Created by CakeIn this article, we'll cover: What Is a Reference?How to Ask for a Reference by EmailHow to Ask Someone to be a Reference Email ExampleReference Request Email TemplateWhen you are looking for a job, having a few good references will help strengthen your application. A simple reference request can make your job search more successful. Previous coworkers or teachers can remark on your work ethic, skills, and attitude, which helps your next employer assess your fitness for the new role. It’s a sensible decision to ask someone to be a reference when searching for a job. When you make an inventory of potential references, it’s very important to formally request for a reference before adding these people to the reference list on your resume. You don’t want to startle them by having a potential employer calling them out of nowhere. In general, sending a reference request email in advance is more professional and it gives them a chance to consider what they might say when asked about you. Asking someone to be a reference can be nerve-racking, but if your reference request letter is professional and positive, it will be hard to turn down. What Is a Reference?A reference is anyone who can speak to your character, abilities, and employment experience. A reference request is an important part of your job application process, since your references can provide more color than a resume alone. When asking someone to be a reference, consider someone you worked with closely who you believe would amplify your good qualities when asked. Before deciding how to ask someone to be your reference, carefully consider who you will choose. There are different people you can request for a reference in your job search. A reference request from your previous job network is often the most obvious choice. A work reference could be a manager or supervisor that you reported to directly in your previous job, or even a co-worker. Asking someone to be a reference from work is practical since they can elaborate on your technical skills and work habits. You could also request a reference from your academic network. Academic references could be teachers or teachers’ assistants that are familiar with your work and personality, who can discuss your skills with a hiring manager. An academic reference request might be more suitable when applying for jobs that are directly related to your education. You could also ask someone to be a reference from your personal network. You could make a character reference request from a landlord, client, athletic coach, or even a counsellor or religious leader. These are less formal and uncommon and are typically used if you don’t have other reference request options. This type of reference may not be familiar with your work habits but can speak more to your character. How to Ask for a Reference by EmailChoose the right people.Write a clear subject line.Phrase the question carefully.Include details about the job you’re applying for in your reference request email.Show your appreciation for their help.Attach your resume to the reference request email.Don’t pressure people into doing it. When asking someone to be a reference, it’s important to craft a professional reference request email. If you have never done so before, it’s hard to know where to start. Here are a few tips on how to ask someone to be your reference via email. 🖋 Choose the right people. Think carefully when you are asking someone to be a reference. Your choice of reference could depend on their personality, or it could vary with the jobs you are applying to. Think about what you need from your references before sending a reference request email. For example, if you are looking for a position as a computer engineer, you probably wouldn’t send a reference request to your high school teacher, since you need someone who can attest to your technical skills. Having the right person as your reference can help make your CV stand out! 🖋 Write a clear subject line. When asking for a reference by email, pay attention to your subject line. Your references get inundated with daily emails and some are more urgent than others. There is a chance your reference request letter could get lost in all the noise. Make sure you write a clear and simple subject line to catch their attention and make your reference request needs clear. 🖋 Phrase the question carefully. When you consider how to ask someone to be a reference, it’s important to be professional and make your reference request politely. Don’t sound too demanding or try to rush them. You might end up setting the wrong tone in your request for a reference and alienating your contact. It’s vital that they have good things to say about you. 🖋 Include details about the job you’re applying for in your reference request email. When asking someone to be a reference, it could be helpful to include details about the position you want. Your reference request email should be informative, not vague. This will help your reference prepare something to say about you when the hiring manager makes contact. Details like the name of the position and of the company, or the skills you have, are important to include in your reference request. They can make your reference’s job easier. 🖋 Show your appreciation for their help. A little gratitude goes a long way when you ask someone to be a reference. Let them know you appreciate their help and that their letter is valuable and useful. If you lead with gratitude, your reference request sounds inviting instead of demanding, and your contact could be more generous with their feedback. 🖋 Attach your resume to the reference request email. When you ask someone to be a reference, it’s helpful to include your resume in the reference request email. It gives your reference an opportunity to review your skills and experience, so they can give your new hiring manager a more complete appraisal. 🖋 Don’t pressure people into doing it. When you send a reference request email, don’t make your contact feel obligated to provide a reference for you. Everyone is dealing with their own busy schedules, and your reference request could cause undue stress or hardship. Don’t apply pressure to anyone and instead remain hopeful that they can make time to help you out. Ultimately, when you ask someone to be a reference, they are doing you a favor.How to Ask Someone to be a Reference Email ExampleIt’s important to get the reference request email right, to secure your connection and make sure your reference is more positive. If you’re unsure how to ask someone for a reference, you can use this sample reference request email to guide you. Subject line: Reference Request for Richard Johnson Dear Jane, I hope this email reaches you well. It’s great to connect with you again. I am emailing to ask if you would be content to write a reference letter for me. I would be very grateful if you’re able to vouch for my skills and the work ethic I demonstrated while working on your team at Great Childcare Company. Currently, I am looking for a new position as an early childhood educator. My experience at Great Childcare Company helped me develop the skills and confidence I need to excel in this new role. I’m excited to move forward with my goals and your reference would add value to my application. My resume is attached. If you have any questions, or if I can clarify my experience at all, please don’t hesitate to ask. Thank you for considering my request, and I hope you have a great week. Best,Richard Reference Request Email TemplateWriting a reference request email can be challenging if you’re not familiar with the tone and structure. Use this reference request email template to simplify your writing process.Subject Line: Reference Request for [Name] Dear [Name of Reference], I hope you are doing well and still thriving at [Company Name]. I am emailing to ask if you are open to writing a reference letter for me. If you could vouch for my skills and character while working for [Company Name], I would be very grateful. I am seeking a new position as a [Position Name]. I’m excited to take this next step in my career and I feel my experience at [Company Name] makes me a good candidate for this new role. Your reference would be valuable in my job search. My resume is attached, and please let me know if there is any other information I can provide. Thank you very much for considering me. Always happy to hear from you. Warm Regards,[Name] 🔑 Key TakeawaysNot everyone knows how to ask someone to be a job reference, but it’s important to have a list of references ready when you are searching for a new job. These reference requests can add value to your application because they can provide your hiring manager with a better picture of your skills, experience, and character. Whether you chose a previous supervisor, teacher, or counsellor, your reference request should be someone who will speak positively about your qualifications and attitude. A strong reference starts with a good reference request email, so make sure your reference request is polite and professional. Give detail about the new position and avoid pressuring your reference into helping you. Chose your references carefully since the people in your network can help you in your job search and accelerate your career.With Cake, you can easily create your resume with ourfree resume builder. You can use ourfree resume templateslibrary, create aATS-friendly resumeand download it in PDF file. Start your Cake journey today and land your dream job at no time!Create resume--- Originally written by Tiffany Quinn---

Created by CakeProfessional references on a resume are a list of people who will provide information about you and your work to potential employers. Employers prefer a list of professional references because they can receive a second view of the value you'll bring to their team from a 3rd party.Each professional reference can affirm recruiters when it comes to your character, abilities, and work performance. Recruiters want to utilize your references to double-check what you've put on your resume. References on your resume are utilized to verify facts of your job experience and to confirm many of the excellent traits they noticed throughout the interview.Professional references vs. Character references First and foremost, it is important to distinguish these two types of references on a resume.Professional reference This can come from people you have worked with. When putting professional references on your resume, make sure those people or contacts can provide a positive outlook on your work performance. A potential employer can contact them to ask about your performance, your tasks within a company, or your qualities in previous jobs. A list of professional references can be from former employers, colleagues, or advisors.Character reference This type of reference in a resume includes people who are familiar with the candidate's character and abilities. A character reference in a resume tends to not come from the employer. These references on a resume can be from friends, business acquaintances, or professors. Table of Contents: Should You Put References on a Resume?Where Do You Put References on a Resume?How to Write References on a ResumeHow to Format Reference on a ResumeResume Reference Examples Should You Put References on a Resume?According to resume experts, references should not be included on a resume unless specifically requested by the recruiter. HR departments have many important tasks than going through each candidate's list of resume references, and they typically request professional references only when a candidate is being considered for a job offer. However, this isn't a strict 'no. Certain job descriptions require their candidates to provide references or testimonials. Notable among them are consulting firms that require candidates to provide testimonials of their performance from their previous firm(s). So, job seekers are allowed to include their references in their resumes in cases like this. References on a resume should only be included when requested. Otherwise, you should consider them to be excluded or kept in a separate document. To make it more clear, adding references to a resume is accepted in the following situations: The recruiter specifically asks for a reference list If the recruiter demands a reference list or page for a resume, make sure you include it in your application. You are applying for jobs in the legal field If you're applying for a job in the legal field, you can include your reference list in your resume. This helps the recruiter gain insight into the cases you've worked on and the skills you've developed.Law firms are usually very competitive, so having a list of professional references that shows a high profile of contacts, firms, and skills you've acquired can certainly help you secure the job more quickly. You are still a student You can include references on your resume from people such as professors or advisors. It is advisable nowadays that students seek internship opportunities while in school to further boost their employment chances. You can also include the professional networks you established during this time in the reference list on your resume. This is beneficial as you won't solely rely on your university or college for references. You just graduated Just like students, fresh graduates can also include their references on a resume. Many students and fresh graduates often lack substantial work experience and may not have professional contacts who can provide recommendations. As a result, most recruiters are open to allowing this group to include a mix of contacts in their reference list. These could include a favorite professor, a past leader they worked with during school, or a member of a group they led You still have plenty of space left in your resume Keep in mind that every word on your resume should hold value and quality. Every bit of free space matters, so you should include a professional reference section or list if necessary. Where Do You Put References on a Resume?There are some common ways of listing references on your resume. Here are some things to take in mind when writing references for a resume: Writing “References available upon request” This common way of mentioning references on your resume is something you should avoid. Employers already know this and besides, this takes up space in your resume. Don't waste a resume line by saying something that's obvious. A separate references section at the end of the resume You can list your references under a separate section on your resume, just like other resume parts (e.g. work experience, skills). When listing references on a resume, make sure to place this section at the end, since other sections are more important. Remember, references on your resume are typically only considered if employers wish to inquire further, such as before proceeding to a job interview stage. Here is an example of a resume references section: PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES Steve Halloway - Business Consultant at SX Solutions8912 East Lane Miami, FL, 33177[email protected]305-300-7891Carl Johnson - Senior Strategist at VX Technologies2812 Bellman Avenue Miami, FL, 33129[email protected]305-300-7891Larry Stewart - Human Resources Director at GlobalVision3820 West Road Atlanta, GA, 30305[email protected]404-300-8492 A separate sheet of reference list You can dedicate a page for your professional references only if necessary. Here is an example of a resume reference page:Created using CakeHow to Write References on a ResumeHere are some steps to keep in mind when listing references on a resume: 1. Decide on the number of references to include in the resume reference list If you make a section for professional references, you may provide 2 or 3 references, depending on how much space you have on your resume. You can provide up to 5 references if you are using a reference sheet. Refer to the resume reference list examples in this article for guidance. 