Acknowl and Intro - University of Colorado DenverIvy Carroll Lisa Bobulinski Jessica Spangler...

Acknowledgments

i

- Acknowledgments -

The International Training Academy (ITA) at the University of Colorado at Denver was established to meetthe training needs of professional employment service providers, job developers, and career transitionspecialists. ITA and the University count among their clients the U.S. Departments of Labor, Defense,Veterans Affairs, Education, and Health and Human Services, as well as the Disabled American Veterans,the National Congress of American Indians, and various state and local agencies.

For more information about the International Training Academy, its training services, or its publications,please contact:

Dr. Fernie BacaProgram Director

International Training AcademyUniversity of Colorado at Denver

P.O. Box 173364Denver, CO 80217-3364

(303) 556-6379

(c) 1998 University of Colorado at Denver

ITA would like to thank the following people and organizations for their assistance in the preparation of theJob Seeker’s Workbook:

Daniel WebsterJoseph R. LaskyHeather BergmanMercedes Bernal

Lance NoyesLisa AtencioIvy Carroll

Lisa BobulinskiJessica SpanglerKristine Pedigo

and theStaff of the National Veterans’ Training Institute

This project was a group effort, and we are grateful for everyone’s contribution.

Introduction

The International Training Academy (ITA) is pleased to bring you this Job Seeker’s Workbook for use withthe World of Work video series. Both the videos and the Workbook are intended to help you in your jobsearch and in your transition to self-sufficiency. The information and exercises it contains--in addition to theinformation and assistance provided to you by your case worker--are tools you can use to maximize yourability to find and keep a job. The ultimate goal in all of this will assist you in your efforts to increase yourindependence and build your own success.

We hope that the Job Seeker’s Workbook is a useful guide for you as you prepare to enter the World ofWork. We wish you every success. Good luck!

ii

Introduction

Section 1 -- Getting Started

1

Section 1

Starting the Job Search

This section is designed to help you with the following areas:

1. Work Preferences Use this survey to identify your job interests, personal style andwork values.

2. Financial Needs This financial worksheet helps you determine how much you need toearn right now and how much you want to earn in the future.

3. Skill Identification This checklist enables you to identify skills you can offer employers.It also helps determine the skills you prefer to use, the ones you donot want to use, and the ones you want to develop further.

4. Career Exploration Use this worksheet to identify activities and jobs that interest you.

5. Goal Setting Once you complete the above worksheets, you are ready to setgoals. Finding the right job and then turning it into a career requiresshort-term, intermediate, and long-term goal setting.

6. Job Search Portfolio This is a list of items that tells about prior jobs, education andtraining that you should have on hand.

8. Master Application This form will help you figure out what to expect on job applicationand give you a chance to practice what you will write on jobapplications.

9. Time and Stress These guidelines will help you manage your time and Management cope with job search stress.


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1. I enjoy working with:

a. data (information, ideas, words, numbers)b. peoplec. things (machines, equipment)

2. I prefer working:

a. indoorsb. outdoorsc. some inside and some outside

3. I want to work for a company:

a. with less than 100 employeesb. with 100 to 500 employeesc. with 500 or more employeesd. that I own

4. I would like to work in a:

a. large cityb. medium size cityc. town or suburban aread. small town or rural area

5. I prefer a job that involves:

a. a lot of travelb. some travelc. no travel

6. I want a job that requires:

a. talking to a lot of peopleb. talking to people some of the timec. very little human contactd. no contact with people

7. I would like work duties that:

a. change a lotb. change some from day to dayc. change very littled. never change

8. I am willing to work overtime:

a. as much as possibleb. oftenc. sometimesd. never

9. For the right job I am:

a. happy to move to another locationb. willing to move to another locationc. not able to move to another locationd. not willing to move to another location

Continued on next page . . .

WORK PREFERENCES AND INTERESTS SURVEY

The purpose of this survey is to help you identify your job interests, personal style and work values.Keep this information in mind when you explore careers and companies. Your interests should berelated to the jobs you decide to pursue. Your personal style and the attitude required in those jobsshould be similar. Your values should not conflict with the occupation you choose.

Complete this survey to identify your work preferences. Think about your work preferences andcircle all the responses that best complete the phrase in bold. The last question helps you identify thepreferences that are high priorities for you.


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10. What are some things you like to do in your spare time?

11. What are your hobbies?

12. Are you more comfortable as a team member or a team leader?

13. Where do you want your career to be in 5 years?

14. Which of your past jobs did you like least? Why?

15. Which jobs did you like best? Why?

16. What kind of job would you do if you could choose any job you wanted?

17. What kind of training would you like to have, if any?

18. Why did you choose your previous field of work?

19. First, look over your answers on this survey. Next, write your most important work preferencesbelow.

Example: I prefer a job where I: work with people, inside and outside, in a smallcity, and do some traveling. I am willing to relocate, but not out of state.

I prefer a job where I: ____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________


4

FINANCIAL NEEDS

Now that you have identified your work preferences, you should balance them with your financialneeds. Your financial situation will affect your decision about which career fields and jobs youchoose to research and eventually enter.

Early in your job search you must sit down with pencil, paper and calculator to figure out yoursurvival needs. If you know how much you need to survive, you can usually prevent financialdisasters. This means looking at both short- and long-term financial needs. It means looking at yourskills and abilities and how they relate to job requirements and pay scales. It also means looking athow you will survive while attending school or training.

BUDGET WORKSHEET

Page 5 shows a Budget Worksheet Example. The information on this worksheet is a sample budgetfor someone earning $5.15 per hour, the current minimum wage. It assumes that some costs arepaid--either completely or in part--by public assistance. The Worksheet also shows how you canincrease your costs of living as your hourly wage increases. The "Dream" column on page 5 is abudget for someone who makes $8.50 per hour.

To identify your financial needs and set your financial goals, complete the worksheet on page 6. Usemonthly expenses. Do not forget to factor in additional sources of income such as public assistance,disability, spouse's income, alimony, student loans, etc.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step #1: Make sure every expense area is listed. If not, add it. You might consider addingeyeglasses, contact lenses, books, magazines, newspapers, public parking, vacations,cable TV, spending money, etc.

Step #2: Fill in the bare essentials column and total it. The bare essentials figure represents yoursurvival or bare minimum needs.

Step #3: Fill in the dream column. Total it. These figures represent your goals.

Step #4: Calculate payroll deductions, approximate federal and state tax, retirement deductions,etc. and note them in the expense column.

As you research careers and jobs, you should compare your financial needs to the salary ranges ofjobs that interest you. You can find this information in the want ads of your local newspaper (orother newspapers in your library) or by calling companies that have similar positions.


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Bills Expenses

Residence

Meals

Transportation

Insurance

Personal

Medical

Clothing

Recreation

Savings

Total

PayrollDeductions

Total Needed

RentElectricityTelephone

GroceriesEating Out

Public Transportation

HealthHousehold

Barber and Beauty ShopToiletriesDay Care

DoctorDentistPharmacy

Cleaning and Laundry

Outings, movies, etc.

Total Before Taxes & Deductions

Federal & State Tax, Retirement,Social Security, Meditax, etc.

Total Necessary Monthly Income

Expense Area

BUDGET WORKSHEET EXAMPLE (MONTHLY)

Hourly RateTo find out what your needed hourly rate is, divide the amount you need per month by the number ofworking hours in the month (173).In the above example, the person needs or $5.15 per hour in order to get by andor $8.50 per hour in order to meet her "dream" needs.

Weekly RateTo find out what your weekly rate is, multiply your hourly rate by the number of working hours in a week(40). In our example, the weekly rate needed to get by is $5.15 x 40, or $206, and $8.50 x 40, or $340, isneeded to meet the "dream" budget.

Monthly RateTo find your monthly rate, multiply your hourly rate by the number of working hours in a month (173). Inour example, the monthly rate needed to get by is $5.15 x 173, or $891, and the monthly rate for the"dream" budget needs to be $8.50 x 173, or $1,470.50.

Yearly RateTo find out what your yearly or annual rate is, multiply your hourly rate by the number of working hoursin a year (2,080). In the example, the yearly rate needed to get by is $5.15 x 2,080, or $10,712, and $8.50x 2,080, or $17,680, is needed to get to the "dream" budget.

