Applying for a Job Resume and Interviewing

Items to include when applying for a job…  Resume  References  Portfolio (if appropriate) Items to bring to an interview.. o Resume o Portfolio (if appropriate) o Anything that can “sell you”

Writing an effective Resume…  What is a resume?  A resume is a one page summary of your skills, education, and experience. The resume acts much like an advertisement for a company trying to sell something. The resume is your advertisement.  A resume is one of the most important pieces of writing you will ever create. A solid resume is the key that will open the door to good jobs.

Writing an effective Resume…  What should be included in a resume?  Heading - Your heading should include the essential personal information. Your formal name (not nickname) should appear at the top and it should stand out above all else on the paper. You want them to remember who you are in less than 30 seconds. Also include your address (both permanent and temporary) and phone number. If you use , include your address.  Career Objective -What you want to achieve in your career. It should fit the job you are applying for.

Writing an effective Resume…  Education-What degrees and certifications do you have? Include relevant academic achievement.  Work Experience-Relevant jobs with relevant tasks.  Summary of Skills - Some people use this section to include special skills or talents that are not included elsewhere on the resume, but would be relevant to the employer. Examples: Type 60 words per minute, Fluent in French.  References-If not included make them available.

Resume Formats  Chronological- follows your work history backward from your current job, listing employers, dates, and job responsibilities.  Functional- more useful. A functional resume is created without employment dates or company names. This format concentrates on skills and responsibilities and is more likely to be used after you have developed your career skills and have accomplishments to your credit.  Combination of Both

Strengthening your Resume…  Tips & Suggestions!  Action words

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Interview

So, you finally got an interview, not what?  Now what?  How should you prepare?  What kinds of questions are they going to ask you?

Five Parts to an Interview  Before the interview…  Do your homework! Learn as much as you can about the company or college before the interview.  Know where you are going, and arrive minutes early!  Be prepared when you go to the interview. Bring extra copies of your resume, your portfolio, a notepad with some questions prepared for the interview, and a pen.

Five Parts to an Interview  The start of the interview…  When you meet the interviewer, look straight into his/her eyes, shake hands firmly, introduce yourself, smile, be confident and wait until you are offered a seat.  Be positive in your communication (Remember: You’re selling yourself!!), don’t slouch, try not to be too bold or too shy. Let the interviewer lead the interview. Express that you are happy to have the opportunity to interview.  When all else fails: SMILE!!

Five Parts to an Interview  The Interview…  Always face the interviewer with good posture and body language.  Stay positive with your attitude and your answers. Let the interviewer know about the skills, knowledge and experience that make you a qualified candidate.  Don’t be a know-it-all! Express your willingness to learn!  Be thorough with your answers. Never answer with just a “yes” or “no.” Always provide explanations and examples.  Organize your thoughts before speaking. Feel free to think for a moment about tough questions. Silence is not a bad thing as long as you do not take an excessive amount of time.

Five Parts to an Interview  The end of the interview…  Ask the job-related questions you prepared for the interview.  If you are told you will be contacted, ask about how long it will be. Offer to call in a few days to find out the decision. This shows your continued interest.  Thank the person for the interview and their interest in you as a potential employee or student. Shake hands firmly on the way out.

Five Parts to an Interview  The follow-up…  Send the interviewer a thank-you letter soon after the interview.  Call the company or college about a week after the interview to find out if they have made a decision. If they have not, find out when they expect to have a decision.

Dress  Dress at least one step up from the position.  If it is a career interview, wear a suit (both men and women.) Men, wear a tie.  Look professional. What does the interviewer find acceptable?

How to answer questions…  What are they trying to find out about you?  What qualities do you want to exhibit about yourself?  You want to stand out, but always seem professional.

Some Common Questions…  Tell me about yourself.  Why did you leave your last job?  Do you consider yourself successful?  How have you improved yourself or your work skills in the last year?

Reminders & Tips  Begin and end each interview with a firm handshake.  Sit down when they offer it to you.  The more they talk, the better it is for you.  Try to seem comfortable.