Preview Extract
Chapter 14
1) From a stack of 500 resumes, hiring managers might conduct a phone interview of
________ or so candidates and then interview about ________ of them.
A) 5; 2
B) 12; 6
C) 20; 15
D) 25; 12
E) 50; 50
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) Hiring managers make the distinction between ordinary and extraordinary candidates very
quickly, so it's important to have an effective resume.
2) Your ________ likely determine the first impression a company gets of you during the
hiring process.
A) personal appearance and attire
B) body language and tone of voice
C) cover letter and resume
D) transcript and GPA
E) portfolio and work samples
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) A computer program may scan your documents for key words and then human screeners
take a second look to assess the professionalism of your documents. It's important to craft
them effectively so you make the cut.
3) It is estimated that the average cost of hiring a new employee is ________.
A) $500
B) $1,000
C) $2,500
D) $4,000
E) $10,000
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) This expense includes human resources-related efforts, new-hire training, lost productivity
during a new hire's probationary period, and candidate's travel expenses.
4) During the first round of resume evaluation when a computer program scans your resume,
the most important aspect of your document ________.
A) are key words
B) is your GPA
C) is its overall look
D) is its use of active voice
E) are your margins and use of white space
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) Human resource scanners are more interested in the other choices than a computer
program, which is used to scan your document for key words related to the position.
5) Your application packet should contain all of the following EXCEPT
A) cover letter
B) resume
C) professional portfolio
D) transcript
E) letters of recommendation
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) The other choices list the items that your packet should contain.
6) A poorly formatted resume ________.
A) does not matter as long as it contains no spelling mistakes or typos
B) is only problematic in fields like graphic design
C) shows employers that you are not superficial and value substance over style
D) gives the impression that you will overlook details and take shortcuts
E) will not undermine your credibility as long as the content is strong
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) Hiring managers assume that you will approach your next position in the same way you
did your application for employment.
7) Hiring managers filter out applicants whose cover letters have misspellings ________.
A) because sloppy correspondence affects a company's credibility
B) only if they are important words related to your skills
C) numbering more than five per page
D) so that the applicant will learn a lesson
E) to avoid embarrassment on the applicant's part
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) Likewise, a poorly formatted resume creates the impression that the applicant will
overlook details and take shortcuts.
8) Which of the following is an example of an applicant quantifying his or her success?
A) I gained leadership experience as head of the ecology club.
B) My professor, whom I know is a mentor of yours, recommended that I contact you about
this position.
C) I organized the annual fundraiser, which raised over $5,000 to be donated to a local
charity.
D) Once I put my mind to something, I never give up until I achieve it.
E) My classmates all say I am likeable and easy to work with.
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) A quantitative statement states what you did and measures how well you did it.
9) Which of the following would be most relevant when tailoring your application packet for
a publishing company that is developing a line of Spanish translations?
A) I visited Spain on my last vacation.
B) I took several cooking classes in Spanish cuisine.
C) I had the highest GPA of all the students in my major.
D) I studied comparative literature and am fluent in Spanish.
E) I am a high achiever and am 100% dedicated to any endeavor I take on.
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) This is most relevant to a company embarking on a new product line of Spanish
translations.
10) Sending a resume or portfolio without a cover letter clearly communicates, ________.
A) "I really care about this job."
B) "I don't really care about this job."
C) "I want to let my credentials speak for themselves."
D) "I value the hiring manager's time too much to waste it with a cover letter reiterating
what's on my resume."
E) "I know that my resume alone is enough to convince the hiring manager that I am right for
this job."
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) Cover letters are a critical component of an application packet.
11) Jessica sees a positing for a job that she is interested in and decides to apply for it. As part
of her packet she drafts a message introducing herself to the prospective employer, trying to
pique the hiring manager's interest so he or she will review her packet. Jessica has written
a(n) ________.
A) resume
B) cover letter
C) portfolio
D) contact header
E) quantitative example
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) Cover letters are a critical component of an application packet. Not only do they introduce
the job applicant to a prospective employer, they also grab attention.
12) All of the following are true about a cover letter EXCEPT
A) it is a savvy touch, but not a required component of an application packet
B) it introduces a job applicant to a prospective employer
C) it showcases the applicant's writing skills
D) it should allude to the job posting it is in reference to
E) it should grab the hiring manager's attention
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) Cover letters are a critical component of an application packet. Not only do they introduce
the job applicant to a prospective employer, they also grab attention, showcase the applicant's
writing talent,
13) Using the same terminology in your cover letter that you saw in the job posting
________.
A) is considered plagiarism
B) will give the impression that you are lazy and take shortcuts
C) is a good way to get a hiring manager's attention
D) will guarantee that you get an interview
E) shows that you don't really care about the job
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) When writing a cover letter, start with the job posting itself. Compare the experience
required in the posting with your own.
