Resume Tips for GSS Students

Learn helpful resume writing tips and review resume and cover letter samples to better prepare you for your job search.

Social Work Keywords

Carefully reviewing the job description is the best way to determine the keywords to include in your resume that will capture the attention of the screening person or program. However, there are some buzzwords associated with social work that show up repeatedly in social work job descriptions and are thus fairly likely to get the results you want. Some of those words are: advocacy, outreach, fundraising, program development, treatment, diagnosis, counselor, and case manager.

Action Verbs for Resumes

A list of action verbs can be found on Handshake under the "Resources" tab. All GSS students and alumni have access to a Handshake account.

Resume

The purpose of a resume is to convince an employer to interview you. Your resume should be geared toward your audience and describe the skills, experiences, and accomplishments you bring to the workplace. Sample resume templates can be found on Handshake under the "Resources" tab. All GSS students and alumni have access to a Handshake account.

Cover Letter

A cover letter typically accompanies each resume you send out and should be personalized and complement – not duplicate – your resume. Your cover letter may make the difference between obtaining a job interview and having your resume ignored, so it makes good sense to devote the necessary time and effort to writing effective cover letters. Sample cover letters can be found on Handshake under the "Resources" tab. All GSS students and alumni have access to a Handshake account.