BASIC JOB APPLICATION SKILLS
BEST PRACTICES FOR AN EFFECTIVE
COVER LETTER, RÉSUMÉ, AND CV
July 17th, 2017
Mr. Chris Torgue
Director, CircleSquare Gallery
1234 Deerborn Rd.
Toronto, Ontario M5D 1T3
Dear Mr. Torgue,
Please accept the following application for the position of part-time Gallery Assistant, CircleSquare
Gallery as posted on Akimbo. CircleSquare Gallery has a rich history as an exhibition venue committed to
supporting and facilitating the work of emerging female artists working in a variety of disciplines including
illustration and digital technologies. Its reputation as a leader in this eld is nationally celebrated. It is within
this energetic and forward-thinking environment that I wish to continue my work in the creative sector.
As a woman working in illustration, and a recent graduate from OCAD University’s Illustration program, I
am interested in the possibilities offered by mediums such as drawing, painting, photography and digital
technologies. As a practicing illustrator and artist, my experience in working with various types of practices
can offer a diverse foundation for communicating with artists and clients about their work and needs.
In 2012, I was a Gallery Intern at the Living Arts Centre located in the thriving cultural center of Mississauga.
In this role, I worked on the development and implementation of the LAC’s newly launched website, which
saw the gallery transition many of its resources and communications to an online format. In addition, I
worked on day-to-day administration, including partner/membership emails as well as corresponding with
exhibiting artists.
As a result of my work with the LAC, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Artbarn School as
their Youth Workshop Leader. There I worked with youth and adults to support multi-disciplinary approaches
to art making. This role offered the invaluable experience of communicating the value of creative thinking
and problem-solving to individuals without art or design backgrounds.
In today’s diverse and cross-disciplinary culture it is important to keep an open and considerate mind when
discussing art. My experience working in various settings would benet a gallery such as yours - one
that promotes creativity and experimentation within the work of women artists. In closing, I believe my
commitment to art and design aligns with the vision of CircleSquare Gallery, and I look forward to the
opportunity to speak with you further regarding this opportunity.
Sincerely,
Andrea Lee
(416) 555 5000
andrealee.com
Dear Mr. Torgue,
Please accept the following application for the position of part-time Gallery Assistant, CircleSquare
Gallery as posted on Akimbo. CircleSquare Gallery has a rich history as an exhibition venue committed to
supporting and facilitating the work of emerging female artists working in a variety of disciplines including
illustration and digital technologies. Its reputation as a leader in this eld is nationally celebrated. It is within
this energetic and forward-thinking environment that I wish to continue my work in the creative sector.
As a woman working in illustration, and a recent graduate from OCAD University’s Illustration program, I
am interested in the possibilities offered by mediums such as drawing, painting, photography and digital
technologies. As a practicing illustrator and artist, my experience in working with various types of practices
can offer a diverse foundation for communicating with artists and clients about their work and needs.
In 2012, I was a Gallery Intern at the Living Arts Centre located in the thriving cultural center of Mississauga.
In this role, I worked on the development and implementation of the LAC’s newly launched website, which
saw the gallery transition many of its resources and communications to an online format. In addition, I
worked on day-to-day administration, including partner/membership emails as well as corresponding with
exhibiting artists.
As a result of my work with the LAC, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Artbarn School as
their Youth Workshop Leader. There I worked with youth and adults to support multi-disciplinary approaches
to art making. This role offered the invaluable experience of communicating the value of creative thinking
and problem-solving to individuals without art or design backgrounds.
In today’s diverse and cross-disciplinary culture it is important to keep an open and considerate mind when
discussing art. My experience working in various settings would benet a gallery such as yours - one
that promotes creativity and experimentation within the work of women artists. In closing, I believe my
commitment to art and design aligns with the vision of CircleSquare Gallery, and I look forward to the
opportunity to speak with you further regarding this opportunity.
Sincerely,
July 17th, 2017
Mr. Chris Torgue
Director, CircleSquare Gallery
1234 Deerborn Rd.
Toronto, Ontario M5D 1T3
Andrea Lee
(416) 555 5000
andrealee.com
Your personal brand should align
with the design features found on your résumé.
However, the cover letter is predominantly
business oriented and formal.
Keep your contact information clearly visible
and near the top. Make it easy to contact you!
Include the complete address and title of the
person* you are writing to.
*If you’re unsure about the person you are
addressing, write “Dear Hiring Committee”
Establish the reason you are writing to the
organization, the role you are applying for and
how you heard about this job/opportunity.