14) A(n) ________ is a letter sent along with a resume, portfolio, and letters of
recommendation in response to a job posting.
A) application form
B) application cover letter
C) networking cover letter
D) prospecting cover letter
E) contact header
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) When representatives of a company post a position and solicit applicants, they expect to
receive application packets.
15) While Mariana is conducting her job search, she learns about the company Quixotic Ink
and decides she would like to work for them. She does not find any job posting for them, but
despite this she decides to correspond with the company to share her ideas and detail what
she can bring to Quixotic Ink. Mariana is going to write a(n) ________.
A) application form
B) application cover letter
C) prospecting cover letter
D) networking cover letter
E) plain-text resume
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) A prospecting cover letter is a letter you send to a company for which you are interested in
working, whether or not a position has been advertised.
16) A(n) ________ introduces you to a contact, explains why you are writing to that
individual, gives him or her a chance to review your resume, and invites further
communication.
A) application form
B) application cover letter
C) prospecting cover letter
D) networking cover letter
E) summary of qualifications
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) Successful professionals network proactively regardless of their employment status.
17) A networking cover letter ________.
A) is only written when you are out of a job
B) is written in response to a job posting
C) focuses on the benefits you the writer will gain from the association
D) creates a new position for you
E) offers to reciprocate any kindnesses the contact can do for you
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) Successful professionals network proactively regardless of their employment status.
18) Which of the following would most likely be used by a job candidate seeking to create a
new position at a targeted company?
A) application form
B) application cover letter
C) prospecting cover letter
D) networking cover letter
E) summary of qualifications
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) Although a company might not be hiring, it is entirely possible to create a position by
addressing a company need, providing a solution, and proving your value. The prospecting
cover letter introduces the job seeker and his or her ideas.
19) The purpose of a cover letter ________.
A) depends on whether it is an application, prospecting, or networking cover letter
B) is to grab your reader's interests so he or she looks at your resume
C) is to reiterate the information found in your resume
D) is to include all the information the reader needs to evaluate you for the position
E) varies with the job you are inquiring about
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) Regardless of type, this is the purpose of a cover letter.
20) A good cover letter should ________.
A) call for action in the closing
B) create interest in the body
C) call for action in the introduction
D) create desire in the introduction
E) create desire in the closing
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) A good cover letter should create interest in the introduction, desire in the body, and call
for action in the closing.
21) If the hiring manager's name is omitted from the job posting, addressing the recipient of a
cover letter by name ________.
A) is inappropriate
B) makes the writer appear aggressive and presumptuous
C) is inferior to addressing it "Dear Sir or Madam"
D) may still be possible with a little research on your part
E) while doable is not worth the effort to attempt it
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) If you call the company's receptionist, he or she will often give you the name you need. If
that approach doesn't work, check the company's Web site or perform a Google search using
the individual's title. Always confirm that your information is accurate with a phone call.
22) Which of the following is NOT recommended as a way to address a cover letter?
A) addressed by name to the recipient
B) "To Whom It May Concern"
C) "Dear Sir or Madam"
D) "Dear Hiring Manager"
E) "Dear [company_name] Representative"
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) Whenever possible, winning cover letters address the recipient by name. Many job
postings exclude this information, but if you call the company's receptionist, he or she will
often give you the name you need. If that approach doesn't work, check the company's Web
site or perform a Google search using the individual's title. Always confirm that your
information is accurate with a phone call. When in doubt, address your letter with "Dear
Hiring Manager," "Dear Sir or Madam," or "Dear [company _name] Representative.
23) Jin sends a cover letter in response to a job advertisement. Including which of the
following in this cover letter would enable the hiring manager to know which of the job
postings she placed are most effective?
A) "Dear Hiring Manager"
B) "Dear Sir or Madam"
C) "I was very pleased to see your posting, as I think my skills and experience make me the
perfect fit for the job."
D) "I was very pleased to see your posting for a public relations associate on Monster.com."
E) "I created a system that reduced response time by an average of 20 percent."
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) Hiring managers appreciate it when you explain how you learned about a job opening.
