “information about a person’s life, work, and career accomplishments.” You’ll also come across other descriptions like “Biographical data that gives facts about the life and work experiences of the candidate.” In practice, biodata, or biodata format, is a document that contains information about you and serves as an introduction for different purposes. Predominantly, a biodata is used for job and marriage and popular in the following countries:IndiaBangladesh Pakistan Sri LankaWhen you are creating a bio data format for job, you need to carefully think about how to catch the recruiter's eye. Read the job posting thoroughly and showcase desired skills and qualities by including your education background, skills and work history. However, the recruiter also expects to see some more personal details about you on your biodata format: information about your gender, ethnicity, religion, hobbies, etc. Created by Cake How to Create Biodata Formats for Job Hunting? As explained above, a biodata format focuses mainly on you and who you are. For a bio data for job applications, you can include the following sections:PhotoObjective or SummaryPersonal DetailsEducationWork ExperienceSkillsAdditional Information1. PhotoIncluding a photo on your biodata is optional. If you choose to include one, ensure that it reflects your professionalism. A professional portrait can add a personal touch to your biodata, potentially making the recruiter view it as more than just a piece of paper.2. Objective or SummaryNext, include a short passage summing up your professional background, skills and work experience, that would qualify you for the role in your biodata. List your career goals and/or life goals in this short paragraph in the biodata for job too, so that the recruiter can determine whether your goal and the company's are aligned.Example of an objective for a job biodataBangalore-based Stanford graduate Data Engineer with 3 years of experience in designing and implementing solutions for business problems who specializes in data mining and data analysis and looks forward to leverage data engineering skills to help ABC Corp. to achieve its vision.Example of a summary for a job biodataData Engineer with a MS in data science from Stanford University based in Bangalore. Proficient in MySQL, Python, C/C++. 3 years of experience in data pipelining and real-time data marts.📚Further reading: How to write a professional summary for a resume? Created by Cake 3. Personal DetailsThis is where a biodata for job differs from a regular resume or CV. The hiring manager expects to learn more about your background and personal information. Typically, those personal details include:Current positionPhone numberEmail addressContact detailsPlace of residencePostal addressDate of birthNationalityMarital statusParents’ namesGenderReligionHeightRace SalaryHobbiesInterestsStrengthsCharacter traits Created by Cake 4. EducationEducational background is essential on a job biodata as it demonstrates the skills you possess and the training you've received. HR can use this information to determine whether to invite you for an interview. To clearly display your educational qualifications on a biodata for job applications, consider including the following elements:Name and location of the schoolGraduation yearMajor(s) and minor(s)If you are a recent graduate or applying for entry-level positions, including relevant courses or modules you have taken can be beneficial. Alternatively, you can also include your GPA if it is 3.5 or above to demonstrate that you are a hard worker and a quick learner, making your job biodata more attractive. You may consider adding the following:GPARelevant coursesHonors and awardsRelevant club or society experienceExample of education on a job biodataM.Sc at Stanford University, 2013 - 2014Major: Data ScienceCGPA: 7/10B.Ac at Indian Institute of Technology Delhi 2008 - 2012Major: Computer ScienceCGPA: 8.5/10 Created by Cake 5. Work ExperienceIn a job biodata, the work experience section is arguably the most important. HR primarily assesses your suitability for the role by examining your work experience. To showcase your abilities, clearly list the following on your job biodata:Professional titleName and location of the companyEmployment periodDuties and responsibilitiesExample of work experience on a job biodataSenior Data Engineer at Infosys Technologies Ltd, 2018 - PresentTrain and mentor a team of 10 junior data engineersDesign and implement business solutionsSoftware Engineer at Wipro Technologies Limited, 2015 - 208Identified issues in the operating system and improved operating proceduresPreviewed peer codes Created by Cake 6. SkillsIncluding skills on a job biodata is essential to convince HR that you are qualified for a particular role. After all, a job biodata is a document with the ultimate purpose of securing you an interview and helping you land your dream job. You need to demonstrate to the recruiter, who reviews your biodata, that you can perform the required tasks for the position and potentially more. The skills section in the biodata is where you can achieve this.Examples of skills on a job biodataSQL/NoSQL/Python/C/C++AWSAzureData Warehousing SolutionsData AnalysisETL Tools7. Additional InformationLastly, if you have additional information or experiences that are relevant to the position you're applying for, include them in an 'Additional Information' section on your job biodata and explain them in detail.CertificationsHonorsHobbies and interestsVolunteer experienceExample of additional informationProfessional Data Engineer by Google, 2019 Biodata, Resume, and CV: What Is the Difference? Although a job biodata, a resume and a CV are similar in their purposes, there are hidden nuances between them. Biodata for Job To begin with, it's important to know that a biodata lists personal information in detail, including your name, date of birth, gender, first language, nationality, place of residence, and marital status, among other details. Typically, these details are required when applying for positions in government offices, agencies, and research grants. A job biodata format also includes your educational qualifications and previous job experiences in chronological order. Applicants should be cautious not to include information that could potentially lead to misuse of their data. It's worth noting that overseas clients hiring remote freelancers usually don't require Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Most importantly, remember to keep the description concise and limited to a single page in length. While you can include references, the primary focus of this document is on you as an individual. Resume A resume provides a concise job summary, offering a quick overview of the positions you've held in the past and the successful projects you've handled. A resume does not need to be overly detailed but should typically span 1 or 2 pages. When attached to an application, a resume highlights your core competencies and educational qualifications, making it particularly useful for internship applications. References should never be included in a resume.📚Further reading: 5 Useful Resume Tips to Help You Get a Foreign Job from India Curriculum Vitae (CV) The Curriculum Vitae (CV) covers anywhere from 2 to 4 pages, and if you have compelling information to add, the document can extend to several pages. Since you've just graduated, you may not have extensive work experience, but that's okay because you can emphasize your educational qualifications, which should be presented at the top of the page. Include details about your degrees, professional affiliations, additional courses, extracurricular activities, and part-time positions where you gained on-the-job experience. A great CV may also encompass any research you've conducted and the results you've achieved. Experts who specialize in creating such documents recommend describing your talents, hobbies, technical skills, and any other relevant information related to the job you're applying for. It's a good idea to include references. Tips for Making the Best Bio Data for Job When creating a biodata format for job applications, remember that each application receives an average of just 6 seconds of reading time. This is the time you have to make a strong impression on the hiring manager. To increase your chances of securing an interview invitation, adhere to the following principles while crafting your job biodata: Make iteasily comprehensibleBe cautious about the personal information you revealFocus on what makes you perfect for the positionHighlight the main points that are likely to interest the readerCut down on the unimportant pointsRefer to samples for more ideas When you begin creating a biodata format for a job, the first step is to thoroughly study the company's requirements and the job description. Only after doing so should you design your biodata to capture the interest of hiring managers. If you're unsure about how to complete a biodata form, you can use online resume makers for guidance.With Cake, the best free resume builder, we provide you with hundreds of free resume templates download and various resume examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!Create Resume