Needed to Get By Dream

++

=

=

+

=

415.0050.0020.00

200.0030.00

35.00

40.0020.00

30.0030.00

250.00

20.0012.0020.00

20.00

20.00

40.00

$1,252.00

220.00

$1,472.00

100.00

200.0030.00

35.00

40.0020.00

30.0030.00

250.00

20.0012.0020.00

20.00

20.00

40.00

$757.00=

134.00

$891.00

+

$891173 hours

$1,472173 hours


6

Bills Expenses

Residence

Meals

Transportation

Insurance

Personal

Medical

Clothing

Recreation

Savings

Total

PayrollDeductions

Total Needed

RentElectricityTelephone

GroceriesEating Out

Public Transportation

HealthHousehold

Barber and Beauty ShopToiletriesDay Care

DoctorDentistPharmacy

Cleaning and Laundry

Outings, movies, etc.

Total Before Taxes & Deductions

Federal & State Tax, Retirement,Social Security, Meditax, etc.*

Total Necessary Monthly Income

Expense Area

BUDGET WORKSHEET (MONTHLY)

Hourly RateAmount you need 173 hours

Weekly RateHourly Rate x 40 hours = $______ / week

Monthly RateHourly Rate x 173 hours = $_______ / month

Yearly RateHourly Rate x 2,080 hours = $__________ / year

* Tax amounts change with income level. In the sample budget, taxes were figured at 17.7%. Todetermine the actual tax amount, we multiplied the Total amount by 17.7% and then added this tax amountto the total to get the Total Needed:

$757 x .177 = $134 $757 + $134 = $891However, as your income goes up, so will the amount deducted from your check for taxes, retirement,Social Security, and Medicare. To find out the exact percentage of your check deducted for taxes andother programs, ask your employer.

Needed to Get By Dream

++

==

=

++

=173 hours

=

= $______ / hour


7

JOB SKILLS INVENTORY

All job skills have value in different jobs. As you look at your skills, do not just think about the jobtitles you have had, think about the specific tasks you did on each job. Consider the skills you have,the skills you do not have, and the skills you want to develop or improve.

When you are done, compare your skills with the skills required in the jobs that interest you. Thiswill enable you to understand how well you qualify for a position. Also, you will know whatadditional training or experience you need.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Read the Skills Area column and circle all the skills that you possess.

Step 2: Use the Rating Scale to rate your ability in each of the circled skills. Put this numberin the Rating column.

Step 3: Make a check mark in the Interest column next to the skills that you want to use ordevelop in the future.

Step 4: If you have skills that are not listed, add them to the inventory..

EXAMPLESkill Area Rating InterestAdvised __________ __________Cataloged __________ __________Supervised __________ __________Wrote __________ __________

Rating Scale1 = Great 2 = Very good 3 = Good

Skill Area (example) Rating InterestAdapted teaching style/special tools .......................................... ___________ ___________

Administered programs ............................................................. ___________ ___________

Advised people/peers/job seekers .............................................. ___________ ___________

Analyzed data/blueprints/schematics/policies ............................ ___________ ___________

Appraised services/value ........................................................... ___________ ___________

Arranged meetings/events/training programs ............................ ___________ ___________

Assembled automobiles/computers/apparatus ........................... ___________ ___________

Audited financial records/accounts payable ............................... ___________ ___________

Budgeted expenses ..................................................................... ___________ ___________

Calculated numerical data/annual costs/mileage ........................ ___________ ___________

Cataloged art collection/technical publications .......................... ___________ ___________

3

X1


8

Rating Scale1 = Great 2 = Very Good 3 = Good

Skill Area Rating Interest

Checked accuracy/other’s work ................................................. ___________ ___________Classified documents/plants/animals .......................................... __________ ___________Cleaned houses/auto parts ......................................................... __________ ___________Coached teams/students/athletes ................................................ __________ ___________Collected money/information/data/samples ................................ __________ ___________Compiled statistics/survey data .................................................. __________ ___________

Confronted people/difficult issues ............................................. __________ ___________

Constructed buildings ................................................................ __________ ___________

Consulted on a design figuration ............................................... __________ ___________

Coordinated events/work schedules .......................................... __________ ___________

Corresponded with other departments/colleagues .................... __________ ___________

Counseled students/peers/job seekers ........................................ __________ ___________

Created new programs/artwork/internet sites ............................ __________ ___________

Cut concrete/fabric/glass/lumber ................................................ __________ ___________

Decided which equipment to buy/priorities ................................ __________ ___________

Delegated authority .................................................................... __________ ___________

Designed data systems/greeting cards ........................................ __________ ___________

Directed administrative staff/theatre productions ...................... __________ ___________

Dispensed medication/information ............................................. __________ ___________

Displayed results/products/artifacts ........................................... __________ ___________

Distributed products/mail .......................................................... __________ ___________

Dramatized ideas/problems/plays .............................................. __________ ___________

Edited publications/video tape/film ............................................ __________ ___________

Entertained people/clients........................................................ ___________ ___________

Established objectives/guidelines/policies ................................. __________ ___________

Estimated physical space/costs/staffing needs ........................... __________ ___________

Evaluated programs/instructors/peers/students ......................... __________ ___________

Exhibited plans/public displays/evidence ................................... __________ ___________

Expressed interest in development projects ............................... __________ ___________

Facilitated multimedia exhibit/conflict resolution ...................... __________ ___________

Found missing persons/appropriate housing .............................. ___________ ___________

Framed houses/pictures ............................................................. ___________ ___________

Generated interest/support ........................................................ ___________ ___________Grew plants/vegetables/flowers .................................................. ___________ ___________

Handled detailed work/data/complaints/toxins .......................... ___________ ___________

Hosted panel discussions/foreign students ................................. ___________ ___________

Implemented registration system/new programs ....................... ___________ ___________


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Skill Area Rating Interest

Improved maintenance schedule/systems................................... ___________ ___________

Initiated production/changes/improvements .............................. ___________ ___________

Inspected physical objects/repairs/electrical work ..................... ___________ ___________

Installed software/bathrooms/electrical systems/parts ............... ___________ ___________

Interpreted languages/new laws/schematics/codes.................... ___________ ___________

Interviewed people/new employees ........................................... ___________ ___________

Invented new ideas/machine parts ............................................. ___________ ___________

Investigated problems/violations/fraud ...................................... ___________ ___________

Landscaped gardens/public parks/indoor gardens ..................... ___________ ___________

Led foreign tours/campus tours .................................................. ___________ ___________

Listened to others/to conference calls ........................................ ___________ ___________

Located missing information/facilities ........................................ ___________ ___________

Maintained transportation fleet/aircraft/diesel engines ............. ___________ ___________

Managed an organization/a mail room/a retail store .................. ___________ ___________

Measured boundaries/property lines/bridge clearance ............... ___________ ___________

Mediated between people/civil settlements ............................... ___________ ___________

Met with dignitaries/public/community groups .......................... ___________ ___________

Monitored progress of others/water flow/electric usage ........... ___________ ___________

Motivated workers/trainees ....................................................... ___________ ___________

Negotiated contracts/sales/labor disputes .................................. ___________ ___________

Operated equipment/hydraulic test stand/robotics equipment ... ___________ ___________

Organized tasks/library books/data bases .................................. ___________ ___________

Painted houses/cars/aircraft/interiors ......................................... ___________ ___________

Patrolled runways/public places/property/buildings ................... ___________ ___________

Persuaded others/customers ...................................................... ___________ ___________

Planned agendas/international conferences ................................ ___________ ___________

Predicted future needs/stock market trends ............................... ___________ ___________

Presented major selling points/new products ............................. ___________ ___________

Prepared reports/meals/presentations ........................................ ___________ ___________

Printed books/reports/posters .................................................... ___________ ___________

Processed human interactions..................................................... ___________ ___________

Programmed computers ............................................................ ___________ ___________

Promoted events/new products/new technology ....................... ___________ ___________

Proofread news/reports/training materials ................................. ___________ ___________

Protected property/people .......................................................... ___________ ___________

Published reports/books/software ............................................. ___________ ___________


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Skill Area Rating InterestPurchased equipment/supplies/services ..................................... ___________ ___________

Questioned people/survey participants/suspects/witnesses ........ ___________ ___________

Raised performance standards/capital investments .................... ___________ ___________

Read volumes of material/news releases .................................... ___________ ___________

Recorded data/sales totals/music/video ..................................... ___________ ___________

Recruited people for hire/executives/Marines ........................... ___________ ___________

Rehabilitated people/old buildings ............................................ ___________ ___________

Repaired mechanical devices/exhaust systems ........................... ___________ ___________

Reported findings/monthly activity ............................................ ___________ ___________

Researched library documents/cancer/diseases .......................... ___________ ___________

Renewed programs/contracts/insurance policies ........................ ___________ ___________

Reviewed program objectives/books and movies ....................... ___________ ___________

Revised instructional materials ................................................... ___________ ___________

Scheduled social events/doctor’s appointments ......................... ___________ ___________

Sold advertising space/real estate/cars ........................................ ___________ ___________

