This chapter is perfect for college students, like myself, who will be entering the work force soon! I will explain to you how to identify your personal assets as a job applicant, and how to search for a job systematically. Creating an effective print résumé is also important, in addition to being able to adapt that print copy to a digital copy. Application letters are also important, as well as dossiers, portfolios, and web-folios. Succeeding in job interviews is also vital!
You should begin your job search by evaluating the qualities and skills that are your best. Next, you must research your specific job market. The best idea is to plan out your strategy; you ought to work step by step. Also, before you begin applying, you should learn about the industry-- this means educating yourself through books, magazines, journals and Web sites. Online resources, like Monster.com, Careerbuilder.com, and Riley Guide, are also very helpful when searching for jobs. Additionally, one of the best things you can do for yourself is learn how to network. Networking in person allows you to talk with helpful people and to seek related advice. Networking online has become more and more popular as the unemployment rate has decreased. It's a great way to stay connected and advertise yourself, virtually.
Your résumé will give the company of your an instant overview of who you are, so it's important to learn how to create an effective document! A résumé will include your contact information (how the company will reach you), your career objectives (spell out what job you actually want), your education (working backward from your most recent schooling), work experience, your personal data and interests (awards, skills and activities relative to the job you want), and and references you may have (usually 3 to 5 are acceptable). In some fields, you may also want to include a portfolio, illustrating your work.
Many programs will have résumé templates for you to follow, in terms of how to format your document. It's generally a good idea to organize your résumé to show off your greatest qualifications, skills, and experience. Most organization's today require you to submit an electronic copy of your résumé, so be prepared to digitize your document as well.
Application letters, sometimes known as "cover letters", are additions to your résumé and they explain how you fit into the job that you are applying for. It also gives you a chance to showcase some of your personality, in addition to highlighting specific qualifications or skills. Your application letter will include an introduction, body, and conclusion paragraph, that you should use to direct the audience to the purpose of your letter. It's also helpful to write to a specific person instead of addressing your letter to the entire company.
If an employer takes an interest in your résumé and application letter, they wil request more information about your past work. A dossier includes your credentials, which is your college transcript, recommendation letters, and other items that prove your past experience. A portfolio (or Web-folio) includes a statement of what you've included in your portfolio. An organized and professional-looking portfolio will set you apart, and it will also give you something concrete to discuss in your interviews.
An interview and follow-up interview will be the last step of the hiring process, and I would argue that it is the most important step. The purpose of an interview is to conclude what an employer already assumes about your capabilities based on the documents you have already presented them. Interviews come in various shapes and sizes, but preparation is key for anything. This means you should learn everything that you can about the company you want to work for, and present yourself accordingly, always following the rules of business etiquette. Practicing interview questions is always very helpful. You should think up some questions for the interviewer, and always be honest with your answers. Not only is this ethical, but you won't have to cover your lies later in your career if you do end up getting the job.
A follow-up letter should be sent after an interview as well. Your thank you letter (in print, NOT email, form) should be sent a day or so after your interview, sending the letter to each person that interviewed you. When you thank your interview, you affirm how much you actually want the position you applied for. Also, when you hear that you got the job, remember this: always accept an offer with enthusiasm and decline the offer diplomatically, explaining your reasons and talking courteously.
Group Discussion Question: What kinds of questions would you expect an interviewer to ask you, and how would you prepare for these types of questions?
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