Hm.. Normally I dont put my desired position (position that I am applying) in my resume, I normally put that in my cover letter and the email subject title. But different industry may have different practice, so I could be wrong.

"Properly write a resume"? Well there is no "exact way" to write your resume... You should probably narrow your search to the respective industry like "resume for engineers" etc. First you get a template then slowly work to fine tune it.

erm guy, can i have some guide on how to ask for any job position available in a company??? It didn't post it on their website, but one of my friend said they are hiring. so any way to wring this??
erm i would like to attach my resume 2gether too.

nvr write in this kind of letter before >"<

Hi guys. First of all, I want to be frank to everybody that I'm quite frustrated now. The reason is that, I've finished my study in January 2010 and until today, I have made a total of 173 job application but only on three occasions in which I've been called for interview and I failed all of it. I don't want to point fingers to other people for my failure. That is why I want to show to all of you my cover letter as well as the script for 'Tell Me About Yourself' question. If anybody would like to see my resume for C&C, do PM me your email and I'll send it to you.

COVER LETTER

My name
Address Line 1
Address Line 2
Address Line 3
Address Line 4

30th APRIL 2010

To Whom It May Concern:

Dear Sirs

APPLICATION FOR XXXXX POST.

I am pleased to submit my application for XXXXX post available
in your company.

I graduated from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia in Bachelor of
Engineering (Chemical). I have also successfully completed a short
course on Occupational Safety and Health in Universiti Tun Hussein Onn
Malaysia. For your information, this course is certified by National
Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) of Malaysia as
well as Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) of
Malaysia and will enable me to get the Green Book. During my
internship program (May to July 2008), I was attached to Polycore
Optical (M) Sdn. Bhd. as a trainee in Engineering Department. I gained
valuable experience in making an evaluation and assessment of
compressed air system to seek energy saving opportunities. I was also
a Trainee in HSE Department of Carigali-PTTEPI Operating Company
(CPOC) from October 2009 until January 2010. I have passed all four
papers of the NIOSH Safety and Health Officer Examination with flying
colours.

I enclosed herewith my resume for your reference. I believe my
education background and experience will help me contribute positively
to your organisation. Above all, I like responsibility, enjoy the
challenge of new situation, and derive much pleasure from improving my
abilities and from helping others to improve theirs.

Therefore, I truly hope that you would consider my application.

I look forward to meeting with you to discuss the position further and
would be grateful to attend an interview at your convenience.

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours faithfully,

My Name
Phone No. : 01x-xxxxxxx


'TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF QUESTION'

Hi. My name is xxxx. I'm 24 years old and I'm from xxxx. I have a Degree in Chemical Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and an Executive Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn. Recently, I've completed my internship program with Carigali-PTTEPI Operating Company as a Trainee in HSE Department. At that time, my main task is to do HIRARC on the Erection of MUDA Production Platform as well as assisting their HSE personnel in daily HSE matters. Moving few years back which is during my degree, I've completed my industrial training with Polycore Optical (M) Sdn Bhd as a Trainee in Engineering Department. At this time, my main task is to analyse the company's compressed air system to seek energy saving opportunities. Regarding my self, I'm a guy who loves working in a group. I always believe that we can achieve a greater success by working in a group. When working in a group, I see my self as a good leader as well as a valuable team member. This is because I'm committed to the task that had been assigned to me. Furthermore, I have the will to support and motivate my team member so that they will not left behind. I also believe that I'm an energetic and enthusiastic person in getting the best result from my work. Last but not least, I also willing to shoulder responsibilities because this will always kept me on my toes. -END-


* I hope this will be the step that can improve my chance to get employed.
* Many may questioned why I failed my interview sessions. I'm fully prepared for it and the thing that always let me down is on years of experience. I have none and when the interviewer asked me about this, I confessed but I've assured him/her that I'm willing to learn. But still, I failed it...

I may be out of touch, but what & where is this ''Universiti Teknologi Malaysia''?

And you know the stuff about grammar, well... it is important.

The reason why you only got 3 callbacks from 173 applications is that there will always be someone from a more well known university, and who can be bothered about ensuring his letter doesn't have grammatical errors in practically every other sentence.