• Acknowledge the organization and
what they do well
• Create a link between the organization
and yourself, as it relates to your core
values and experience
• Ensure there is an effective lead-in to
the next paragraph
Connect your work, volunteer and professional
experience to the organization and/or job
description.
Re-establish your enthusiasm and fit for the role,
request the opportunity to elaborate further in-
person, and sign-off formally.
THE (TRADITIONAL) COVER LETTER
Create a narrative:
Expand on how your skills and insights have
helped you improve as a designer, artist and/
or creative worker. Here, you create a memora-
ble, compelling story that directly connects your
experience to the needs of the organization.
1
3
4
5
6
2
2
1
3
4
5
6
Andrea Lee
(416) 555 5000
andr
ealee.com
STATEMENT OF INTENT
EDUCATION
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
OTHER EXPERIENCE
SKILLS
AWARDS
Ontario College of Art & Design (OCAD) University
Bachelor of Design: Illustration
Artbarn School, Toronto
Part-Time Workshop Leader
• Delivered creative workshops for children and adult learners
• Created a specialized workshop on using multimedia techniques
• Group facilitation, classroom management and presentation skills
Frank Li Architectural Graphics, Toronto
Freelance Graphic Designer/Illustrator/Photographer
• Shot stock photos, archived photos, modernized promo materials
• Contributed to success of growing architectural rm
• Graphic design, basic html coding, photography, archiving
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga
Gallery Intern
• Assisted with day-to-day operations, exhibitions and special events
• Involved in the high-prole re-development of gallery website
• Writing, marketing and strong organizational skills
UNICEF Charity
Volunteer Design Work
• Strengthened public awareness for We Walk 4 Water
• Provided pro bono work for worthy cause
• Graphic design, marketing, creative input
• Advertising Illustration, Animation, Editorial Illustration, Graphic
Design, Infographics, & Storyboarding
• Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop; MS Ofce
• Fluent in English and skilled in French
• Familiarity collaborating with a team of creatives and leaders
• Experience working with a variety of clients
• 3×3 Magazine, No.10 - Illustration Competition Winner
• CMYK Publication, Issue 53 - Student Competition Winner
• Creative Quarterly, No. 42 - Honourable Mention
201-17
2013-14
2012-13
2012
2012
Andrea Lee
(416) 555 5000
andr
ealee.com
STATEMENT OF INTENT
EDUCATION
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
OTHER EXPERIENCE
SKILLS
AWARDS
Ontario College of Art & Design (OCAD) University
Bachelor of Design: Illustration
Artbarn School, Toronto
Part-Time Workshop Leader
• Delivered creative workshops for children and adult learners
• Created a specialized workshop on using multimedia techniques
• Group facilitation, classroom management and presentation skills
Frank Li Architectural Graphics, Toronto
Freelance Graphic Designer/Illustrator/Photographer
• Shot stock photos, archived photos, modernized promo materials
• Contributed to success of growing architectural rm
• Graphic design, basic html coding, photography, archiving
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga
Gallery Intern
• Assisted with day-to-day operations, exhibitions and special events
• Involved in the high-prole re-development of gallery website
• Writing, marketing and strong organizational skills
UNICEF Charity
Volunteer Design Work
• Strengthened public awareness for We Walk 4 Water
• Provided pro bono work for worthy cause
• Graphic design, marketing, creative input
• Advertising Illustration, Animation, Editorial Illustration, Graphic
Design, Infographics, & Storyboarding
• Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop; MS Ofce
• Fluent in English and skilled in French
• Familiarity collaborating with a team of creatives and leaders
• Experience working with a variety of clients
• 3×3 Magazine, No.10 - Illustration Competition Winner
• CMYK Publication, Issue 53 - Student Competition Winner
• Creative Quarterly, No. 42 - Honourable Mention
7
2013-14
2012-13
2012
2012
Your personal brand should be
moderately emphasized. The traditional résumé
is predominantly business oriented and formal.
Keep contact information clearly visible and
near the top.
Write a concise pitch that describes who you
are as a designer or artist.
Display your education, including what degree
or which program(s) you completed.
List the most relevant experience for the position
you are applying for, in chronological order.
Volunteerism and internships have a place here.
Format your experience as follows:
Include any transferable skills you have
acquired through your experience. This includes
interpersonal & organizational strengths or
professional communication skills.
Compile other experience which may not be
directly related to the position, but can still be
impressive.
List any technical skills you have learned, such
as software or relevant material techniques, etc.