Such a statement lets the manager know which postings are the most effective.
24) A good cover letter grabs the reader's attention and creates interest ________.
A) within the first paragraph
B) after the second paragraph
C) directly in the middle of the body
D) just before the closing
E) in the closing
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) A cover letter needs to get the reader's interest right away.
25) Mentioning a mutual contact's name in the opening of your cover letter ________.
A) is considered name-dropping and is inappropriate
B) can attract your reader's interest
C) will guarantee that you are called for an interview
D) is necessary if you expect the recipient to look at your resume
E) is a lazy shortcut
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) If you learned about the open position from a friend, indicate the person's name in your
letter.
26) All of the following are recommended ways to get the reader's attention in a cover letter
EXCEPT
A) mentioning how you heard about the opening
B) stating who referred you for the position
C) relating a recent event that spurred you to write the letter
D) quantifying a relevant success of yours
E) embellishing the truth about your qualifications to impress the reader
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) You should never exaggerate or lie about your qualifications in your application materials.
27) Which of the following statements is NOT an effective way to pique interest in the
opening of a cover letter?
A) Under my management, costs were reduced by 30 percent.
B) I heard about the position from Stu Leonard, who thought I'd be a great addition to your
team.
C) The recent announcement of your company's new social media division prompted me to
write, as I believe my experience in this area could be very useful to you.
D) All my former colleagues remarked about how great my work ethic is, and that it's a joy
working with me.
E) During my leadership, readership increased by 40 percent.
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) The other choices utilize recommended strategies, like mentioning mutual contacts,
quantifying your successes, or mentioning recent events that spurred you to write. This
statement is a bland, generic statement that is not likely to pique the reader's interest.
28) ________ any accompanying documents in your cover letter.
A) Always refer to
B) Never mention
C) Hint about
D) Summarize
E) Describe in detail
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) It would be a shame if a glowing letter of recommendation written by the company's top
client was lost in the shuffle. A simple, "Please find my resume and a letter of
recommendation attached for your consideration," lets the recipient know to look for more.
29) When writing a prospecting cover letter, ________.
A) use indirect organization and build up to the reason you sent the letter instead of
explaining it right away
B) mentioning a company's success or challenge can pique the reader's interest
C) be sure to mention where you saw the job posting, as this is helpful to and appreciated by
hiring managers
D) never reference a position
E) do not include any supporting documents like a resume
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) If you are writing a prospecting cover letter, your first paragraph should explain your
intentions quickly. Mentioning a company's success or challenges can pique the reader's
interest.
30) In a networking cover letter, ________.
A) always mention how you heard about the job
B) don't mention mutual contacts as this will seem pushy
C) be sure to reference the position you are interested in
D) make sure you explain why you are writing
E) you don't need to grab the reader's attention
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) In a networking cover letter you are not referring to a specific job ad, and might not
mention a position at all. Your goal is to introduce yourself and invite further communication.
You do need to state why you are writing though, and it helps to address a matter of interest
to the reader.
31) Which of the following would be most effective in the body of a cover letter?
A) My leadership skills would be of great value in this position.
B) My creativity is unparalleled and I would love to bring my spark to your company.
C) I led an enrollment drive for our campus mentoring program that increased participation
by 60 percent.
D) I am very committed to my goals and would bring that dedication to the job.
E) Employers always comment on my people skills and coworkers always enjoy working
with me.
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) The body should include some concrete examples of your success in either similar roles or
within parallel areas of responsibility. A candidate stating, "I am a strong leader" without
providing supporting evidence is only announcing his or her self-worth. This statement
quantifies the applicant's success, while the other choices merely make unsupported claims.
32) The body of a cover letter ________.
A) is a chance for you to blow your own horn without cause
B) should not include supporting evidence of your accomplishments as this is boastful and
arrogant
C) is most effective when it includes supporting examples of your success relevant to the
company's needs
D) is where you are expected to exaggerate and embellish your actual qualifications
E) must include a call to action to the prospective employer, stating your desire to meet and
requesting an appointment
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) The body should include some concrete examples of your success in either similar roles or
within parallel areas of responsibility. A candidate stating, "I am a strong leader" without
providing supporting evidence is only announcing his or her self-worth.
33) The ________ of a cover letter emphasizes the experience and interpersonal skills that
make the applicant an ideal hire.
A) contact header
B) introduction
C) salutation
D) body
E) closing
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) This is the function of the body of a cover letter.