2. Think about networks who can be good references for you Suitable references for your resume are colleagues, employers, mentors, or professors with whom you had positive relationships. Additionally, think of contacts with whom you established a strong bond and who have praised you for your past accomplishments at work. In contrast, avoid using references with whom you had conflicts or feel are not close enough. 3. Reach out to the people who you want as references Ask your contacts if they are willing to be listed as references on your resume and request their contact details, including email, phone number, and address. 4. Determine how you want to list the reference on your resume Lastly, it is up to you if you want to make a section on your resume or provide a separate sheet exclusively for your professional references. How to Format Reference on a ResumeWhen listing references in your resume, it is vital to have the following elements: NameThe most basic detail that cannot be missed out on when putting references on a resume. This is how employers know who your contacts are and thus can address them properly (if they want to contact them). Position and companyFor this element, the company name alone is sufficient. Any other details can be shown in the brief description part. AddressList details such as street address and ZIP code to be clear on what branch or office you were employed in. Phone numberIt's your choice whether to include the office number or your contact's cellphone. Ensure that your chosen references are comfortable with this. EmailInclude the work email of your professional references to maintain a professional touch. Brief description of the referralGive details of who the referee is and what was your relationship with them in your references on your resume.Here is an editable resume references format you can freely use: REFERENCES [Name of referrer] | [Title/Position of referrer] [Company where referrer works][Referrer’s contact address][Referrer’s phone number][Referrer’s email] [a sentence describing your relationship with the referrer]. Resume Reference ExamplesIn this section, here are some more examples of references on a resume. Please take a look at each sample for a better understanding. Reference in resume for freshers Here is a resume reference list example for freshers: REFERENCES Sally Harrison | Professor of Organizational ManagementUniversity of Texas110 Inner Campus Drive Austin, TX (800) [email protected] was my professor in three courses and my faculty advisor for my business administration degree.Timothy Jackson | Director of HRKelko Company4234 West Street Austin, TX(323) [email protected] was my supervisor during my internship at Kelko Company as an HR assistant.Darren Kelly | Academic AdvisorUniversity of Texas110 Inner Campus Drive Austin, TX (800) [email protected] has been my advisor throughout my 4 years as a business student at the University of Texas.Michael Torretto | Senior AssistantKelko Company4234 West Street Austin, TX(800) [email protected] was a colleague whom I worked closely with during my 6-month internship at Kelko. Reference in resume for students Make sure each reference in your resume contains relevant details. Here is an example for students: REFERENCES Richard Gawkins | Professor of Big Data Analysis University of FloridaGainesville, FL 32611(600) [email protected] was my professor during my junior year at the University of Florida.Fernando Argueta | Dean of Student’s OfficeUniversity of FloridaGainesville, FL 32611(600) [email protected] has evaluated my academic performance and extracurricular activities during my time on campus.Nelson Anderson | Academic AdvisorUniversity of FloridaGainesville, FL 32611(600) [email protected] has been my academic advisor at the university from 2010 to 2014. Reference in resume from co-workers The last example provided displays professional references from co-workers. REFERENCES Yasmina Sara | Marketing DirectorCornwall Lex3074 Despard Street Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is the director I work with during my time on Cornwall Lex and is familiar with all the tasks and responsibilities I was involved in.Terry Nimat | Director of Business and DevelopmentCornwall Lex3074 Despard Street Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is a colleague whom I communicated with while doing cross-department campaigns at Cornwall Lex.Gunder Lambert | Social Marketing SpecialistCornwall Lex3074 Despard Street Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is a friend and former colleague who is familiar with my work experience and performance at Cornwall Lex.Bevis Geoff | Performance Marketing SpecialistSkye Corporations2194 Mount Olive Road Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is a colleague from Skye who worked with me on various marketing projects from 2011 to 2014.Marianne Hedvig | Marketing AssistantSkye Corporations2194 Mount Olive Road Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is a colleague whom I supervised and worked with at Skye during my last year working there.Key TakeawaysHere are some important points to keep in mind when adding references to your resume: Employers value references on a resume, but usually, it is not mandatory to provide them when applying for jobs.Professional references may be required in specific circumstances, such as when applying for a job in the legal field, when a recruiter requests them, or when you are still a student.You can decide between using a reference page for your resume or making an extra section just like the other parts of a resume (e.g. skills, work experience).People who are suitable for your references are those who can vouch for you and give a positive second opinion about your character and capabilities. People who are not suitable are those with whom you may have had conflicts or disagreements. Lastly, reach out to people you want to include in your professional references and see if they are comfortable with it.Each reference shall have the following elements: name, position, address, phone number, email, and a brief description.With Cake's resume website, you can easily create your resume online, download your resume format in PDF file for free, and utilize ATS-compliant free resume templates. Let us help you land your dream job – create your resume online and download it for free now!Create Resume--- Originally written by Jose Joaquin Rosales---

Created by CakeIn this article, you’ll learn: Should You Put References on a Resume?Where Do You Put References on a Resume?How to Write References on a ResumeHow to Format Reference on a ResumeResume Reference ExamplesProfessional references on a resume are a list of people who will provide information about you and your work to potential employers. Employers prefer a list of professional references because they can receive a second view of the value you'll bring to their team from a 3rd party.Each professional reference can affirm recruiters when it comes to your character, abilities, and work performance. Recruiters want to utilize your references to double-check what you've put on your resume. References on your resume are utilized to verify facts of your job experience and to confirm many of the excellent traits they noticed throughout the interview.Professional references vs. Character references First and foremost, it is important to distinguish these two types of references on a resume. A professional reference can come from people you have worked with. When putting professional references on your resume, make sure those people or contacts can provide a positive outlook on your work performance. A potential employer can contact them to ask about your performance, your tasks within a company, or your qualities in previous jobs. A list of professional references can be from former employers, colleagues, or advisors.A character reference in a resume includes people who are familiar with the candidate's character and abilities. A character reference in a resume tends to not come from the employer. These references on a resume can be from friends, business acquaintances, or professors. Should You Put References on a Resume?According to resume experts, references on a resume shouldn't be included unless the recruiter specifically asks for one. HR departments are ladened with a lot more important tasks than going through each candidate's list of resume references. That's why most times, professional references aren't requested until there's a possibility of you getting hired. This, however, is not a resolute "no." Certain job descriptions require their candidates to provide references or testimonials. Notable among them are consulting firms that require candidates to provide testimonials of their performance from their previous firm(s). So, job seekers are allowed to include their references in their resumes in cases like this. References on a resume should only be included when requested. Otherwise, you should consider them to be excluded or kept in a separate document. Adding references to a resume is accepted in the following situations: ✅ The recruiter specifically asks for a reference list. If the recruiter demands a reference list or page for a resume, make sure you include it in your application. ✅ You are applying for jobs in the legal field. If you're applying for a job in the legal field, you can include your reference list in your resume. This is so the recruiter might have an idea of the cases you've worked on and the skills you have developed. Law firms are usually very competitive, so having a list of professional references that shows a high profile of contacts, firms, and skills you've acquired would be sure to land you the job faster. ✅ You are still a student. You can include references on your resume from people such as professors or advisors. It is advisable nowadays that students seek internship opportunities while in school to further boost their employment chances. You can also add the networks you made during this time into the reference list on your resume. This will be great as you won’t only count on your university or college. ✅ You just graduated. Just like students, fresh graduates can also include their references on a resume. The majority of students and fresh graduates still lack work experience and might not have contacts that could recommend them. Due to this, most recruiters allow this group to have a mix of contacts in their reference list. They could be their favorite professor, a past leader they'd worked under in school or a member of a group they headed. ✅ You still have plenty of space left in your resume. Do take note that every word in your resume should be of value and quality. Every amount of free space counts, so you may write a professional reference section or add a list if it’s necessary. Where Do You Put References on a Resume?There are some common ways of listing references on your resume. Here are some things to take in mind when writing references for a resume: ✒️ Writing “References available upon request” This common way of mentioning references on your resume is something you should avoid. Employers already know this and besides, this takes up space in your resume. Don't waste a resume line by saying something that's obvious. ✒️ A separate references section at the end of the resume You can list your references under a separate section on your resume, just like other resume parts (e.g. work experience, skills). When listing references on a resume, make sure to place this section at the end, since other sections are more important. Remember that the references on your resume may only be considered if employers want to inquire more about you, assuming you get the job interview. Here is an example of a resume references section: PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES Steve Halloway - Business Consultant at SX Solutions8912 East Lane Miami, FL, 33177[email protected]305-300-7891Carl Johnson - Senior Strategist at VX Technologies2812 Bellman Avenue Miami, FL, 33129[email protected]305-300-7891Larry Stewart - Human Resources Director at GlobalVision3820 West Road Atlanta, GA, 30305[email protected]404-300-8492 ✒️ A separate sheet of reference list You can dedicate a page for your professional references only if necessary. Here is an example of a resume reference page:Created using CakeHow to Write References on a ResumeHere are some steps to mind when listing references on a resume: 1. Decide on the number of references to include in the resume reference list. If you make a section for professional references, you may provide 2 or 3 references, depending on how much space you have on your resume. You can provide up to 5 references if you are using a reference sheet. Refer to each reference list example for your resume shown in this article for a better idea. 2. Think about networks who can be good references for you. People suitable for your references on your resume are those colleagues, employers, mentors, or professors whom you had a positive relationship with. Additionally, think of contacts with whom you established a strong bond and who have praised you for your past accomplishments at work.On the other hand, people who are not fit to be part of your references on your resume are those who you feel are not close enough. Also, people you have had conflicts with are not suitable for putting as references on your resume. 3. Reach out to the people who you want as references. Ask your contacts if they don’t mind being listed as references on your resume. Make sure to ask for their contact details such as email, phone number, and address. 