CV & Cover Letter Guide

10 Types of CVs

1. Chronological CV
   Lists work history in reverse date order—ideal for steady career progression.
2. Functional CV
   Focuses on skills and achievements rather than dates—great for career changers.
3. Combination CV
   Merges skills-based and chronological formats—best when strong skills & consistent experience.
4. Targeted CV
   Tailored exactly to a specific role—highlights only the most relevant skills and experience.
5. CV for Academia (Academic CV)
   Detailed list of publications, research, teaching—used for academic/research positions.
6. Creative CV
   Incorporates infographics or unique layouts—suitable for designers, marketers, artists.
7. Technical CV
   Emphasizes technical proficiencies, projects and certifications—used in IT and engineering.
8. Mini CV
   1-page snapshot of key qualifications—often used as a networking leave-behind.
9. Federal Government CV
   Conforms to USAJOBS KSAs and strict formatting—required for U.S. federal roles.
10. International CV
    Adapts to country-specific norms—e.g. adding photo or nationality section in Europe.

10 Types of Cover Letters

1. Application Cover Letter
   Standard letter sending in response to a advertised vacancy—matches your skills to the role.
2. Prospecting Cover Letter
   Sent to companies of interest—even if no vacancy advertised—expresses enthusiasm to work there.
3. Referral Cover Letter
   Mentions a mutual contact or employee—leverages network to get noticed.
4. Networking Cover Letter
   Asks for informational interview or advice—focus on building connections.
5. Value Proposition Letter
   Emphasizes 2–3 top achievements up front—demonstrates your ROI to the employer.
6. Email Cover Letter
   Short, plain-text email version—designed for quick screening by recruiters.
7. Letter of Interest
   Opens dialogue about upcoming roles or projects—expresses long-term interest.
8. Career Change Cover Letter
   Notes transferable skills and reasons for pivot—addresses lack of direct experience.
9. Entry-Level Cover Letter
   Focuses on coursework, internships, volunteer work—compensates for limited work history.
10. Executive Cover Letter
    High-level summary of leadership impact—concise, strategic and achievement-driven.

How to Write Them

Each CV & Cover Letter should include:

• Your contact info in header
• Tailored summary/objective
• Keywords from job description
• Strong action verbs & metrics
• Clean, consistent formatting
• Proofread—zero typos

For cover letters, follow the classic 3-paragraph structure:

1. Intro: Why you and why them
2. Body: 2–3 achievements to prove fit
3. Close: Call to action & gratitude