Job Application Guide

JOB SEARCH AND
APPLICATION GUIDE
How to most effectively showcase your skills
Here is a reference to assist you in writing a resume and cover letter, create a LinkedIn
Profile to best convey the skills you have to offer to our industry partners.
Job Search and Application Guide

H O W T O M O S T E F F E C T I V E LY S H O W C A S E Y O U R S K I L L S
Introduction
The purpose of this application guide is to serve as a supplementary resource to the resources available
through Career Services. The Career Services resources offer a great starting point for Resume, Cover
Letter and Interview help as well as creating a LinkedIn Profile which is important in your job search.
This guide was designed specifically for Engineering Co-op/IIP students to provide related examples, so
that students can maximize the effectiveness of their experiences in a job application targeted for
engineering positions.
Career Services Link:

http://umanitoba.ca/student/careerservices
Career Services offers webshops and workbooks for Resumes, Cover Letters and Interviews.
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Table of Contents
1.0 Getting Started
2.0 Resume
2.1 Top Tips
2.2 Header
2.3 Profile
2.4 Education
2.5 Experience
2.5.1 Transferrable Skills
2.5.2 Related Skills or Related Engineering/Project Experience
2.5.3 Related Work History
2.5.4 Non-engineering and Other Experience
2.6 Technical skills

2.7 Other
2.8 Final Thoughts
3.0 Cover Letter

3.1 Opening paragraph
3.2 Body paragraph
3.3 Closing paragraph
4.0 LinkedIn
4.1 Creating an Account, summary and some tips for using
Appendixes
I. Cover Letters
II. Resume Examples
III. LinkedIn
IV. Action Words for Engineering
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1.0 Getting Started

Some students dont have any work experience and others have worked for years in non-engineering
roles. Before you start your job search you need to decide where you want to go and what are the
steps you need take in order to get there. You may need to join a team, do some volunteer work or join
a mentorship program to build some experience and gain contacts who can serve as references. If
youve never worked before, you might need to consider getting some work experience even if its
unrelated to Engineering.
Some teams on campus include UMES, UMSAE Formula, Formula Electric, Baja, UMSATS, and UMATT.
Information on teams and volunteer opportunities are available on the U of M website.
http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/engineering/undergraduate_studies/ugs_studentgroups.html
http://www.umanitoba.ca/student/ics/wwise/volunteer.html
2.0 Resume
A well written resume is perhaps the most important tool you can have to assist you in getting a job.
The following are the top 10 tips for a great resume.
2.1 Top tips

1. Tailor your application to match the job
It is a lot of work to create a new application package for every job you apply to, but its
definitely worth it. Read the job description and ask yourself What skills does this employer
want that I have? The job description should serve as a blueprint for your resume and cover
letter. You will want to match as many of your skills as possible with the employers needs and
requirements. The employer should be able to clearly see how your skills and experience are a
good match for the position available.
2. Pick the format

There are different formats for resumes our students generally use Combination or Reverse
Chronological. Review the Career Services Resume guide to decide which format is best for
you and the particular application. The format will change as you add jobs and skills.
Remember to update when it is applicable. Your resume is a living document.
3. Rank by relevancy
The first page of your resume is prime real estate and should highlight your education and
most relevant skills and experience. Organizing by most to least relevant will help make the
strongest impression by catching the readers interest.
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4. Focus on your accomplishments

Emphasize quantifiable achievements. Use numbers (e.g., how many people youve trained, size
of groups youve worked with, months/years of experience you have, size of audience you
presented to).
5. Keep it brief
Keep your resume to two pages maximum and your cover letter to one page. Your cover letter
should be a summary of your resume. A one-page resume is too brief. You do need to
demonstrate skills under each position not just list where you worked.
6. Use bullets, not paragraphs

Bullet points in your resume to make it easier for employers to scan for key words and phrases.
7. Pay attention to formatting

Make your headings and job titles stand out from the regular text using bold letters, horizontal
lines and spacing. Watch your page breaks dont split jobs between pages. Work with your
formatting to ensure you keep sections on the same page. Remember you are trying to
demonstrate your attention to detail through this document.
8. Be consistent
Repeat visual elements throughout the resume, and between the resume and cover letter if
appropriate. For example, if you have your dates in the margin be sure that they line up
throughout the resume.
9. Be sure you are adding value

Avoid fluff statements like dependable unless you can back them up. All points should be
adding value to you as a candidate. For example, if you have a high GPA add it to your education
section, if not leave it off.
10. Proof read and edit

The first impression of your resume is the most important. Look at your resume and cover letter
closely, then have someone read them over to check for grammatical and spelling errors. Read
your cover letter out loud to yourself and you will often catch your own errors.
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11. No First Person

Do not use first person (I) or third person (he/she) when describing yourself. Reserve the first
person for the cover letter.
12. Be honest
Make the most of your experience and achievements, but dont mislead the employer or say
anything you cant back up in an interview.
2.2 Header
Include your name, address, telephone, and e-mail. Keep the format of this section consistent with
your cover letter.
At the top of page two include your name and possibly the page number dont repeat all your contact
information on the second page header.
2.3 Profile
This section can be in paragraph (3-4 line max.) or bullet point form (3-4 points). Provide a brief
overview mentioning key experiences or attributes that make you an eligible candidate for the position
of interest. The profile section should persuade the reader to read the rest of your resume, and
describe your skills at a professional level. It should define your area of expertise your field of study
or interest and your level of experience. And remember no first person in this section either.
Possible Examples:
Second year Mechanical Engineering student with engineering design team experience. Committed to
meeting goals, resulting in academic achievement, coaching success and proven work performance.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the demonstrated ability to function effectively in
a team based environment. Enthusiastically accepts new challenges as opportunities to grow.
Fourth year Computer Engineering student with industry experience in Java programming through an
eight-month co-op placement. Motivated by new challenges and tasks and takes an excellent approach
to achieve success in all projects. Experience in working with different operating systems and
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platforms, namely Windows, UNIX, and Linux. Looking for an opportunity to contribute to an
organization and continue to learn and grow within the industry.
Motivated and energetic Civil Engineering graduate with co-op work experience in the area of land
development and surveying. Eligible for EIT status with 8 months MIT credit completed. Strong
planning and organizational skills complemented by excellent oral and written communication skills.
Looking for an opportunity to contribute to an organization and continue to learn and grow within the
industry.
In general, a profile is optional and other possibilities are nothing, or a Summary of Qualifications or
Highlights.
2.4 Education
List your degree(s) or certificates in order from most to least recent. Your degree is a Bachelor of
Science not Faculty of Engineering or Bachelor of Engineering.
Add the year that you completed the degree or expect to complete it.
Mention that you are doing the Co-op/IIP option as there are many benefits to the employer when
hiring a Co-op/IIP students such as tax credits.
Include your GPA if it is above 3.5 and mention that you are on the Deans Honour List if you are.
If your high school education is adding value you can include it, if not then omit it. (Ex: If you are
applying to MacDon and went to school in a rural area include your high school education).
Example:
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Biosystems Engineering (Co-op/IIP option) May 2019