4. Determine how you want to list the reference on your resume. Lastly, it is up to you if you want to make a section on your resume or provide a separate sheet exclusively for your professional references. How to Format Reference on a ResumeWhen listing references in your resume, it is vital to have the following elements:Name The most basic detail that cannot be missed out on when putting references on a resume. This is how employers will know who your contacts are and thus can address them properly (if they want to contact them).Position and company For this element, the name of the company just suffices to save space. Any other details can be shown in the brief description part.Address List details such as street address and ZIP code to be clear on what branch or office you were employed in.Phone number It is up to you if you want to provide the office number or your contact’s cellphone. If it’s the latter, make sure your acquaintance is okay with this.Email Include the work email of your professional references to maintain a professional touch.Brief description of the referral Give details of who the referee is and what was your relationship with them in your references on your resume.Here is an editable resume references format you can freely use: REFERENCES [Name of referrer] | [Title/Position of referrer] [Company where referrer works][Referrer’s contact address][Referrer’s phone number][Referrer’s email] [1 sentence describing your relationship with the referrer]. Resume Reference ExamplesIn this section, here are some more examples of references on a resume. Please take a look at each sample of references on a resume to have a better understanding. Reference in resume for freshers Here is a resume reference list example for freshers: REFERENCES Sally Harrison | Professor of Organizational ManagementUniversity of Texas110 Inner Campus Drive Austin, TX (800) [email protected] was my professor in three courses and my faculty advisor for my business administration degree.Timothy Jackson | Director of HRKelko Company4234 West Street Austin, TX(323) [email protected] was my supervisor during my internship at Kelko Company as an HR assistant.Darren Kelly | Academic AdvisorUniversity of Texas110 Inner Campus Drive Austin, TX (800) [email protected] has been my advisor throughout my 4 years as a business student at the University of Texas.Michael Torretto | Senior AssistantKelko Company4234 West Street Austin, TX(800) [email protected] was a colleague whom I worked closely with during my 6-month internship at Kelko. Reference in resume for students Make sure each reference in your resume contains relevant details. Here is an example for students: REFERENCES Richard Gawkins | Professor of Big Data Analysis University of FloridaGainesville, FL 32611(600) [email protected] was my professor during my junior year at the University of Florida.Fernando Argueta | Dean of Student’s OfficeUniversity of FloridaGainesville, FL 32611(600) [email protected] has looked at my performance academically and also in extracurricular activities during my time on campus.Nelson Anderson | Academic AdvisorUniversity of FloridaGainesville, FL 32611(600) [email protected] has been my academic advisor at the university from 2010 to 2014. Reference in resume from coworkers The last example provided displays professional references from coworkers. REFERENCES Yasmina Sara | Marketing DirectorCornwall Lex3074 Despard Street Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is the director I work with during my time on Cornwall Lex and is familiar with all the tasks and responsibilities I was involved in.Terry Nimat | Director of Business and DevelopmentCornwall Lex3074 Despard Street Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is a colleague whom I communicated with while doing cross-department campaigns at Cornwall Lex.Gunder Lambert | Social Marketing SpecialistCornwall Lex3074 Despard Street Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is a friend and former colleague who is familiar with my work experience and performance at Cornwall Lex.Bevis Geoff | Performance Marketing SpecialistSkye Corporations2194 Mount Olive Road Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is a colleague from Skye who worked with me on various marketing projects from 2011 to 2014.Marianne Hedvig | Marketing AssistantSkye Corporations2194 Mount Olive Road Atlanta, GA(800) [email protected] is a colleague who I supervised and worked with at Skye during my last year working there.🔑 Key TakeawaysHere are some important points to keep in mind when adding references to your resume: Employers value references on a resume, but usually, it is not mandatory to provide them when applying for jobs.Professional references may be needed under specific circumstances, such as applying for a job in the legal field, the recruiter asks for them, or you are still a student.You can decide between using a reference page for your resume or making an extra section just like the other parts of a resume (e.g. skills, work experience).People who are suitable for your references are those who can vouch for you and give a positive third opinion about your character and capabilities. People who are NOT suitable are those with whom you may have had conflicts or disagreements. Lastly, reach out to people you want to include in your professional references and see if they are ok with it.Each reference shall have the following elements: name, position, address, phone number, email, and a brief description of your reference.With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, 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 resume--- Originally written by Jose Joaquin Rosales---

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!

At some point in your studying path and career, you've probably needed a recommendation letter, which may go by different names such as a letter of recommendation, recommendation letter, letter of reference, or job reference. Whatever the term may be, this formal document is commonly associated with employment and university applications. A recommendation letter is typically written by a candidate’s past or present professional contact. A recommendation letter serves as a detailed endorsement that allows companies and schools to understand a candidate better from the perspective of someone who knows or knew them. If you come across this article, it’s probably safe to assume you’ve been asked to write one. Whether it’s a recommendation letter for students or a recommendation letter for professionals, both types typically follow the same format as a regular letter. However, there is a slight difference between the type to use. In this article, we will share exactly what constitutes a recommendation letter, a letter sample, and how to write a professional one.TABLEOFCONTENTS What Is a Recommendation Letter Recommendation Letter Samples Recommendation Letter Components How to Format Them Recommendation Letter Template How to Write a Professional Recommendation Letter Conclusion In this article, we will share exactly what constitutes a recommendation letter, a letter sample, and how to write a professional one.What Is a Recommendation Letter? Though you’ve likely come across it before, let’s look at its definition again: a recommendation letter is a formal document in which you vouch for someone’s character or work ethic. This is usually done by briefly recounting examples, such as past performances, where an individual has exhibited certain characteristics or skills that organizations and institutions would be interested in. Recommendation letters are often requested by companies and schools to verify the accuracy of candidate applications, as they are typically written by past or present employers or professors. There are many possible situations where the need for recommendation letters may arise, such as in applications for: A new job.An internship.A new school, university, or program within higher education.A scholarship. In addition to the list above, recommendation letters are great for potential candidates to have at their disposal, particularly when wanting to strengthen their resumes. Whether it’s required for the job or not, a simple recommendation letter should always be in their arsenal. Wait a second. Isn’t a recommendation letter just a referral or reference letter? Can you use them interchangeably? To put it bluntly - no. When a referral letter acts as just an endorsement of someone’s character, a recommendation letter provides specific examples that discuss the candidate’s skills and abilities. Let’s check out some samples for more of an idea about what a recommendation letter looks like.Recommendation Letter Samples The two most common uses for recommendation letters are for new employment applications and university applications (including relevant internships, scholarships, and graduate school opportunities). This being the case, we’ve created two recommendation letter samples: Recommendation letter for job applicationsRecommendation letter for studentRecommendation letter for employee from managerRecommendation letter for students Components of a Recommendation Letter How to Format Them Let’s be real: writing a recommendation letter is much like writing a normal letter, except for the content. If you ignore that crucial caveat, a recommendation letter format is pretty much the same as your cover letter. Let's have a look at the components of a recommendation letter: Letterhead Perhaps the main similarity of any formal letter you’ve ever written is the letterhead for letters of recommendation. Taking up the top left-hand corner of the document, the letterhead is made up of the: DateRecipient nameRecipient title or positionRecipient addressGreeting When writing a greeting for a letter of recommendation, it’s advisable to steer clear of the classic and seriously overused opening address of ‘To whom it may concern.’ If the applicant doesn’t know who the recipient is, the greeting for a professional letter of recommendation should be: “Dear Head of Admissions for Swarthmore College” or “Dear Hiring Manager.” You can check the samples above for some more letterhead examples. Your introduction The introduction is the first of three sections that are included in the recommendation letter. For this opening section, it is imperative to: Express your sincerity in recommending the applicant.Introduce the candidate and the position they’re applying for.Introduce yourself: who you are, how you know the candidate and the length of your relationship. All of the above is key to setting the context and relevance of the recommendation letter. This part should ideally fit within two or three sentences. An optional sentence to fit into the introduction would be to highlight key strengths that pertain to why you feel the candidate is special. Recommendation Now it’s the main part of the recommendation letter, where you should strive to answer the question, ‘Why should the candidate get this role?’. No pressure. To properly answer this question, it’s advisable for you to mention at least two specific skills and qualities, as well as two characteristics that you feel would enhance the candidate’s application. This may involve outlining the candidate’s academic or professional proficiencies as well as the personality traits that would suit their proposed role or position. Examples After writing about the recommendation section, it’s time to reinforce your points with some examples in your recommendation letter. Remember that for any claim of skill, characteristic, personality, quality, etc., you should always provide an example - a justification, if you will. Closing The third section of any recommendation letter, also known as the conclusion or closing, is where you should offer some final thoughts about the candidate’s application, followed by reaffirming your support and briefly mentioning why the candidate is worthy of your recommendation. The closing part of a recommendation letter should also include your encouragement to accept the candidate and to contact you for further information should the need arise. The recommendation letter is then properly closed with a sign-off, usually with a ‘Best,’ ‘Best regards,’ or a ‘Sincerely.’ Your contact information Don’t forget to add your contact information before signing off a recommendation letter. Though it’s not compulsory, offering your contact information is a great way to show sincerity. You can add two contact methods in case the recipient wishes to discuss further. Recommendation letter contact information can be added in a paragraph all by itself, weaved into the closing, or placed below your signature. Signature Though some may consider this addition a little too fancy, providing your signature is actually expected in a professional letter of recommendation. The signature should go right after your closing sign-off, and above your full name, position, name of company/school, and any other contact information you might want to add.Recommendation Letter Template Now that we’ve seen two examples of recommendation letters, and have learned how to write a strong one, the next step is to craft your own.If this feels like a big step, go on and use our generic letter of recommendation template. Whether you’re writing a recommendation for a past employee or student, this recommendation template is sure to make the process easier.Recommendation Letter Template[Date: Month-Day-Year] [Recipient name][Recipient title][company/university name][Company/university address] Dear [Mr/Mrs/Ms.] [recipient name], It is my pleasure to recommend [candidate name] for [role/position] at [name of organization/institution]. For the past [duration of relationship, I have had the honor of [working with/teaching] [candidate name] as their [your position] at [name of company/university]. Throughout our time together, [candidate name] has performed exceptionally well at [company/school] and I am fully confident that they will be an invaluable asset to your [company/school]. Among [candidate name]’s many [professional/academic] accomplishments, their [list at least one quality or skill] have contributed greatly to our [department/company/school]. When [mention a relevant situation that arose], they [mention how they helped resolve it and the impact that had - could be mentally as well as economically]. Outside of the [classroom/office], [candidate name]’s [characteristics that have impacted the company/school culture] have greatly benefited our department. Their [example of this characteristic and the impact it had]. Throughout their [degree/time with company], [candidate name] has been a pleasure to [teach/work with]. Their [state one skill, characteristic, or quality that relates to what you’ve already mentioned] have been an incredible addition to our [team/department/school], and I strongly recommend you to accept them for this [program/role]. Should you wish to discuss [candidate name]’s application further, feel free to contact me by phone [your phone number] or by email [your email]. Sincerely, [your signature] [your name][your position][Company/university’s name] How to Write a Professional Letter of Recommendation Regardless of who your recommendation letter is for, let’s have a look at how to write a good letter of recommendation: Understand the purpose of the recommendation letter. Before even starting the process, you need to make sure you understand the purpose of the recommendation letter. Is it a work recommendation letter? Or perhaps a recommendation letter for a student applying for an internship or higher education? These are the sorts of things that will impact not only how you approach the recommendation letter, but also the tone and contents of the letter. Different purposes will also call for different skills and qualities to be highlighted. If it’s a generic letter of recommendation for a candidate to have in their arsenal and not for any specific position or application, this will also change what you may want to mention and discuss. In short, it is crucial that you understand the purpose of the recommendation letter before you start writing a recommendation. If you already know what it is, great. If not, ask for more specific requirements or instructions. Ask for any specific requirements/instructions. Writing a professional letter of recommendation for a former employee or student can be challenging, especially if you’re struggling to find adequate recommendations and