RINCON — Effingham College and Career Academy students had the chance to sip from a deep well of important information Thursday morning.

A panel of five business professionals gathered in the school cafeteria to offer tips on how to prepare job applications and handle the interview process. The panel included Effingham Health System Human Resources Director Kevin Sherman, Launch.me consultant Sonja Scott, Georgia Department of Labor Business Services recruiter Emily Brinson, Georgia-Pacific Human Resources manager Kristen Rushing and Chelsey McNicoll, Existing Industry Program manager for the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority.

Sherman opened the presentation by addressing resumés.

“When you start looking at creating an actual resumé, you want to make sure what’s on it correlates to the job you are applying for,” he said. “You kind of match up and highlight your qualifications and experience. Make sure you that look at the requirements of the job and have incorporated that into your resumé.”

Sherman said many companies use screening software that search resumés for key words that help expedite the hiring process.

“If it asks for a high school diploma or degrees and you don’t have that listed on your resumé, that resumé may be excluded to go on to the next process,” he warned.

Scott said neatness is crucial to employers. She said it is imperative to avoid resumé stains and smudges.

“Trust me. They have eagle eyes and they are going to notice straightaway if you are adhering to the first principle of a resumé — and that is neatness and the appearance,” she said.

Brock said students should make sure that their contact information on their applications and resumé is up to date.

“An employer is probably going to try, at the most, to get in touch with you two times,” she said. “After that, they are going to move on to the next application. Also, when you are filling out applications, make sure you that have all your information with you and that it is ready and correct.

“That includes a detailed work history, your dates are correct and the contact information for your supervisors is correct.”

Rushing said cover letters can help students with limited experience land a job.

“You have probably volunteered or maybe you had a part-time position,” she said. “Match that cover letter with what the organization is looking for. ... Take the time to explain why you would be a good investment for that company.”