Interview Skills
Jul 14th 2022

DEI Interview Questions: How to Answer (+ Samples)

Created by CakeIn this article, we'll cover:Why Diversity MattersTips for Answering Diversity Interview QuestionsExample Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Interview Questions and AnswersDiversity, Equity and Inclusion Interview Questions to ask EmployersDiversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are implemented by employers to ensure all employees can feel accounted for in the workplace. As part of these initiatives, many companies include DEI questions in the interview to better an inclusive, diverse, safe and progressive environment thatultimately boosts employee performance and morale. Before we explore DEI interview questions and how to answer them, we first need to look at the term DEI. What does DEI mean exactly? Diversity in employees includes varying in race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, level of disability, and religion. Equity ensures fairness by giving employees tools to succeed based on their needs. Last but not least, inclusion is feeling “belonging” in the workplace.Diversity, equity, and inclusion interview questions are oftentimes about your experience with people of different backgrounds, such as different races, and how you make sure people are treated fairly and respectfully. In this article, we’ll go over DEI ideas, sample diversity and inclusion interview questions and how to answer them. Why Diversity MattersDiversity job interview questions have become popular, as more employers realize that feeling included in the workplace allows employees to thrive without fear of judgment or unfair treatment. A diverse workforce benefits the company in many ways: ✨ Greater creativity: Incorporating employees from diverse backgrounds, skillsets and cultures can provide new perspectives, both strategically and creatively. Creativity involves having unique perspectives or challenging existing ones, which would not be possible from a homogenous cohort. ✨ Useful language skills: People of different cultural backgrounds are likely to speak languages other than English. Diverse language skills benefit client-facing roles, broaden research scope and help expand businesses across borders. ✨ Higher profits: A diverse team working harmoniously can cultivate new strategies, products and techniques, which will ultimately improve business and turn a higher profit. This can fuel the expansion of the business, which will hopefully get paid back to employees! ✨ Better decision-making processes: Diverse employees bring unique but differing perspectives. Working through this allows teams to use more sensitive and productive decision making, in order to satisfy everyone. Decision making is valuable in every company. Tips for Answering Diversity Interview QuestionsDiversity interview questions might sound a bit intimidating as it's always difficult to think of something to say on spot. But there are tips that can prepare you to answer DEI questions comfortably and confidently. Below is a list of tips for answering DEI questions we've put together.🎯 Learn the concept of diversity, equity and inclusion First thing first, to prepare for DEI interview questions, you must have your own understanding of DEI. Do research on equity, equality, cultural awareness and diversity, as most DEI interview questions will touch on at least one of these topics.You can start by browsing websites such asDiversity, Equity, and Inclusionand Carnegie Mellon University's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion site. Understanding these concepts is the first step to preparing answers for DEI interview questions. 🎯 Research the company’s values Many company websites have a statement on DEI, which you can research and later incorporate when answering DEI interview questions. Some companies strive to be diverse and inclusive; interview questions will reflect their DEI statements. Take note of what values are mentioned as they will most likely be included in their DEI interview questions. Make your answers to diversity interview questions stand out by aligning with their mission statement. 💡 For example, if a company’s diversity statement highlights the percentages of female and POC managers, you know they care about gender and racial issues and might ask you interview questions about gender and racial equity. When facing DEI interview questions, you can then talk about positive experiences with a female or POC supervisor or why you think having women and POC in manager positions is important. 🎯 Prepare stories to tell When answering DEI interview questions, using your own encounters with people from different backgrounds will show you not only understand DEI principles but are also capable of working in a diverse workplace. Think back of times when you collaborated with diverse teams and talk about the efforts you made to make sure everyone was comfortable when asked DEI interview questions. Inclusivity interview questions are not only asking about race and culture – age, sexual orientation, neurodiversity, religion and gender also work! 🎯 Be authentic Having prepared answers to diversity, equity and inclusion interview questions which reflect the company’s values will sound good in an interview; however, interviewers can tell if you give them a canned response. This is especially important when discussing sensitive topics such as racial equity during the interview; questions like these are taken seriously by the employer. As mentioned before, including your own experiences when answering interview questions about diversity and inclusion will show you have a genuine understanding and tolerance for DEI in the workplace. Example Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Interview Questions and AnswersWhat does diversity, equity and inclusion mean in the workplace?What are the most positive aspects of working in a diverse workplace?Can you share a time when diversity benefited your team?How do you make sure that the diversity of a team is utilized?How would you advocate equity for an employee who was not being catered to?How would you handle hearing or seeing discrimination in the workplace?What are the most challenging aspects of having a diverse workplace?What does achieving diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace look like to you?In what ways would equality and diversity be valuable to this position?How would you encourage expressions of diversity in colleagues during projects? DEI concepts can be tricky to articulate, so it's best to practice DEI interview questions ahead of time!Like how you answers regular interview questions, you want to provide real-life examples and specific details to demonstrate your DEI awareness during an interview. Keep this principle in mind when you think of how to answer DEI questions.To help your preparation for DEI interview questions, we've gathered 10 common questions and sample answers, along with tips on how to tackle them. ❓ What does diversity, equity and inclusion mean in the workplace? The most basic DEI interview questions will involve you showcasing your understanding. Sample