University of Manitoba, GPA:3.89, Deans Honour List
Specialization: Biomedical
You can fit relevant experience into your education as well list relevant courses if they are specific to
the position.
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2.5 Experience
The experience section should be organized from most relevant experience to least. You can change the
location of recent non-relevant experience by changing the titles of the sections for example, start with
Related Engineering Experience or Engineering Project Experience and progress to Other Work
Experience and Volunteer Experience on the second page. Highlight things like student design teams on
page one not buried in Extracurricular on page two.
Both paid and unpaid work experiences are equally important and should be listed the same way:
List your title, where you worked, team or project name, and the dates (keep format consistent)
Have three or four bullets that demonstrate the transferable skills. Start with an action verb
when describing your experience. Use words like managed, facilitated, created, and researched.
(see Appendix I for examples)
Always use past tense unless the position is current.
Try to stay away from expressions like, Responsibilities included ...
Qualify and Quantify by asking yourself: Who? What? Where? When? Why?
Be sure to describe your most transferable skills when describing your work experience.
2.5.1 Transferable Skills

Whether you have had related engineering work experience or not, you must highlight your
transferable skills when creating your demonstration of skills statements. A skill is transferable when
you can use this skill to do a variety of different tasks or at another employer. Make sure to carefully
review the job posting/description to determine the required skills. If the job description is vague you
may have to make assumptions and read between the lines. For example, if the workplace is
described as a team, it is fair to assume that the position requires the ability to work with others,
indicating a need for strong interpersonal skills.
2.5.2 Related Skills or Related Engineering Experience or Related Project

Experience
This section can be a great way to showcase engineering skills that were gained outside of a paid work
environment, such as previous engineering related school projects or design team experience. If youve
never worked in an Engineering role, its especially valuable to showcase your engineering related
skills. It can be formulated with a Related Skills section or as a Related Engineering or Project
Experience section.
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Related Skills
Mechanical Engineering Skills

Tested, measured and assessed equipment used in project and made modification to maximize efficiencies and
reduce wear.
Tracked and collected data to make recommendations for improvements in product designs.
Designed products using AutoCAD according to project specifications and requirements.
Project Management Skills

Worked with project team members to research and determine scope of project, work requirements and project
timelines.
Led and coordinated weekly meetings and updated goals and timelines accordingly based on progress of team.
Communication Skills
Wrote and presented technical reports on the design, analysis and implementation of diagnostic tools for
maintaining equipment.
Participated in class discussions and groups to provide clarification, recommendations and feedback to other group
members.
Related Engineering Experience / Related Project Experience
Each subsection within this area should list your title, course / team, dates and 3-5 bullet points.
Team member 2012 to 2014
UMSAE, University of Manitoba
Designed 3D drawings of drive train components in SolidWorks.
Developed excellent fabrication and machine shop skills, utilizing safe shop procedures.
Collaborated & developed strong relationships with team members and performed well together in competitions.
Senior Capstone Project, University of Manitoba

Served on product-development team at DEF Company, a Winnipeg based manufacturer of aerospace parts.
Worked closely with engineering team to design improvements for fluoropolymer product used to seal fuel
systems.
Designed models using SolidWorks; product enhancements are expected to greatly improve resistance to fuel
permeation and extend product shelf life by 12%.
Team earned an A grade for the project.
Team Member Fall 2015

Operational Excellence Course, University of Manitoba
Utilized Lean Methodologies to implement process improvement at aerospace manufacturer with over a 5%
reduction in waste identified and captured in testing phase.
Mapped current process through Value Stream mapping and PFMEA.
Identified value add and non-value add process steps and recommended changes.
Analyzed data with Minitab at all stages of the plan, do, check, act process.
Team earned an A grade for the project.
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2.5.3 Related Work History

If you have had co-op experience or previous engineering summer student experience, list these
positions first. We have provided the following examples that might help in creating your
demonstration of skills statements.
Biosystems Engineering
Crop Pest Management Assistant, May to September 2013

MANITOBA AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL INITIATIVES
Set-up, collected, and analyzed data from aphid suction traps that were in potato fields to provide population
counts of the specific species that carry viruses that can potentially impact quality of crops.
Entered and sorted data using Microsoft Office products (Word and Excel).
Maintained rapport with local growers to ensure efficient operations.
Used GPS regularly to record and manage field locations and, suction and Aster Leaf Hopper trap coordinates.
Other projects included Herbicide Drift Trial, Glyphosate Infiltration Trial, PVY and Early Blight sampling.
Co-op Student Spine Research Engineering, Zimmer Biomet, Edmonton, AB Summer 2016
Developed, evaluated and improved product designs for both new and current projects under the direct
supervision of assigned engineering or management personnel.
Conferred as necessary with appropriate planning, quality, regulatory, manufacturing and engineering staff in
order to ensure efficient and producible product designs.
Generated comprehensive protocols for testing/analyzing the product.
Generated design assurance documentation for the product.
Attained familiarity with Regulatory and FDA submission paperwork in support of product development.
Supported new product development activities through exposure to manufacturing plans, risk analyses and related
costing estimates.
Civil Engineering
Land Use Technician May August 2014