Document any awards or publications you have
seen recognition from. Entering competitions is a
great way to build recognition outside of the job
market!
Place of Employment Date
Position
• Core Responsibilities (start with an action verb)
• Key Accomplishments
• Skills Demonstrated or Acquired
THE (TRADITIONAL) RÉSUMÉ
1
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
2
2
1
3
5
4
7
6
8
9
ABOUT
EXPERIENCECONTACT EDUCATION
SKILLS
TECHNICAL
LANGUAGES
PUBLICATION
Ontario College of Art &
Design (OCAD) University
Bachelor of Design,
Illustration
Artbarn School
Part-Time Workshop Leader
• Delivered creative workshops for
children and adult learners
• Created a specialized workshop
on using multimedia techniques
• Group facilitation, classroom
management and presentation
skills
Frank Li Architectural
Graphics & Illustrations
Freelance Graphic Designer/
Photographer
• Shot stock photos, archived
photos, modernized promo
materials
• Contributed to success of growing
architectural rm
• Graphic design, basic html
coding, photography, archiving
Living Arts Centre
Gallery Intern
• Assisted with day-to-day
operations, exhibitions and
special events
• Involved in the high-prole re-
development of gallery website
• Writing, marketing and strong
organizational skills
UNICEF Charity
Volunteer Design Work
• Strengthened public awareness
for We Walk 4 Water
• Provided pro bono work for
worthy cause
• Graphic design, marketing,
creative input
201-172014
2013-14
2013-14
2012-13
Experience with client relations
Familiarity working with a team
Efcient workow and fast turnaround
Adaptable and quick to learn
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe InDesign
Adobe Flash
Microsoft Ofce
Editorial Illustration
Scientic Illustration
Infographics
Layout Design
Storyboarding
Fluent in English
Skilled in French
3×3 Magazine, No.10 - Illustration
Competition Winner
CMYK Publication, Issue 53 - Student
Competition Winner
Creative Quarterly, No. 42 -
Honourable Mention
Andrea Lee
Andrea Lee
(416) 555 5000
www.andrealee.com
A hybrid résumé should showcase your
creative talent as well as provide a more
traditional visual solution. Think of the framework
of the résumé as a vehicle for potential design
strategies that will highlight your strengths as a
designer/artist.
Suggested Audience:
You might consider using this résumé for
opportunities where creativity is seen as an asset,
and the employer would benet from knowing
you have those skills. This could include roles in
the cultural sector, design community or forward-
thinking institutions.
5 Steps to Consider When
Creating your Hybrid Resume:
THE (HYBRID) RÉSUMÉ
Create a complimentary personal watermark
or logo as a way of branding your identity.
Use a creative layout to visually boost the
template of the traditional résumé.
Graphic elements should be part of a design
approach that subtly showcases your creative
thinking.
Will typography, scale and color make your
résumé effectively stand out from the crowd?
1
3
4
2
A creative résumé should showcase your
learned talent and ingenuity. Think of the
framework of the résumé as a design problem. How
does your résumé really represent who you are as
an artist and/or designer?
Suggested Audience:
You might consider using this resume for
opportunities where creative design, data
visualization or conceptual problem solving are
explicitly being sought. This could include
freelance illustration or design positions and
innovative firms, agencies and/or startups.
Due to its prominent - and largely non-generic -
features, this type of résumé should be used very
selectively.
5 Steps to Consider When
Creating your Creative Resume:
THE (CREATIVE) RÉSUMÉ
1
2
2
Create a highly distinctive personal
statement or logo as a way of branding your
identity.
• Your design aesthetic should be
demonstrated throughout. Consider this
résumé as a genuine portfolio piece.
Graphic elements offer countless alternative
ways to present the standard information
found in a résumé. The information still
needs to be legible, but how we access it is
up to you.
• Will your use of typography, scale and
color make your résumé effectively stand
out from the crowd?
How can you use key words to describe your
work experience and skills to add legitimacy
to your skills?
ANDREA LEE
GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ILLUSTRATOR
PROFILE EDUCATION
I am an emerging designer with experience
in the creative sector and training from
OCAD University. I am an innovative,
adaptable problem-solver with strong
communication skills, both visual and
interpersonal. I am skilled at producing
attractive information resources for print
or online, with tight deadlines. I am an
engaged, participatory and self-driven
designer who draws upon my professional
experiences and education to create
unique works that add value to a project.
