Hiring bonuses, onsite pools, cocktails, flexible hours . . . meaningful work! This is the stuff of recent graduates' dreams—and the shimmering lure dangling at Google, Apple, Microsoft, and other top tech firms. Scoring those coveted positions requires brains, drive, a minimum of luck, and an abundance of smart moves. The Google Résumé is the only book that delivers the critical know-how to get you through the door, in the job, and up the first rungs of the tech ladder.

Former Microsoftie, Appleite, and Googler Gayle Laakmann McDowell is the mentor you need. Get crucial advice on choosing a major, minor, internship, and part-time job that will make you a superior candidate. Identify your weaknesses, and start developing a track record of achievement now.

The hiring processes and requirements of the tech industry are unique—and the competition, stiff. No matter your tech savvy, there are infinite ways to improve your chances of landing your dream job, from picking relevant extracurricular activities to striking the right tone during an interview.

Filled with answers to real job-seekers' questions, a list of 156 résumé action words, and examples of choice answers to tough interview questions, The Google Résumé also teaches you how to:

• Develop a specialized skill while you're in school

• Land an interview

• Create a great first impression

• Navigate the hiring procedures for programmers, designers, and game developers

• Negotiate an offer

There are a lot of smart people in the world, and anyone can catch a little dumb luck. But if you want to stand out among the roiling mass of tech strivers, you have to do everything right. Here's how.

"The Google Résumé is a comprehensive guide to getting into the top tech companies. McDowell shows applicants how to create an effective résumé, how to prepare for interviews, how to negotiate an offer, and how to perform well on the job. This is truly the 'bible' of the tech hiring process." —Stephanie Jacobs, former recruiter, Google

"This book takes you behind the scenes at companies like Amazon and Microsoft with real-life stories from candidates, interviewers, and recruiters. Their experiences will show you how to position yourself for success. An excellent read for candidates at all stages." —Venise Cunningham, Recruiting Coordinator, Amazon, and formerly Microsoft

"During my time at Microsoft, Google, and Facebook, I've seen even the most brilliant candidates fumble. Some get too nervous, some don't prepare adequately, and some lack the right experience. The Google Résumé addresses each of these issues and helps candidates develop a more compelling appli-cation. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone pursuing a tech career." —Peter Wilson, former engineering director, Google and Microsoft; consultant, Facebook

"A perfect follow-up to McDowell's first book, Cracking the Coding Interview, The Google Résumé goes beyond the interview itself and shows candidates how to make their applications stand out. There may be no silver bullet for success, but this book is about as close as it gets." —Trey Williams, Software Engineer, Google, and formerly Microsoft

"A surprisingly fun yet helpful look at the tech recruiting process, this book offers candidates concrete strategies for landing these coveted positions. Learn how companies like Microsoft approach hiring and use these lessons to land your dream job. This is the book that I wish all our candidates would read." —Belinda Drllevich, Recruiting Coordinator, Microsoft