Showcase Your Strengths: Resumes, Cover Letters, and Portfolios that Work
Looking for a job? Your resume, cover letter, and portfolio show employers who you are and what you can bring to their organization. Understanding their purpose can help you make the most of each of them. Let's break it down.
Resume
A resume is your professional snapshot. It's a quick, one-page overview of your work experience, skills, education, and even volunteer work. It's your chance to make a strong first impression on hiring managers, showing them why you are the right fit for the job. Think of it as your career highlight reel. It also helps interviewers frame their questions to understand how your background aligns with the position.
Cover Letter
A cover letter is your personal introduction. It's a one-page document that gives employers a glimpse into your skills and enthusiasm for a job. Not all applications require one, but sending a cover letter is your chance to explain why you are excited about the role and how your experience makes you a great fit.
A good cover letter follows a standard letter format and includes your contact details, the employer's information, a warm greeting, an engaging introduction, a few strong body paragraphs showcasing your skills, and a professional sign-off. The key? Always tailor it to the specific job to make a lasting impression!
Portfolio
A portfolio is your proof of expertise. It's a collection of your best work that lets employers see your skills in action. It should feature projects relevant to the job you are applying for, whether that is marketing campaigns, design pieces, writing samples, or coding projects. Portfolios can be physical, like a printed binder, or digital, such as a personal website that showcases your work. Having a well-organized portfolio can help you stand out and show potential employers exactly what you can do!
How Ticket to Work Can Help
A well-crafted resume, cover letter, and portfolio are essential for making a positive impression and highlighting your experience and strengths. If you are not sure where to start or want help improving your materials, Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can connect you with a service provider who understands what employers are looking for. They can guide you step by step to make sure your documents are clear, professional, and tailored to your goals. With the right support, you will be better prepared to take the next step toward meaningful employment
Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program is designed to help people who receive SSDI/SSI and are ages 18 through 64, and want to work to gain financial independence.
If you're interested in the Ticket Program, getting started is easy. You can contact us directly by calling the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov. Our Help Line representatives can send you a list of service providers in your area or you can find one on your own using the Find Help tool.