34) The introductory paragraph of a cover letter should NOT ________.
A) focus on the applicant's agenda
B) emphasize what the applicant will bring to the job
C) concentrate on the objectives of the hiring manager
D) pique the reader's interest
E) employ the "you attitude"
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) Most hiring managers will not read past the introductory paragraph of a cover letter that
focuses on the applicant's agenda instead of the manager's objectives.
35) The close of a cover letter is where you should do all of the following EXCEPT
A) emphasize action
B) state your desire to meet
C) request an appointment
D) mention your intention to follow up with a phone call
E) quantify your success
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) The closing should be a call to action and emphasize next steps. You should emphasize the
skills and evidence that make you a fit for the job in the body of the cover letter.
36) The ________ of a cover letter could include your intention to follow up with a phone
call.
A) greeting
B) introduction
C) body
D) closing
E) signature block
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) An effective closing emphasizes action and includes a follow-up plan.
37) Which of the following is a trait of an effective cover letter?
A) addressing the letter, "To Whom it May Concern"
B) using an "I" attitude
C) showing how your skills will be of use to the company
D) emphasizing solely how the position matches your career agenda
E) closing with a "wait and see" attitude
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) Emphasizing how you will help the company reach its objectives, instead of how the
position will further your career goals, is more likely to appeal to a hiring manager.
38) The downside of a ________ resume is that it shows frequent job changes as well as gaps
in employment.
A) chronological
B) functional
C) hybrid
D) video
E) plain-text
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) A chronological resume outlines a person's education and experience beginning with the
most recent event and working backward.
39) Patricia creates a resume in which she lists her work experience sequentially, starting
with her most recent job and working backwards to her earliest job. Which type of resume
has she created?
A) chronological
B) functional
C) hybrid
D) video
E) plain-text
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) The downside of a chronological resume is that it shows frequent job changes as well as
gaps in employment.
40) A chronological resume ________.
A) organizes employment experience beginning with the earliest job and working up to the
most recent
B) is easy for a prospective employer to scan
C) is appropriate when you have frequent employment gaps
D) does not show career progression
E) is organized by skill sets, rather than job history
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) This is true because it shows how your career has progressed over time: the skills you
have gained, your promotions, and the achievement of your goals.
41) A ________ resume is organized by skill sets, rather than job history.
A) chronological
B) functional
C) hybrid
D) video
E) plain-text
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) You extract skills and accomplishments from your entire job history (and personal
experience related to it) and feature them in your resume instead of particular jobs.
42) A chronological resume is the appropriate choice for which of the following situations?
A) you have many employment gaps
B) you have diverse experience
C) you have done freelance work with a variety of clients
D) your career progression has been erratic
E) you career path shows steady promotion and growth
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) This would be highlighted in a chronological resume. For all of the other situations, a
functional resume would be appropriate.
43) If Jennifer has numerous gaps in her employment history ________.
A) this will be highlighted by a functional resume
B) a chronological resume would be more appropriate for her
C) she should alter her employment dates to eliminate or minimize the gaps
D) she will likely need to account for this in her cover letter and interview
E) trying to explain them can only make it worse
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) These gaps are often "red flags" for hiring managers - you will have to account for these
gaps in your cover letter and when you are interviewed. Even if she uses a functional resume
she will need to discuss the chronology of her employment history at some point.
44) A ________ format is good to use when you are applying for a job that is different from
what you have done in the past or a job in a different industry.
A) chronological
B) functional
C) hybrid
D) video
E) plain-text
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) The format lets you highlight your experience in other areas that are more relevant to the
job for which you are applying.
45) Some candidates use ________ resumes as a way to demonstrate their enthusiasm for a
particular type of work, however, not all companies accept them.
A) chronological
B) functional
C) hybrid
D) video
E) plain-text
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) A video resume is a short one- to three-minute video that describes an applicant's skills
and qualifications.
46) A paper by the Association for Job Search trainers revealed that recruiters review
resumes in ________.
A) 5 to 10 seconds
B) 10 to 30 seconds
C) 30 to 60 seconds
D) 1 to 2 minutes
E) 5 minutes
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) This isn't a lot of time, so you need to do whatever you can to make an impact and keep
the hiring manager reading.
47) Video resumes ________.