Served individuals ...................................................................... ___________ ___________

Sewed parachutes/clothing/upholstery ....................................... ___________ ___________

Signed for the hearing impaired ................................................. ___________ ___________

Sketched charts and diagrams .................................................... ___________ ___________

Spoke in public ........................................................................... ___________ ___________

Supervised others ...................................................................... ___________ ___________

Taught classes/math/science ....................................................... ___________ ___________

Tailored clothing/services ........................................................... ___________ ___________

Televised conferences/training/events/shows ............................. ___________ ___________

Tested new designs/students/employees ..................................... ___________ ___________

Updated files .............................................................................. ___________ ___________

Verified reports/identity ............................................................. ___________ ___________

Volunteered services/time .......................................................... ___________ ___________

Wrote reports/training manuals .................................................. ___________ ___________

Weighed trucks/patients/precious metals ................................... ___________ ___________

Welded bike frames/airframes/alloys .......................................... ___________ ___________

X-rayed limbs/stressed equipment ............................................. ___________ ___________

____________________ ............................................................ ___________ ___________

____________________ ............................................................ ___________ ___________

____________________ ............................................................ ___________ ___________

____________________ ............................................................ ___________ ___________


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ANALYZING YOUR SKILLS

On the blanks below write the skills you circled and checked in the Job Skills Inventory. Circle yourability in that area. Write a detailed example of how you used that skill. Remember to think aboutyour abilities in each area as you identify jobs you might want to apply for.

EXAMPLESkill: Supervised 1 2 3Example: Hired, trained and evaluated a team of 10 retail sales people for 5 years

Skill:_________________________ 1 2 3Example:_________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Skill:__________________________ 1 2 3Example:_________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Skill:__________________________ 1 2 3Example:_________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Skill:__________________________ 1 2 3Example:_________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Skill:__________________________ 1 2 3Example:_________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Skill:__________________________ 1 2 3Example:_________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Skill:__________________________ 1 2 3Example:_________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Skill:__________________________ 1 2 3Example:_________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________


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CAREER EXPLORATION

The closer the match between a job and your Work Preferences, Financial Needs and Skills, the morelikely you will be successful and happy in that job. Remember to search for that perfect job, but keepin mind, it is rare to find an exact match between what you want and need and what is available.

The following is a list of ways you can conduct career exploration:

• Do library research • Job share

• Receive employment counseling • Do informational interviews

• Contact the Small Business Administration • Get internships

• Read business magazines • Job shadow

• Read the business section of newspapers • Do volunteer work

• Attend training or apprenticeship programs

• Talk to friends and relatives about work and careers

INSTRUCTIONS

On the next page you will identify specific jobs you are interested in researching and pursuing. If youwant to know more about a particular field or if you want to explore career options, use the materialslisted under Work Preferences and Interests and Career Exploration to guide you. You can also askyour friends, your family, or your case manager for ideas and suggestions.

Step 1: Identify jobs that interest you and write the titles on the following page.

Step 2: Research the salary range and necessary skills. Compare these to your financial needsand skills.


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JOB TITLE SALARY RANGE NECESSARY SKILLS YOUR SKILLSTRAINING/EXPERIENCE

NEEDED

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

$

$

$

$

$

CAREER EXPLORATION FORM


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PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

Look at the information you put on the Career Exploration Form.

Ask yourself: Am I overqualified, just right, or under-qualified for this job? Do the jobs pay toolittle, just enough or more than I need to survive? You may be ready to approach employers or youmight think that you want to explore careers and jobs that are different from ones you have alreadyheld. You may want to look into professional training or education. Be sure to consider your workpreferences, your financial needs, and your transferable skills as you proceed with Goal Setting.

GOAL SETTING

Deciding what you want to do and how to do it is an important part of goal setting. Goals will varyin scope depending upon where you are in the job search process. When goal setting, consider notonly what you want, but also what you have to do today, next week, next month, next year and fiveyears from now. The job search goals you set today will solidify into a career action plan.

At this point you have identified work preferences, financial needs, transferable skills and jobs youwill pursue. Putting it all together means setting goals. Keep in mind, a short-term goal for oneperson may be a long-term goal for someone else. You might consider "getting hired" a short-termgoal, someone else may go to school and consider "getting hired" an intermediate or long-term goal.

EXAMPLE OF JOB SEARCH GOALS:

Short-Term Goals:Identify your work preferences and financial needsIdentify your transferable skillsIdentify careers and jobs of interest and research the qualificationsCompare the skills you have with those required for the jobDecide which jobs to explore furtherDecide if you will further your education or trainingBegin your job search

Intermediate Goals:Continue career explorationSchedule and structure your job searchDevelop resumes, cover letters, find job leads, get interviewsBegin education or trainingGet hired

Long-Term Goals:Complete long-term education or trainingKeep that job, improve your skills, move up


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SETTING YOUR GOALS

Using the information you have provided on other worksheets in this book (Work Preferences andInterests Survey, Budget Worksheet, Job Skills Inventory, Analyzing Your Skills, and CareerExploration Form), try to think of some of your own personal and professional goals. Use the spacesbelow to record your goals and think about ways you can go about accomplishing them--add anothersheet if you need to.

Short-Term Goals:1) _____________________________________________________________________________________

To fulfill this goal, I need to:_____________________________________________________________

2) _____________________________________________________________________________________


3) _____________________________________________________________________________________


Intermediate Goals:1) _____________________________________________________________________________________


2) _____________________________________________________________________________________


3) _____________________________________________________________________________________


Long-Term Goals:1) _____________________________________________________________________________________


2) _____________________________________________________________________________________


3) _____________________________________________________________________________________



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GETTING ORGANIZED

JOB SEARCH PORTFOLIO

A Job Search Portfolio is a binder or other folder that holds all the information and documents youmay need to apply for a job. It is also a great place to keep track of any calls or connections youmake as your network of job contacts grows (we'll talk more about that in Section 2). Keeping anaccurate, up-to-date, and tidy Job Search Portfolio will help you to stay on track in your job searchand organized as you send off resumes and complete applications.

To prepare your Job Search Portfolio, collect the following information and documents in a folder orbinder:

1. Personal Records

Resume (see Section 2), master job application (see ), driver's license,DMV printout (if driving is required), appropriate state or union licenses orcertifications, social security card (the number is not enough, you need the carditself), a list of references (see Section 2), birth certificate, and passport (ifworking abroad).

2. Work Experience

Previous employers' names, addresses, phone numbers, dates of your employmentor other relevant activities, supervisors' names, job titles, responsibilities,accomplishments, awards, work samples, letters of recognition and appreciation,references, and salary history. Also, volunteer work, civic activity, hobbies, andinterests.

3. Education and Training

Names, addresses, and dates attended high schools, colleges, technical schools andany courses or seminars you attended. Include transcripts, honors, certificates anddiplomas, noting areas studied.


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MASTER APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT

(PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY)

PERSONAL

Name _________________________________________________________ Social Security No._______________________Last First Middle

Present address ____________________________________________________ Telephone No. _______________________ No. Street City State Zip

Are you legally eligible for employment in the U.S.A.? _______________ Driver's License No. ________________________

If you are an immigrant, what is your immigrant status? ______________________ Green Card or Visa No.______________

What method of transportation will you use to get to work? ______________________________________________________Position(s) applied for ____________________________________________ Rate of pay expected $ ____________ per week

Would you work Full-Time _________ Part-Time __________ If part-time, specify days and hours _____________________

Were you previously employed by us? __________ If yes, when? ________________________________________________

If your application is considered favorably, on what date will you be available for work? ______________________________

Are there any other experiences, skills, or qualifications you possess that would benefit our organization?(i.e., special interests, hobbies, clubs or activities)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

RECORD OF EDUCATION

School Name and Address of School Course of StudyCheck Last

YearCompleted

Did YouGraduate?

ListDiplomaor Degree

High School

College

Other(Specify)

1 2 3 4

1 2 3 4

1 2 3 4Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No


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Name and Occupation Address Phone Number

MILITARY SERVICE RECORD

Were you in the U.S. Armed Forces? Yes _____ No _____ If yes, what Branch? __________________________________

Dates of duty: From _______________ To _______________ Rank at Discharge ________________________________

List duties in the service including special training__________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you taken any training under the G.I. Bill of Rights? __________ If yes, what training did you take?______________

Name and Address of Company andType of Business

From To

Mo. Mo.

Describe the work WeeklyStartingSalary

WeeklyEndingSalary

Reasonfor

Leaving

Name ofSupervisorYr. Yr.


From ToM o . Yr. M o .Yr.


