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A proper resume and effective job hunting skills can go a long way in getting a foot in the door. An invaluable handbook for those looking to improve their ability to find a job. “The Ferguson Guide to Resumes and Job-Hunting Skills” covers all the essential elements of the job-hunting process – from finding a career track that matches one’s needs and interests to organizing and writing a resume and cover letter to getting and conducting successful job interviews. More than 100 samples illustrate many different types of resumes and cover letters. Additional information explores the benefits of preparing a resume early, both as a tool for career exploration and as a way to help readers prepare for the professional world. Sections include looking for a job and career, writing a resume, writing a cover letter, and interviewing. The perfect guide for those looking to improve their resume or find the right job, “The Ferguson Guide to Resumes and Job-Hunting Skills” is packed with authoritative, up-to-date information.

The samples alone might be worth the book’s cover price. Hinds, who does indeed cite resume writing as one of her core skills, does a good job of compiling information about job searches–with a concentration on CVs and letters and other need-to-know writing. Included are an annotated roundup of assessment tests, from Myers-Briggs to the Strong Interest Inventory; a litany of common job-hunters’ mistakes (for instance, not looking an interviewer directly in the eyes); and, of course, a variety of resumes and cover letters. Yet it’s difficult to ascertain her target audience. Should it be soon-to-graduate high-schoolers, looking for summer employment or to further define “what do I do with my life?” Is it the new BA, MA, or PhD who needs to find a professional job after years of schooling? This is a general introduction to precede more sophisticated career-seeking manuals. Barbara Jacobs
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