Brown & Company Land Surveyors, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Conducted field surveys and operated survey instruments to measure distance, angles, elevations and contours.
Analyzed data from surveys to make recommendations on design and construction of projects.
Prepared detailed drawings using AutoCAD and LDD software to meet customer specifications and building codes.
Worked collaboratively with other engineers, architects and building contractors to ensure project was completed
on time.
Engineering Aid January August 2013

Manitoba Highways and Transportation, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Performed transport system analysis to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow on highways.
Assisted in the installation of traffic road sensors based on specifications and design drawings.
Worked with project team including architects, contractors and other engineers to determine work requirements
and project timelines.
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Public Works Engineering Student, May 2015-Sept. 2015
City of Calgary
Tested soil to determine the adequacy and strength of concrete, asphalt and steel foundations.
Computed load and grade requirements and material stress factors to determine design specifications.
Implemented complex design software and drawing tools to plan and design transportation systems.
Aided other departments in development of plans and cost estimates on road, parking lot, and drainage projects
Prepared standard engineering computations, surveys and designs.
Produced and issued precise technical specifications and data sheets.
Computer Engineering
Programmer, Computer Inc. May 2015-Sept. 2015

Developed games and Scheme language interpreter in Python.
Simulated Enigma cipher machine and logic puzzle solver in Java.
Obtained ample experience in debugging programs in Python, Java, and R.
Performed algorithmic analyses on programs in order to improve efficiency.
Computer Engineering Intern, KLM COMPANY Jan. 2015-May 2015

Developed, tested, verified and validated software.
Troubleshot defects and resolved problems.
Applied prototype product enhancements to existing mobile, desktop and server software platforms.
Supported new and existing software products for mobile, desktop and server platforms.
Prepared interim and final reports.
Electrical Engineering
Electrical Engineer Intern, ABC COMPANY May 2016-Sept.2016

Designed PV systems that converted sunlight into electricity under the direction of senior electrical engineers.
Equipped selected PV systems with uninterruptible power supply (UPS) capability, allowing customers to operate
selected circuits for extended periods of time during a utility power outage.
Assisted in distributed system voltage performance analysis for high-level penetration photovoltaics, contributing
to research study that will be used to optimize future PV systems.
Conducted efficiency and price/watt comparisons on other solar power systems on the market to gather
intelligence used for marketing campaigns.
Wrote content for company blog to educate the public on the advantages of solar electric power.
Electrical Engineering Intern, HIJ May 2015-Sept. 2016

Performed electrical maintenance engineering tasks for electrical equipment and associated auxiliary equipment.
Field tested a commissioning of existing and new electrical systems.
Prepared engineering reports, capital project justifications and specifications for replacement equipment.
Performed arc flash assessments and calculations.
Conducted load flow and transient stability or other power system studies to determine power transfer limits.
Assisted in developing, testing and documentation of various tools for facilitating planning studies.
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Mechanical Engineering
Engineering Intern May 2014 August 2015

LMN Corporation, Winnipeg
Created manufacturing standards that were adopted throughout the production facility to standardize and
improve start up procedures.
Designed fixtures utilizing AutoCAD to improve rubber flash waste reduction.
Collaborated with production, engineering and maintenance to develop preventive maintenance standard
procedures to support preventive maintenance initiative.
Senior Design Project Student, DEF COMPANY January- September 2014

Completed senior project at DEF Company, a manufacturer of machine tools for the sheet metal industry.
Assisted engineering department in designing straight hand seamer used in bending, seaming and flattening sheet
metal.
Created models using SolidWorks and participated in cross-functional product-development meetings.
Contributed idea for change in handle design that is expected to improve comfort and safety when gripping the
seamer. Product is currently in preproduction testing phase.
Project Engineer Assistant, XDF Coal January 2015 December 2015

Provided assistance to the Project Engineer in project planning and risk assessments.
Completed technical drawings and calculations using AutoCAD.
Assisted in the development of a new heating system.
Managed site-related documentation including contracts, and assisted in report writing.
Contacted equipment suppliers to place and track project progress.
Environmental Summer Student, EFG MANITOBA May to September 2014 & 2015
Assisted the environmental department with monitoring environmental parameters for the plant including noise
abatement, hazardous waste management, and spill response.
Collaborated with other departments, consultants and contractors regarding a variety of environmental topics
such as waste management, spill response, and secondary containment.
Obtained understanding of environmental regulations through analysis of both HSE and Water Effluent Reports.
Conducted internal audits for the plant including, substances inventory, secondary containment, and 5S. External
audits included a visit to the downstream waste facility.
2.5.4 Non-Engineering Work and Other Experience

Employers value work even if its not related to engineering. The skills and experience that you gain
from work of any kind is transferable to any workplace. These sections should focus on transferrable
skills as discussed above.
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Position Duties Relevant Transferable skills

Waiter Take orders, serve tables, Ability to multitask in a fast-paced
deal with customers environment, ability to problem solve 'on
the spot', Friendly, outgoing approach
committed to customer service
Telemarketer Make cold calls to sell Strong verbal communication skills,
products articulate in presenting product information,
self-motivating work ethic, negotiation skills
Tree Planter Plant trees in a variety of

self-motivating work ethic, goal oriented,
weather conditions disciplined and diligent (working through
hail storms), works well independently
under little supervision
Chinese and Teaching math and chinese ability to communicate complex topics in an
Math Tutor language to children easy to understand way
EXAMPLES:
Work Experience
Server Sept. 2009 Sept. 2010
The Village Fish Caf, Winnipeg
Provided excellent service to customers including making menu suggestions, taking orders and ensuring a positive
restaurant experience.
Worked closely with kitchen staff, hosts, and bussing staff in a fast-paced environment.
Processed cash, credit and debit card transaction ensuring accuracy and proper allocation of tips.
Team Lead
Bills Landscaping Service, Winnipeg Summer 2013, 2014
Led landscape crews in performing on-site work for residential and commercial clients ensuring work was done
properly and according to schedule.
Operated landscaping equipment including backhoes, lawnmowers, cutting saws, blowers, and trimmers.
Handled inquiries and concerns of clients to ensure conflicts were resolved in a timely manner.
Worked long hours in adverse weather conditions to ensure projects were completed on time.
Followed safety guidelines and ensured proper lifting techniques were used by team members to avoid injuries.
Security Guard, May 2013- Dec. 2015