WeeklyEndingSalary

Reasonfor

Leaving

Name ofSupervisor


From To

Mo. Yr. Mo. Y r .


WeeklyEndingSalary

Reasonfor

Leaving

Name ofSupervisor

May we contact the employers listed above? ________ If not, indicate which one(s) you do not wish us to contact.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

PERSONAL REFERENCES (Not Former Employers or Relatives)

List below present and past employment, beginning with your most recent work experience.


19

TIME MANAGEMENT

During the job search you are your own boss, and that means you have to manage yourown time. Many successful job hunters schedule job search activities eight hours a day,four days a week, and take a day off to relax and reduce stress. (See sample scheduleon the following page.)

Week One of the job search should involve self-assessment and career exploration.Remember that your schedule will change week to week, and sometimes even day today, as your job search progresses. Also, remember that you must be flexible in yourscheduling and allow for interviews with prospective employers at any time. One morething to keep in mind when you are scheduling your time during your job search is thatyou still need to stay on top of your household tasks (chores and bills). And don'tforget that you should definitely make time for relaxation and a little bit of fun!


20

Job Search ScheduleWeek: _______________One

*Details on cold calling are provided in the next section called Your Job Is Out There.

Cold call 10companies and recordcontacts*

Read the businesssection of thenewspaper

Contact 10 familymembers and friends

Register at localemployment office

Follow up on wantads from Sunday'spaper

MONDAY

Cold call 10companies andrecord contacts*

Research 10companies at library

Work on resumesand cover letters

Go to chamber ofcommerce

Walk in park for onehour to relax

TUESDAY

Cold call 10companies and recordcontacts*

Read classified adsand business sectionof paper

Respond to want ads

Contact 10 previouscoworkers

Set up informationalinterviews for nextweek

Research 10companies at library

Go to humanresources at A.B.C.,Inc. and Acme,Corp.

Play basketball torelax

Day off - no jobsearch activity

Catch up onhousehold chores

Walk in park forone hour to relax

THURSDAY FRIDAYWEDNESDAY


21

STRESS MANAGEMENT

Being unemployed and looking for work can be extremely stressful. Some stress is normal and thereare things you can do to counteract negative stress.

Below are some ways to help you cope with job search stress.

1. Get organized! Use your Job Search Portfolio, a datebook, a personal phonebook, computer,files, etc.

2. Set a schedule. Structure your time. Use a calendar to schedule your daily and weekly jobsearch activities.

3. Take time out for yourself. Schedule time to do things you enjoy.

4. Join or develop a support group. Groups are usually available through employment services,job clubs, churches, professional organizations and community agencies. Get out and be withpositive people -- help others, volunteer, network.

5. Schedule variety in your week. Direct your job search in different areas and try newtechniques. (Specific techniques will be discussed in Section 2.)

6. Treat your job search like a real job. Do not allow others to waste your time.

7. Exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.

8. Review your accomplishments each day.

9. Expect rejection and do not take it personally. The job search is full of rejection. Expectrejection from several employers before you get hired.

10. Prioritize your daily activities. Make a list of important things to do.

11. Maintain important relationships. Let family and friends know what you feel, but do nottake your stress out on them.

Section 2 -- Your Job Is Out There

22

Section 2

Your Job Is Out There

This section is intended to help you do two very important job search tasks: write a powerful resumethat will make you stick out from the crowd and find an employer to submit your resume to. In orderto accomplish this, Section 2 has been divided into two parts. Part I: Writing Effective Resumes andCover Letters discusses the four different types of resumes that you can use, offers examples of eachtype of resume, and provides tips on how to ensure that your resume is the best it can be. Part I alsoaddresses the importance of a good cover letter and offers examples of what a strong cover letterlooks like.

Part II of this section is called Finding Work Opportunities, and it offers ideas on where to look forpotential jobs, how to find out more about companies you might want to work for, and how tonetwork to increase your success. This section also provides you with tips on how to manage bothyour time and your stress during your job search.


23

Section 2

PART I:Writing Resumes & Cover Letters

This section will provide helpful hints to assist you in creating your resume or cover letter. Topicscovered include:

• Format

• Content

• Writing Guidelines

• Sample Resumes and Cover Letters

• Action Words

A resume comparison chart is included to help you decide which resume format to use. Severalexamples of both cover letters and resumes are also included to show you the many different waysyou can present yourself on paper to a prospective employer.


24

RESUME GUIDELINES

A resume is an essential tool in a job search. You can use this tool to market or sell yourself to anemployer. It should only be a short summary, though, not the whole story. The following aregeneral guidelines for writing different types of resumes.

Resume Format:

• Length should be one page, but should never exceed two pages• Make margins (top, bottom, left and right ) 1 inch• There should be plenty of white space and your resume should be easy to read• Font size should be 10 or 12 and you should use conservative font styles• Layout should be easy to follow and information should be easy to locate• Appearance should be neat and clean, with no errors or corrections• Envelope and cover letter paper should match resume paper• Text should be left justified with dates on the left• Use black ink and/or fonts that are easy to read

Resume Content:

• Show responsibility and results that relate to the needs of the company• Give examples of accomplishments and your ability to solve problems• Show statistics and numbers• Be honest, positive and specific• Use category headings: objective, professional highlights, education, training, skills, professional

associations and organizations, honors and awards, references• Don’t write in complete sentences. Instead use action verbs and a few words with lots of impact.• Include volunteer experience, languages, internships, and certificates that relate to the position.• Research the company and know what information would impress them• If you attach a reference sheet, take off the statement, "provided upon request."• Use industry terminology when applicable

General Tips:

• Write your own resume. Start by writing down a list of everything you've done, your work record,education and all your accomplishments. Do not use a resume writing service.

• Leave off salary information and only provide it when requested to do so.• Do not mass mail resumes. It is the worst thing you can do.• Do not include post cards for employers to return.• Use a computer or type your resume. Try copy centers, libraries, schools, or check with local job

service centers to find out who has equipment to do resumes.• Never provide names of references on the resume. Either attach a reference sheet or provide references

when requested.• Mail your resume on a Tuesday or a Thursday. Most people mail their resumes on Monday (after they

read the Sunday want ads) or on Wednesday (after they read the Wednesday want ads). Most of theseresumes arrive on the same day--in a big pile! Mail your resume on a different day to help separate it--and you--from the rest of the pack.

Section 2 -- Your Job Is O

ut There

25

WHAT'S GOOD ABOUT IT WHAT'S BAD ABOUT IT BEST USED BY

- People with a steady work record- People with experiences that

relates directly to the position theyare applying for

- People with no previousemployment

- People with gaps in theiremployment record

- Frequent job changers- People who have skills from

activities other than employment

- People in transition or changingtheir careers

- People re-entering the job marketafter being out for some time

- People looking for work similar towhat they've done in the past

- Everyone - because any of theother resume formats can be madeinto a targeted resume

- Shows gaps in employment- Highlights frequent job changes- Does not show skill development- Shows lack of related experience- Shows career changes- Points out career set-backs

- Makes employers suspiciousbecause it does not offer a lot ofinformation about specificemployers

- Hides skill development and jobtitles

- Can be confusing if care is nottaken to organize it well

- Requires more effort and creativityto prepare

- Time-consuming to prepare- Can be confusing if care is

not taken to organize it well- Must be revised for each

employer

- Is a widely used format- Is easy to read and very clear- Shows growth in skills and

responsibility- Shows job growth and job titles- Shows company loyalty

- Looks at skills rather thanemployment history

- Shows activities beyondemployment, such as volunteerwork and internships

- Hides gaps in work record andfrequent changes in jobs

- Shows most relevant skills- Combines skills developed in a

variety of jobs or other activities- Takes focus away from drawbacks

like gaps in employment and lack ofexperience

- Is specific to each company's needs- Shows that you have done research- Is more impressive to an employer

Chronological- Shows what jobs you

have held and whattasks you performedat each

- Is organized by date

Functional- Shows what skills

you have and whatyou can offer acompany

- Is organized by skill

Combination- Explains where you

have worked andwhat your skills are

- First lists skills andthen lists work historyby date

Target- Is written with one

company in mind- Can be based on any

one of the other threeformats

RESUME FORMAT

RESUME FORMATS:WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR YOU?


26

Mark Peterson5896 South Taylor Street

Lima, MA 60254

Home: (508) 333-6511 Office: (508) 555-4809

OBJECTIVE: Electrician with full range of responsibilities from maintenance to installation.

SUMMARY: More than 12 years experience in all phases of the electrical field. Expertise introubleshooting electrical circuits and providing necessary maintenance. Effectivesupervisor of tradespeople.

