CREDIT: "BUSY MINDS" ILLUSTRATION BY LAM LE

Finding a job can be difficult. There are many things that can make an employer not give you that interview based on your resume and cover letter. The resume and cover letter is any potential employer's first impression of you. Here are some tips to help you improve your application and get you one step closer to landing that interview.

1) Be Honest

Honesty is the best policy. When writing your resume and cover letter you should be as accurate and honest as you possibly can. Be sure to check dates from previous work experience and education as well as any other key information.

You should never include any false or exaggerated information on both your resume and cover letter. Not only is it unfair for any other applicants, it can (and probably will) come to light.

2) Formatting

In order to be taken seriously by a potential employer, it is very useful to be aware of the proper formatting. Resumes are one to two pages and use 10 to 12 font size with an easily readable font. Include your name and contact information at the top of the page. The information that follows is listed in point form. It is best to use templates that can be found online. Cover letters should not be longer than one page again using 10 to 12 font size. Use a letter format.

3) Be professional

If isn't already obvious, job applications should be taken seriously and you should present yourself as how you would like to be seen. You should always be professional when communicating with potential employers. Do not use slang or write too casual when writing your cover letter. You only have one chance to grab an employer's attention. Make the first impression count by presenting yourself as professional.

4) Test Before Applying

When job hunting it can be difficult to remember which cover letter is for what job and making sure your resume and cover letter are present with perfection. Before sending in your application, Send yourself a test version of your cover letter and resume.

Doing this will allow you to make sure how you send out your application is exactly how you want it. Check to see if the documents/attachments come through and if they remain formatted properly.

If you have it available, try checking on a separate computer to see how it looks.

5) Format

When employers are looking at resumes and cover letters, one of the first things they check for is whether or not you are using correct formatting. For resumes this means, using 10 to 12 sized font, one or two pages in length, use of point form and your name and contact information is on top.

For cover letters, it should be no more than one page in length, using letter format, addressing the employer by name or “To Whom It May Concern”, use of formal language and lastly that you include your contact information in the final paragraph.