A) are accepted by all companies
B) are starting to replace traditional resumes
C) should mention your professional and personal achievements
D) are best when they are offbeat and contain humour
E) should mention your full name and what you can do for the company
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) Video resumes are not accepted by all companies, and should never be provided in place
of a traditional one.Always mention your first and last name, talk about your professional
endeavors, not your personal ones, discuss what you can do for the company, and thank the
viewer for considering your for employment.
48) A resume should ________
A) be at least two pages
B) include your whole life story
C) contain all your experience and skills
D) be tailored for the particular position
E) be lengthy and verbose
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) A resume should be succinct and include only your relevant experience, not your whole
life story. Always tailor your resume. The best resumes are limited to one page (or two if you
have extensive experience) with impressive and specific examples of your abilities.
49) If you want to create a unique header format for your resume, remember that your
________ should be the first thing the reader sees.
A) professional objective
B) name
C) GPA
D) phone number
E) e-mail address
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) Alternately you could use the resume templates in your software program, which will
create the header for you.
50) To make your name stand out on your resume, ________.
A) position it at the bottom of your resume
B) make its font size larger than the rest of the page
C) put it in a different font than the rest of the heading
D) include a nickname
E) use all lower-case letters
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) Your name should be the first thing a reader sees when looking at your resume, and this is
how to help it stand out.
51) Which of the following would be the most appropriate e-mail address for John Jansen to
include on his resume?
A) johnjohn@aol.com
B) jjhookup@gmail.com
C) johnnyj@yahoo.com
D) jansentheman@msn.com
E) john.jansen@hotmail.com
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) Don't use cutesy e-mail addresses on your resume. If necessary, create a professional email account just for your job search.
52) Sandra Simmons is preparing her resume. Which of the following pieces of information
does NOT belong in her header?
A) Sandra Simmons
B) 150 Plaza Hermosa, Mill Valley, CA 94987
C) 555.234.5678
D) sandra.simmons@aol.com
E) SS # 123-45-7890
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) Your header should contain all the elements listed in the other choices. It should not
include other personal information, like you social security number, age, marital status, race,
etc.
53) Which of the following objectives would be best to include on a resume?
A) To work in the financial services industry.
B) To obtain a challenging position with excellent growth opportunities.
C) To obtain a position with a financial firm that requires analytical detail and excellent
communication skills.
D) To find a position that allows me to utilize my education in a fast-paced environment.
E) A position with a progressive company in which I would excel.
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) The objective is where you succinctly state the type of job you are seeking. If you are
going to include one it shouldn't be vague, but should indicate the position you are seeking or
at least the skills you want to use.
54) The professional objective section of a resume ________.
A) is required for all resumes
B) must be vague enough to encompass any position for which you might be interested
C) is best expressed in the passive voice
D) should be tailored to the position for which you are applying
E) must include a specific job title
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) State your objective in active voice, and tailor the objective to the position for which you
are applying.
55) The ________ section highlights a few of a jobseeker's most relevant characteristics as
they pertain to the position applied.
A) contact header
B) professional objective
C) summary of qualifications
D) professional experience
E) awards, honors, and activities
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) Lengthy paragraphs on a resume are not read. Instead use either short statements or bullet
points.
56) The summary of qualifications ________.
A) is best created in a lengthy paragraph
B) includes all of a jobseeker's qualifications
C) should not be formatted using bullet points
D) is a vital component of all resumes
E) should be measurable, verifiable, or supported by work experience
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) Include only the most relevant qualities as they pertain to the position applied.
57) Employers in technical fields often need to see specific classes you have taken so
________.
A) list all of your courses
B) limit yourself to a handful of introductory courses in your general field
C) include the courses in which you received the highest grades
D) restrict yourself to several upper-level courses in your major relevant to the position
E) attach your transcript to your resume
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) You can list them in two bulleted columns to save space.
58) The ________ section is the area where you list the positions you have held.
A) education and training
B) professional experience
C) summary of qualifications
D) professional objective
E) awards, honors, and activities
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) A professional who has been in the workforce for a year or more should list his or her
professional experience section before education section.
59) The positions you list under your professional experience section ________.
A) can only be paid positions
B) cannot include volunteer positions
C) must be presented chronologically
D) should not emphasize transferable skills
E) can include internships
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) These positions can be paid or unpaid, such as internships or volunteer positions, and you
can present these chronologically or functionally.
60) Which of the following is written using the A + P = R formula?
A) Led a successful fundraising initiative.
B) Developed a Web site for online donations.
C) Raised 25 percent more money than the previous year's fundraiser, beating the record for
the most money raised in a single fundraising event.