Ontario College of Art & Design
(OCAD) University, Toronto ON
Bachelor of Design: Illustration (June, 2017)
Activities:
• Member of OCAD Student Union:
Redesigned announcement posters to improve event engagement
• Peer Mentor:
Assisted first-year students with their transition to OCAD U
Awards:
• 3×3 Magazine, No.10 - Illustration Competition Winner
• CMYK Publication, Issue 53 - Student Competition Winner
2013-present
2014 -2015
2015-2016
CONTACT
SKILLS SUMMARY
416 555 5000
andrea.lee@gmail.com
andrealee.com
TECHNICAL AND CREATIVE
• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign;
Advanced in Adobe Premier and AfterEffects
• Experienced with web design, HTML and JavaScript
• Managed the art direction and copywriting on numerous design projects
• Deep understanding of typography, photography and social media
• Created logos and digital campaigns for several brands (Frank Li Graphics)
• Able to find creative design solutions to various problems and topics
(3×3 Magazine)
ORGANISATIONAL
• Established clear goals and objectives while inspiring team spirit and achievement
• Efficiently managed time as demonstrated by ability to coordinate
a number of schedules
• Encouraged new ideas and active participation from team members, which led to
exceptionally strong final group presentation (Artbarn School)
• Oversaw scheduling, planning, ordering and booking (OCAD Student Union)
COMMUNICATION
• Comfortable and confident presenting to small and large audiences
• Communicated effectively at multiple levels using appropriate language and style
• Able to write comprehensive and effective reports and business communications
• Conducted primary research and incorporated secondary research that led to
winning project strategy (Artbarn School)
• Fluent in English and skilled in French
WORK EXPERIENCE
Part-Time Workshop Leader
Artbarn School, Toronto
2013-14
Freelance Graphic Designer/
Illustrator/Photographer
Frank Li Graphics, Toronto
2012-13
Gallery Intern
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga
2012 (summer internship)
ca.linkedin.com/in/andrea.lee
2013
2014
THE (FUNCTIONAL) RÉSUMÉ
1
2
3
4
Write a concise narrative that describes who you are,
where you’re coming from, and where you’re going as
a designer or artist.
List the most relevant experience for the position you
are applying for, in chronological order.
List, in great detail, the key skills that you possess.
These should be your biggest strengths. Ideally,
they are highly aligned to the opportunity that you
are applying to. Start with the one that is most
transferable and related to the position you are
seeking. List various skills and work experiences under
each sub-heading and be sure to back them up with
successful outcomes and achievements.
*TIP - Select category titles for your Skills Summary
using words and terms found in the job
posting.
In some instances you may choose to state where
exactly you demonstrated a skill or accomplishments;
thus helping the reader to connect it to a particular
experience (work, volunteer or other).
A “functional” or “skills based” resume is a useful format for
those who have minimal work experience, previous experience
not directly related to a new career opportunity or skills
acquired from a very diverse range of experiences, such as
work, school, and volunteerism. Its goal is to emphasise your
skills over your work history so that you can quickly attract the
attention of the employer.
Functional resumes are highly aligned with the actual job
posting which you are applying to, making them more relevant
and meaningful to the employer. This format frees you from
the ridged structure of a chronological order and provides an
opportunity to include skills and experiences that wouldn’t have
a place in the traditional resume format.
When to use:
Steps to consider:
To demonstrate the level of your engagement, list any
clubs, school organisations or other activities that you
have been a part of as a student, as well as awards and
accomplishments that you may have received.
ANDREA LEE
GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ILLUSTRATOR
PROFILE EDUCATION
I am an emerging designer with experience
in the creative sector and training from
OCAD University. I am an innovative,
adaptable problem-solver with strong
communication skills, both visual and
interpersonal. I am skilled at producing
attractive information resources for print
or online, with tight deadlines. I am an
engaged, participatory and self-driven
designer who draws upon my professional
experiences and education to create
unique works that add value to a project.
