Getting the Job Chapter 3

Application Letter  Cover letter or letter of application Introduces you to the potential employer and gives you a chance to sell your qualifications  To apply for a job opening you need to mail or a letter of applications together with a resume  It is often your first contact with a new employer and it is a way to make a good first impression

Parts of an Application Letter  Return address – the writer’s address and date at the top of the letter  Letter address – inside address, contains name and address of the person to whom you are writing  Salutation – greeting that begins your letter ex. Dear Mr. Sanchez: or Dear Sir or Madam: Use a colon, not a comma

Parts of an Application Letter continued  Body – the message section of the letter Should contain four basic parts (AIDA)  Attention  Interest  Desire  Action  Complimentary close – courteous phrase used to end a letter such as Sincerely, Name should be typed several lines below close

Resume  Sometimes called a personal data sheet, a biographical summary, a professional profile, or a vita  It is a brief summary of personal information of interest to a potential employer

Resume General Guidelines  Keep it to one page  Include all relevant information for the particular job  Chose professional, easy to read fonts and layout  Proofread carefully  Use good quality paper

Parts of a Resume  Personal Information Name, address, phone,  Career objective Short statement indicating your career goal  Education High schools and any colleges  Work Experience List all jobs, paid or unpaid  References May want to list “References available upon request.”

Letters of Reference  A letter written by someone who can be relied upon to give a sincere report about you.  The letter will confirm your character, abilities, and experience.  Will be provided to potential employers when requested.

Tips for filling out an Employment Application Form  Print neatly, using black or blue ink  Fill in all blanks, using N/A if you need to  Be truthful and give complete answers  Do not abbreviate  Have all of your information with you  Proofread carefully

Job Interviews  A face-to-face meeting with a potential employer to discuss your job qualifications  Prepare for the interview by finding out all you can about the job and the company beforehand  Be prepared for the standard questions such as “Tell me about yourself.”

Making a Good First Impression  Arrive on time (5 to 10 minutes early is better)  Dress appropriately  Go alone  Be prepared  Appear poised and self-confident  Be courteous  Think before you answer each question and use correct grammar  Emphasize your strong points  Be enthusiastic and interested in the company and the job

Thank You Letter  Following up is essential  Positive contact with the employer will remind them who you are and could improve your chances of getting the job

Basic Rules and Parts of a Thank-You Letter  Use the same format as the application letter  First paragraph should remind employer of your interview  Second paragraph reminds employer of your interest in the job  Final paragraph should express you interest in hearing from the interviewer as soon as they have reached a decision.  Keep it short, to the point and positive