Aladdin Security Services, Winnipeg
Conducted daily inspections of premises including maintenance areas and boiler room.
Demonstrated strong professionalism and tact when dealing with stressful situations and angry persons.
Followed safety standards and protocol to maintain a safe work environment.
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Remember to use numbers, percentages, and dollars whenever possible to quantify your statements.
For example:
BEFORE: Organized a university social.
AFTER: Organized the 10th annual Commerce Halloween Social for 3,000 students with an operating
budget of $65,000.
If you have a large number of jobs that are unrelated and you have already demonstrated the
transferrable skills in other work or project experience, you may want to go to a list format at the end
of your work experience.
Example:
Or if you have had several paid work experiences perhaps it is time to drop some of these old summer
jobs. Your resume needs to change as you progress.
2.6 Technical Skills

Your demonstration of skills statements above will include examples of your technical skills. For
example:
Entered production data utilizing SAP to facilitate analysis for process improvements.
Designed bracket components in AutoCAD, utilizing design for manufacturing principles.
The Technical Skills section is where you will organize and summarize these capabilities for quick
reference by the employer. You can use subheadings under this section to highlight particular skills
that might be of relevance. After each school and work term, review this section and add newly
acquired skills. Ask yourself what new skills did I learn this term surveying? FEA? Computational
flow dynamics? A new programing skill? Did I learn to use a piece of lab equipment? Or a new
software? You can also use this section to identify hands on skills that you may have that are of value
to an employer hand tools, CNC, welding, equipment you have used in past summers, high school
shop, during labs at university or your past degree.
Remember to review the posting and make sure you address the employers needs here as well if
they ask for a valid drivers licence, this is the section where you would state this ability.
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Example:
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Computer Aided Design Software: 3 D CAD design including FEA, Solid Edge, SolidWorks
Surveying Skills: CIVIL 3D, ArcGIS, and other GIS software
Programming Languages: Java, Python, Matlab
Operating Systems: DOS, Windows 3.11-XP, UNIX
Hardware: Electronic circuits, computer installation
Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint

Lean manufacturing: Value Stream Mapping and Overall Process Effectiveness Analysis
Engineering/Construction Related Skills: Operated construction tools: jackhammer,
mitre saw, table saw, reciprocating saw, circular saw, cordless drill, hammer drill,
pneumatic nail gun, jigsaw, welding and mixed mortar for tiles and dry-walling
Languages: English, French
Licenses: Class 5 Drivers License
2.7 Other
To wrap up page two you need to include other sections. Possible examples are Awards and
Accomplishments, Memberships , Extracurricular or Interests. Not all these sections are
required remember you are looking to add value and make a personal connection at this point.
References are available on request is acceptable but not necessary.
2.8 Final Thoughts

Your resume is a living document that will constantly change depending on the employers needs and
as you gain experiences that can be matched with an employers needs. Keep copies of your resumes
and keep copies of the job postings that you are applying to as this will help you keep your information
organized and help you prepare if you get called for an interview. The Co-op/IIP staff are available to
support you in your job search and provide you valuable feedback. Ensure you take advantage of these
services and put your best foot forward in your job search process that includes a great resume and
cover letter.
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3.0 Cover Letters

Always write a cover letter to go with your resume for your application. It gives you the opportunity to put
emphasis on the skills most relevant for the position. Cover letters should be written in first person. Use the
job posting as a blueprint for your cover letter.
Contact information
Include your name, address, telephone, and e-mail.
Keep the format of the header consistent with your resume make it your personal stationary.
Date
State the month, day and year at the top below your header with your information.
Employers information
Include the name of the contact person, job title, company name, address, and postal code.
It is best to address your cover letter to a specific person whenever possible.
If you dont know the persons name, address the person by their job title or hiring manager and
address your letter to Dear Hiring Manager or Dear Human Resources Manager.
Avoid To Whom It May Concern or Dear Sir/Madam.
Salutation
Begin with Dear Mr. Smith.
If you dont know the persons name use the same rules as above.
3.1 Opening paragraph

Start by stating the purpose of the letter the position you are applying for and how you learned
about the job, I am applying for the position of ______________ as found on __________website.
If you are responding to an advertisement, refer to the ad or the position number.
Do research to show you know something about the organizations values, culture, or areas of
prospective growth. Demonstrate knowledge of the position by stating why you are interested.
If you have a personal contact with the company include that here. Name your referral if relevant,
e.g., Joe Davis, Manager of Customer Service, suggested I write you... or I met John Doe at the
career fair in October and this posting interested me based on our conversation or I heard Jane
Doe speak at HIRED.
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3.2 Body paragraph

Use this section to demonstrate your abilities relevant to the posting and be sure to mention all
criteria the posting suggests that pertain to you.
Open with your education, I am a third year Co-op/IIP Mechanical Engineering student at the
University of Manitoba
Be careful not to just list all of your abilities but to organize them into sections and use transition
sentences between these sections.
EXAMPLE: I have experience in working in a group as well as individually through various course
projects and had the opportunity to further strengthen by interpersonal communication skills
working as a mechanical student last summer with ___________.
Working with ___________ expanded my knowledge of design and allowed me to apply my

engineering skills in an engineering work environment
Describe specific accomplishments from your past work, volunteer, and academic experiences that
show your strengths.
3.3 Closing paragraph

Mention your interest in an interview or discussion about opportunities.
Thank the employer for their time and consideration of your application.
Provide information on your availability and how the employer may contact you.
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4.0 LinkedIn
Developed by and used with permission:
CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
ASPER SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA
Note: some changes made to reflect engineering students
LinkedIn A Powerful Recruiting Tool!