Ontario College of Art & Design
(OCAD) University, Toronto ON
Bachelor of Design: Illustration (June, 2017)
Activities:
• Member of OCAD Student Union:
Redesigned announcement posters to improve event engagement
• Peer Mentor:
Assisted first-year students with their transition to OCAD U
Awards:
• 3×3 Magazine, No.10 - Illustration Competition Winner
• CMYK Publication, Issue 53 - Student Competition Winner
2013-present
2014-2015
2015-2016
CONTACT
SKILLS SUMMARY
416 555 5000
andrea.lee@gmail.com
andrealee.com
TECHNICAL AND CREATIVE
• Established clear goals and objectives while inspiring team spirit and achievement
• Efficiently managed time as demonstrated by ability to coordinate
a number of schedules
• Encouraged new ideas and active participation from team members,
which led to exceptionally strong final group presentation (Artbarn School)
• Oversaw scheduling, planning, ordering and booking (OCAD Student Union)
• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign;
Advanced in Adobe Premier and AfterEffects
• Experienced with web design, HTML and JavaScript
• Managed the art direction and copywriting on numerous design projects
• Deep understanding of typography, photography and social media
• Created logos and digital campaigns for several brands (Frank Li Graphics)
• Able to find creative design solutions to various problems and topic
s
(3×3 Magazine)
ORGANISATIONAL
COMMUNICATION
• Comfortable and confident presenting to small and large audiences
• Communicated effectively at multiple levels using appropriate language and style
• Able to write comprehensive and effective reports and business communications
• Conducted primary research and incorporated secondary research that led to
winning project strategy (Artbarn School)
• Fluent in English and skilled in French
WORK EXPERIENCE
Part-Time Workshop Leader
Artbarn School, Toronto
2013-14
Freelance Graphic Designer/
Illustrator/Photographer
Frank Li Graphics, Toronto
2012-13
Gallery Intern
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga
2012 (summer internship)
ca.linkedin.com/in/andrea.lee
4
5
5
2014
2013
1
2
3
Andrea Lee
Phone: (416) 555 5000
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.andrealee.com
Education:
Ontario College of Art & Design University,
Bachelor of Design: Illustration,
2017
Solo Exhibitions:
On my Own
, Singles Gallery Chicago, USA, 2014
Hit or Miss,
Spirit in the Room Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2012
Strange Things Did Trouble Me,
Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2010
Didn’t It Rain
, Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2010
Group Exhibitions:
Burning Hell,
Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2014
Take Me Back to the Party,
24 hours Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2013
Stoned in Love,
Singles Gallery, Chicago, USA, 2010
Clients:
Artbarn, TD Canada Trust, Living Arts Centre, OCAD University, Fresh Design, Greenpeace, Aamagine Service
Industries, Norm Li Architectural Graphics & Illustrations, Unicef Canada, Wilfred Laurier University
Press:
Dick, Terence. Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Fake. The Globe and Mail Sept. 16 2006, p. M5
Whyte, Murray. Hommage To A Man’s Faux Life. Toronto Star. Sept. 16 2006, p. A25
Awards:
3×3 Magazine, No.10 - Illustration Competition Winner
CMYK Publication, Issue 53 - Student Competition Winner
Creative Quarterly, No. 42 - Honourable Mention
Professional Experience:
Part-Time Workshop Leader,
Artbarn School, Toronto, Canada, 2014
Gallery Intern,
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga, Canada, 2013-14
Graphic Designer/Photographer,
Frank Li Architectural Graphics and Illustrations, Toronto, Canada, 2012
Volunteer Design Work,
Unicef Canada, Mississauga, Canada, 2013-14
Solo Exhibitions:
On my Own
, Singles Gallery Chicago, USA, 2014
Hit or Miss,
Spirit in the Room Gallery, Toronto, Canada 2012
Strange Things Did Trouble Me,
Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada 2010
Didn’t It Rain
, Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada 2010
Group Exhibitions:
Burning Hell,
Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2014
Take Me Back to the Party,
24 hours Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2013
Stoned in Love,
Singles Gallery, Chicago, USA, 2010
Clients:
Artbarn, TD Canada Trust, Living Arts Centre, OCAD University, Fresh Design, Greenpeace, Aamagine Service
Industries, Norm Li Architectural Graphics & Illustrations, Unicef Canada, Wilfred Laurier University
Press:
ZE5T Interview. July, 2013, http://www.ze5t.com/interviewurl/
“Bring Back a Classic: Illustrations by Andrea Lee” CMYK Interview. Aug, 2012. http://interviewurl.com/
Awards:
3×3 Magazine, No.10 - Ilustration Competition Winner