Answer:“Diversity, Equity and Inclusion means recognizing difference and respecting all colleagues, regardless of their backgrounds. Equity is giving each person the tools they need for success, depending on their needs, and inclusion is to provide a sense of belonging in the workplace.” ❓ What are the most positive aspects of working in a diverse workplace? Diversity and inclusion interview questions want to explore your perception of DEI in the workplace. Think of how a diverse workplace improves teams and you interpersonally and professionally when answering DEI interview questions. If you have experience benefiting from a diverse workplace, don't hesitate to share it. Sample Answer:“The most positive aspects of working in a diverse workplace would be the unique perspectives everyone brings. Variation in experiences and education can force us to think laterally and use creativity to overcome challenges, which ultimately strengthens the team.” ❓Can you share a time when diversity benefited your team? When answering diversity interview questions, highlight how and why diversity was utilized. If you can't think of your own contribution when answering DEI interview questions like these, you can use examples of how a coworker’s diversity contributed! Sample Answer:“In my previous role, my team was responsible for directing a new advertisement campaign. When discussing phrasing, designs and actors, team members utilized their cultural knowledge to help guide the campaign in a culturally aware manner to attract a larger audience. I learnt a lot from working with them and have considered culture in campaigns since. Without the diversity in our team, we could have made an offensive mistake by accident.” ❓ How do you make sure that the diversity of a team is utilized? This diversity and inclusion interview question is for leadership roles. DEI ideas are exceptionally important for leaders as they need to find ways to help every team member to realize their potential. It can only be achieved when team members of different backgrounds are all comfortable with each other. DI interview questions want to see how you can go beyond recognising diversity, and utilize it as well. Sample Answer:“Utilizing diversity involves providing opportunities to share knowledge and experiences unique to an individual. I always actively listen to my coworkers and encourage every one to do the same. If a colleague brings in their unique perspective, everyone should acknowledge and consider their opinion judgement. Making sure everyone feels included will encourage our team to utilize their diversity” ❓ How would you advocate equity for an employee who was not being catered to? Applicants interviewing for manager roles are likely to be asked this type of interview question about diversity and inclusion. The employer wants to know how managers would focus on achieving DEI principles. Equity is difficult to articulate; so when answering DEI interview questions, provide a clear description of how you would advocate for others. Sample Answer:“I’ll first make sure all the employees feel comfortable to come to me when they need specific assistance. If an employee requires assistance, tools or resources to achieve success, I will discuss it directly with the employee to make sure we understand their needs. Together, we can consider adjustments to their workflow and I will advocate for them with management by providing a clear plan for adjustments.” ❓ How would you handle hearing or seeing discrimination in the workplace? This diversity and inclusion question is for leaders and regular employees.Workplace discrimination is never tolerated, and inclusivity interview questions like these allow you to show how you adhere to DEI principles.Ensuring equity for marginalized and/or radicalized communities workplace include creating an environment where they are free from harm and harassment.HR takes harassment policies seriously; therefore this DEI interview question is likely to be asked. Sample Answer:“If I witness workplace discrimination, I will first interrupt the situation, regardless of who is involved. I will call out the incident as offensive and stop the situation. In the same time, workshops about equity should be held. I'd also suggest the company educate every one n the importance of DEIconcepts. If the situation continues, I will report it to management, HR or the diversity or inclusion manager immediately. I will also check in with the affected person to see if they are okay.” ❓ What are the most challenging aspects of having a diverse workplace? Although achieving a diverse workplace is ideal, conflicts are inevitable and will be brought up in interview questions when DEI is concerned. Interview questions about diversity and inclusion can be both positive and negative; answer with tact to show your understanding of the realities of DEI. Suggest solutions when answering diversity interview questions about challenges: Sample Answer:“Whilst having a diverse workplace has many upsides, unfortunately, I agree that there are challenges that arise. One would be an inevitable conflict of opinions – as a person’s background, race, gender, culture or orientation is fundamental to their personality, there are times when pleasing everyone is not possible. In order to overcome this, we make sure we compromise and provide adjustments where possible.” ❓ What does achieving diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace look like to you? Often this interview question on diversity and inclusion is for managers; however, it is also a good DEI interview question to reflect upon and form the basis for your other answers. Focus on skills such as communication, teamwork and productivity when answering this diversity interview question to highlight DEI’s positive impact. Sample Answer:“Achieving diversity, equity and inclusivity in the workplace would first include a team which is representative of the population in terms of racial diversity, age, gender, orientation, etc., including in management positions. When everyone's needs are accounted for and DEI is implemented, teamwork dynamics will be effortless, providing an overall productive atmosphere.” ❓ In what ways would equality and diversity be valuable to this position? Sometimes DEI interview questions can include equality, another important principle which differs from equity slightly. Equality is about providing equal opportunities, support and assistance to all members of staff, whereas equity provides different adjustments for different individuals based on their needs. Listen carefully to DEI interview questions and make sure you know the difference between equity and equality. When answering equality and diversity interview questions, make sure you focus on the principle of equality – providing equal opportunities. Sample Answer:“I believe that diversity and equality go hand in hand with this position. Having a diverse team who are all provided with the same opportunities to thrive will allow us to explore new creative and technical avenues by utilizing the skills of every individual.” ❓ How would you encourage expressions of diversity in colleagues during projects? Although the major branches of diversity focus on age, gender, race and sexual orientation, which are immediately visible, the topic also covers invisible differences, such as culture. This might come up in interview questions about diversity and inclusion. Having cultural awareness in your interview questions and answers is valuable to employers; culture is an unchangeable part of identity. DEI interview questions like these are especially important when jobs require meetings with clients, on-site visits and cross-cultural communications. For example, being culturally aware is valuable to the employer when the job you apply for involves meetings with international clients, visits to other countries and cross-cultural communications. So prepare to show it in your answers to DEI interview questions. Sample Answer:“I will strongly encourage colleagues to share cultural knowledge if they want to do so. Listening to their perspective and knowledge of other languages and cultures will provide us with guidance, so we can make culturally sensitive decisions which will ultimately broaden our reach. Likewise, I will recruit a diverse range of people to participate in projects to ensure this.” Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Interview Questions to ask EmployersDuring interviews, the interviewer will open up the conversation and allow you to ask questions related to the company or position. It is a good idea to have at least one question prepared – this shows your interest in the role. Also, asking diversity and inclusion questions in your interview shows the interviewer that you take DEI seriously. A well-planned diversity interview question can also provide a lot of information. Inquiring about diversity and inclusion policies provides you with more context about the company’s values towards employees. If you are interviewing with multiple companies, asking DEI questions in your interview can help you decide between offers. To make the most of your opportunity to ask interview questions to the diversity and inclusion manager or HR, think of ways you might need to have your diversity accommodated for. An ideal company to work for should be able and willing to help you feel comfortable, whether your DEI questions are about gender, education, neurodiversity, disability or religion; so don’t be afraid to ask serious questions about DEI in interviews. Examples of diversity and inclusion interview questions for leaders such as HR or your interviewer:How is bias avoided during the hiring process?What is the process for making accommodations for those who need them?What is the DEI goal for the company, in terms of representation, demographics or otherwise?Is there diversity in the company's leadership roles?How does the accountability system at the company work? 🔑 Key Takeaways:Overall, DEI interview questions allow employers to improve the company by creating a diverse workplace and hiring staff who will contribute to a progressive work environment. So, next time you are asked a DEI interview question, think back to your experiences, background and the company values to provide a high-quality answer.With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, free download your resume in PDF, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Create your resume online (free download) now and land your dream job!Create resume--- Originally written by Bronte McNamara---
People Operations
Mar 6th 2024

Interview Evaluation Form Guidelines & Samples

Ultimately, the interview is about selecting the best candidate. Though each job role requires specific requirements, the criteria set by the hiring manager are quite the same, including educational background, work experience, soft and hard skills, personal traits, etc.An interview feedback form that puts together all these factors allows you to assess and score the candidate's overall qualifications for the position to which they have applied. In the case of panel interviews or group interviews, having a candidate evaluation form helps streamline your hiring process, make apples-to-apples comparisons, and in turn choose the best fit for your company. In this article, you'll find everything you need to know about an interview evaluation form, from what an interview evaluation form is, why it matters, how to create one, and more. TABLE OF CONTENTWhat Is an Interview Evaluation Form?5 Benefits of Having an Interview Evaluation FormWhat to Include in an Interview Evaluation FormTips for Creating an Interview EvaluationFormInterview Evaluation Form SamplesWhat Is an Interview Evaluation Form? An interview evaluation form, a.k.a interview feedback form or candidate evaluation form, is a document filled out by the interviewer during and after the interview. Job candidates can't see this. Rather, it is kept and shared as a reference among those making hiring decisions, such as the hiring manager or CEO. The format might vary among companies and job roles. While some use this as a checklist of qualities that an ideal candidate should possess, an interview rating sheet template aims to score the candidates based on their answers and overall interview performance. Other companies tend to keep this simple by writing specific job-related comments in candidate evaluation forms only. Regardless of the interview evaluation form template, the main purpose is to allow hiring managers to assess each candidate's overall qualifications for the position they’ve applied for.5 Benefits of Having an Interview Evaluation Form Comparing candidates objectively. Since all job applicants are evaluated under the same criteria, using a candidate interview evaluation form allows the hiring manager to score them in a consistent way and quickly ascertain the stand-out candidate. Reducing hiring bias. Unconscious bias occurs when the interviewer forms an impression of a candidate simply based on an intuitive action of the mind instead of the criteria relevant to the job requirements, for example how they look, where they come from, or what college they went to. Using a candidate feedback form might avoid such types of unconscious bias because all job-related categories are listed clearly. Avoiding illegal interview questions. Perhaps you already know it’s inappropriate to ask a candidate questions about their age, ethnicity, religion, or former employers. Using an interview evaluation sheet will help avoid this problem, because you know exactly what information you'll need to collect from interviewees. Hiring effectively. With a post-interview evaluation process, there is sufficient information for a full assessment of job candidates so that the people in charge can make the final decision quickly and easily. This in turn will speed up the process of recruiting and onboarding a qualified candidate while saving a lot of time and cost of hiring. Helping people in the hiring team make an informed decision. In many cases, the candidate is interviewed by only one person from the company. The interview feedback form serves as an important reference for the entire hiring team to make the final decision. They can be the Department Head, HR manager, or CEO.What to Include in an Interview Evaluation Form You may find many interview rating sheet templates online and choose one that works best for your company. Regardless of the form, make sure you include the following elements. 1. Education/Training Most jobs require a certain level of education. Especially for entry-level positions, it will indicate the candidate's ability to handle the role. In the interview evaluation form, you may score the candidate based on the type of degree they hold or the college they went to. You can also write some notes if they’ve completed the training or obtained any certification relevant to the position. Example of an interview evaluation sheet for the Marketing Intern position: CategoryInterview Rating(1-5)CommentsEducation5MBA grad from SDSUFacebook Blueprint Certification 2. Work experience Another important criterion on an interview feedback form is the candidate's professional experience. Based on the questions about their work history, you can determine if they possess the necessary skills and knowledge related to the position for which they're applying. 3 questions about the candidate’s professional experience in the interview evaluation form: What skills and strengths can the candidate bring to this position?Has the candidate worked on similar tasks or projects in former roles?What was the candidate’s proficiency in using tools and software specific to this position? 3. Practical knowledge Practical knowledge empowers an individual to achieve something that he has learned earlier. For candidates, this can be their insights into the industry they have been working in, or their technical knowledge that allows them to perform specific job tasks. 3 questions about the candidate’s field knowledge in the interview evaluation form: Banking: Can the candidate identify the different types of fixed deposits?FinTech: According to the candidate, what are the latest trends in the financial services industry?SEO: Can the candidate tell the difference between On Page Optimization and Off Page Optimization? 