EXPERIENCE

1995 - PRESENT MASTER ELECTRICIANXYZ Management Company, Lima, Massachusetts• Total electrical renovation of apartments for new tenants--replaced fixtures,

switches, receptacles and wiring• New wiring of single family homes and townhouses; commercial work on high rise

office buildings in the Central Virginia area

1990 - 1995 ELECTRICIANWalter Construction, Crinson, North Carolina• Repaired, installed, adjusted, modified, and tested electrical systems and devices for

300,000 square feet of office and classroom space; including:-- Electrical panels -- Fluorescent Lights -- Magnetic Starters-- Conduits -- Computers -- Switches, Receptacles-- Motors -- Breakers -- Incandescent Lights-- Ballasts -- Wire -- Telephone Lines

• Purchased material for over 1,000 electrical items• Trained two apprentices on electrical maintenance procedures• Supervised up to 4 tradespeople at varying times• Read blueprints and schematics for wiring of new equipment, new additions, and

new buildings• Worked with voltages up to 480-volt 3-phase systems

1987 - 1990 RETAIL CLERK,Morgan's Pharmacy

EDUCATION

1994 - 1997 Best Community College, Lima, MassachusettsCourses focused on technical mathematicsDean’s List with G.P.A. 3.68.

1987 - 1990 Training Community College, Old Harbor, MassachusettsElectrical Construction, 1,920 hours of study, certificate awarded 1990

SPECIAL LICENSE

April 6, 1991 Massachusetts Journeyman’s License # 5678-JK

Sample Chronological Resume


27

Mary Jenkins301 Pearl Street, #15Denver, CO 80204

Telephone: (303) 555-1111

Professional ObjectiveAdministrative Assistant position where my coordinating, analyzing, planning and budgetingskills would be utilized.

Coordinating SkillsCoordinated fund-raising activities of twenty members of the local Parent Teacher Association(PTA) successfully raising $6,000 for playground facilities. As member of the Women’sLeague of Rockville Methodist Church, initiated a relief center to meet clothing needs of thecommunity. Also developed a schedule to meet demands of five busy household members,including carpools, cleaning, cooking, and general house management.

Budgeting SkillsAs Treasurer of our local Civic Association, managed $10,000 budget for two years.Organized and managed family budget for 17 years. During this period, have accumulatedsavings necessary for two years of college for daughter. In addition to financial matters, havelearned to budget time through well-organized scheduling of community activities and familyresponsibilities.

Communication SkillsDeveloped interpersonal skills during ten years’ experience with PTA and church members.Learned the subtleties of persuading adults to contribute time and money to communityprojects. Invested considerable time and effort in developing open communication betweenfamily members. Possess ability to retain a sense of humor in tense situations.

MembershipsElected treasurer of local Civic Association 3-year term.Voted to Board of Directors for Rockville Methodist Church 1-year term.President of PTA 2 years consecutively.

ReferencesReferences furnished upon request.

Sample Functional Resume


28

Judy Rogers3678 St. George Ave. #31Alameda, CA 90234(141) 622-1111

Objective: Daycare Support Worker

Highlights of Qualifications• Over 3 years experience volunteering in a daycare setting• Patient and caring when interacting with children of all ages and from all backgrounds• Enthusiastic participant in children's games and educational activities• Eager and effective member of working teams• Very well organized and able to tend to multiple tasks as once

Relevant Experience

Daycare/Working with Children• Volunteered at my children's daycare two days a week for over three years• Assisted in the teaching of Sunday school for toddlers at my family's church• Room mother for my son's first grade class for 8 months• Mother of three: two sons age 3 and 6, one daughter age 4

Planning/Organization• Created new enrollment record book for local daycare to make family contacts easier• Participated in the development of Sunday school curriculum and activities for toddlers• Coordinated children's contributions to class activities to ensure that all necessities are tended to• Managed a household of up to five people on a limited budget for more than ten years

Volunteer and Work History

1997-present Room Mother Ms. Smith's First Grade Class, Watkins Elementary School1995-present Volunteer Tiny Tots Daycare Center1993-present Sunday School Volunteer Sacred Heart Church1991-93 Attendant Clean as a Whistle Laundromat1990-91 Babysitter Jeffrey Dunn Family

References• Available upon request

Sample Combination Resume


29

Jamie Donaldson10 Emerson Drive

Lake Town, Virginia 33333(101) 555-1234

ObjectiveObtain a position as a Customer Service Representative for Swenson Software International

HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS• Two years experience working in customer service positions in computer industry• Patient and effective when working with a wide range of personalities• Successful in identifying and evaluating computer related problems

RELEVANT EXPERIENCECustomer Relations• Processed 120 telephone orders for hardware and software every day• Initiated new six-step procedure for completing customer orders that decreased on-phone time by fifty percent• Responded to customer comments and resolved or referred all customer complaints within 24 hours

Telecommunications• Accepted or redirected 250 in-bound customer phone calls every day• Managed phone system with 35 lines and 12 extensions without complication• Recorded customer-contact and sales data in daily telephone log

Computer Usage• Entered and updated customer orders in appropriate computer databases• Researched hardware and software information in response to customer inquiries• Compiled weekly sales reports for telesales division

Problem Solving• Tracked down and corrected misdirected customer orders• Reorganized telesales workspace to increase working efficiency and productivity• Created new timesheets and employee rosters to make hours-worked and vacation taken clearer

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

1996-98 Customer Service Representative LAM Computers, Lake Town, VA1995-96 Customer Service Assistant Executive Technologies, Pleasantown, VA1993-95 Telemarketing Associate Donzall & Associates, Monton, VA1991-93 Cashier Don Roberto's Cafe, Monton, VA1989-91 Cashier McDonald's, Monton, VA

EDUCATIONCoursework in Business Marketing - Norwest College, Santa Rosa, VA

Sample Target Resume


30

ACTION WORDS

Look over these words and find the ones that best describe your knowledge and skills. Use them onyour resume, job applications, cover letters and in the Master Job Application in Part II of thissection. Be sure you know the definition of each word before you use it. If you are unsure of themeaning of a word, look it up in a dictionary. You should always choose your words carefully to besure that you are using them correctly.

Remember: Your application, cover letter, and resume are all reflections of you and your abilities--you want to make them look and sound as good as you can without being deceptive or misleading.

achieved advocated appraised assignedadapted allocated arbitrated assistedaddressed analyzed arranged attendedadministered applied assembled auditedadvised appointed assessed

balanced budgeted built

calculated collated composed contributedchanged collected computed controlledclarified communicated conceptualized coordinatedclassified compared conducted correctedcoded compiled consolidated counseledcollaborated completed consulted created

debated designated developed disperseddecreased designed diagnosed displayeddefined detailed directed distributeddelegated determined discovered drafteddemonstrated

edited engaged examined expandededucated ensured exceeded expeditedenabled equipped executed experimentedencouraged established exercised explainedenforced estimated exhibited expressed

facilitated fixed formulated fundedfiled focused founded

gathered generated guided

helped hired

identified increased installed interviewedillustrated influenced instituted introducedimplemented informed instructed inventedimproved initiated integrated investigatedimprovised inspected interpreted involvedincorporated inspired


31

Action Words Continued

justified

learned led lobbied locatedlectured

maintained marketed moderated monitoredmanaged mediated modified motivatedmapped mobilized

observed operated organized originatedobtained ordered

packaged planned produced proposedparticipated prepared programmed providedperceived presented projected publicizedperformed prioritized promoted publishedpersuaded processed proofread purchasedphotographed procured

qualified

raised recruited reorganized researchedreasoned redesigned repaired restoredreceived reduced replaced restructuredrecognized re-evaluated reported reviewedrecommended referred represented revitalizedrecorded refined reproduced rewrote

scheduled shaped started summarizedscreened simplified stocked supervisedselected sold structured supportedseparated solicited studied surpassedserved solved submitted surveyedserviced staffed succeeded synthesizedset staged suggested systematized

tabulated terminated trained transportedtailored testified translated traveledtaught

updated validated wrote x-rayedutilized verified visualized


32

Jacob Roberts123 Treefront Street

Des Moines, IA 12345(123) 456-7899

REFERENCE SHEET

PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES

Julia Silvers, Administrative ManagerKent Products Inc.123 West 32nd StreetDes Moines, IA 12345(123) 111-2222

Robert Williams, Department ManagerSpruce Electronics1234 Jefferson AvenueDes Moines, IA 12345(123) 456-7899

Joseph Mitchell, Director of MarketingJones Imports12 Wheeling CircleDes Moines, IA 12345(123) 111-2222

PERSONAL REFERENCES

Joy Smith1234 East ParkHanover, IA 12345(111) 456-7899

Jason McMurphey11 Market StreetDes Moines, IA 12345(123) 554-9901

Sample Reference Sheet

NOTE: Make sureyou check withreferences beforeusing them in yourjob search.


