Phase One: Analyzing Cover Letters and Giving (Critical and Generous) Feedback

Reading Task 1:  Mine for Content and Test its Persuasiveness

•  1. First impressions are grammar mistakes, no redundancy (great), needs to address a specific person/company.
•  Key words we noted are" reliability, team member, intrapersonal, motivated."

• 2. Why do you want to work for me instead of someone else?
• Make sure you answer this question. What qualities does this company have over all the others you could apply for? How are you more qualified for this job than others?
  
• How will you contribute to my organization's success?
• Connect what your strengths are at McDonald's to the job you want. How will your skills at McDonald's contribute? 
• Will you work well with my other employees and the persons with whom we do business?
• You state you work independently and as a team member and you're intrapersonal. 

               i. You did convey enthusiasm and clearly stated you want to work for them, but your experiences/credentials don't have a strong impact when reading it.

                  Include more experience or how your education and classes specifically relate to the job.

               ii. We don't learn much about the company from the resume. Include the name, not just the way you found it on Blackboard.

• 3.        Identifies the job you want. 
  
• No. Be sure to name the specific company.
  
• Demonstrates your knowledge of the employer's company or organization.
• Do some more research on the job itself. Find the credentials needed to apply, and include how you can fulfill them.
  
• Explains why you have chosen to apply to this employer.
• You do seem enthusiastic, but include why you want to work at this company (what you'll bring to the company, how you'll contribute, etc.) 
  
• Explains how your qualifications enable you to contribute to the employer's success.
• You stated your qualifications, but connect how your experience/education will aid the business in progressing.
  
• Indicates the next step you will take.
• You mention when you'll graduate, but instead of mentioning your resume and saying it's including, perhaps include and expand on another aspect of your experience. This will also lengthen the letter.

Reading Task 2: Editing for Style, Concision and Mechanics

• 1. Double check the mechanics/grammar, mainly in the first and second paragraph. You used concise sentences and active voice.

Phase Two: Reading and Critiquing Resumes 

Reading Task 1: Scan the Resume

1. Key words we found were "responsible, hard-working, determined", but these are qualities most people possess. Include more unique characteristics that will make you stand out. Include qualities that answer the three types of abilities.

2.  i. This looks like an experience resume

     ii. The headings are effective, the content itself needs refining.

     iii. There's more skills/education.

     iiii. The analysis was sufficient, just apply what you said in your analysis to your resume.

Reading Task 2:  Critique Key Sections

1. Include specific courses in education (two if possible) or relevant projects. There were major formatting issues. Education is minimal, apply tips 1-4.

2. Review tips 1-3. Include more specific experiences, accomplishments, responsibilities, etc.

Reading Task 3:  Editing for Organization, Style and Ethics

1. Look into formatting for resumes and clean up the look of the resume. Once the format is done, include more information about the points given above.

Phase Three: User Test and Design Critique of Professional Websites

1. Initial thoughts: Include more information to fill out the white space. Include pictures or data.

2. Easy navigation. It's not visually appealing, add color or pictures.