CMYK Publication, Issue 53 - Student Competition Winner
Creative Quartely, No. 42 - Honourable Mention
Professional Experience:
Part-Time Workshop Leader,
Artbarn School, Toronto, Canada, 2014
Gallery Intern,
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga, Canada 2013-14
Graphic Designer/Photographer,
Frank Li Architectural Graphics and Illustrations, Toronto, Canada, 2012
Volunteer Design Work,
Unicef Canada, Mississauga, Canada 2013-14
Andrea Lee
Phone: (416) 555 5000
Email: [email protected]
Website: andrealee.com
Ed
Ed
uca
uca
tion:
tion:
O
O
nt
nt
ar
ario College
io College of Ar
of Art &
t & Design U
Design U
niv
niv
ersity
ersity,
,
Bac
Bac
helor of Design: Illustr
helor of Design: Illustration
ation,
2017
Solo Exhibitions:
On my Own
, Singles Gallery Chicago, USA, 2014
Hit or Miss,
Spirit in the Room Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2012
Strange Things Did Trouble Me,
Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2010
Didn’t It Rain
, Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2010
Group Exhibitions:
Burning Hell,
Praise & Blame Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2014
Take Me Back to the Party,
24 hours Gallery, Toronto, Canada, 2013
Stoned in Love,
Singles Gallery, Chicago, USA, 2010
Clients:
Artbarn, TD Canada Trust, Living Arts Centre, OCAD University, Fresh Design, Greenpeace, Aamagine Service
Industries, Norm Li Architectural Graphics & Illustrations, Unicef Canada, Wilfred Laurier University
Press:
Dick, Terence. Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Fake. The Globe and Mail Sept. 16 2006, p. M5
Whyte, Murray. Hommage To A Man’s Faux Life. Toronto Star. Sept. 16 2006, p. A25
Awards:
3×3 Magazine, No.10 - Illustration Competition Winner
CMYK Publication, Issue 53 - Student Competition Winner
Creative Quarterly, No. 42 - Honourable Mention
Professional Experience:
Part-Time Workshop Leader,
Artbarn School, Toronto, Canada, 2014
Gallery Intern,
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga, Canada, 2013-14
Graphic Designer/Photographer,
Frank Li Architectural Graphics and Illustrations, Toronto, Canada, 2012
Volunteer Design Work,
Unicef Canada, Mississauga, Canada, 2013-14
Andrea Lee
Phone: (416) 555 5000
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.andrealee.com
The CV is not the place to demonstrate your
marketable skills or interest in a traditional job
opportunity. Rather its function is as a formal
document cataloging your professional experience
and accomplishments in the creative, cultural or
academic sectors, including:
• Exhibitions or Screenings
• Notable Clients
• Competitions (Finalist)
• Press (Others writing about you)
• Publications (Your writing or work)
• Awards / Grants
• Residencies
• Teaching Appointments
Important: Certain jobs in the cultural or creative
sectors may ask to see listed within your resume
certain evidence of activities usually found on a CV.
An exceptionally clean and polished aesthetic is
the norm with a CV.
Keep your contact information clearly visible
and right at the top.
Display your education, including what degree
or which program(s) you completed.
Determine the appropriate way to cite
exhibitions, publications or awards based on
MLA guidelines, award acknowledgment letters
or gallery publications/event listings.
Compile a list of all your related professional
roles. CVs are not often a compilation of
demonstrable skills, in the way that a résumé is.
As well, a CV is often longer than one page.
THE CURRICULUM VITAE (CV)
1
3
4
5
2
3
5
4
2
1
Adapted
Administered
Advanced
Analyzed
Approved
Arranged
Assisted
Balanced
Broadened
Budgeted
Built
Categorized
Centralized
Collaborated
Complied
Composed
Constructed
Contributed
Coordinated
Created
Critiqued
Delegated
Designed
Developed
Directed
Drafted
Edited
Educated
Encouraged
Enhanced
Established
Executed
Explored
Expressed
Fabricated
Facilitated
Focused
Formed
Fostered
Founded
Generated
Guided
Helped
Illustrated
Improved
Increased
Informed
Installed
Instructed
Introduced
Launched
Led
Maintained
Managed
Marketed
Mentored
Modeled
Modied
Molded
Monitored
Motivated
Operated
Orchestrated
Organized
Oversaw
Performed
Planned
Prepared
Presented
Produced
Provided
Publicized
Redened
Redesigned
Rendered
Reported
Represented
Reproduced
Researched
Resolved
Restored
Revised
Rewrote
Scheduled
Served
Shaped
Showed
Solved
Streamlined
Strengthened
Studied
Supported
Taught
Tutored
Updated
Volunteered
Wrote
SAMPLE ACTION VERBS
EXPERIENTIAL
LEARNING
PROGRAM
CAREER
DEVELOPMENT
8.24”
90
°
The following can be used to augment your
range of vocabulary when writing about skills
accomplishments, and creative value.
The CEAD Online:
www.ocadu.ca/careerdevelopment
www.ocadu.ca/explearning
Online References for Students:
www.cead.format.com
Contact Us:
416 977 6000