Over 225 million members across 200 countries and territories translating into 19 languages means YOU
need to be connected via LinkedIn!
With 2.7 million business pages, 1.5 million groups and the ever-increasing number of hiring managers and
recruiters turning to the site to hunt for job candidates, it is worth your time to ensure you are represented with
a LinkedIn account. Use this resource to ensure your LinkedIn account is giving you the biggest competitive
advantage! LinkedIn.com has some great resources too on how to use this powerful tool too! Use their
website to see examples and gain further clarification or answers to your questions.
Why use LinkedIn?

Be Found! The only way you can be recruited, is if a recruiter can find you. Here's how to make sure they
do:
Make certain your profile is 100 percent complete. See below for a complete section on how to get
noticed with a great profile!
Join LinkedIn's limit of 50 groups. You have immediate access to anyone with whom you share a
group. And that means that all these people (including recruiters and hiring managers who lurk
there) have access to your profile. Mix it up with different types of groups, like professional
associations, companies, volunteer organizations and industries you want to join. Dont forget to
join groups relating to alumni, geography, skill sets, and personal interests.
Contribute to your groups. Ask intelligent questions, and offer helpful answers in group discussions.
These are all indexed, and make you more findable within LinkedIn and through sophisticated
Google searches conducted by recruiting researchers.
Find Job Opportunities! LinkedIn is so much more than a simple job board!
In the main menu bar, click on the "Jobs" tab. You should always use the "advanced" search feature
where you can filter jobs by function, organizational level, industry, and date posted. Premium
accounts add additional filters you can employ.
Each LinkedIn Group now has its own "Jobs" tab. While it looks just like the one in the main menu, it
is completely different. Under this tab you can find jobs that are specifically advertised to the
particular group, and are not found on the main Jobs tab. The groups Job tab also has what are now
called "job discussions." Frequently, you will find jobs in this tab that are not advertised in either of
the "Jobs" posting areas. Again, because these particular messages are micro-targeted, you'll have
less competition and you gain an advantage.
LinkedIn Signal, found in the News tab, is a running, searchable compendium of all the status
updates posted by members of your network. You can simply do a search like "hiring (insert your
job skill/title)" and easily find out who in your network is looking to hire someone like you.
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Get Great Information! In essence, LinkedIn is a gigantic database. With imagination, you can use it to keep
abreast of just about anyone or anything you want to follow.
Under the News tab, "LinkedIn Today" and "Original Articles" provide topical postings from a whole
range of thought leaders in different fields. Follow those who write about topics relating to your
skills, industry, etc., to keep up to date with the latest buzz.
Under the Company tab follow companies of interest.
Under the People Advanced Search feature, search for current and/or past employees of any given
company.
LinkedIn Profile
50% of your success on LinkedIn depends on a great profile! (The other 50% depends on how you
use it.)
Secrets to a great profile are:
a great photo;
customized headline your #1 branding statement;
a compelling summary;
lots of relevant keywords/search engine optimization (SEO) strategy;
readable (you need to attract a human being and an algorithm);
creative and complete;
contact info included that is easy to find.
Remember, before you start making changes to your profile, turn OFF activity broadcasts. (You dont want
your boss getting an update if you are looking for a career change!)
Photo
Ask yourself, would you like to work with that person? Your ideal photo will be a head and shoulder shot
only and will show the friendly side of you! Remember to have good lighting often an outside picture
works best. Remember, a great shot can come from anywhere, a business suit and professional
photographer is not necessary.
Headlines
This section of HUGE importance is right under name. It is 120 characters and should be customized, do not
use the default! In fact, using the default (title at company) could work against you if you are looking for
a career change.
The headline will follow you everywhere, is very searchable and is often the first thing someone
notices about your profile, after your photo. Include things that will set you apart from your peers,
unique attributes that will market you. Think of your headline as your branding statement - pack it full
of SEO keywords!
Sample Headlines for Engineering student
4th Year Mechanical Engineering student. Seeking a Co-op position in Manufacturing Environment
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Summary
This 2000-character section should be customized do not copy your resume. LinkedIn does not follow the
same rules - make it personal, conversational (1st person) but still professional. Write in short chunks of
information avoiding long paragraphs. Your goal in writing your summary should be to market yourself, build
your brand, tell your story and resonate with your target audience.
Your summary could include:
opening statement (goals, where are you targeting, impressive qualifications)
brief career background and/or highlights
where you would best fit in, what are you known for (this is important information that is not typically
communicated in a resume)
unique work experience/projects
videos, rich media, SlideShare presentations
contact information, websites, URLs
quotes
Use headings to organize the content. A great idea to include more keywords in your summary is to add
headings such as My coursework and projects included studies in. or Roles that match my expertise
include: or Ideally suited to. These headings will help position you competitively if you dont have the exact
experience you require or you are making a career change.
Experience Remember readable, professional and personal! Again, in this 2000-character section, do not copy
your resume but list the significant jobs that built your career. Pack it with keywords (job titles are important in
this regard) and include outcomes, results and performance.
Use your job title to add keywords to this section. Job titles are not consistent across industries, countries or
even companies so clarifying what you are doing can be very advantageous!
Education You are spending the time and money to get an education leverage it! Showcase your MBA and
expand with awards, scholarships, leadership roles, affiliations, projects, relevant coursework, and how it
prepared you and what you gained.
How LinkedIn Can Help You Find a Job

