The moment you have been waiting for is just around the corner. Only a few dedicated months are left before all the time and money you have invested in a good college education will begin to pay off. The decision you make to either enter the workforce with an undergraduate degree or pursue an advanced degree such as a master’s or doctorate, will determine the type of document you should use to search for employment. The current job market is composed of a wide variety of generations ranging from young, high-tech, fresh-out-of-college interns, to experienced baby-boomers with new training and a wealth of knowledge. There is no denying that the competition today is fierce.

As a distance learning student, you may have gained additional skills to give you the upper hand in your job search. These skills may include knowledge about virtual collaboration tools, experience working independently, self-motivation, and time-management skills, not to mention all the computer and writing skills you have acquired. These are all qualities you can use to enhance your job search document, whether a résumé or a curriculum vitae (CV). The document that best suits the criteria will depend on your target audience. It is vital to understand what type of application the employer is seeking so read it carefully or call if you have any questions or concerns.

A résumé is a one-page document highlighting general information such as contact information, education, experience, and skills relevant to the specific job you are applying for. The type of job you are seeking will determine how you tailor your résumé. A résumé should always be accompanied by a cover letter.

A CV is a much more detailed document that provides a listing of your lifetime accomplishments. The length of your CV may be minimal when you are fresh out of college, but by the time you have reached the doctorate level, it can grow into many pages. Information commonly found on a CV includes contact information, education, experience, publications, awards, accomplishments, and professional associations. CVs should always be accompanied by a cover letter also.

Résumés and CVs are only just the beginning; there are a number of social networking tools commonly used by job recruiters and human resource departments to find the talent they need. Linkedin is one of the more popular professional networking tools available today. What’s more, it’s free. You simply sign up for an account and begin developing your own personal profile, highlighting the same information you would on your résumé or CV. Linkedin also allows you to network with others, join groups, and endorse the skill sets of others. Don’t wait until you have graduated to begin developing your résumé, CV, or Linkedin professional profile. The sooner you start, the better your chance of achieving the job of your dreams.



Distance Learning - Is it Right for You? is available in paperback and ebook at Amazon.com, or pdf version on BellaOnline eBook Store.
Libraries and Academic Institutions please visit Distance Learning Books for discounts on bulk orders.

+Patricia Pedraza-Nafziger