D) Created a Web site for online donations, which allowed more time and payment methods
for donations and resulted in the highest total for a single fundraising event.
E) Handled the problem of people saying that they didn't know about the fundraiser until it
was over, or who didn't have the cash on them to donate.
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) This follows the A + P = R formula, the action you took + the problem you face = the
results you got. In this case, developing the Web site overcame the logistical obstacles of too
short a timeframe for the fundraiser or of not having ready cash on hand, in order to raise the
largest amount of money to date.
61) Which of the following is a quantitative example below?
A) Was able to match more children with mentors by aggressively recruiting new volunteers
for the program.
B) Raised awareness of the mentoring program, which resulted in many new students signing
up.
C) Increased the number of available mentors in the program by 60 percent during an
enrollment drive.
D) Led the mentoring program to its most successful year to date.
E) Improved the mentoring program by increasing awareness and recruiting new members.
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) A quantitative example states what you did and measures how well you did it. Only this
choice is quantitative, as it includes a percentage (quantity) that objectively demonstrates a
person's success. The other choices are qualitative.
62) Which of the following statements would be least appropriate on a resume?
A) Was responsible for the update and maintenance of five Web sites.
B) Contributed daily blog reports to company's Web site.
C) Formatted fliers, brochures, and newsletters.
D) Trained new employees in office policies and procedures.
E) Processed financial transactions including sales and returns.
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) Consistently use active verbs at the start of each bullet, since resumes written with activevoice verbs rather than passive-voice verbs create a stronger impression. This statement starts
with a passive-voice verb, while the other choices start with active-voice verbs.
63) In today's world, resumes are usually first "seen" by computers; although computers are
________, they are also ________.
A) unbiased; unforgiving
B) biased; forgiving
C) unbiased; forgiving
D) biased; unforgiving
E) forgiving; biased
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) Job seekers must format their resumes in a way that passes both computer and manager
screening.
64) Joe wants to make sure that his resume is easy to scan. Which of the following can he
include in his resume?
A) bullets
B) boldface
C) italics
D) sans serif fonts
E) condensed fonts
Answer: D
Explanation:
D) To make your resume easier to scan, use sans serif fonts rather than serif fonts. Don't use
bullets, boldface, or italics. Scanners also have difficulty reading condensed versions of fonts
because the letters are pushed so close together.
65) Which would be the best font to use in a resume if you want to make it easy to scan?
A) Times New Roman
B) Georgia
C) Verdana
D) Arial Narrow
E) Abadi MT Condensed Light
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) Use a sans serif font like Verdana or Arial, rather than serif fonts, such as Times New
Roman or Georgia. Scanners also have difficulty reading condensed versions of fonts because
the letters are pushed so close together. Avoid them as well.
66) If you paste your resume directly into an e-mail message you must use a ________
resume.
A) plain-text
B) formatted
C) video
D) hybrid
E) chronological
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) If you use a resume that has special formatting, fonts, or layouts your recipient's e-mail
system and scanning software might not interpret the formatting correctly.
67) Which of the following statements about a plain-text resume is NOT true?
A) it is saved in a .txt file
B) it has no special formatting
C) it is "bare bones"
D) it may require some edits after its formatting is removed
E) it will not be interpreted correctly by most recipients' e-mail systems and scanning
software
Answer: E
Explanation:
E) The sole purpose of a plain-text resume is to survive a computer scan and avoid word
processing software incompatibilities.
68) A(n) ________ should contain examples that are relevant to the job you are applying for
and support any claims made in your resume and cover letter.
A) application form
B) portfolio
C) video resume
D) summary of qualifications
E) plain-text folder
Answer: B
Explanation:
B) Portfolios are not just for artists. They are an effective way to set you apart from the
crowd.
69) All of the following statements about e-portfolios are true EXCEPT
A) they can be stored on a USB drive
B) they are a must for certain jobs, like Web-design positions
C) they make printouts of your samples obsolete
D) they can be posted on a Web site
E) they are becoming increasingly popular
Answer: C
Explanation:
C) It is still wise to print out sample color copies of your work to share. They will also come
in handy in case of an equipment failure.
70) Which of the following is NOT recommended in the context of sharing your portfolio?
A) send hard copies to every company with your resume
B) write "Portfolio available upon request" at the bottom of your resume
C) send it to an interested manager via thumb drive
D) e-mail an interested manager with a link to your Web site
E) if your portfolio includes any work performed while working for a former employer, be
sure to get permission to post it
Answer: A
Explanation:
A) Sending a portfolio that consists of hard copies to every company is hardly feasible or
even advisable. Imagine the space it would take up in a manager's office, not to mention the
cost to you. It is never good practice to send your portfolio with your resume.