examples to include. When the going is getting tough, it doesn't hurt to ask the candidate for more information, specifically what they might like you to mention. Most of the time, a candidate will have chosen you as their reference for a reason and are likely to have an idea in mind of what you should mention in your recommendation letter. If it’s proving difficult to figure out what that idea might be, ask the candidate to provide you with: Their resumeThe job description or academic programAdditional information about any skills, achievements, or qualifications With the above, you should be able to appropriately tailor the recommendation letter to their application. Just remember to avoid repeating anything unless it appears significantly important in creating the ideal applicant. Provide specific examples of your recommendation. When writing a recommendation, you should aim to provide at least two specific examples that reflect the candidate’s qualities and can attest to positive characteristics. Remember to make these relevant to the job position or academic application. For an idea of how to weave in examples, why not take a look at the letter of recommendation examples for jobs and students further up this article? Don’t be contradictory. This may seem self-explanatory, but it’s good to remember that a professional letter of recommendation has a clear line throughout and doesn’t make contradictory statements. An easy way to ensure this is to avoid extending the truth. Lying in a recommendation letter, or for any part of an application, is frowned upon anyway and won’t bode well for you or the candidate in the long run. Keep it simple concise. While the length of a recommendation letter isn’t really that important, the general consensus is that it shouldn’t exceed a one-sided page with a size 12 font. If you’re inching ever closer to two pages, that’s okay, just make sure that everything you’ve written is genuinely relevant to their application. If it’s not, cut it. Don’t be afraid to decline a recommendation request. It can be daunting to open your email and see “Request for a recommendation letter from professor” staring back at you, especially if it’s from a student you don’t feel you can provide sufficient commendations for, for whatever reason. If something similar happens to you, remember that there’s no harm in declining a recommendation request. Recommendation letters work best when their writers can provide positive feedback on someone’s work. If you’re unsure whether you can actually do that, it’s probably best to decline.Conclusion Writing a recommendation letter can sometimes feel like both an honor and a burden, but with the right format - cue our letter of recommendation template - this process can feel like a breeze. That said, in crafting a truly professional letter of recommendation, you’ll still have to adjust the tone for different purposes, as well as provide relevant examples for the recommended qualities and characteristics that link to those purposes - see our sample recommendation letter for employee, recommendation letter sample for job, and tips for a better idea on how to do this. Found this article helpful? Follow us for more details.Get recruiter-ready in minutes. Our AI resume checker reviews your resume for common pitfalls and suggests targeted improvements.Get Recruiter-Ready--- Originally written by EVA O'MARA ---

Tips for Writing an Application Letter for University AdmissionYou’ve done the soul-searching and have finally figured out what you want to study in university. Great! Now, it’s time to apply. After preparing your transcripts, recommendations, and application form, you sit down for the most challenging part: your university application letter. A well-written and attractive university application letter is an integral part of your university application package. Your university application letter is an extension of yourself and should clearly outline your motivation for applying to the university and how your acceptance can propel your future goals. Writing the university or college application letter can be a daunting task; after all, it may mean the difference between acceptance and rejection. Universities place great importance on university application letters and an outstanding letter can not only result in your acceptance but also land you a scholarship! However, writing your application letter for university is a good exercise in figuring out how you apply what you want to study to what you want to do in the future! This article will cover everything you need to know about the university application letters and will give you the tips and tricks you need to take yours to the next level! TABLEOFCONTENTS What Is a University Application Letter? What to Include in a Cover Letter for University Application How to Write and Format an Application Letter for University Tips on How to Write an Application Letter for University Admission University Application Letter Example Cover Letter for University Admission Template What Is a University Application Letter? A university application cover letter is unique from other application letters such as motivation letters for university, letters of interest for university applications, and recommendation/reference letters for university applications. Here is the difference between the three: University application letter: Describes your motivation for studying at a particular university, your academic and future professional goals, and your accomplishments.University motivation letter: Speaks about your motivation for studying and focuses more on why you have chosen to study a particular subject at the university.Reference/application letter: A letter that is written for you as an assessment of your accomplishments and character by a past employer, teacher, or other senior individuals. A university application letter is highly personalizable, yet contains the following base points: Motivation for applying to the universityHow will you benefit from and apply what you want to studyRelevant accomplishments and skillsStrong closing with a call-to-action statement When reading your college admissions cover letter, admission officers expect to find all of these points, so they should be specifically tailored to both the university and program you are applying to!📚Further reading:Cover Letter vs. Application Letter [Differences, Pros Cons, and Writing Tips] What to Include in a Cover Letter for University Application Now, let’s break down a college application letter into its parts. Reason for your interest in the school University seats are always in limited demand and high supply; this makes proving your choice of university all the more important. In your college application letter, you can begin by briefly outlining why you chose the university you are applying to and how the program you are enrolling in can help you achieve your academic and professional goals. Your university application letter can also include things that make the university stand out from the competition making it a more appealing choice! Above all, remember to keep your university application letter honest and genuine. A disingenuous letter can be easily sniffed out by an admissions officer! For example, here is an excerpt from a political science student’s university application letter:I am writing to formally express my interest in pursuing my studies at Hopkins University. After conducting thorough research into universities, I have chosen your institution because of the great attention that is paid to the political science department. The curriculum is unique in that it takes a more practical approach to learning and I believe that this unique method of instruction aligns perfectly with my personal and academic goals. Your academic goals and interests In your college admissions letter, highlight your academic goals and interests. Admissions officers like to see applicants have the potential and drive to not only succeed in the program of their choice but thrive and apply the knowledge they gain in things that they are interested in! Here is a short example of how you can express your academic goals in your college application letter:I wish to pursue my undergraduate degree in History. While my immediate focus will be my studies, I wish to realize my childhood dream of becoming a historian and author upon graduation. The History department at ABC University is my top choice and I believe that my admission will allow me to advance my academic career in the best way possible. Your background and future interests Your university application cover letter should provide a little bit of context as to who you are and what you want to do with your life. Your college admission letter, therefore, should briefly mention your reasoning for applying to the program you have chosen and how it will benefit your future professional endeavors. Consider this example from an art major’s university application letter:For as long as I can remember, I have nurtured and developed my love for the arts and have dreamed of becoming a painter. Throughout my life, my parents have encouraged me to live a life doing things that make me happy; I am blessed that my source of happiness directly relates to my academic and future professional life. Connections to the school that you may have (if any) When possible, take advantage of existing connections within the university in your college admission letter. These connections can come from previous or existing graduates or faculty and staff and can help you increase your perspective and knowledge of the university. Here is an example of how you can mention your connections in your college admissions letter:After consulting numerous Dale University graduates and faculty, I am confident in my choice of your university. Your application documents In your university application letter, be sure to mention the documents you have included in your application package. This subtle indication should be included in your concluding remarks and helps to show your proactivity and interest in moving forward in the admissions process. Here is an example of how you can mention your application documents in your university application letter:I have attached my high school transcripts, recommendations, and application form as part of my university application package. Please refer to them at your earliest convenience. A CTA for considering A strong call to action in your college application letter, or CTA, is a good way to display your genuine interest in moving forward with your university application! A CTA is essentially a statement of intent for how you would like to progress with the application process. Take this CTA from a psychology student’s university application letter:Thank you for your evaluation. Should any supplemental documents be required, I am available at any time. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Your contact details Your college application cover letter should include your contact information! This information, while included in other parts of the application package, is a good addition to your admissions letter to help university admissions officers organize your information and potentially contact you, should further information be required. This section can be incorporated in many ways into your cover letter for college admission. Here is an example:I can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by telephone at 123-456-7890 should any further information be required. How to Write and Format an Application Letter for University Now, let’s take a look at how to write an application letter for a university. Write your contact details. The contact information that should be included in a university application letter is the same as what you would include in a standard cover letter. This information includes: Your full nameYour positionYour addressYour telephone number and email Write the date. Your university application cover letterhead should also Include the date you wrote the letter beneath your contact information. Write the school/admission office’s contact details. Your college admissions cover letterhead should also include the contact information of the admissions office/university. This is similar to your contact information and should include: Admissions officer/university nameTheir position (if writing to the admissions officer)University address Use a proper salutation. Begin your college application letter with a formal salutation. The standard, in this case, is “Dear”. Be sure to avoid informal salutations such as “Hey”, “Hi”, and “Hello”.💡 Tip: Do your best to personalize your university application letter in every way that you can. You can personalize the salutation of your college admissions letter by finding out the name of the admissions officer you will be writing to. This information can be found either on the application form, on the university website, or by calling the university! Write the contents of your letter. This is the meat and bones of your college application letter. The contents of your college application letter should include: Your motivation for applyingYour personal and academic goals and interestsYour future plansA reference to your connectionsA strong call to action Include a sign-off. Close off your college admissions letter with a strong sign-off. Thank the admissions officer for reading your letter, refer to the documents you have attached to your college application package, and end with a strong call to action! You can increase the impact of your university application letter by restating how your admission into university will help you realize your dreams!Tips on How to Write an Application Letter for University Admission Here are some tips and tricks to spice up your university admissions letter! 💡 Include your research about the institution. You should avoid applying to universities arbitrarily. Conduct research into any university you are thinking about applying to. That way, you can make the most informed decision for your future and your college application letter will reflect this! 💡 Show traits that make you a competitive candidate. Distinguish yourself from other applicants in your university admissions cover letter. Highlight your skills and relevant qualifications that make you both an interesting and competitive candidate. 💡 Be unique and include a personal touch. Remember, your college application letter is an extension of your personality, skills, and qualifications. Including a short anecdote or personal story in your letter lends a level of personality and gives admission officers a clearer understanding of the person you are outside of academics! 💡 Ask for others’ opinions and advice. University is unlike any other educational environment that you have experienced. Consult others who have been through college and learn from their experiences. 