1. Make Time Schedule at least 15 minutes a day to work on your resume, update and check online
networking profiles and search job listings. Opportunities come and go quickly, so you need to be in the
game on a daily basis.
2. Be Keyword Savvy Make sure your profile is full of keywords that will attract a recruiters attention. Look
through job postings and LinkedIn profiles that appeal to you and incorporate some of the same words or
phrases. In addition to job and industry-specific words, include leadership terms (captain, president) and
action words (managed, developed, analyzed)
3. Spread The Word to build your credibility and stay on peoples radar during your job hunt, regularly
update your status on LinkedIn and other social networks. You might share links to articles you think would
be relevant to people in your field, events youre attending and good career news.
Page 19
4. Reach Out Connect on LinkedIn with everyone you know friends, family, neighbors, professors, family
friends, internship colleagues and others. When you send a request, always override the canned Id like to
add you to my professional network on LinkedIn, and write a personal note, even if its a brief, Hey, want
to connect? Better yet, put a few minutes of effort into your request. No one likes to receive a form letter.
5. Get into Groups Beyond connecting to individuals, join LinkedIn groups related to your alma mater,
professional associations, volunteer organizations and industries you want to join. Every discussion in which
you comment is an opportunity to market yourself to people who might be hiring, and every group also
contains a Jobs tab.
6. Search High & Low LinkedIns job postings dont just tell you who is hiring; they tell you how you are
personally connected to that company through your network. Even when you see a job listed on another
site, LinkedIn can help you research people at that company and tell you how you are personally
connected. No matter where you look for jobs, cast a wider net by altering your search terms and location
criteria from time to time.
7. Follow When you see a job you like on another job board, use LinkedIn as a company research tool.
Check out the LinkedIn Company Page of any organization where youd like to work and click Follow
company. That organizations activity (job postings, hires, announcements) will appear on your homepage
and alert you to potential opportunities.
8. Persist (without pestering) Sending follow- up messages through LinkedIn can help you stand out from
other candidates. Every time you send someone a message through LinkedIn, the recruiter or hiring
manager can easily click over to your profile and check out your credentials.
Asper Career Development Centre
9. List Your Skills This section, below Experience and Education, offers a shorthand way to tell potential
employers what you can do. It also gives your connections the chance to endorse you for those skills.
10. Get Recommended! Although they can seem repetitive and gratuitous, they can also be helpful
because not only do they show up on your LinkedIn page, they also appear on the page of the
recommendation writer, and his or her connects can all read them. Also, recruiters do read them. Like your
career summary, recommendations should include meaty specifics about skills and accomplishments. It is
100% acceptable to offer to draft a recommendation for the person you are asking to recommend you!
11. Customize your URL This will drive it (the address of your LinkedIn page on the web) toward the top of
a Google search on your name. In the settings section, look for Edit My Public Profile to make this change.
Be sure to include this clean and easy to read address to your header on your resume and cover letter.
How to Make Quality Connections on LinkedIn

What is a quality connection? The answer will be different for each LinkedIn user! Your quality connection
or perfect contact will be someone who is relevant to you someone who is connected to your current or
desired profession, location and industry.
Before you begin the process of searching for perfect contacts, in addition to defining your desired
profession, location and industry, define your target companies. Also consider who you want to
Page 20
know you and who do you want to talk about you. While compiling these lists keep the hidden job market
in mind, ask yourself who will have access to jobs before they are posted.
Now that you have targeted your search, use the following avenues and tips to find your perfect contact:
Advanced People Search
Use OR and QUOTATIONS to your advantage to generate relevant results.
Focus on current and past work experience. Someone who is no longer working for a company may
actually be more willing to share more information.
The upgraded version claims to return more search results - who has the time to review them all!
Suggestion: Be more strategic in your search!
Relevant LinkedIn Groups with over 1.7 million groups, ask yourself, what is a relevant group to join? Look
at the number of members and the number of discussions.
Big Group: Great for connectivity, you reach a large number of people.
Small Group: Great for discussions, you will get in front of and your discussion content may be
noticed by more people.
From Perfect Contacts Profile from your perfect contacts profile, in addition to reviewing their
recommendations and connects, for great potential contacts, check out:
People Similar to
People Also Viewed.
You have your perfect contacts, now what? Follow these tips on how to communicate with your
perfect contact:
Connect A great start to expanding your connections.
Here you have limited number of characters (250) and you cannot include an email address or
website
Send Inmail (Get Introduced) Forward a message through a 1st degree contact
You cannot send to someone who is not a 1st degree contact. However, if you are members of the
same group, mouse over their name and you should see send message, this is the same as the
Inmail option. This is another reason to join groups to gain access to contacts!
When writing an Inmail message, be concise and following these tips:

Subject: Catchy, not spammy. Call on Wednesday?
Body Part 1: Content. Kelly, I saw your profile. Through a mutual friend.
Body Part 2: Purpose. I am developing a business plan
Body Part 3: Call to Action. Could we schedule a call on?
Signature. Add your personal branding such as website to showcase your work.
As your network expands, it may be helpful to track each relationship. Whenever you speak with a
contact make notes on the topic of conversation and the date. If action items are a result of the
conversation make a note in your calendar to follow-up on a specific date.
Resources Used:
1. The New LinkedIn Profile: Powers Tips for Your MBAs, Ross Macpherson, Beyond B-School
2. LinkedIn Contacts: How MBAs Find & Make Quality Connections, Jason Alba, Beyond B-School
3. 3 Ways LinkedIn Can Help You Nab a Job, US News and World Report
4. 7 Ways to Make LinkedIn Help You Find a Job, Forbes
5. Top 10 Online Job Hunting Tips, http://university.linkedin.com/sites/university.linkedin.com/files/Top%2010%20Online%20Job%20Hunting%20Tips.pdf
Page 21
Appendix I Cover letter examples
Your header, including your contact information same style as your Resume
Page 22
Jack Deer
48 Greenway Place Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 3A5
Phone: (204) 474-1234 email: jdeer@myumanitoba.ca
September 13, 2016
Mr. Michael Smith