33

Jacob Roberts123 Treefront StreetDes Moines, IA 12345

(123) 456-7899

SALARY HISTORY

Grazier International123 Alameda AvenueDes Moines, IA 123451989-1997Position Range - $21,500 - $24,000/annum/plus excellent benefits

Balvin Corporation123 Westcliff StreetCouncil Bluffs, Iowa 123451986-1989Position Range - $20,000 - $21,000/plus health & vacation benefits

Computer Resources Inc.1234 Jenson AvenueCouncil Bluffs, Iowa 123451983-1986$20,000 per year

NOTE: Onlyprovide a salaryhistory when it isrequested by anemployer.

Sample Salary History


34

WRITING A COVER LETTER

Read and follow these guidelines when preparing a cover letter. Remember to keep a copy of everycover letter you send out for your records.

Your cover letter:

• Is a sales pitch and an attention-getter. Identify the single most important reasonwhy you should get further consideration for the job.

• Should enable the reader to make a connection between himself/herself and yourbackground.

• Identifies mutual friends or company employees, if you know any.

• Expresses your knowledge of the company.

• Is a personal communication between you and the employer.

• Does not repeat, but can highlight information in the resume.

• Is short and to the point - no more than half a page.

• Mentions why you would like to work for the company.

• Must have perfect grammar and spelling.

• Identifies relocation issues (willing to relocate).

• Is the first impression an employer has of you. Make it a good one!


35

GENERAL OUTLINE FOR A COVER LETTER

Your NameYour Street AddressCity, State, Zip Code

Date of Letter

Employer’s NameEmployer’s TitleCompany NameStreet AddressCity, State, Zip Code

Dear [Employer’s Name],

INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH: You want to tell the reader why you are writing to them andthe name of the position for which you are applying. You also want to get the reader’s attention.Mention how you heard about the organization or the opening. Name someone you and the readerknow in common or someone in the company who knows you. Show you’ve done some research onthe company by talking about new projects the company has taken on, the particular managementphilosophy they use, or citing something you’ve read about them.

BODY: In this section you want to build a connection between your background and the company’sneeds. If you have any directly related experience or education, sum it up here so the reader can belooking for it in your resume. If you think you have skills or accomplishments that relate to the job,mention them here. You are effectively summarizing your skills as they relate to the companyresearch you have done. Be sure to do this with confidence.

CONCLUDING INFORMATION: State your interest in working for the company and hearingfrom the reader. Thank the reader for his/her time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Signature

Your Name Typed

Enclosure


36

James Donaldson10 Emerson Drive

Capetown, Florida 33333(101) 555-1234

July 12, 19XX

Ms. Mary SmithPersonnel DirectorAdd It Up5678 East Doral Street, Suite #1200Lockridge, Tennessee 77777

Dear Ms. Smith,

In response to your ad in the Lockridge Examiner, dated January 8, 1998, I am enclosing my resumefor consideration.

I was particularly attracted to the clerical position you advertised because of my interest in accountingand my strong secretartial skills. I am excited about the opportunity to use these skills to work for anaccounting firm like Add It Up, which has been such a leader in accounting systems for so many yearsand has such promise for growth in the future.

I have extensive experience and skills that are relevant to the clerical position. I am quite skilled inbudgeting, invoicing, and billing, and am able to perform all major secretarial tasks very well. I amfriendly and enthusiastic both on the phone and in person, and this makes me great to work with andgreat with customers. I strongly feel that my talents would be valuable to Add It Up, a company withsuch a strong focus on customer service.

I believe I would be a good candidate for the clerical position you are seeking to fill, and I lookforward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

James DonaldsonJames DonaldsonJames DonaldsonJames DonaldsonJames DonaldsonJames Donaldson

Enclosure

SAMPLECOVERLETTER


37

Maria L. GriegoXXX Williams LaneChicago, IL XXXXX(555) 111-1111

March 15, 1998

Mr. R. L. MontroseDepartment ManagerManos/HandsXXXX Drawbridge RoadNew York, NY XXXXX

Dear Mr. Montrose,

In response to your ad for a Spanish Language Translator in the Chicago TRIBUNE dated September14, I am enclosing my resume for your consideration.

I was particularly attracted to the translator position because of my interest in social issues and myown Spanish background. The position also appealed to me because it offers the opportunity for meto use my language skills and communications experience to help people in depressed areas to bettertheir lives.

I have an excellent command of both the Spanish and English languages, as well as an understandingof both poverty and Latino issues. Additionally, I have a big heart and am eager to put my skills togood use.

I believe I would be a good candidate for your position as a Spanish Language Translator and lookforward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Maria GriegoMaria GriegoMaria GriegoMaria GriegoMaria Griego

Maria L. Griego

Enclosure

SAMPLECOVERLETTER


38

SAMPLECOVERLETTER

JANE DOEXXXX Foothills St.Denver, CO XXXXX

February 15, 1998

Mrs. Kathy SmithTiny Tots DaycareXXXX Main StreetDenver, CO XXXXX

Dear Mrs. Smith,

It was a pleasure to spend the day with you and the children at Tiny Tots Daycare last week.

It was very interesting to me to see the fun and educational games you were playing with the children.I was also very pleased to see that you set aside quiet time for the little ones, but did not insist thateveryone sleep. I think that teaching children how to be quiet and respectful of others is an importantlesson, and I was glad to see them learning it at Tiny Tots.

I also found our discussion during lunch very helpful. I appreciate all the information you gave meabout both the good and bad aspects of working in daycare. As I mentioned to you, I havevolunteered for a daycare for a few years now and I have found that there is much more good thanbad in this profession!

I would be thrilled with the opportunity to work with you at Tiny Tots and to contribute to theeducation and care of those wonderful children. I have enclosed my resume with the hope that youwill have time to look it over. I think that you will find that my strengths are creativity andenthusiasm--both of which come in really handy when kids are involved. Thank you very much foryour time and kindness. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Jane Doe

Jane Doe

Enclosure


39

APPLICATIONS

Sometimes employers will ask you to complete an application form instead of--or in addition to--giving them your resume. Use the Master Application from Section 1 to help you fill out anapplication for an employer. However, it is also important for you to be careful of the words you useto describe your situation. If the employer needs more information about what you have been doingor why you left your last job, be prepared to answer related questions in the interview.

NEVER WRITE: INSTEAD WRITE:

Fired ........................................................ Will discuss during interviewHated my boss ......................................... Personality conflictPregnant..................................................Raise familyBurn out .................................................. Career shiftDead-end job............................................ Left to seek employment with more career

opportunityOn public assistance ................................ Will discuss in interview (see Part II of this section

for suggestions on how to address this in aninterview)

Never worked ......................................... Describe any volunteer work you have done or otheractivities you have been involved in.

Acceptable reasons for leaving a job:

• Further education (one time in a work history) • Career change

• Raise family (one time in a work history) • Relocated

• Work force reduction - lay off • Seasonal work - lay off

• Better growth opportunity • Temporary employment

It is acceptable to use any of these statements to report on your work history. But remember--lyingor misleading a potential employer is always a bad idea. Be honest--if none of these statements applyto your situation, don't use them.

Preparing a Professional ApplicationWhen you are asked to fill out an application, first ask if it would be possible to take the applicationhome and complete it there. If this is acceptable, take the application to a grocery store or copycenter and make a photocopy. This will give you an extra application form in case you make anyerrors on the first one. This way, when you return the application the next day, it will look its best.

If the employer prefers that you complete the application in the office, make sure you have white-outwith you to correct errors. Applications must be filled out in pen, and whiting-out is the best way tomake sure your work is tidy and professional. Your application reflects your abilities--make it lookgreat!


40

Section 2

PART II:Finding Work Opportunities

This section is designed to help you tap into the job market, including the Hidden Job Market. Inorder to do this think about the hiring process from the employer's point of view. It often looks likethis:

1. A job comes open.

2. A person in a position to hire goes first to their internal network. They may hire or promote fromwithin. They may encourage professional associates to apply and/or look at recently receivedresumes or applications. In large companies the hiring authority can go to human resources tolook for qualified applicants. Jobs are often filled at this point.

3. Large companies and government agencies usually post job openings and announce jobs throughexternal networks, which could be professional groups, job service, job hot lines, job boards, etc.Some companies use a placement agency if they do not have a human resources department.

4. Employers usually place a want ad if they can not fill a job through the above methods.

Your job as a job hunter is to get yourself, your resume and your job applications into the internalnetwork of the employers you want to work for. You should still contact friends, relatives andprevious coworkers, and check with placement agencies and scour the want ads. But an employer'sinternal network, otherwise known as the Hidden Job Market, is where a lot of the hiring reallyhappens.