This post has been edited by seantang: May 5 2010, 08:32 AM

I am pleased to submit my application for XXXXX post available
in your company.

I graduated from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia with Bachelor of
Engineering (Chemical). I have also successfully completed a short
course in Occupational Safety and Health by Universiti Tun Hussein Onn
Malaysia. This course is certified by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) as
well as the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) of
Malaysia and enables me to get the Green Book.

During my internship program, I was attached to Polycore
Optical (M) Sdn. Bhd. as a trainee in its Engineering Department. I gained
valuable experience in making evaluations and assessments of
compressed air systems while exploring energy saving opportunities. I was also
a Trainee with the HSE Department of Carigali-PTTEPI Operating Company
(CPOC).

I enclose my resume for your reference. I believe my
academic qualifications and enthusiasm can contribute positively
to your organisation. Above all, I am a responsible person that enjoy challenges. I continuously look to improve myself
and value teamwork.

I look forward to an opportunity to further discuss my candidacy with you

**********

as you are a fresh graduate, refrain yourself from mentioning any experiences you may have as your
experiences are limited compared to others who have worked full time for a couple of years.

When hiring freash grad, I normally look for positive energy (i.e. enthusiasm, determination etc) and suitable academic qualifications.
You should focus on these two areas in your cover letter and resume.

Best of luck to you.

i think you should also be focusing on the reason why u failed all the 3 interviews..
one more thing how's your CGPA? what kind of job are u looking for?

normally you should be able to secure job within 3months after graduation..if not there maybe something wrong with your method of application

Also, when telling the interviewer about yourself, try to relate your academic qualifications, positive attitude and whatever limited relevant experience you may have to the job you are applying.

Don't dwell on past successess ... give the interviewer a clear vision of how you will succeed in the future at the job you are applying.

1. Beside sharing which company you did your internship at, briefly explain what roles did you responsible at.

2. If necessary, get your lecturers who know you or formal supervisors to write you referee letters.

3. TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF
- Tell the reasons why do you think this post suit you
- What's your aim in life, what kind of profession you are aiming for.
- Delete the informal opening paragraph "Hi, I'm XXX, degree from XXX University". Make everything straight to the point. Employers want to see your enthusiasm and "hunger" in pursuing your career.

"About Myself" seemed to project that you are a confident guy. I guess what went wrong was your delivery and body language. They must have painted a contradiction to what you say you are.

did you miss the last month Jobstreet MCTF

many of my friends already got called for interview
i think u should try various approach and not too choosy
just pick whichever opportunity that come 1st

dynames07,

You had said ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.

<< Hi. My name is xxxx. I'm 24 years old and I'm from xxxx. I have a Degree in Chemical Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and an Executive Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn.>>

Nothing to tell me as an interviewer about YOUR CAPABILITY to do the job. Zero.

<< Recently, I've completed my internship program with Carigali-PTTEPI Operating Company as a Trainee in HSE Department. At that time, my main task is to do HIRARC on the Erection of MUDA Production Platform as well as assisting their HSE personnel in daily HSE matters.>>

Nothing AGAIN. What YOU actually DO and LEARN?? There is NOTHING SPECIFIC here. Assisting could mean that you help people carrying boxes or order BREAKFAST.

<< Moving few years back which is during my degree, I've completed my industrial training with Polycore Optical (M) Sdn Bhd as a Trainee in Engineering Department. At this time, my main task is to analyse the company's compressed air system to seek energy saving opportunities.>>

Nothing AGAIN. So what is the OUTCOME of your analysis??

<< Regarding my self, I'm a guy who loves working in a group. I always believe that we can achieve a greater success by working in a group. When working in a group, I see my self as a good leader as well as a valuable team member. This is because I'm committed to the task that had been assigned to me. Furthermore, I have the will to support and motivate my team member so that they will not left behind. I also believe that I'm an energetic and enthusiastic person in getting the best result from my work. Last but not least, I also willing to shoulder responsibilities because this will always kept me on my toes. -END->>

You should be a POLITICIAN instead of Engineer. That is a LOAD of BS.