💡 Always proofread and use the correct letter format. As a rule of thumb, you should avoid submitting anything you have not proofread at least once. Your university application letter is no different. Ensure that your letter format is consistent and correct and that your punctuation and tone are suitable. If you have trouble proofreading your own work, asking a friend or family member for their input is always okay!University Application Letter ExampleLet’s begin with a sample university application letter to give you a better idea of its layout. Joe AdamsStudent40 North AvenueTampa, FL 11111+1 (421) 123-4567[email protected] September 1, 2023 Mark SanchezAdmissions OfficerOrion UniversitySan Francisco, CA 90231 Dear Mr. Sanchez, I am writing to formally express my interest in undertaking my bachelor's studies at Orion University. After consulting many alumni and current faculty, I am confident that Orion University and its well-rounded and holistic curriculum that focuses on practical application as well as theory is the best fit for me both in terms of character and academically. Throughout my academic career, I have maintained a high degree of participation in my studies and extracurricular activities. I have maintained a 3.9 GPA and have participated in several capacities, including student association vice-president, volleyball captain, and Rotaract Club member. I believe that these experiences have taught me many lessons and have reinforced the skills that will allow me to succeed at your institution. I wish to apply what I learn here in my future career as a political analyst for the government, as it has been a longstanding dream of mine to serve my country in any way that I can. Per your request, I have attached my transcript, recommendations, and essays to my application package. If you require further information, I can be contacted via email or telephone at any time. Thank you for your time and evaluation and I look forward to hearing from and meeting you soon. Sincerely, Joe Adams Cover Letter for University Admission TemplateHere is a complete template of a university admission cover letter. [Your name][Your job title] (if any)[Your home address][Your email address][Your telephone number] Date [Name of admissions officer/university][Job title of admissions officer] (if applicable)[University name][University address] Dear [Mr./Ms./Mrs.][Admissions officer’s last name], I am writing to express my interest in undertaking my [degree level] studies at [university name]. After consulting many alumni and current faculty, I am confident that [university name] and it's [reason that makes the university unique] is the best fit for me both in terms of character and academically. Throughout my academic career, I have maintained a high degree of participation in my studies and extracurricular activities. I have maintained a [GPA] and have participated in several activities, including [2-3 activities that you participated in during high school]. I believe that these experiences have taught me [skills that will help you in university] and allow me to succeed at your institution. I wish to apply what I learn at [university name] in my future career as a [future professional goal and reason why you have chosen this field of work]. Per your request, I have attached my [documents that were requested to be attached to your application package]. If you need any further supplemental information, I can be contacted via [email and telephone information] at any time. [Thank the admissions officer for reading your letter]. [Call to action that expresses how much you look forward to hearing from them]. Sincerely, [Signature] [Your full name] CakeResume offers a plethora of free resume templates for you to use. Check them out!Conclusion When submitting your CV, it is crucial to include an application letter. This letter provides an opportunity to showcase your communication skills, express your interest in the position, and highlight why you are the ideal candidate for the job. By including a well-crafted application letter, you can demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail, which can ultimately increase your chances of securing a job interview. And there you have it! At this point, you should be well on your way to crafting the best university application letter. Here’s a quick recap of the most important parts:Do your research on the university and the program you are applying to before writing your letter. You must make the most informed decision!Include all the necessary college application letter sections to avoid missing out on information that is important for the admissions officer to know.Be unique! Find ways to incorporate bits of your personality inside of your college application letter. Cake providesresume and portfolio builders so that you have have everything you need to create an impressive online presence. Let's take your career to the next level.Create My Resume Follow our blog to get more job searching tips and resume cover letter tutorials! — Originally written by Alexander Coye —

Getting a good backend developer job starts with a good resume. While an emphasis on coding is key in the industry, qualified individuals still need a cohesive backend developer resume to present their skills and projects in an organized fashion to future employers. And with the number of developers around the globe expected to reach 28.7 million, having a good backend developer resume is key to getting that coveted interview.Table of Contents:How to Write a Winning Backend Developer ResumeBackend Developer Resume ExamplesConclusion A backend developer builds and maintains the server-side logic, databases, and infrastructure of web applications. They write code for user requests and databases, manage APIs, optimize server performance and implement security measures. Basically, backend developers work with frontend developers behind the scenes to make sure that everything runs smoothly and efficiently for all users. With all these technical skills required for the job, it is important to channel your creative side and find a unique way to present yourself on your next backend developer resume.If you are a fresh graduate and looking for jobs in software development field, we encourage you to read this article of 15+ Entry-level Software Resume Examples and TemplatesHow to Write a Winning Backend Developer Resume Fill in Your Details in the Resume Header When creating your resume, it's important to include your full contact information at the beginning. This should typically include your name, address, phone number, and email address. By providing this information upfront, you make it easier for hiring managers to quickly access and understand the basic details about you.💡 Pro Tips: Omit irrelevant personal details such as home address, gender, and date of birth to avoid prejudices. One of the most important items on your resume is your resume headline, which is sometimes referred to as a resume title. It is typically placed at the very top of your resume so that recruiters can get an introduction to who you are as a candidate. Crafting an engaging and succinct resume title is important as it can be the deciding factor for recruiters if they want to read further. Aim to have the resume title in one line or maximum of two lines and highlight the software required for the job to which you are applying. Here are 3 backend developer resume headline examples: Backend Developer Resume Headline Example #1IT Graduate Proficient in Java and Python, with Intern Experience, Seeking Junior Backend Developer RoleBackend Developer Resume Headline Example #2Backend Developer for Startups | Proficient in Implementing OAuth2, JWT, and Secure Payment Processing | Java, Spring Boot, PostgreSQL Stripe IntegrationBackend Developer Resume Headline Example #3Senior Backend Developer for Scalable Architecture and Enterprise Solutions | Leader of High-Performance RESTful APIs and Microservices | Java, Kubernetes, and MongoDB Add in Your Resume Objective, Especially if You're a Fresh Grad A good backend developer resume objective highlights your long-term career goals. This is useful to recruiters so they know what your expectations are as well as if you’re a good fit for the position. The career objective section is typically 2 to 3 sentences long and includes info about your personality (detail-oriented, punctual) and your years of experience related to backend development. Tailor your career goals to match with the requirements of the opening job and make sure it is clear and concise. The career objective can replace the resume headline or resume summary section if desired. If so, just make sure to highlight your skills and experience in the description. Here are some examples of backend developer resume objectives:Backend Developer Resume Objective - Example #1Recent IT graduate eager to secure a backend developer internship at a leading tech company. Completed coursework covering algorithms, database management, and both web and mobile applications development. Looking to put my Java, Python, and SQL skills to the test!Backend Developer Resume Objective - Example #2I’m a focused Backend Developer skilled in database management and optimization. I’m seeking opportunities with startups to broaden skills in full-stack development and innovative tech solutions. I’m proficient with MySQL in designing robust database schemas optimizing database performance and using PostgreSQL for optimizing queries.Backend Developer Resume Objective - Example #3Senior backend developer for security-focused backend architecture and rigorous testing methodologies. Skilled in implementing robust security measures, including encryption standards and authentication protocols. Achieved enhancement of application security via comprehensive testing frameworks such as JUnit and integration of security best practices. Seeking to contribute leadership and advanced technical know-how for an up-and-coming tech firm. Spend Some Time on the Work Experience Section The work experience section is arguably the most crucial part of a backend developer's resume because it directly showcases your technical expertise, accomplishments and contributions in real-world scenarios. This section must detail your ability to design, build, and maintain backend systems, handle database management, optimize database performance, and implement security measures. Employers look for specific examples of projects worked on, technologies used, and the impact achieved. Moreover, detailing your work experience demonstrates your familiarity with industry best practices and your ability at solving complex technical issues. A good work experience section for backend developers should make sure to use strong, action words and mention your relevant skills and experience to the applying job. Here are some examples of a well-written backend developer work experience section:Backend Developer Resume - Work Experience - Example #1Backend Developer Intern, XYZ Cloud Partners,June 2024 to September 2024Developed RESTful APIs using Node.js and Express.js to facilitate communication between frontend applications and server-side databasesImplemented user authentication and authorization using JWT to secure API endpointsDesigned and optimized MySQL database schemas to improve data retrieval and application performanceCollaborated with senior developers to integrate third-party APIsBackend Developer Resume - Work Experience - Example #2Backend Developer, ABC Technology,April 2021 to presentDeveloped scalable RESTful APIs using Java and Spring Boot framework, supporting high-volume client applicationsImplemented microservices architecture on Kubernetes to enhance application scalability and resilienceDesigned and optimized PostgreSQL databases, achieving 30% reduction in query response timesIntegrated OAuth2 authentication and JWT token-based authorizationBackend Developer Resume - Work Experience - Example #3Senior Backend Developer, Startup Ventures XYZ,March 2017 to PresentDesigned and implemented MongoDB databases for multiple projects, optimizing data storage and retrieval processesLed the integration of payment gateway APIs (e.g., Stripe) to facilitate secure and seamless transactions within applicationsImplemented robust security measures, including encryption standards and regular vulnerability assessmentsMentored junior developers, conducted code reviews, and collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions on time and within budgetPlayed a key role in Agile development methodologies, participating in sprint planning, stand-ups, and retrospectives Essential Backend Developer Skills for a Resume are a Must The skills section on a backend developer's resume is your bread and butter. Potential employers want to know the specific software and project skills you possess. Yet for a backend developer, listing all the technical skills in your wheelhouse can easily become long and unwieldy. Start by categorizing your skills into programming languages (Java, Python), frameworks (Spring Boot, Django), databases (MySQL, MongoDB), version control systems (Git, SVN), and other relevant tools (Docker, Jenkins). Prioritize skills based on relevance to the job description, with the most proficient and frequently used tools listed first. Additionally, be sure to include soft skills (such as time management and adaptability) in your skills section as it presents you as a more well-rounded candidate. Here are some common hard and soft skills for your backend developer resume:Hard SkillsProgramming languages (Java, Python, JavaScript (Node.js), Ruby, PHP)Frameworks and libraries (Spring Boot, Django, Express.js, Ruby on Rails, Laravel)Database management systems (MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, SQLite)API development and integration (RESTful APIs, GraphQL)Version control systems (Git, SVN)Cloud platforms and services (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform)CI/CD pipelines and automated deployment tools (Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD)Security protocols and best practices (OAuth2, JWT, SSL/TLS)Microservices architecture and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes)Other Tools (IntelliJ IDEA, Visual Studio Code)Agile or Scrum methodologiesOperating Systems (Linux, Windows)Soft SkillsProblem-Solving - Ability to analyze issues and devise effective solutionsTeamwork - Collaborative approach to work well within cross-functional teamsCommunication - Clear and effective communication skills, both verbal and writtenTime Management - Efficiently prioritize tasks and manage deadlinesAdaptability - Ability to adapt to changing project requirementsAttention to Detail - Thoroughness in code reviews, testing, and debuggingCreativity - Thinking outside the box to innovate and improve backend processesProblem Anticipation - Proactively identifying potential issues and addressing them before they impact the projectLeadership - Taking initiative and leading backend development efforts 📚 Further reading: How to Lean in and Become a Software Developer Pro Tip: Demonstrate Your Analytical SkillA good backend developer should possess strong analytical skills, so finding places in your resume to highlight these abilities is a good idea. To effectively demonstrate analytical skills, focus on instances where you analyzed complex problems, identified root causes, and implemented effective solutions. For example, mention how you optimized your database schema and queries to improve application performance or conducted performance testing to identify bottlenecks in API communication. Emphasize quantitative results where possible, such as improvements in response times or scalability metrics, to showcase the impact of your analytical skills. This approach not only showcases your technical prowess but also underscores your capacity to solve problems and drive efficient backend solutions. Here’s a list of examples where you can potentially quantify results and show off your analysis skills to impress potential employers: Performance Metrics (e.g.