4. Knowledge about the company The interview assessment form might also have a category where you evaluate how well the candidate knows about your company. Their answers not only demonstrate how much research and preparation they've done for this interview, but also reveal their interest in the role for which they're applying. 3 questions to assess a candidate’s understanding of the company: Did the candidate research our company prior to the interview?According to the candidate, what makes our products different from our competitors?Did the candidate provide any recommendations for improving our services? 5. Personality The personality interview questions allow you to identify potential hires who'll work well in the team and fit in your company culture. You can pick out several top character traits that you're looking for in a suitable candidate to assess their general likeability.3 questions about the candidate’s personality in the interview evaluation form:How open did the candidate appear to be when receiving negative feedback?Does the candidate demonstrate attention to detail?Is the candidate comfortable working in a fast-paced environment? 6. Communication skills Strong communication skills are essential for workplace success. That's why another category most candidate evaluation forms include is communication skills. This category doesn't simply assess the candidate’s interpersonal skills they need to handle their job tasks efficiently. But more than this, it refers to the way they communicate and how confidently they present themselves in the interview.3 questions about the candidate’s communication skills in the interview evaluation form:How was the candidate’s ability to explain technical processes to a non-technical group?Can the candidate provide clear and concise responses with an appropriate vocal tone?Can the candidate provide specific examples with results and accomplishments to illustrate relevant experiences or skills? Tips for Creating an Interview Evaluation Form 💡 Include necessary information. While candidate feedback forms might vary in certain companies and organizations, a standard form should always include the following information: The candidate’s nameThe positionThe interviewer’s nameThe date of the interviewOther team members 📝 Note: Involving team members who will be working with the candidate or making the final decision is equally important. This will help ensure fair hiring practices at your organization. 💡 Establish a clear, consistent scoring system. This is especially true when it comes to a diverse, international hiring team. The interview score sheet should provide a clear explanation of the numerical rating system, for example: “The numeric value corresponds to the candidate's level of qualification. Please refer to the rating scale below: 1 = Poor | 2 = Fair | 3 = Proficient | 4 = Very good | 5 = Excellent” 💡 Leave space for the interviewer’s comments. Including the comment section in the candidate evaluation form which provides further feedback about the candidate aims to streamline and optimize the recrutiment process. Members of the hiring team can refer to each other's feedback to make the final decision, which is a great way to avoid bias when selecting the best fit. Example of the comments for the interview evaluation: “[Name] has acquired necessary skills and qualifications through past work experiences in the [industry]. During the interview, he/she also demonstrated excellent communication skills, which I believe makes her/him the right fit for the [team]. However, he/she is not quite willing to work overtime if he/she has to.” 💡 Adjust the form to the specific position. The structure of all candidate evaluation forms might be the same, however, it's essential to include or exclude some categories accordingly depending on the vacant role. Let's say your company is offering internships. While an intern probably will not have extensive work experience in the field, you should consider adding more critera related to their skills and personal triats. On the other hand, the interview evaluation of high-level positions will need to focus more on their professional experience, accomplishments, and industry knowledge.Interview Evaluation Form Samples 🔎 Interview score sheet templateInterview Interview Score Sheet Template 📥 Download this interview rating sheet template (file word) for free! 🔎 Interview assessment form sample 📥 Download this interview evaluation form sample (file word) for free! Cake is a free resume builder that allows users to create professional online resumes and portfolios, which can also serve as personal web pages. Its simple and intuitive interface allows users to build their professional online resumes and portfolios and showcase their skills and accomplishments to potential recruiters and employers. We also offer many other services for employers to find and connect to top talents worldwide. Cake is the trusted partner of many multination corporates and startups in Taiwan and the APAC region. — Originally written by May Luong —
Cover Letter
Jan 8th 2025

The Ultimate Cover Letter Format & Structure Guide (+ Examples)

A cover letter (sometimes also referred to as a “letter of motivation” or “job application letter”) is a formal document sent along with your resume or CV. It provides additional information besides what is written in your resume to express yourself further in a more personal way. Recruiters can tell a lot about you from your cover letter. Aside from the information you disclose through the content of your cover letter, recruiters can also infer your soft skills, such as how attentive to detail you are, how good you communicate through written language, and more through how you format your cover letter. When writing a professional cover letter, you need to pay attention to the following elements: Cover letter format (i.e., structure, header, layout)Cover letter style (block or semi-block)Cover letter line spacingetc. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about writing a convincing cover letter. Keep reading for more! Table of Contents What Is a Cover Letter and Why Does It Matter? Mastering the Cover Letter Structure: How to Write an Effective One Expert Tips on Formatting Your Cover Letter Professionally Cover Letter Template Real-Life Examples Common FAQs about Cover Letter What Is a Cover Letter and Why Does It Matter? A cover letter accompanies your resume or CV when you apply for a job as a tool to promote or market yourself through written communication to the recruiter before you meet them face-to-face. There is a general cover letter format for job applications that you can always follow and never go wrong with. However, it is still essential to remember that different employers might have different specific requirements for applications. So, make sure to read the job posting carefully. Depending on the requirements, you will need different cover letter formats, such as: Email cover letter format: Cover letters are written as the email content when sending an application via email.Digital or electronic cover letter format: Cover letters are saved as a DOC or PDF file and sent as email attachments.Printed cover letter format: Cover letters are printed out as a hard copy along with a printed resume to a mailing address. Mastering the Cover Letter Structure: How to Write an Effective One Recruiters usually will read your cover letter before your resume. Therefore, creating a good first impression with a properly written cover letter format is essential. This part will show you what elements should be included in a proper cover letter format. 1) Date written The date is a small yet important aspect of the cover letter header format and deserves as much attention as any other detail. Depending on the country you are in, the date format may vary. However, the most common format is [Month] [Day], [Year]. 