71) Some companies evaluate and compensate managers on their acquisition and retention of
high-performing employees.
Answer: True
Explanation:
Employees are one of a company's greatest and most valuable assets, so this is an important
part of hiring managers' jobs.
72) Savvy job seekers send the same cover letters and resumes to everyone.
Answer: False
Explanation:
Savvy job seekers tailor their applications packets to their audiences.
73) Sending a resume or portfolio without a cover letter clearly communicates, "I want to let
my accomplishments speak for themselves."
Answer: False
Explanation:
It actually communicates, "I really don't care about this job."
74) The proactive job seeker sends application cover letters.
Answer: False
Explanation:
An application cover letter is sent as part of an application packet, in response to a job
posting. A proactive job seeker sends prospecting cover letters, sent to companies for which
he or she is interested in working whether or not a position has been advertised.
75) You should never address a cover letter with "Dear Hiring Manager."
Answer: False
Explanation:
While it is preferable to use the actual name of the recipient of the cover letter, if you can't
find and confirm the person's name you should address your letter with "Dear Hiring
Manager," "Dear Sir or Madam," or "Dear [company _name] Representative.
76) It is helpful to hiring managers when job applicants explain how they learned of job
openings.
Answer: True
Explanation:
Companies often invest a great deal of money in recruiting top talent. When applicants let
them know how they heard about a position it lets the manager know which postings are the
most effective.
77) You should never mention a company's challenges when you are writing them a cover
letter.
Answer: False
Explanation:
Mentioning a company's successes or challenges can pique the reader's interest.
78) The body of a cover letter should include concrete examples of your success in similar
roles.
Answer: True
Explanation:
A candidate stating, "I am a strong leader" without providing supporting evidence is only
announcing his self-worth.
79) A "wait and see" attitude is more effective in a closing than including a proactive followup plan.
Answer: False
Explanation:
The opposite is true. The closing should emphasize action by stating your desire to meet, and
request an appointment. It could also include your intention to follow up with a phone call.
80) A chronological resume outlines a person's education and experience beginning with the
most recent event and working backwards.
Answer: True
Explanation:
The downside of a chronological resume is that it shows frequent job changes as well as gaps
in employment. These gaps are often "red flags" for hiring managers, and will have to be
accounted for in your cover letter and when you are interviewed.
81) A 2001 paper by the Association for Job Search Trainers revealed that the majority of
recruiters prefer functional resumes.
Answer: False
Explanation:
The majority prefer chronological resumes.
82) Because video resumes visually show candidates, some human resource representatives
worry that they could lead to claims of bias or discrimination.
Answer: True
Explanation:
Not all companies accept video resumes.
83) You should create one outstanding resume that you can use for all situations.
Answer: False
Explanation:
Always tailor your resume. If you apply for a training position, emphasize your ability to
convey information in a clear and engaging manner. If you apply for a sales position,
emphasize your ability to generate revenue.
84) Using an e-mail address like twilightfan1@hotmail.com is a good way to make your
resume stands out.
Answer: False
Explanation:
Don't use cutesy e-mail addresses. If necessary, create a professional e-mail account just for
your job search.
85) After you have been in the workforce full time for two to three years, you can move your
education section on your resume to follow your professional experience.
Answer: True
Explanation:
For students, the education and training section should appear earlier in the resume.
86) Never include information about your children, race, national origin, health status, or
religion on a resume or application form.
Answer: True
Explanation:
You do not need to divulge this information during your job search.
87) In today's world, resumes are usually first "seen" by computers.
Answer: True
Explanation:
Job seekers must format their resumes in a way that passes both computer and manager
screening.
88) To make your resume more scannable, bullet points should be replaced by asterisks or
plus-signs.
Answer: True
Explanation:
Bullets do not scan well.
89) If you haven't spent much time in the workforce you have nothing to put in a portfolio.
Answer: False
Explanation:
Not true. Your portfolio can include materials associated with your activities, training,
personal projects, and internships, as long as those materials are evidence of the skills and
experience for the position you're applying for.
90) If you include examples of work performed for other employers in your online portfolio,
do not post it without the employer's permission.
Answer: True
Explanation:
Your work product belongs to the company that employed you during the work's completion.