- reduced response times by 20%)Scalability (e.g.- supported applications handling 10,000+ concurrent users)Database Optimization (e.g.- improved query performance resulting in 30% faster data retrieval)API Usage (e.g.- developed 15 RESTful API endpoints)Project Scope (e.g.- led development of a 50,000-line backend system)Security (e.g.- implemented measures reducing vulnerabilities by 25%)Team Contributions (e.g.- collaborated to deliver projects on time/under budget)Automation (e.g.- automated deployment processes saving 8 hours per week)Cost Savings (e.g.- optimized infrastructure resulting in $20,000 annual savings)Training and Mentorship (e.g.- mentored 3 junior developers improving team productivity) Don't Forget Your Education Info, but Opt-out if You've Been Working for a While A formal education, such as a degree in Computer Science or related fields, equips developers with theoretical understanding and practical experience through coursework, projects, and labs. While recruiters will tend to favor practical experience, it is still important to present your educational background in a clear and organized manner—-especially if you are a recent graduate. Moreover, employers often value candidates with relevant educational credentials as they signify a solid base of knowledge that can hit the ground running with a prospective team. Here’s an example of how to write an education section on your resume:Backend Developer Resume - Education Example#1Bachelor of Science in Computer ScienceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, 2020-2024Relevant Coursework: Data Structures, Algorithms, Database Management Systems, Software EngineeringGPA: 3.8 If you haven't graduated yet but are still pursuing a degree, you can adapt the education section on your resume to reflect your current academic status. Here's a guide on how to do that:Backend Developer Resume - Education Example #2Master of Science in Software EngineeringUniversity of Southern California, Anticipated Graduation May 2025Minor: MathematicsRelevant Coursework: Mobile Application Development, Database Management Systems, Cloud ComputingProjected GPA: 4.0 Add Your Certificates or Certifications Certifications on a backend developer’s resume can enhance your credentials and demonstrate proficiency in specific technologies. While these certifications are respected and can boost your resume, their necessity and prevalence vary depending on the industry and job requirements. Practical experience, coding skills, and a strong portfolio often weigh more heavily in hiring decisions than certifications alone. However, certifications can help differentiate you as a candidate in competitive job markets and demonstrate your commitment to developing yourself professionally. Example Backend Developer Certifications: AWS Certified Developer - AssociateGoogle Professional Cloud DeveloperMicrosoft Certified: Azure Developer AssociateOracle Certified Professional, Java SE ProgrammerMongoDB Certified DeveloperCertified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)Certified Scrum Developer (CSD)Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)CompTIA Security+ 3 Backend Developer Resume Templates Examples1) Fresh Graduated Backend Developer Resume Example MIRANDA JONESAtlanta, GA • (555)-555-5555 • mjones@email.comRecent IT Graduate with Internship Experience in Cloud Technology and Proficiency in Python and Java OBJECTIVE Motivated IT graduate with hands-on experience in backend development tools, and cloud technology. Seeking a challenging junior backend developer position to put to use my skills in Python, Java, and cloud platforms. WORK EXPERIENCE Backend Developer Intern, Tech Startup XYZ,Summer 2024 Optimized RESTful APIs using Python and Flask to smooth out communication between frontend applications and cloud serversImplemented cloud solutions on AWS, improving the scalability and reliability of the company's applicationsUtilized Git for version control and participated in code reviews to maintain code quality and consistencyCollaborated with departmental teams to integrate backend services with cloud infrastructure Project Developer, Portland College Student Union,September 2023 - May 2024 Designed and developed backend systems for various student union projects using Java and Spring BootCreated and maintained MySQL databases to store and manage student data, improving data retrieval efficiencyDeveloped APIs to enable seamless integration between different student union applicationl TECHNICAL SKILLS Programming Languages: Python, JavaFrameworks: Spring Boot, FlaskDatabases: MySQL, PostgreSQLCloud Platforms: AWS, Google Cloud PlatformVersion Control: Git, GitHubAPI Development: RESTful APIsTools: Docker, JenkinsProblem-solving and analytical skillsTeam collaboration and communication EDUCATION Bachelor of Science in Computer SciencePortland University, 2020 - 2024 Relevant Coursework: Database Management Systems, Software Engineering, Cloud ComputingDean’s List 2023 REFERENCE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST 2) Junior-level Backend Developer Resume Example #2 FAISAL MOHAMMEDReno, NV • 555-555-5555 • fmontgomery@email.com I’m a focused backend developer with 3 years of experience in third-party integration and performance optimization, seeking a challenging role at an up-and-coming AI startup. Certified in Azure and extensively experienced with AWS, I aim to leverage my expertise to contribute to cutting-edge AI solutions. WORK EXPERIENCE Backend Developer, Tech Innovations Inc.,Mar 2022 to Present Engineered and optimized third-party integrations, ensuring seamless data exchange and functionality across multiple platformsEnhanced system performance by optimizing database queries and refactoring legacy code, resulting in a 40% reduction in response timesDesigned and implemented microservices architecture using AWS services, improving scalability and reliability of applicationsCollaborated with frontend developers and PMs to deliver high-quality software solutions all within deadline Junior Backend Developer, NextGen Solutions,June 2020 to Feb 2022 Assisted in integrating third-party APIs, streamlining communication between internal and external systemsConducted performance analysis and implemented improvementsMaintained and updated cloud infrastructure on AWS, ensuring optimal performance and uptimeWorked in an Agile environment, participating in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and code reviews SKILLS Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript (Node.js)Frameworks: Spring Boot, Express.jsDatabases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDBCloud Platforms: AWS, AzureAPI Development: RESTful APIs, GraphQLTools: Docker, Kubernetes, JenkinsPerformance OptimizationThird-party IntegrationFluent in Spanish EDUCATION Bachelor of Science in Computer Science,University of Nevada, 2015 - 2019 CERTIFICATIONS Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate - 2021AWS Certified Developer (Associate) - Currently pursuing REFERENCE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST 3) Senior-level Backend Developer Resume Example #3 Sandy Li - Senior Backend Developer and Team Leader | Mastery in Version Control, Security Protocols and CI/CD Automation Westchester, NY • (555) 555-5555 • sandyli@email.com OBJECTIVE As a seasoned backend developer with extensive skills in version control systems and security protocols, I’m looking for a leadership role managing large teams while continuing to specialize in these areas. I’m adept at implementing CI/CD pipelines and committed to maintaining the highest standards of security and efficiency in the software development process. WORK EXPERIENCE Senior Backend Developer, Tech Leaders Inc (April 2018 to Present) Led a team of 15 developers in the design, implementation, and maintenance of secure, scalable backend systemsArchitected and deployed CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins and GitLab CI/CD, leading to a 50% reduction in deployment timesImplemented advanced security protocols, including OAuth2 and JWT, enhancing data protectionManaged version control systems (Git, SVN) and ensured consistent code quality through rigorous code reviews and integration testing Backend Developer, SecureTech Solutions (June 2014 to March 2018) Developed and maintained backend services with a focus on security and performance optimizationSpearheaded the implementation of version control best practices, increasing development team efficiencyCollaborated with DevOps teams to integrate CI/CD processes, improving deployment speedConducted security audits and vulnerability assessments, successfully mitigating critical risks SKILLS Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript (Node.js)Frameworks: Spring Boot, Express.js, DjangoDatabases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDBVersion Control: Git, SVNCI/CD Tools: Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, Docker, KubernetesSecurity Protocols: OAuth2, JWT, SSL/TLSCloud Platforms: AWS, AzureLeadership and Team ManagementAgile Methodologies EDUCATION Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - University of Leeds, UK, 2009-2013 CERTIFICATIONS Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)AWS Certified DevOps Engineer - ProfessionalMicrosoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect ExpertCertified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) REFERENCE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST ConclusionThe perfect backend developer resume isn’t as hard to put together as you think. Use the tips above for each part of your resume and follow the examples provided when writing your own. By using clear language and organizing your skills and and experience, your backend developer resume will help you stand out to recruiters and land that developer job of your dreams. If you're looking for more career advice, follow Cake Blog for more insightful tips!Cake offers a free online resume builder for all job seekers to easily create professional online resumes and portfolios. Our rich resume templates library is free to use and download in PDF file. Give it a try today!Create Resume— Originally written by Michael Reid —

The term “employment application form” can be used interchangeably with the job application form as it has an identical meaning.A job application form is a form document that companies hand out to applicants to let them fill in some information when they are applying for the job. It is a simple and fast way to gather information from the applicant while allowing them to compare easily side by side, knowing which applicant is best suited for the vacancy. In this article, we'll dive into:What Is a Job Application Form?How to Make a Job Application FormJob Application Form Sample TemplatesTips for Creating a Job Application Form Sample Job Application Form What Is a Job Application Form? A job application form is an official document given by the employer to the candidates like a survey, asking questions like personal information, contact details, detailed work history, and references to get a better understanding of the candidates. Some employers like to print the job application form out on paper to let the candidates fill in by hand, then scan them up as digital documents. Some employers use a digital document to let them fill it out. Either of them can be used interchangeably. Moreover, using an employment application form has a lot of benefits to the hiring process. Here are some of the benefits that you can get from using the employment application form. Forms have a standardized format that is easier to compare (compared to resumes). In the hiring process, you will receive resumes with different formats and designs from applicants. Sometimes, it can be time-consuming to review all of them when all the information is written in different places. Using an employment application form that has a standardized format is easier to read. Having the information in the same location makes it easier to compare when you put them side by side. Easier to scan. If you have a digital form of job application form for the candidates to fill in, you will find the reviewing process easier than reviewing a resume/CV. Having the information filled in the same section, you can search up specific words and the results will show instantly, helping you determine if the candidates have the specific skills that you are searching for. As a result, it helps make the reviewing of the hiring process more efficient and faster. Help get information that is not usually put on a resume. A resume is always limited to only a page. This causes most applicants to avoid including insignificant and unnecessary information because there would not be enough space to include the important ones. For example, some applicants who have been working in the field for some time might exclude their education history. A job application form allows you to guide them to fill in some information that they might have excluded from the resume. Can get applicants to sign the form to prove credibility. If you printed the form for them to fill in person, you can ensure that the information they filled in is authentic by asking them to sign at the end of the form. This is one good way to prove the credibility of their information. When the question of whether employers need to use a job application form for hiring is being discussed, there can be different answers. Some employers prefer a resume/CV. Hence, the need for job application forms depends on the employer’s needs. When should an employer use job application forms? With the advantages mentioned above, if you are searching for candidates with specific skills and personalities, and have a better idea of the candidates’ competencies, using job application forms can be very helpful. It helps you determine and evaluate the candidates faster than the normal procedure. If you are hiring through hiring recruitment agencies, using job application forms is a very formal and fair way to recruit. When should an employer not use job application forms? Though using the form has a lot of benefits, on some occasions, you might still not use it. This is because keyword filtering might filter out some strong candidates which you would not like to see happen. If you prefer a recruiting process that has more personal interaction, you should not use job application forms too. Having an interview might be easier for you to get a better understanding of the candidate, knowing if they’ll work well with the team.How to Make a Job Application Form When you are crafting a job application form for the recruitment process, there are many different aspects that you have to consider. Step 1: Instructions for filling out the form.Job Application Form Instructions When applicants fill out the form, it is best if you have incorporated the instructions. These instructions will tell them how to fill out the form, and what happens if they leave the slots blank. For example, you can mark down some required sections like their names, contact details, and work history to inform them that