AeCON
2008 Opportunity Drive
Futures, Manitoba
R3O 0E0
Dear Mr. Smith:
As per our telephone conversation, I wish to apply for the Mechanical Engineering Coop Student position
as advertised on your website. I attended a HIRED event last year hosted by AeCON and was extremely
pleased that Cathy Sigurdson recommended I speak with you. My skills and experience seem to match
with your current need and Im excited about the opportunity to work with a company that is well
respected in the mining industry.
I am currently a 3rd year Mechanical Engineering Co-op Student at the University of Manitoba. Through
my coursework and projects, I have gained valuable experience in researching, testing, measuring and
assessing equipment to maximize efficiencies with various team projects. These experiences allowed
me to work with other engineering team members in the development of preliminary designs using
AutoCAD software, perform engineering calculations, and analyze data to make recommendations for
commercial and light industrial equipment modifications. Working for the last 3 summers and working
part-time in the service industry, I have developed strong communication, interpersonal skills and strive
for excellence in a collaborative environment.
I feel that the combination of my education, experience and willingness to learn will allow me to make a
major contribution to your company. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss this position
with you in an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jack Deer
Page 23
Appendix II Resume examples
Jack Deer
48 Greenway Place Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 3A5
Phone: (204) 474-1234 email: jdeer@myumanitoba.ca
________________________________________________________________________
Education
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering 2014- Present

Co-op/IIP Program
Related Skills
Mechanical Engineering Skills

Tested, measured and assessed equipment used in project and made modification to maximize
efficiencies and reduce wear.
Tracked and collected data to make recommendations for improvements in product designs.
Designed products using AutoCAD according to project specifications and requirements.
Project Management Skills

Worked with project team members to research and determine scope of project, work
requirements and project timelines.
Led and coordinated weekly meetings and updated goals and timelines accordingly based on
progress of team.
Communication Skills
Wrote and presented technical reports on the design, analysis and implementation of
diagnostic tools for maintaining equipment.
Participated in class discussions and groups to provide clarification, recommendations and
feedback to other group members.
Work Experience
Customer Service Attendant, Shell Gas Station, Winnipeg 2011- present

Delivered excellent customer service in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment
Handled cash transaction and made daily bank deposits according to store policy and
procedures.
Collaborated with other team members to ensure store duties were completed including
cleaning, merchandising stock and clearing sidewalks/entrance in the winter time.
Page 24
Deer/page 2
Mini-University- Team Leader, University of Manitoba Summers 2013, 2014
Organized and coordinated youth programs including planning daily activities and learning
outcomes for participants with a focus on skill development and fun.
Supervised and trained other junior leaders to lead groups of participants in daily activities
Handled inquiries and concerns of parents to ensure conflicts were resolved in a timely manner.
Awards
2014-2016 Deans Honour List, Faculty of Engineering

2015 Association of Professional Engineers of Manitoba scholarship
Special Skills
Computer Skills: Languages - C++, Pascal, Java, HTML, Visual Basic

Software - AutoCAD, Word, Power Point, Excel
Languages: Fluent in English and French
Memberships
2014 - present Member, UMSAE, Faculty of Engineering

2015, 2016 Student Member, Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba
Extra-Curricular Activities
2011- present Assistant Coach, Twins Atom Hockey Team
Interests
Hockey, hiking, backpacking, canoeing and travelling
Page 25
Appendix III- LinkedIn
Page 26
Appendix IV
Action Words for Engineering

Type of Experience: Broad, Complete, Comprehensive, Consistent, Diversified, Extensive, Intensive, Scope, Solid,
Specific, Successful, Varied
Accomplishment: Achieved, Designed, Elected to, Established, Expanded, Improved, Pioneered, Reduced
(losses), Resolved, Restored, Transformed, Executed, Generated, Implemented, Optimized, Handled
Administrative Skills: Administered, Coordinated, Designed, Established, Evaluated, Interpreted, Interviewed,

Managed, Mediated, Negotiated, Organized, Oversaw, Prepared, Planned, Purchased, Supervised
Time Management Skills: Administered, Developed, Directed, Generated, Improved, Initiated, Increased,
Promoted, Reduced, Consolidated
Counseling/Helping Skills: Accompanied, Adopted, Advocated, Aided, Assessed, Assisted, Assumed, Clarified,
Coached, Collaborated, Combined, Counseled, Demonstrated, Devoted, Diagnosed, Disclosed, Educated,
Affected, Enlarged, Ensured, Executed, Expanded, Expedited, Facilitated, Familiarized, Fortified, Guided, Helped,
Increased, Involved, Maintained, Modified, Motivated, Offered, Participated, Protected, Provided, Reduced,
Referred, Rehabilitated, Reinforced, Represented, Retained, Reviewed, Revised, Sampled, Served, Set up,
Shared, Suggested, Supplied
Creative Skills: Acted, Anticipated, Appeared, Conceptualized, Created, Customized, Decorated, Designed,
Developed, Directed, Displayed, Drew, Edited, Entertained, Established, Fashioned, Filmed, Founded, Illustrated,
Initiated, Innovated, Instituted, Integrated, Introduced, Invented, Originated, Performed, Planned, Revitalized
Communication Skills: Addressed, Advertised, Arbitrated, Arranged, Articulated, Attended, Authored,

Collaborated, Committed, Convinced, Corresponded, Demonstrated, Described, Developed, Directed, Discussed,
Diverted, Drafted, Drew, Edited, Elicited, Empathized, Enlisted, Entertained, Expressed, Facilitated, Formulated,
Handled, Harmonized, Influenced, Informed, Inquired, Interacted, Interpreted, Interviewed, Invited, Justified,
Lectured, Listened, Manipulated, Marketed, Mediated, Moderated, Motivated, Negotiated, Networked,
Perceived, Persuaded, Presented, Promoted, Proposed, Publicized, Recommended, Reconciled, Recruited,
Rated, Reported, Represented, Settled, Showed, Signaled, Solicited, Specified, Spoke, Telephoned, Testified,
Translated, Wrote
Financial Skills: Administered, Allocated, Analyzed, Appraised, Assessed, Audited, Balanced, Bargained, Bought,
Budgeted, Calculated, Computed, Developed, Exchanged, Forecasted, Insured, Managed, Marketed, Planned,
Prepared, Procured, Purchased, Researched, Sold
Function/Task: Approved, Arranged, Catalogued, Charted, Classified, Collected, Compiled, Delivered,