You have NOTHING specific to indicate you are either a good leader or good team member.

Why SHOULD I care as the interviewer about YOUR OPINION of yourself??

By this time, you have WASTED 5 minutes of my life and I am ready to REJECT you.

As an interviewer

1) I DO NOT CARE about YOU.

2) I DO NOT CARE about what YOU think about YOURSELF.

3) I DO NOT WANT to hear what YOU think so great about YOURSELF.

It is VERY SIMPLE

A) What can YOU do for ME??

B) Show ME that YOU can do the JOB..

C) Show ME that YOU know what the JOB is about.

D) Show ME that YOU do YOUR HOMEWORK and research about THE JOB before your interview.

E) Show ME that YOU are willing to LISTEN and TELL me how you can do the JOB.

Dreamer

This post has been edited by dreamer101: May 5 2010, 09:30 AM

But that does not explain on why only three companies invited him to an interview.

Night,
I assume "About Myself" was a favourite interview question. I did not know it is part and parcel of a resume letter.

I graduated from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia in Bachelor of
Engineering (Chemical). I have also successfully completed a short
course on Occupational Safety and Health in Universiti Tun Hussein Onn
Malaysia. For your information, this course is certified by National
Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) of Malaysia as
well as Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) of
Malaysia and will enable me to get the Green Book. During my
internship program (May to July 2008), I was attached to Polycore
Optical (M) Sdn. Bhd. as a trainee in Engineering Department. I gained
valuable experience in making an evaluation and assessment of
compressed air system to seek energy saving opportunities. I was also
a Trainee in HSE Department of Carigali-PTTEPI Operating Company
(CPOC) from October 2009 until January 2010. I have passed all four
papers of the NIOSH Safety and Health Officer Examination with flying
colours.


shorten this paragraph, its too long.
Cut it to your most awesome accomplishment, and hit on that.
Start a little on your interest, as in what you want to do and what benefits you can give a company.


Hi. My name is xxxx. I'm 24 years old and I'm from xxxx. I have a Degree in Chemical Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and an Executive Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn. Recently, I've completed my internship program with Carigali-PTTEPI Operating Company as a Trainee in HSE Department. At that time, my main task is to do HIRARC on the Erection of MUDA Production Platform as well as assisting their HSE personnel in daily HSE matters. Moving few years back which is during my degree, I've completed my industrial training with Polycore Optical (M) Sdn Bhd as a Trainee in Engineering Department. At this time, my main task is to analyse the company's compressed air system to seek energy saving opportunities. Regarding my self, I'm a guy who loves working in a group. I always believe that we can achieve a greater success by working in a group. When working in a group, I see my self as a good leader as well as a valuable team member. This is because I'm committed to the task that had been assigned to me. Furthermore, I have the will to support and motivate my team member so that they will not left behind. I also believe that I'm an energetic and enthusiastic person in getting the best result from my work. Last but not least, I also willing to shoulder responsibilities because this will always kept me on my toes. -END-

Also way too much on your accomplishments, focus on your best not all.
Just say "As for my accomplishments, you can refer to my resume/cv", and start on your interest, and briefly describe what you do, and very brief on what you want to do.
btw keep it short and simple, mention your best traits like responsible for any task at hand, and simplify yourself "being an excellent team player in any given environment" instead on the 2 lines you wrote on how well you work/lead a team.

If you can talk to them, ask the interviewer what the position you applied for requires you to do, and next tell them whether you can do the job or not.
Even if you can 100% do the job like they want, show some enthusiasm and reply with something positive like "Awesome, i can do that, it's quite similar to what i do".

Also dress smart, smile, be energetic, appear confident, don't hunch, stand straight, and don't frown in interviews.
And i can tell you, if you can don't just send your resume/cv to them alone, employers will always compare you to another better guy.
I once got dished because i asked for RM200 more than another dude, so aim to talking or meeting them and try to suave them by being friendly and making a good positive impression on them.