If the work is proprietary, there could be legal ramifications for posting it.
91) How can you tailor your application packets to the company that is hiring?
Answer: Savvy job seekers tailor their application packets to their audiences. You can do this
by asking yourself the following questions:
What is relevant to the company's industry today?
What is important to this company's business?
What transferable skills did I master that would make me successful in this position?
How have I demonstrated leadership and taken initiative?
Who will be the most compelling reference for this particular job?
What did I contribute? What awards have I won? How have I excelled?
Can I quantify my success?
What job-relevant activities have I participated in?
92) Describe a prospecting cover letter.
Answer: A proactive job seeker sends prospecting cover letters. This is a letter you send to a
company for which you are interested in working, whether or not a position has been
advertised. Although a company might not be hiring, it is entirely possible to create a position
by addressing a company need, providing a solution, and proving your value. The prospecting
cover letter introduces the job seeker and his or her ideas.
93) Kristen is responding to a job posting she found on CareerBuilder.com that does not
specify the name of the hiring manager. How should she address the cover letter she writes to
apply for this position?
Answer: Whenever possible, winning cover letters address the recipient by name. Since the
posting Kristen found doesn't include this information, she can call the company's
receptionist to try and get the name. If that approach doesn't work, she can check the
company's Web site or perform a Google search using the individual's title. But she must
confirm that the information she finds is accurate by making a phone call. If in doubt, she can
address her letter with "Dear Hiring Manager," "Dear Sir or Madam," or "Dear [company
_name] Representative.
94) Write the opening paragraph to a networking cover letter.
Answer:
Dear Mr. Sosa,
My name is Tiffany Hill and I am writing to introduce myself. While talking to our mutual
friend Mike Isabella I mentioned that I am looking to find a mentor in the culinary world.
Mike instantly thought of you. He said you are running your own restaurant and suggested I
contact you.
95) Write an effective closing to an application cover letter.
Answer: I am enthusiastic about working at Kellynch Ltd. and would appreciate the
opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you. In the meantime, enclosed are my resume
and letter of recommendation fromm my former employer. I will follow up next week with
you in an effort to schedule an interview.
96) How do you decide which format to use for your written resume?
Answer: Analyze the pros and cons of each format to determine which makes the most sense
for you. Chronological resumes are preferred by most hiring managers, and are easy for them
to scan. They highlight the progression of your career path: the skills you have gained,
promotions, achievement of goals. However, they also highlight gaps in your employment
history that will need to be accounted for in your cover letter and interview. A functional
resume emphasizes skills sets over employment history. If you have diverse experience,
many employment gaps, or have done freelance work for a variety of clients, the functional
resume is an effective format because it shows how your past accomplishments lend
themselves to the job at hand. The hybrid format includes elements of both, and is good to
use when you are applying for a job that is different from what you have done in the past or a
job in a different industry.
97) Write some quantitative examples that would be appropriate on a resume.
Answer: Wrote a comprehensive policy and procedures manual for new interns that
decreased the necessary training time by 50 percent.
Suggested detailed marketing campaign modifications for 25 specific target audiences while
exceeding sales quotas by 40 percent
Created a Web site that attracted an average of 500 unique visitors per day.
98) Rewrite the following statements in the active voice:
• Was responsible for the overnight shift.
• Was there to use technology to help the sales team find new leads.
• Considered an effective team player.
Answer: Suggestions follow:
• Supervised a five-person overnight crew.
• Developed a social media marketing campaign which resulted in 40 percent increase in new
business leads.
• Collaborated with team members to increase productivity in our department by 20 percent.
99) Katie knows that in today's world, her resume will most likely be first "seen" by
computers. How can she use this information to best advantage when creating her resume?
Answer: Katie should consider key words. She should search job postings for their key words
and include them in her resume. This will make her resume more likely to be accepted
following a computer screening. She should also make her resume easy to scan. This means
using a sans serif, non-condensed font. She should also refrain from underlining, bolding, and
italics.
100) Lana hasn't spent much time in the workforce. What are some ideas for items she could
include in her portfolio?
Answer: • Awards she has received
• Copies of her diplomas and certificates
• Copies of her transcripts
• Samples of her work related to the position or transferrable to it
• News articles related to her accomplishments
• Evidence of her military experience
• List of references and letters of recommendations
• Her resume
Test Bank for Keys to Business Communication
Carol J. Carter
9780132658737, 9780136103332, 9780133890846