NOTE: Even if a job opening appears in the want ads, people in the employer's internalnetwork often get hired. People in the employer's internal network have theinside track on job openings. Also, many employers place want ads to meetlegal requirements or to build up a pool of qualified applicants, yet still hirethose in their internal network. This may be frustrating from the job seeker'sperspective, but it is often how things happen.


41

JOB SEARCH METHODS

People use a variety of methods to find information about job openings. Some may read the wantads, others ask friends or relatives, and still others may contact employers directly. Successful jobseekers use a wide variety of methods but focus most of their time and energy on the more effectivemethods.

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of some of the more common methods used by jobseekers.

Advantages DisadvantagesMethod

Contains only 15%of job openings. Employersuse as a last resort.

5% or lower response rate toresumes sent blind to a company orpersonnel department.

This is time consuming and takes a lotof research.

Takes good telephone skills,excellent communicationand is time consuming.

Easily accessed,delivered to home ornewsstand.

You may get lucky.

Sending a resume to aspecific person will increaseyour chances of aninterview. Contacting anemployer and then sending aresume is mosteffective.

75% of all jobs are foundthrough these two methodsof networking.

Want Ads

Mass mailing resumes

Targeted Resume

Personal Contacts &Cold Calling

Section 2 -- Your Job Is O

ut There

42

HOW EMPLOYERS LOOK FOR APPLICANTS

Internal Networks

Job Postings

External Networks

PlacementAgencies

Wantads

Compare How Employers

Look for Applicantswith

How Most People Look For Work.

Juddith M. Hoppin at the Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan developed the information on this page.

The solution:Identify companies you want to work for, try to getinformational interviews, leave a resume, fill out a jobapplication, check back periodically. Show enthusiasm butdo not be a pest.

HOW MOST PEOPLE LOOK FOR WORK

Want Ads

Employment Agencies

Placement Agencies

Word ofMouth

DirectEmployerContact

The Problem:Most job seekers spend their time checking and responding towant ads, yet employers hire the least number of people throughwant ads.


43

NETWORK OF CONTACTS

A network of contacts is a group of people you know or are referred to who can help you identifypossible job leads. The people in your network do not themselves give you jobs. Instead, they tellyou what they know about a specific job field, companies that are expanding or hiring, and otherrelevant job search information. Creating as big a network of contacts as possible is the best way foryou to learn about job opportunities and find something that works for you.

To begin building your network of contacts, make a list of all the individuals you could possiblycontact to research companies and obtain job leads. Use the Contact Network Sheet on the next pageto help you organize your network. In the left column, write the names and phone numbers ofindividuals and associations you will contact. In the right column, write the names of people,companies and organizations where you are referred.

The list below will help you think of people and organizations you may want to include.

Individuals AssociationsFriends ChurchRelatives Chamber of Commerce ListsCo-Workers Sport LeaguesClients/Customers Professional AssociationsFormer Employers Alumni AssociationBankers Convention RostersFriends of Friends Corporate DirectoriesMerchants Political Interest GroupsNeighbors Social ClubsOther Job Seekers Trade ShowsPersonnel DepartmentsPeople already in the fieldLandlords/RealtorsRecruitersSchool Contacts

Questions for ContactsA lot of people do not like to network because they see it as advertising the fact that they areunemployed. If networking bothers you, remember, you are not asking these people for a job. Tellthem you are looking for work, and that you need information. Most people will not have a job tooffer, but they will have valuable information to share. You want to ask them things like:

• What do they know? • Who do they know?• Who can they introduce or refer you to? • Who's hiring?• What does the future look like for this occupation? • Who's expanding?

Try to get at least one piece of useful information from every person you contact. This way you keepbuilding your network of contacts and gathering information.


44

CONTACT NETWORK SHEET

Companies, Contact Persons I havebeen referred to

Personal Contact(friend, relative, associate, etc.)

Example:Jim Johnson at Elks Club referred me toJim Johnson at Elks Club referred me toJim Johnson at Elks Club referred me toJim Johnson at Elks Club referred me toJim Johnson at Elks Club referred me to Sue PSue PSue PSue PSue Peterson at Keterson at Keterson at Keterson at Keterson at Kacey Electricalacey Electricalacey Electricalacey Electricalacey Electrical

Contractors (808) 123-4567Contractors (808) 123-4567Contractors (808) 123-4567Contractors (808) 123-4567Contractors (808) 123-4567


45

RESEARCHING THE COMPANY

Create a list of companies where you are interested in working. Prioritize the list, and spend yourtime researching these companies.

The materials listed under the heading Researching Companies in the Additional Resources sectionwill help you learn more about the companies that interest you. The materials listed in the AdditionalResources section can usually be found in libraries, book stores, career centers at colleges and yourState Department of Labor.

Things to research before contacting a company:

1) Number of employees

2) What the company does (service and/or products)

3) Company competitors

4) Company history and future plans

5) Company locations (headquarters, branch offices, internationaloffices, retail outlets, etc.)

6) Salary range or hourly rates paid for various positions

7) Contact names (department heads, human resource manager,people you know who work there, former employees, etc.)

8) Employment activity (recent hiring, firing, layoffs, etc.)

9 Titles of positions that interest you

As you research companies, keep a record of important information on the Company ResearchWorksheet on the next page. Keep this information organized and easily accessible. Copy oneworksheet for each company you are researching.


46

THE COMPANY

Use this company information form to keep track of the companies that you have researched. Askyour librarian to show you how to get specific information on companies you are interested in. Thebusiness section of newspapers, the chamber of commerce, trade journals, Job Service Centers, andprofessional associations are great sources of information on specific companies. You should alsorecord any information you learn from cold calls and informational interviews.

Company Information Record

Organization name: _______________________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________________

Phone: __________________________ Position of Interest: __________________________

Required skills, certification, education, work experience: ________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Types of services and/or products: ___________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Names and phone numbers of possible contact people:

Owners/President: _______________________________________ Phone: _________________

Foreman/Supervisor: _____________________________________ Phone: _________________

Manager: ______________________________________________ Phone: _________________

Personnel Officer: _______________________________________ Phone: _________________

General Reputation of Industry: _____________________________________________________

Sources of Information (and date): ___________________________________________________

Date/Person Phoned and Results : ___________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Pertinent information about company (new contracts/products, expansions, hirings, lay offs, lawsuits,competitors, stock prices, plans for future, number of employees, etc.): ______________________

_______________________________________________________________________________


47

COMPANY RESEARCH WORKSHEET

List everything you already know about the position or company. (Duties, salary, location, companysize, etc.)

Make a list of questions you want answered before approaching the company. (Hiring authority,current projects, etc.)


48

TELEPHONE SKILLS

The telephone is a great tool for obtaining job leads and information about jobs and companies.Many people feel uncomfortable calling strangers because they fear rejection and dread the idea ofgetting tongue-tied when they have a potential employer on the line.

This section will help you become more effective in using the telephone to improve your chances offinding a good job.

COLD CALLING FOR INFORMATION

Chances are that the person you call does not get a lot of calls from job seekers. Treat them as if theyare an expert in their field, and do so in a friendly manner. They will probably be pleasant, and theymight even be flattered that you are seeking their advice. Be brief and specific about the purpose ofyour call. You can get information about a particular occupation, a specific company, or detailsabout what it takes to qualify for a job that holds your interest. Additionally, as you talk to more andmore people, you will develop a sense of the labor market for the industry you are researching.

A cold call may lead to a visit to the company and an informational interview. These can be valuableexperiences and in some instances may lead to a job.

MAKING PRACTICE CALLS

If you are worried about getting tongue-tied on the phone with someone you really want to work for,try calling someone at a company where you do not want to work. Practice asking them about theirindustry, the equipment and technology they use, job qualifications, hiring practices, trends in theindustry, etc. Write things down as you speak with them so you can get use to taking notes whiletalking on the phone. Practice calls will familiarize you with industry terminology. You might besurprised at how much people are willing to speak with you about their work.


49

CONTACTS THAT COUNT

Getting Your Call Through

Getting through to the right person is sometimes difficult. So remember:

• Be courteous and businesslike with everyone.• Be confident, as if you have no doubt that your call will reach its goal.• Receptionists generally want to know who you are, what and who you want.• If you do not know the name of the person you want, ask for the appropriate manager. Try to get the

person's name before you are transferred.• If your contact is not available, ask when is a good time to call back.• If you absolutely cannot get through, leave a message.• Prepare an outline or a script. For example:

"Good afternoon. My name is ________. May I speak with your ________ (production, marketing,

design, construction, etc.) manager?"