This post has been edited by VinluV: May 5 2010, 10:12 AM

UTM is quite a reputable public university in Malaysia, has a good record when it comes to engineering. My cousin was a graduate from UTM and is earning big bucks now.

Back to TS' query... Looked through the cover letter, as others have already mentioned, there are a bit of grammatical errors here and there but should be acceptable.
TS, are you being choosy here? 3 callbacks from 173 applications is kinda poor. I mean pardon me for being so upfront to you, but I would really want to know what types of positions you are looking for? Is your expected salary is way too high than the market price?

You should choose those with descriptions that "Fresh grad is encouraged to apply", it could generate you higher chance compared to those positions which need years of experience.

OK, your cover letter again... Many organisations prefer their employees to work independently.... I mean it is good to show them you have good leadership skill but you must remember that you are looking for a junior position which you need plenty of assistance and guidance from the seniors. So, it doesn't sound right for you to showcase your leadership skill at the moment. You should emphasise that you are a keen learner and etc.

This post has been edited by fruitie: May 5 2010, 10:17 AM

TS, you are mixing up the concept of a curricullum vitae (CV) & Cover letter.

There is no need to mention your credentials(UTM, NIOSH) in a cover letter, that should be in your CV.

A cover letter should be how you fit in the applied post and how you can contribute. You can make a referal to your CV in the cover letter.

This post has been edited by beatlesalbum: May 5 2010, 10:39 AM

nobody gonna read the long winded letter. Go straight to the point

Do away with this first sentence:
"I am pleased to submit my application for XXXXX post available
in your company."
Just a simple opener "I'm interested in the XXX post that was advertised".
Or if it's not advertised and it's a write in, then "I'm interested in XXX post in your company and would like to apply if there's an opening."

Then try to put everything short but concise sentence that makes the "punch". In modern world, it's more easier to read instead of long windingparagraphs.
EG:"I graduated from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia in Bachelor of
Engineering (Chemical). I have also successfully completed a short
course on Occupational Safety and Health in Universiti Tun Hussein Onn
Malaysia. For your information, this course is certified by National
Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) of Malaysia as
well as Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) of
Malaysia and will enable me to get the Green Book."
I graduated from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia in Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical) and successfully completed a short course on Occupational Safety and Health in Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia; certified by National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)and Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).

It's sort of insulting and undermining the employer by putting this "For your information".

And on the internship part, you may put it in bullet points on what you've accomplished instead of the long winding paragraphs that I advised earlier. It's easier to read.

The "TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF QUESTION" is unnecessary and should be integrated back to your contents of your cover letter. And again, precise and short. Maybe presented in bullet points.


p/s: after this topic had reached a certain amount of quality inputs; I shall merged it back to the existing pinned topic for easier one point reference.
http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/59159

This post has been edited by b00n: May 5 2010, 02:14 PM

Wow thanks for all the input guys.

@seantang: I know a little bit about grammar and my cover letter as well as the resume have been reviewed by my UTM lecturer several time. My point in putting my cover letter here is to seek help from LYN forumer in correcting the mistakes.

@ampangdude: Many thanks for correcting all the grammatical errors in my cover letter. I really really appreciate it.

@ freedom2912 & fruitie: My CGPA for my degree is 3.0 and I passed my executive diploma with non-gradable system. I'm looking for a job in the Health and Safety field because my chemical engineering is not that strong. The position I'm craving is like Assistant Health and Safety Officer, Junior HSE Engineer etc because I still doesn't have the Green Book to be a full fledged Safety and Health Officer. I want to be an assistant so that I can do work and learn from it.

@dreamer101: I admit, before this I thought my answer for this question is good. But, thanks to you for pointing out the obvious thing that I've missed. I'll try to improvise this area with depth so that it will becomoe even better. Thanks dude.

@VinluV & b00n: Thanks for suggesting ways for me to improve the area. I'll surely have a deep look into it.

Thanks for everybody that help contribute their insight regarding my cover letter and tell me about yourself answer.

God bless you all ^^

i think its too long. just mentioned what position applied.

then list down important points;

1. Interest/hobbies ..
2. Bla bla

Its too long , i read the 2nd sentences, i already forgotten the 1st.