I need some help with applying for a job

[vald1977]

Hi all. I could really use some advice about getting back into the work force.

For the past 6 years I have been a SAHM. I was at my previous job since high school and it was the only one I've ever had. Therefore, I don't have much experience applying for jobs. Recently I've decided to go back to work part time and I feel really clueless.

I think I have put together a decent (albeit short) resume but do I need a cover letter? If so, what does a cover letter say? Also, I have found a position that I would like to apply for. In the ad it says you can either mail, fax, or e-mail your resume. I was thinking e-mailing would be good because it would get there fast but how exactly would I do that? Do I copy and paste the resume into the e-mail or something different? Also, would you add some type of cover letter at the beginning of the e-mail?

Sorry to ask so many probably stupid questions but this is all new to me. Thanks in advance for any help .

 

[diznygirl]

I would use the email as the cover letter, and attach the resume as a file. The cover letter should mention the reason you have been out of work so long, but only in passing, like, "before taking time off to care for my children, I was senior manager of....."

I always suggest temping to get started back after a work break. You don't have to apply, therefore you don't have to explain what you have been doing for 6 years. And temp agencies have temp-to permanent positions.

Good luck!

 

[dmslush]

Call them and ask them how they would like it emailed, in the body of the email or as an attachment.

Good Luck!

 

[Pugdog007]

Call them and ask them how they would like it emailed, in the body of the email or as an attachment.

Good Luck!

I wouldn't call to ask this. I would tailor every cover letter to the job your're applying for, and put it in the body of the email. Then attach your resume (create in Word.)

 

[vald1977]

Thanks for the help . I sent it out today and attached the resume from Word. Keeping my fingers crossed .

 

[SC Minnie]

I second looking into a temp agency. It will get your foot in the door with companies and will allow some on the job training.

 

[Texan Mouseketeer]

Thanks for the help . I sent it out today and attached the resume from Word. Keeping my fingers crossed .

I always send mine in another form in addition to email in case the company has a spam blocker or something like that. Sometimes since they haven't received an email from you before, it can be filtered out...