Congratulations, graduates!
You’ve completed your studies—now it’s time to launch your career. Whether you’re exploring Bhutan’s growing software industry or other opportunities, job hunting can feel unfamiliar. Resume or CV? Online or in-person interview? And how do you stand out—without sending a copied template with leftover ChatGPT placeholder text? 🤭
Don’t stress—we’ve got you.
This guide, based on our hiring experience at Developer Tools Bhutan, will walk you through writing a strong resume, preparing for interviews, and following up the right way.
Let’s get you job-ready—with clarity and confidence.
Why Global Standards Matter
Before we get into resumes and interviews, it helps to zoom out.
FDI companies—like Developer Tools Bhutan—may be based in Bhutan, but they serve global clients (think Microsoft, IKEA, Tesla). To meet that bar, they value more than just qualifications. They’re looking for people who show initiative, accountability, clarity, and a desire to grow.
These expectations may feel different—especially if your experience has been limited to academic environments or informal work settings.
Global standards mean:
- Clear, honest communication
- Professionalism and preparedness
- Follow-through and dependability
- Curiosity and respect for others’ time and work
If you take ownership of your work and stay open to learning, you’re already on the right path.
Crafting a Winning Resume
What we usually call a “CV” in Bhutan is typically a resume: a concise, job-focused document (ideally one page) that highlights relevant skills and experience.
Essentials to include:
- Professional contact info (use a real email—not “cooldudez98”)
- A brief objective
- Education (most recent first)
- Relevant experience (projects, internships, volunteering)
- Job-specific skills (e.g., coding for IT roles)
Tips:
- Tailor it: Match the job description’s language. Instead of “team player,” say, “Led a 3-person team to develop a web app prototype.”
- Use action verbs: Start bullet points with verbs like “designed,” “led,” or “analyzed.” Quantify results, e.g., “Built a website that increased club membership sign-ups by 15%.”
- Keep it clean: Use simple formatting, standard fonts, and proofread thoroughly.
- Be honest: Don’t exaggerate skills or inflate your experience. Trust outweighs a padded resume.
Avoid: Generic templates, irrelevant details, buzzwords without context, typos, or placeholder text like “[Company Name].”
Recommended Resource: We recommend Harvard’s bullet-point resume style for clarity and focus. Their structure helps you highlight impact—not just activity.
Writing a Standout Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your pitch, connecting your experience to the employer’s needs. Even if optional, it shows effort and sets you apart.
Structure:
- Opening: Mention the role, how you heard about it, and why you’re applying.
- Middle: Highlight 1–2 achievements, linking them to the role and company mission.
- Closing: Express enthusiasm, thank them, and share your availability.
Tips: Personalize it with the company’s name, avoid generic salutations like “To whom it may concern,” and revise AI drafts to reflect your voice.
Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am applying for the Junior Developer role at Developer Tools Bhutan, inspired by your commitment to innovative, client-focused solutions. As an IT graduate, I led a capstone project to build a user-friendly inventory app, sharpening my Python and teamwork skills. This experience aligns with your emphasis on clear, high-quality deliverables for global clients like Microsoft.
Your focus on integrity and collaboration resonates with my values, and I am eager to contribute to your projects. Thank you for reviewing my application. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how I can support your team.
Sincerely,
Name
+975-0000-0000
name@email.com
Acing the Interview
Whether virtual or in-person, interviews are a chance to connect and explore mutual fit.
Before: Research the company—its mission, clients, and the role. Know your resume and be ready to discuss any project or skill.
Practice common questions: Prepare for questions like, “Tell us about yourself,” “Why do you want to work here?” or “Describe a challenge you faced.”
On the day:
- In-person: Dress professionally (better to overdress than underdress), arrive 10–15 minutes early, and be courteous to everyone.
- Virtual: Dress appropriately, test tech (internet, camera, mic), choose a clean background, and log in early.
- Keep a copy of your application documents and writing materials nearby.
During: Be honest, listen actively, and ask questions that show interest and thought. Stay natural, not rehearsed.
Following Up Professionally
This step is often overlooked—but it makes a strong impression.
- Send a thank-you email (within 24 hours)
Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
Thank you for meeting with me today. I really enjoyed learning more about the Junior Developer role and the career trajectory at Developer Tools Bhutan.
I look forward to hearing from you about the next steps. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Best regards,
Name
+975-0000-0000
name@email.com
- Wait patiently. Wait 7–10 days before a polite check-in email, e.g., “Just checking on updates for the [role]. I remain very interested.”
- Handle outcomes professionally. Accept offers warmly. If rejected, reply politely: “Thank you for the opportunity. I hope we can stay in touch.” This small gesture builds your reputation.
Final Checklist
📝 Resume
- Tailored to the job
- No placeholder text
- Clean layout
- Error-free
💌 Cover Letter
- Personalized
- Explains your interest
- Adds value
🎤 Interview Prep
- Researched about the company and role
- Practiced questions
- 2–3 stories ready to share
- Dressed and set up professionally
📬 Follow-Up
- Timely thank-you
- Polite check-in if needed
- Gracious, no matter the outcome
Helpful Resources
If you’re looking for more guidance beyond this starter kit, here are two globally trusted, free resources you can explore at your own pace:
Keep Growing
Every application, interview, or rejection is a step toward growth. At Developer Tools Bhutan, we’ve seen firsthand how local talent can meet global standards and contribute to world-class innovation—and we’d love to see more graduates rise to that level.
We wish you every success as you take this next step!