those are the ones that must be filled in. You can also have a line to tell them to fill in using capital letters only or any other requirements based on your needs. Step 2: Personal Information Applicant's Personal Information Section in a Job Application FormThe first information you need to know about the applicant is always their personal information. It is the fastest way to get to know who they are and how to contact them. Usually, you would like the applicants to fill in as detailed as they could. Hence, you can follow the basic required information when creating an employment application draft for recruitment. Full name - The easiest way is to separate the sections into Last, First, and Middle names.Mailing address - This includes street address, city, state, and Zip code.Phone number - The fastest way of contact for employers to reach the applicants if they have questions for them that they want to ask directly.Email address - The applicant should give an email address that is actively used to receive notifications.Social security number - This is always used to verify one’s identity but is only used in a trusted company. Step 3: PositionPosition Details in a Job Application Form In a standardized job application form, you wouldn’t know what the applicants want unless they’ve included their desired position. This is because all of the forms are in the same format. In order to evaluate the applicants’ availability and desires, having the position section is very important. Below is the information that you might need to know during the recruitment process. Applied position - When a company is recruiting for multiple positions, applicants should know which position they are applying to.Date available - The first day when the applicant can report to work, and the days that they can work in a week.Desired pay - This can be put in paid per hour or the applicant’s expected yearly payment.Working hours - The applicants might be searching for part-time, full-time, or seasonal positions. Using a tick box for this question is very efficient.Legal eligibility to work - It is always necessary to check if the applicant is eligible to work in the U.S. before recruiting. If they’re not, they might need an employment Visa.Criminal status- This is a yes-no question that allows you as an employer to know if the applicant is suitable for the position because some of you might prefer not to hire someone who committed a felony. Step 4: Education BackgroundJob Application Form's Education Section If you are hiring from a big company, and you want to exclude those applicants who do not achieve particular academic standards, the education background section in a standardized job application form is necessary. It helps you differentiate those that do not meet requirements. High school - The name and the address of the school are expected to be given.Dates attended - The beginning date and the graduating date are required to be filled in the employment application form.Completion status - It is necessary to know if your applicant completed their high school studies because this could be your least academic requirement.College - If the applicant went to college, a brief history of the college, the name, and the address should be filled in the form.Dates attended - Some graduates might graduate later than the usual duration of 3 to 4 years. Hence, it is necessary to know the beginning and end of their enrollment.Degree - Knowing the applicant’s graduate degree can be helpful when determining the suitability of the position. Step 5: ReferencesReferences Section of a Job Application Form When applicants are filling out the employment application form, you would not know the credibility of the information given. The easiest way to solve this issue is to require at least one reference. Referees can be the ones for you to contact and know more about the applicant’s performance in the academic or previous workplace. Full name - Knowing the referee’s name allows you to address him/her when asking for the applicant’s information.Relation - A description of the applicant and the referee’s relationship is always required because not everybody can be a referee. If the applicant used their family member as a referee, you would still doubt their credibility.Company title - Only positions like managers, executives, professors, advisors, and homeroom teachers are suitable to be listed as a reference.Email address/Phone number - This information is required for you to contact the referee and request some statements or recommendation letters. Step 6: Experience/Employment HistoryEmployment History on a JobApplication Form Before hiring someone, you would always want to know if the applicant worked in other companies. Having the experience/employment history section is very helpful if you are trying to check if he/she has relevant skill sets that can be used when hired. Job title - The name of the position held in the previous workplace.Company name - The name of the previous workplace is necessarily given.Address - The address of the company is always needed to check if the place exists.Starting date ending date - Knowing the duration of the applicant’s stay at the company can determine if he/she will stay long when hired.Supervisor - A supervisor can act as a referee for you to ask for a reference.Responsibilities - The applicant is required to fill out their responsibilities and duties in their previous workplace. This gives you a brief idea of their capabilities.Reason for leaving - Some applicants left their previous workplace for growth, and some left due to personal reasons. It is best if you get hold of the reason to see if they are suitable to work with you.Permission to contact - Before making a background check, consent is needed to not overstep their privacy. Step 7: Signature StatementSignature Statement on of Job Application Form The last part of the employment application letter is the signature and statement. When the applicants sign the document, they will be responsible for all of the information given in the document. Disclaimer - One to two sentences that state the information written by the job applicant is true by all means and they will be responsible for any false information.Job applicant signature - The applicant’s full name.Signature Date - The calendar date when the applicant signed the document.Job Application Form Sample Templates Below is a template for a work application form that you can refer to when creating a suitable form for your recruiting process:Generic/Standard job application formClick the button below to download a sample standard job application form in .docx or PDF format via Cake. Download TemplateShift job application formClick the button below to download a sample shift job application form in .docx or PDF format via Cake. Download TemplateTips for Creating a Job Application Form The key to creating a great job application form is to make it fit the company’s needs while collecting all of the information needed from the candidates. 💡 Clearly know what information you need from the applicants. Before you start creating the job application form for all applicants, you should have a clear plan knowing what information you need from the applicants. This depends on the position that you are recruiting for the company because you might need to have specific questions to ask for some answers. For example, you might need a Skills section for the applicants to describe their capabilities if hired. You may scroll back up to check what type of information is usually required from the applicants. 💡 Include clear instructions. Having clear instructions in your work application form is very helpful to the applicants. During the process of applicants filling out the form, they can complete it according to the instructions, reducing the errors and mistakes in the form. You can also include a note about the consequences of not completing the work application form, and what to write when there is nothing to fill in the blanks. 💡 Keep your job application form detailed but simple. A job application form has many empty blanks that need to be filled in by the applicant. If you created a very detailed but messy one, it would be very confusing for the applicants when they are filling them out. You will too have a hard time looking into it and comparing side by side. Therefore, after completing the form-creating process, take some time and review the whole document once or twice before putting it into use. Conclusion You have reached the final part of this article. Let us take a look at some key takeaways that you should keep in mind when creating a job application form for your company’s recruitment. Using a work application form is an efficient way to speed up the recruitment process. You can also compare them side-by-side easier and find out the better candidate faster.If you are hiring through job hunting websites, having the applicants fill out the job application form is a good way to collect the information that you need.An employment application form consists of instructions, personal information, position information, qualification, work history, references, and a signature.Before creating one, you need to know what information you want to collect from the applicants.Keeping the form detailed and simple is very important to not confuse the applicants.Want to recruit gems from your talent pool? Follow our blog to read more about hiring tips, resources, and tutorials, or simply use our Recruitment Service to acquire talents from all industries. — Originally written by Ryan Goh —

Created by CakeIn this article, we’ll cover: Who to Ask for a Job ReferralHow to Ask for a Job ReferralTips for Asking for a ReferralHow to Ask for Referrals: ExamplesNeed a final push to land your dream job? Getting referrals might just be the push you need. Job referral is when someone you know helps you get a job by putting in a good word for you with their employer, or by passing your resume along to the hiring manager. Referrals can come from people you know personally, like a family member or friend, or from professional contacts on LinkedIn, like a former boss or co-worker. There are a few benefits of getting a job referral. Referrals can help you get your foot in the door of a company that might be harder to break into otherwise. When a hiring manager receives a resume from an employee in the company, they're more likely to take a look at it because someone they trust has already vouch for you. Referrals can also help speed up the interview process because the hiring manager will already have some information about you from the person who referred you. Sounds great so far, right? In this article, we'll give you some tips and advice on how to ask for a job referral.Who to Ask for a Job ReferralThere are several places that you can turn to when you're looking for a job referral. Here are some people to consider reaching out to: 💡 Your network First, take a look at your network. Identify people who might be able to help you with a referral and reach out to them. This could be close friends, former colleagues, professors, or even family members. Let them know you're looking for a new opportunity and see if they have any refer you. 💡 Career center/alumni office If you're a student or recent graduate, your career center or alumni office can be a great resource. These offices typically keep in touch with alumni and may be able to connect you with someone who works at your dream company. Having the connections can make all the difference when asking for referrals for work. They may also be able to offer you tips on how to ask for job referrals. 💡 LinkedIn LinkedIn is a great platform for networking and connecting with potential employers. You can use LinkedIn's search function to find people who work at your dream company and reach out to them for referrals. After you've identified some potential people to ask for a referral, it's time to reach out. In the next section, we'll walk you through the steps of how to ask for a job referral. How to Ask for a Job ReferralWhen you contact someone about the possibility of a referral, make sure to explain why you're interested in the company and how you think you would be a good fit for the position. Here are 3 key steps to take when asking for a job referral: ✅ Ask in writing. The first step is to determine how you are going to connect with the person. For professional job referrals, the most common ways are reaching out by email or LinkedIn messages, although if you have a closer relationship with the person, you could also do it over a phone call. Email When sending an email asking for a job referral, make sure to keep it short and to the point. Start by introducing yourself and explain how you know the person. If you're reaching out to a person whom you do not have a personal relationship with, it is best if you can start with a polite and genuine greeting or a compliment. If you know the person to some degree, you might want to catch up with them before asking for the referral. Then, let them know you're interested in working at XYZ company and ask if they would be willing to provide a referral. Thank them in advance for their time and let them know how much you appreciate their help. LinkedIn message When sending a LinkedIn message for a job referral request, you can use a similar format as your email. Start by introducing yourself and explain how you know the person. If you have a mutual connection, you can mention that as well. If you don't know the person well, start by reading their LinkedIn profile and establishing a relationship before directly asking for a job referral. This could involve meeting for coffee, sending them an article you think they would enjoy, or connecting with them on a professional level. Once you've established a rapport, you can move on to asking for the referral. You could let them know you're interested in working at XYZ company and see if they would be able to provide a referral. ✅ Offer your credentials. When asking for a referral, it's important to offer your credentials and explain why you would be a good fit for the position in your LinkedIn message or email. This is your chance to sell yourself and stand out from the other candidates. Let them know about your skills, experience, and qualifications that make you the perfect candidate for the job. If you have any relevant work samples or projects, make sure to include them as well. The more specific you can be, the better. This will give the person a better idea of how they can help you and what kind of referral they can provide. ✅ Express gratitude. Asking for a job referral can be a huge favor to ask. This is why it is crucial to express your gratitude for their time and help, no matter the outcome. Thank them again for considering you and let them know how much you appreciate their referral. You could also offer to return the favor in the future or keep them updated on your job search progress. This will show that you're thoughtful and grateful, and will more likely establish a long-term relationship that lasts. These are just a few tips on how to ask for a job referral. By following these steps, you'll be able to reach out to potential employers and increase your chances of getting hired. Tips for Asking for a ReferralNow that you have an idea of how to ask for a referral, here are a few additional tips to keep in mind: 💭 Be prepared for refusal. If you're asking for a referral for work for the first time, it is important to keep in mind that not everyone you ask will be able to or willing to provide a referral. It's important to be prepared for this possibility and have a backup plan. Don't take it personally if you don’t get the job referral and don't get discouraged. There could be many reasons why they said no, such as not knowing anyone at the company or not being familiar with your work. 