Dispatched, Distributed, Drafted, Edited, Executed, Filed, Generated, Hosted, Implemented, Inspected,
Memorized, Monitored, Operated, Organized, Outlined, Prepared, Processed, Purchased, Recorded, Registered,
Page 27
Relayed, Reorganized, Reproduced, Retrieved, Scanned, Screened, Separated, Simplified, Specified,
Systematized, Tabulated, Transferred, Updated
Organizational Skills: Analyzed, Applied, Approved, Arranged, Coordinated, Catalogued, Classified, Collected,
Compiled, Dispatched, Developed, Expedited, Facilitated, Generated, Handled, Implemented, Initiated,
Inspected, Monitored, Organized, Planned, Prepared, Processed, Purchased, Recorded, Retrieved, Screened,
Specified, Systematized, Tabulated, Validated
Management Skills: Administered, Allotted, Analyzed, Assigned, Attained, Broadened, Called for, Chaired,
Changed, Consolidated, Contacted, Contracted, Coordinated, Decided, Defined, Delegated, Developed, Devised,
Directed, Eliminated, Enforced, Established, Evaluated, Executed, Focused, Handled, Headed, Hired,
Implemented, Improved, Incorporated, Increased, Instituted, Integrated, Judged, Led, Managed, Mediated,
Mobilized, Motivated, Organized, Overhauled, Oversaw, Planned, Prioritized, Produced, Provided,
Recommended, Regulated, Resolved, Restored, Reviewed, Scheduled, Screened, Scrutinized, Selected, Shaped,
Solved, Sought, Specialized, Strengthened, Structured, Supervised, Terminated, Verified
Research Skills: Analyzed, Applied, Checked, Cited, Clarified, Collected, Compared, Critiqued, Deducted,
Determined, Diagnosed, Discovered, Dissected, Estimated, Evaluated, Examined, Explored, Extracted,
Forecasted, Formulated, Found, Gathered, Graphed, Identified, Inspected, Interpreted, Interviewed,
Investigated, Isolated, Located, Observed, Predicted, Read, Researched, Reviewed, Studied, Summarized,
Surveyed, Systematized
Technical Skills: Adjusted, Advanced, Altered, Amplified, Assembled, Built, Calculated, Computed, Designed,
Devised, Developed, Engineered, Excavated, Extrapolated, Fabricated, Installed, Interpreted, Maintained,
Mapped, Measured, Mediated, Moderated, Motivated, Negotiated, Obtained, Operated, Overhauled,
Persuaded, Plotted, Produced, Programmed, Promoted, Publicized, Reconciled, Recruited, Remodeled,
Renovated, Repaired, Restored, Rotated, Solved, Synthesized, Translated, Upgraded, Wrote
Training Skills: Adapted, Advised, Clarified, Coached, Communicated, Coordinated, Developed, Enabled,
Encouraged, Evaluated, Explained, Facilitated, Guided, Informed, Initiated, Instructed, Motivated, Persuaded,
Presented, Stimulated
Page 28

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JOB SEARCH AND

How to most effectively showcase your skills

Job Search and Application Guide

Career Services Link:

2.6 Technical skills

3.0 Cover Letter

1.0 Getting Started

Information on teams and volunteer opportunities are available on the U of M website.

2.1 Top tips

2. Pick the format

4. Focus on your accomplishments

6. Use bullets, not paragraphs

7. Pay attention to formatting

9. Be sure you are adding value

10. Proof read and edit

11. No First Person

Bachelor of Science in Biosystems Engineering (Co-op/IIP option) May 2019

2.5.1 Transferable Skills

2.5.2 Related Skills or Related Engineering Experience or Related Project

Mechanical Engineering Skills

Project Management Skills

Related Engineering Experience / Related Project Experience

Senior Capstone Project, University of Manitoba

Team Member Fall 2015

2.5.3 Related Work History

Crop Pest Management Assistant, May to September 2013

Land Use Technician May August 2014

Engineering Aid January August 2013

Programmer, Computer Inc. May 2015-Sept. 2015

Computer Engineering Intern, KLM COMPANY Jan. 2015-May 2015

Electrical Engineer Intern, ABC COMPANY May 2016-Sept.2016

Electrical Engineering Intern, HIJ May 2015-Sept. 2016

Engineering Intern May 2014 August 2015

Senior Design Project Student, DEF COMPANY January- September 2014

Project Engineer Assistant, XDF Coal January 2015 December 2015

2.5.4 Non-Engineering Work and Other Experience

Position Duties Relevant Transferable skills

Tree Planter Plant trees in a variety of

Security Guard, May 2013- Dec. 2015

2.6 Technical Skills

Hardware: Electronic circuits, computer installation

Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint

2.8 Final Thoughts

3.0 Cover Letters

Include your name, address, telephone, and e-mail.

It is best to address your cover letter to a specific person whenever possible.

Avoid To Whom It May Concern or Dear Sir/Madam.

Begin with Dear Mr. Smith.

3.1 Opening paragraph

If you are responding to an advertisement, refer to the ad or the position number.

3.2 Body paragraph

Working with ___________ expanded my knowledge of design and allowed me to apply my

3.3 Closing paragraph

LinkedIn A Powerful Recruiting Tool!

Why use LinkedIn?

How LinkedIn Can Help You Find a Job

How to Make Quality Connections on LinkedIn

When writing an Inmail message, be concise and following these tips:

Appendix I Cover letter examples

September 13, 2016

Mr. Michael Smith

Dear Mr. Smith:

Appendix II Resume examples

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering 2014- Present