2) Contact information In printed or digital cover letter formats, the sender's and receiver's contact information is typically placed at the top of the cover letter header. However, including your contact information at the bottom, along with your name and signature, is common for email cover letters. Regardless of the format, ensure you use a professional email address and provide accurate contact details.Cover Letter Example #1 (Send Through Email)Katherine Nguyen(+1)-333-0987 | [email protected] Cover Letter Example #2(Printed/Digital Cover Letter)Kevin Nguyen(+1)-333-0977[email protected] Cover Letter Example #3(Printed/Digital Cover Letter)Richard JenkinsHead of HR at HHH Company(+1)-992-9922[email protected] 3) Salutation or opening greeting You should directly address the person reviewing your application for this position. The person could be the hiring manager or the head of the department. “Dear” and “Hello” are the safest greetings. They sound friendly yet maintain a professional tone. If the name of the hiring manager is known, use: “Dear Mr. [Their Name],”. If only the team or department is known, use: “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear [Name of Department] Department Team,”. If the recipient is unknown, use: “Dear Sir/Madam,”. You might think, "How about using 'To Whom It May Concern'?" Surprisingly, this salutation is no longer considered appropriate for application letters as it is needlessly formal and doesn't directly address a specific person.💡Pro Tip: To know the hiring manager in charge of the position, you can refer to the job post uploader or do some research on the company website. You could also ask for a connection that you have in the company (if any). 4) Opening paragraph The goal of the opening paragraph is to explain to the reader who you are and why you're writing this letter. Think of it as the first introduction about yourself that will immediately grab the hiring manager’s attention and stand out from the crowd. If written boringly, they may never even get to the second paragraph, and you don’t want that. Cover Letter Example #3 - Opening ParagraphI am Katherine Nguyen - a registered nurse seeking to acquire the nurse practitioner position at ENTC Hospital. My 8 years of experience in relevant roles make me the right fit for this role. 💡Pro Tip:State an accomplishment to show your confidence, determination, and interest in the position using phrases like “I believe that…”, “I am very interested in…”, “I am writing to express my strong interest in…”, etc.5) Middle or body paragraph Here comes the most crucial section for job applications in the cover letter format. In this part, explain why you think you're qualified for the role in terms of expertise, work experience, and skills. You're selling your candidacy to the reader, so it's essential to be as specific and concise as possible. Here are some extra tips to remember when crafting the body paragraph of your cover letter: Make strong connections between your qualifications and the job requirements.Use several shorter paragraphs or bullet points instead of one large text block.Avoid repeating all information that’s already mentioned in your resume. You can choose the proudest achievements or most relevant experience you want to highlight and invite recruiters to open your resume for further details. Here's an example of a cover letter body paragraph: Cover Letter Example #4 - Body ParagraphI have engaged in various industries, including technology, education, and beauty. I am detail-oriented, enthusiastic, and diligent, with nearly 6 years of experience in Content Marketing, SEO Writing, and Social Media Management. My primary job responsibilities include: Producing SEO-friendly content to publish on relevant media channels such as the company website, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Conducting keyword research and leveraging SEO practices to optimize the article writing.Managed multiple social media accounts to promote the company branding and products. In addition, I have a background in Digital Marketing and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and an MBA from Western State University. In terms of language ability, I am a native English speaker with professional working proficiency in Korean and basic French. 6) Closing paragraph In the closing paragraph of your cover letter, emphasize the value you can bring to the organization. Additionally, expressing enthusiasm about joining the team can highlight your genuine interest in the role. Don’t forget to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. Here’s an example of how to craft a compelling closing paragraph for your cover letter: Cover Letter Example #5 - Closing Paragraph I have had a strong passion for writing since I was little. I've also been a big fan of Beauty Magazine and the impact that it brings to young girls for many years. Therefore, I hope that I can become a part of the team and contribute to the expansion of Beauty Magazine into the Asian market. Thank you for taking the time to review my application. Please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward to your response. 7) Sign-off Now, it's time to finish with a professional sign-off. You can end your cover letter with a formal complimentary closing, followed by your signature. Since you're writing a formal document, avoid using casual language and tone like “Yours truly,” “With love,” or “Take care.” For an email/digital cover letter format, you should put your contact info below your signature. For a printed cover letter format, make sure your signature is handwritten. Examples of appropriate sign-offs to use in a standard cover letter format: Sincerely,Best,Kind regards,Best regards,Best wishes,With gratitude,Respectfully,Cordially, Expert Tips on Formatting Your Cover Letter ProfessionallyBelow are five key elements to keep in mind for crafting a well-formatted cover letter: Font Just like your CV or resume, it’s important to choose a professional font for your cover letter.Do'sUse standard fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, Roboto, Times New Roman, or Verdana.Keep the font size between 10.5 and 12 points for readability.Don'tsAvoid using decorative or fancy fonts that may appear unprofessional and difficult to read. Spacing Proper spacing is crucial for creating a clean and professional layout. It helps employers quickly grasp key information and makes the cover letter visually appealing. How to format spacing correctly: Leave a blank line between sections (e.g., date, recipient’s address, salutation, body paragraphs, closing, and sign-off).Use business letter spacing, typically 1 or 1.15 line spacing. Margins Alignment: Align all text to the left for a clean and professional look.Use standard margins of 1” to 1.5” on all four sides. If space is tight, you can slightly adjust the margins but ensure it still looks balanced. Full Block Format There are three common letter formats: block, modified block, and semi-block. For cover letters, the full-block format is the most professional and widely preferred. How to use full block format: Align all elements of the letter (e.g., text, dates, recipient information) to the left margin.Separate each paragraph with a blank line for clarity and readability. Cover Letter Length Keep your cover letter concise and informative, ideally between 250–400 words or half a page to one full page. This ensures it’s thorough yet easy to read.Cover Letter Template Real-Life Examples [Your Name] [Your Address][Your City, State, Zip Code][Your Phone Number][Your Email Address] [Date] [Hiring Manager’s Name] [Company Name][Company Address][Company City, State, ZIP Code] Dear Hiring Manager (or [hiring manager's name]), My name is [your name]. I’m excited to apply for the [job title] position at [Company Name]. [Short overview of your expertise, skills, and most outstanding accomplishments in the field]. [Explain your interest in this role and briefly explain how it matches your career goals.] During my [number of years] experience, I worked on [major job responsibilities]. My greatest accomplishments are [relevant past achievements]. These experiences have allowed me to gain [skills relevant to the position], which I believe will allow me to [how you want to contribute and help the company grow]. In addition to my experience, I have a solid educational background with a [educational degree] in [major of study]. I’m also a/an [personal trait] individual who is [soft skill #1, soft skill #2, soft skill #3…]. I am confident that the professional experience and skills I’ve obtained in previous positions have prepared me for this opportunity. I would love to meet you and discuss further on how I might be an asset to the [name of team, department or company]. I have attached my resume for your reference. Thank you for your consideration and for taking the time to review my application. I look forward to hearing from you so we could discuss my contributions further in an interview at your convenience. Sincerely, [Signature] Now that you know what a cover letter format for job applications looks like, let’s review these cover letter examples.Graphic Designer Cover Letter Marybelle SmithsVictoria, TX 77979[email protected](+361)-443-5491 March 18, 2022 Samuel LinHead of Marketing TeamSamaTech Corp.90 Live Oak St., Lilita, TX77971 Dear Samuel, My name is Marybelle Smiths, a freelance graphic designer with 5 years of experience in the field. After reviewing your job listing, I'm excited to be applying for the Graphic Designer position at SamaTech.My proven experience in various large-scale projects makes me an ideal candidate for this role. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Design from Texas AM. During my recent 5 years working as a freelancer, I have developed the necessary skills to deliver informative and eye-catching designs, including package design and marketing collateral. I have worked with nearly 30 big clients in the FinTech, beauty, and tourism industries - not to mention 80+ small and medium-sized projects in other areas. The biggest achievement I have obtained is an increase in blog traffic by 145% and shares by 80% by adding my graphics to the older posts that did not have images. I have received many testimonials from my clients. Please check them out on my LinkedIn and Upwork profiles. In addition to graphic design work, I have also expanded my expertise into web design and video production. To the best of my knowledge, SamaTech is looking for part-time assistants in these two fields. Therefore, my experience and abilities will make me the right fit for the vacancy at SamaTech. I’d also be able to develop my skills further should I be hired to become part of your team. Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward to hearing from you and having an opportunity to interview. Sincerely,Marybelle SmithsStrategy Analyst Intern Cover Letter Jane DoeMelbourne 3000 [email protected](+361)-123-456 Jan 18, 2025 Dear Hiring Manager, I am eager to apply for the Strategy Analyst Intern position at A. Consulting Firm. I recently graduated with a degree in Business Administration from K. Business School in Singapore, where I developed a strong foundation in strategic thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis. Although I do not have direct work experience, I have gained practical skills through numerous academic projects and student club activities. As a member of the Economics Student Club, I had the opportunity to lead and collaborate on projects that required analytical thinking, strategic planning, and effective communication. These experiences have enhanced my problem-solving abilities and helped me develop a strong understanding of business dynamics, which I believe are essential for a successful strategy analyst. I am eager to learn and make a valuable contribution to A. Consulting Firm and I am eager to apply my skills while gaining exposure to the consulting industry. My passion for strategic analysis and my ability to work well within teams would allow me to make a positive contribution to your firm. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team. Best regards, Jane Doe Marketing Performance Executive (Fresher) Cover Letter Shi Yun LinTaipei, [email protected](+886)-123-456 Jan 18, 2025 Dear Hiring Manager, Please accept my application for the Marketing Performance (Fresher) position at D. Media Agency. I have a recent degree in marketing from N. University in Taiwan and hands-on experience as a Marketing Intern at H. Fashion, I am excited to bring my analytical skills, adaptability, and enthusiasm for performance marketing to your team. During my internship, I supported marketing campaigns, analyzed data to gauge campaign effectiveness, and gained a foundational understanding of performance metrics. Working in a fast-paced environment taught me the importance of precision, audience targeting, and agility in the digital landscape. I am proficient in tools like Google Analytics and Excel and have a growing knowledge of paid advertising platforms. I am eager to contribute my skills in data interpretation, campaign optimization, and cross-team collaboration to the innovative work at D. Media Agency. Thank you for considering my application. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my application further at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me by phone or email at your convenience. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team’s success. Warm regards, Shih Yun, Lin Product Owner Cover Letter Tyrell J. Walton600 Euclid AvenueLos Angeles, CA 90017Jan 18, 2025 Dear Hiring Manager, After considering, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join D. Software Company, by applying for the Product Owner position. With over 3.5 years of experience as a Product Marketer, I have a strong background in customer-centric product development, market analysis, and cross-functional collaboration, which I believe would enable me to contribute effectively to your team. Having worked closely with development teams to align product features with market demands, I am eager to bring this expertise to a Product Owner role, particularly in a company focused on automated marketing solutions—an area I am passionate about and deeply experienced in. In my role as a Product Marketer at E.Software, I was responsible for guiding product messaging and strategy, analyzing customer feedback to inform feature prioritization, and collaborating with engineering and design teams to ensure seamless product launches. I also hold a Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), which has equipped me with Agile methodology and backlog management skills to drive product success in fast-paced development cycles. Besides, I plan to complete the Business Analyst course this November to further optimize my skills as a Product Owner. I am highly proficient in using analytics and project management tools such as Google Analytics, JIRA, and Trello, allowing me to make data-driven decisions and optimize product strategies. Additionally, my experience with user research and understanding of customer pain points has prepared me to advocate for end-users effectively and align with business goals in my decisions as a Product Owner. I am inspired by G. Software Company’s commitment to innovative marketing automation solutions, and I am confident that my unique blend of marketing and product experience will be an asset to your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to discussing how my background and skills align with your team’s goals. Sincerely, Tyrell J. Walton Financial Analysis Planning (FAP) Cover Letter Andrew E. Stark4888 Lady Bug DriveColorado Springs, CO 80907 Dear Hiring Manager, After carefully considering your job posting on LinkedIn, I am writing to express my interest in the Financial Analysis Planning (FAP) position at M. Investment Pte. Ltd. With over 8 years of experience as a Financial Advisor at top consulting firms and a recent career break to focus on my family, I am eager to re-enter the finance industry, bringing my expertise in financial planning, strategy development, and client advisory to your team. In my previous roles, I developed and implemented tailored financial plans for a diverse portfolio of clients, closely collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify growth opportunities and maximize returns. My responsibilities included financial forecasting, budgeting, and advising clients on strategic investments, all of which have honed my analytical abilities and client-focused approach. I also hold the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), ensuring my knowledge aligns with current industry standards and the requirements for this position. During my career break, I continued to stay engaged in the finance field by completing professional development courses and networking within the industry. This has not only refreshed my knowledge but also deepened my passion for financial planning and investment strategy. I am particularly drawn to M. Investment Company due to its reputation for innovative financial solutions and commitment to client success, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team. I am confident that my background in finance, combined with my dedication to producing high-quality results, will make me a strong asset. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills can support your company in achieving its goals. Warm regards, Andrew E. Stark Common FAQs about Cover Letter After reading this article, you might still have some questions or concerns. That's perfectly normal, and we’re here to help! Below, you'll find an FAQ section addressing some of the most common questions people have when crafting their cover letters. 1) How do I write my availability in a cover letter? When writing your availability in a cover letter, keep it clear and concise. Include this information in the closing paragraph of your letter. Include your availability in the closing paragraph so the employer knows immediately if your timeline aligns with their needs. You might phrase it as "I am ready to start right away" or "I am prepared to begin work on (specific date)”. This helps the employer evaluate your fit and demonstrates your straightforward communication skills — an attribute that many companies value. 2) How do I include salary expectations in a cover letter? If the job posting requests salary expectations, it's best to address this directly but carefully in your cover letter. A good approach is to provide a range while also expressing your flexibility. You can mention your expected salary range while expressing your openness to negotiation. For example: "Based on my experience and the industry standard, my expected salary is within the range of (amount) to (amount). However, I am flexible and open to discussing this further." Employers appreciate when candidates are honest but flexible, indicating a collaborative spirit. 3) How do I sign an electronic cover letter? Signing an electronic cover letter is simpler than you might think. A simple digital signature will do—just end with "Sincerely," followed by your full name. If you want to take it a step further, you can add an electronic signature image, but it’s optional. The key is consistency and professionalism. Employers care more about the content of your letter and the impression it leaves, so focus on delivering a strong message rather than worrying too much about how you sign it. 4) What is the main goal of a cover letter? Beyond what’s in your resume, the cover letter is a warm touch – your opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer. It goes beyond the bullet points of your resume by showing your enthusiasm for the position and highlighting specific skills that make you the ideal candidate. Think of it as a narrative that ties together why you’re interested in the job and how your background makes you a great fit. The cover letter adds depth, allowing you to explain the "why" behind your application and tailor your message to the company’s needs — something that can make a huge difference in competitive job markets. 5) What should a cover letter include? A good cover letter should include several key elements: an introduction that expresses your interest in the position, a summary of relevant experience or skills, and why you are interested in the company. Finish with a call to action, like expressing your interest in an interview, and sign off professionally. The letter should also be tailored to the specific job description, showing that you’ve taken the time to understand the company’s needs. 6) Are cover letters becoming obsolete? Not exactly! Cover letters are evolving rather than becoming obsolete. In some industries—such as tech—cover letters might be less common, but in fields like consulting, education, or creative roles, they still hold considerable value. A well-written cover letter can convey your enthusiasm and show that you’re not just mass-applying for jobs. Even if it’s optional, submitting a thoughtful cover letter can make you stand out in a competitive job market. It’s all about knowing your audience. 7) Do employers read cover letters? Yes, many employers do read cover letters, especially when they are narrowing down candidates for an interview. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and show that you have taken the time to understand the company’s needs. While some recruiters may focus mainly on your resume, others will appreciate the added context a cover letter provides, especially if it addresses how your experience aligns with their specific challenges. 8) Should I use AI to write a cover letter? Using AI to draft a cover letter can be a helpful starting point, especially if you're unsure where to begin. AI tools can generate a structure and suggest content. However, to make a genuine impact, personalize the draft to reflect your authentic voice and specific experience. Hiring managers are skilled at spotting generic letters, so adding a personal touch—highlighting your enthusiasm for the role and how your skills meet the company’s needs—is essential. 9) Should I include a cover letter if the application says "optional"? If the cover letter is "optional," consider submitting one if you genuinely want the job. A well-written cover letter can show your enthusiasm and provide details that your resume may not fully convey. It's an opportunity to distinguish yourself from other candidates, especially in competitive markets like Singapore or Taiwan. Unless you're under tight time constraints, submitting a cover letter when optional can only help your chances. 10) What should I write in a cover letter if I don’t have work experience? If you don’t have work experience, focus on the skills and experiences you do have—such as your education, internships, volunteer work, or relevant projects. Highlight the transferable skills you’ve developed, like teamwork, problem-solving, or leadership, and tie them to the requirements of the job. Employers are often more interested in your potential and your enthusiasm for the field. 11) What should I write in a cover letter if I’m a career changer? As a career changer, your cover letter is the perfect place to explain why you’re making the switch and what makes you a strong candidate for this new path. Emphasize transferable skills from your previous roles—like communication, problem-solving, or management—that are relevant to the new industry. Show that you’re enthusiastic about the change, and mention any steps you’ve taken to bridge the gap, such as courses, certifications, or projects. Explain why you are interested in the new field and how your previous experience brings a unique perspective. For instance, if you're transitioning into IT from a retail background, emphasize your problem-solving abilities, customer service experience, and adaptability. Show that you've done your homework and convey your enthusiasm for embracing new challenges in this career path. 12) What should I write in a cover letter if I’m a returning parent? If you’re a returning parent, acknowledge your career break briefly and then quickly shift the focus to your value as a candidate. Mention the skills you’ve developed during your time away—such as multitasking, organization, and resilience—and relate them to the position you’re applying for. Many employers appreciate the skills parents develop during their gap. Emphasize your excitement to rejoin the workforce and how your past experience, paired with your life skills, makes you an excellent candidate for the role.With Cake, you can easily create a resume online with our online resume builder, free download your resume’s PDF formats, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!Create a Resume— Written by May Luong, Optimized by Andrea Do —

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