💭 Consider your relationship. When reaching out to someone for a referral, it's important to consider your relationship with the person. If you have a close personal relationship with them, they will be more likely to say yes. On the other hand, if you're not as close or if you don't know them that well, they might not feel comfortable providing a referral. In this case, it's important to build a rapport before asking for the referral. It is also important to want to build real relationships with the person you're asking, not just use them for their contacts. People know when they're being used, so be genuine. 💭 Find out if the company has a referral program. Many companies have referral programs in place that offer financial incentives for employees who refer candidates that end up getting hired. If the company you're interested in working for has a referral program, make sure to mention this to the person you're asking for a referral. This could make them more inclined to say yes, as they would also be benefiting from your success. By following these tips, you'll be on your way to asking for referrals like a pro. Just remember to be prepared, genuine, and considerate, and you'll be sure to get the referral you need. How to Ask for Referrals: ExamplesIf you're still unsure of how to ask for a referral, here are a few examples of how you can put these tips into practice. We’ve also included sample messages that you can use in your referral request email or LinkedIn message.✉️ Formal request for referral example Dear Mr. Smith, I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to ask if you would be willing to provide me with a referral for the job I am applying for at Carvana Inc, which you worked for a couple of years ago. I have been a close friend of your son for many years and he has spoken highly of your work ethic and character. I believe that with your help, I have a strong chance of getting the job. During my career, I have successfully completed XYZ project and ABC task, which I believe makes me a perfect candidate for the job. If you have the time, I would be more than happy to talk about more details with you over coffee or send you additional information about myself or the job opening. I would be very grateful if you could provide me with a referral and I would be happy to return the favor in the future. I understand if you're unable to help or if you don't know anyone at the company, and I thank you for taking the time to read this email. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,Kevin Freishmen ✉️ Informal request for referral example Hi Jane, I hope you're doing well! I am currently searching for a job and was wondering if you would be able to provide me with a referral for the open position of a project coordinator at PCGA company. I have been following your career journey and I am very impressed by your work. As a senior designer at the company, I believe your referral would hold a lot of weight and increase my chances of getting the job. I am confident that I have the skills and experience required for the job, as well as the drive to succeed. I'm attaching my resume and the job listing to this email for your reference. It would mean a lot to me if you could provide me with a referral and I would be happy to do the same for you in the future. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this email and I look forward to hearing from you soon. I'll be in town next Wednesday, if you're free let's grab coffee at that place we love on Main Street? Best,Emily ✉️ LinkedIn message request for referral example Hi John, My name is Justin and I am a recent graduate of XYZ University. I saw on LinkedIn that you are currently working as a software engineer at ABC Corporation. I have been following you on LinkedIn for a while and I am very impressed by your work. I am currently looking for a job and was wondering if you would be able to connect me with someone at ABC Corporation or provide me with a referral for the open position of a software engineer. As the winner of the XYZ University coding competition for 2 consecutive years, I believe that I have the skills and experience required for the job. I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to the team and I am eager to put my skills to use. I'm attaching my resume and the job listing to this email for your reference. It would mean a lot to me if you could provide me with a job referral or any feedback as a renowned professional in the field. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best,Justin Shaw 🔑 Key Takeaway:By now you should have the confidence to nail that referral request email! In this article, we've provided an overview of who to ask for a job referral, how to ask for a job referral, as well as useful tips and examples. If you do it right and with the right heart, there is no shame in asking for referrals. It may be the key to help you land your dream job!We hope this article has helped give you some clarity and confidence in how to request a referral. Good luck!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 Candy Ho ---

How to Draft an Employment Verification LetterEmployment verification letters are drafted for incoming, current, and former employees to indicate their past, present, or current employment at a company. Typically, employment verification letters are requested by financial institutions, government departments, or landlords to prove an individual’s employment status for tax or security purposes. Employment verification letters are used in many situations; whether it be for proving work experience for a new job or getting approval on a loan, a letter showing proof of work is, in many cases, a mandatory part of an application package. This article will discuss the contents of an employment verification letter and will take a deep dive into different samples and templates to satisfy all employment verification request needs!Table of Contents:What to Include in an Employment Verification Letter?Employment Verification Letter Template4 Tips for Writing an Employment Verification LetterEmployment Verification Letter SampleHow to Create an Employment Verification Request Procedure?How to Request an Employment Verification Letter? What to Include in an Employment Verification Letter? Here are the primary section that must be included in an employment verification letter: Employer name contact details: An employment verification letter should always include the name of the employer and company, as well as the contact information that they can be reached byEmployee’s job title or position: The employment verification letter should indicate the employee’s current/past job title to validate their position in the company.Employment dates: Ensure that the employment verification letter expressly states the dates of employment that the employee was with the company for.Employee’s job description: For the sake of transparency, indicate the employee’s duties at your company in their employment verification letter. This information may be used by future employers to gauge the employee’s skill level, so it is a useful addition to the letter!Employee’s pay/salary: Indicating the employee’s salary on their employment verification letter is important. In particular, if the employee is planning on using this letter at a financial institution, having salary information on the employment verification letter is crucial for their internal processes.Employee’s employment status: Don’t forget to include the employee’s employment status on their employment verification letter. Employment categories that an employee may fall under are full-time, part-time, contract, or internship. 💡Pro Tip: for current employees, the employment verification letter should indicate the employee’s present employment (e.g. 2 November 2017 - Present). Similarly, employment verification letters for past employees should clearly state the date they left the company, so as to avoid confusion further down the line. Employment Verification Letter Template In this section, we will provide employment verification letter templates that contain the general format used in employment verification letters for current employees and proof of work letters for past employees. For current employee Employers name:Company address:Date: To Whom It May Concern: This letter was written at the request of [name of employee]. [Name of employee] was previously in [company name]’s employment between the dates of the [start date] and [end date]. [Name of employee] operated in a [employment status] in the [job title] and held the responsibilities of [list the job responsibilities of the employee]. [Name of employee]’s financial compensation, at the time of their departure from our company, stood at [salary amount], which was paid on a [payment interval] basis. If further documentation or clarifications are required, we can be contacted during regular office hours via our email, [email]. Sincerely,[Signature][Full name][Job title] For past employee Employers name:Company address:Date: To Whom It May Concern: This letter was written at the request of [name of employee]. [Name of employee] was previously in [company name]’s employment between the dates of the [start date] and [end date]. [Name of employee] operated in a [employment status] in the [job title] and held the responsibilities of [list the job responsibilities of the employee]. [Name of employee]’s financial compensation, at the time of their departure from our company, stood at [salary amount], which was paid on a [payment interval] basis. If further documentation or clarifications are required, we can be contacted during regular office hours via our email, [email]. Sincerely,[Signature][Full name][Job title] 4 Tips for Writing an Employment Verification Letter Here are some key tips and tricks for writing an employment verification letter: 1. Know what information needs to be included in the letter Understanding the information that belongs in an employment verification letter is key to ensuring that your past (or current) employee has all the information they need to take the letter to where they need to go! 2. Make sure the information included is not confidential. Private and confidential information about the company should not be included in an employment verification letter. Remember that employment verification letters simply act as a medium to relay extremely specific information and extraneous information should be left out. 3. Keep it brief Keep the employment verification letter short and straight to the point. Avoid including information that is not directly pertinent to the information necessary to be included in an employment verification letter. 4. Personalize the letter by adding your company letterhead Provide authenticity to the employment verification letter by including the company letterhead. This shows the reader that the letter is not falsified.Employment Verification Letter Sample Now, using the same template we have provided, here is an employment verification letter sample that can be used as a reference point for employers seeking to write their own.Employment Verification LetterSample How to Create an Employment Verification Request Procedure? There are many benefits associated with having a set procedure for requesting an employment verification letter. Benefits include employees coming more prepared with the necessary documents, a deadline expectation that encourages a quick turnover rate, and a smooth chain of command that can be followed to eliminate confusion and inefficiency when processing employment verification letter requests. Here are the things to consider when developing the procedure for requesting an employment verification letter: Request submission document processing timeline Establish a clear timeline starting from the time the employment verification letter request is filed to the time when the completed letter can be picked up. This ensures that employees are aware of how much time in advance they need to submit their information to receive a letter on time. Method of request (through email, etc.) Clearly state how the request for an employment verification letter should be filed. Requests via email are popular right now, but this largely depends on the size of the company and the system that is already in place. What data should be provided by the requesting employee Finally, specify the exact data that is needed to be submitted alongside the employment verification letter request. This ensures that every request will be accompanied by the information necessary to fully complete the employment verification letter to the standard that is expected by the employee.How to Request an Employment Verification Letter? Employees should be equally aware of the process involved in requesting an employment verification letter. Here are some things that an employee should consider when submitting a request. Know follow the procedure Understand the procedure involved in requesting an employment verification letter. Things take time in a company, and an employment verification letter request, while simple, could take a while. This is why companies generally have a policy surrounding these forms of requests; consult your employee handbook or ask around to see how much time in advance you submit your request before you can expect a response. Be polite don’t rush them Be considerate of your colleagues when applying for an employment verification letter. Everyone is busy, and rushing people ironically, just makes them slower. Employees should remain patient and never rush anyone when asking for their letter. Provide all the necessary information to be included in the letter Being aware of the procedure involved in requesting an employment verification letter comes with being cognizant of the supplementary documents needed to complete the letter request expediently. These documents will vary on the company, so knowing which ones are needed is important! To demonstrate how to ask for an employment verification letter, here is an example of a typical email sent to request one. How to Ask For An Employment Verification Letter Conclusion Writing an employment verification letter is a simple and necessary process to undertake as an employer. When writing, ensure that all the necessary information is included in a concise and clear manner so as to avoid any confusion on the reader’s part. Cake is the best free resume builder that allows users to create professional online resumes and portfolios. With its user-friendly interface, the solution enables users to easily customize their resumes using a drag-and-drop editor and various free resume templates. The platform is suitable for people of different backgrounds and levels of experience, from fresh graduates to experienced professionals.Create Resume --- Originally written by Alexander Coye ---