"What is the purpose of the call?"

"I'm looking for information about that department, and I was referred by Mr./Ms. _______."

When You Get Through

• Use your outline or script.• Introduce yourself. Mention who referred you.• Give a brief description of your interests and background.• Have a list of topics and questions you want to discuss.

"I'm looking for work in the _____________ field and I'd like your advice. I know you're busy, but I willonly need about 10 minutes of your time."

When the Person Is Willing to Talk

"What qualifications do people who work in __________ position have?"

"What qualifications do entry level people have?"

"I am planning to attend __________ school (or training), have you ever hired anyone who attended

that school?"

"How many __________ (job title) work in your department?"

"When you have an opening for ________ (job title), how tough is the competition?"

"How many people have you hired in the last six months?"

"What type of growth do you project for the industry?"

• Ask for the name and number of someone else who works in the field.• Ask if you can stop by to ask a few more questions.• Take notes during the call. Afterward, update your contact sheet.


50

EXAMPLE CONTACT SHEET

On a contact sheet write the company information, date, key points, and follow-up information. Bespecific. Here is an example. There is a blank contact sheet on the next page that you can copy anduse for your company contacts.

COMPANY: Air Quality Inc.ADDRESS: 1122 S. Broadway, Denver, ColoradoTELEPHONE #: (303) 893-2126CONTACT PERSON/TITLE: John Jamison, Air Quality Manager

4/1/95

4/3/95

4/10/95

4/15/95

Cold call at 10 a.m., receptionist said company has 300Cold call at 10 a.m., receptionist said company has 300Cold call at 10 a.m., receptionist said company has 300Cold call at 10 a.m., receptionist said company has 300Cold call at 10 a.m., receptionist said company has 300employees. Spoke with Human Resources, they told me toemployees. Spoke with Human Resources, they told me toemployees. Spoke with Human Resources, they told me toemployees. Spoke with Human Resources, they told me toemployees. Spoke with Human Resources, they told me tospeak to Mr. Jamison, Design Department Supervisor.speak to Mr. Jamison, Design Department Supervisor.speak to Mr. Jamison, Design Department Supervisor.speak to Mr. Jamison, Design Department Supervisor.speak to Mr. Jamison, Design Department Supervisor.

Spoke with Mr. Jamison. Set up informational interviewSpoke with Mr. Jamison. Set up informational interviewSpoke with Mr. Jamison. Set up informational interviewSpoke with Mr. Jamison. Set up informational interviewSpoke with Mr. Jamison. Set up informational interviewfor 4/10/95. Personable, but very busy. Spoke for only 5for 4/10/95. Personable, but very busy. Spoke for only 5for 4/10/95. Personable, but very busy. Spoke for only 5for 4/10/95. Personable, but very busy. Spoke for only 5for 4/10/95. Personable, but very busy. Spoke for only 5minutes.minutes.minutes.minutes.minutes.

Met with Mr. Jamison. He said that in the next 3 monthsMet with Mr. Jamison. He said that in the next 3 monthsMet with Mr. Jamison. He said that in the next 3 monthsMet with Mr. Jamison. He said that in the next 3 monthsMet with Mr. Jamison. He said that in the next 3 monthsthe industry will need many smog-certified mechanics duethe industry will need many smog-certified mechanics duethe industry will need many smog-certified mechanics duethe industry will need many smog-certified mechanics duethe industry will need many smog-certified mechanics dueto new laws. Must be certified! Recommends I call Carolto new laws. Must be certified! Recommends I call Carolto new laws. Must be certified! Recommends I call Carolto new laws. Must be certified! Recommends I call Carolto new laws. Must be certified! Recommends I call CarolDey, installation supervisor at Air Quality Inc.Dey, installation supervisor at Air Quality Inc.Dey, installation supervisor at Air Quality Inc.Dey, installation supervisor at Air Quality Inc.Dey, installation supervisor at Air Quality Inc.

Spoke to Carol Dey. She said to send her a resume. SentSpoke to Carol Dey. She said to send her a resume. SentSpoke to Carol Dey. She said to send her a resume. SentSpoke to Carol Dey. She said to send her a resume. SentSpoke to Carol Dey. She said to send her a resume. Sentresume and cover letter today.resume and cover letter today.resume and cover letter today.resume and cover letter today.resume and cover letter today.

call back tocall back tocall back tocall back tocall back toMr. Jamison on 4/3/Mr. Jamison on 4/3/Mr. Jamison on 4/3/Mr. Jamison on 4/3/Mr. Jamison on 4/3/9595959595

4/10/954/10/954/10/954/10/954/10/957:30 a.m.7:30 a.m.7:30 a.m.7:30 a.m.7:30 a.m.

Call Carol DeyCall Carol DeyCall Carol DeyCall Carol DeyCall Carol Dey

Check back withCheck back withCheck back withCheck back withCheck back withCarol Dey on 4/20/95Carol Dey on 4/20/95Carol Dey on 4/20/95Carol Dey on 4/20/95Carol Dey on 4/20/95

FOLLOW-UPACTIVITY/RESULTSDATE


51

FOLLOW-UPDATE

CONTACT SHEET

COMPANY:ADDRESS:TELEPHONE #:CONTACT PERSON/TITLE:

ACTIVITY/RESULTS


52

RESPONDING TO WANT ADS

Want ads announce job openings in the classified section of newspapers and specific industrypublications. A small percentage of job seekers find employment by responding to want ads.Looking through want ads can give you a good idea of the availability of jobs in certain industries.You may be able to find out what kind of experience, qualifications, salary and skills are needed forcertain jobs. If specific positions do not appear in the want ads, it does not necessarily mean there areno job openings in that field.

Most new ads go in on Wednesdays and Sundays, so pay attention to those days. Read the want adscover to cover, because jobs that interest you may be listed in unexpected places. For example wantads for drywallers might be listed under construction, painters, laborers, home builders, carpenters,etc.

When reading and responding to want ads be aware of the following:

• Some ads do not give a company name, but give a post office box instead--makingit impossible to do any research on the company.

• Ads that promise a big paycheck usually indicate sales positions that work oncommission.

• If the contact for the ad is an employment agency find out if they will charge you afee. Some agencies charge the employer a fee, some charge the job seeker a fee.

• Multiple position ads usually indicate a new or expanding company. Competition isoften fierce for these positions.

• Some ads use the word "preferred" ("degree preferred", "two years experiencepreferred," etc.). This usually means you can apply if you do not have thatparticular skill or ability as long as you have the other qualifications.

• When sending a resume in response to a want ad make sure you meet the minimumrequirements. If the ad says certification, license, degree, experience, etc.required, you might be wasting your time if you do not have those qualifications. Ifit says "no phone calls," do not call.


53

WORDS IN THE WANT ADSacctg ................................ accountingaccts ................................. accountsa/p .................................... accounts payablea/r .................................... accounts receivableadmin .............................. administrativeadv ................................... advertise/advertisingad ..................................... advertismentAA ................................... Affirmative Actionagen ................................. agency xxxxappl .................................. applicationappt ................................. appointmentasst ................................... assistantasap ................................. as soon as possibleavail ................................. availableben ................................... benefits xxxbkpr ................................. bookkeeperbkpg ................................ bookkeepingcap (or cap inv) .............. capital investmentcert .................................. certificate/certifiedcomm ............................... commissionco ..................................... companycompat ............................. compatiblecomp ................................ computerconf .................................. conferencecorp ................................. corporationDP .................................... data processingdeg ................................... degree redel .................................... delivereddoe ................................... depends on experiencedev ................................... develop/developed/developingdir .................................... director xxxdiv .................................... division xxxeduc ................................. educationempl ................................. employmentengr ................................. engineerEOE ................................. Equal Opportunity Employerexc ..................................... excellentExec .................................. executiveexp/exper ......................... experienceflex .................................... flexible xxFT ..................................... full timegen/genl ofc ......................general officegrad ..................................graduateHS .....................................high schoolhosp ..................................hospital xhskpg ................................housekeepingimmed .............................. immediateincl .................................... includes/includingind/indust ......................... industrialinfo ................................... informationinq..................................... inquire xinstall ................................ installationinst .................................... instituteins ..................................... insurance

lab ..................................... laboratoryldscpg ............................... landscapinglndry ................................. laundrylic ...................................... licensedmach .................................machinemaint ................................maintenancemgmt ................................managementmgr ...................................managermfgr ..................................manufacturermfg ...................................manufacturingmkt ...................................market xmech .................................mechanic/mechanicalmed ................................... medicalmb .....................................megabitsmhz ...................................megahertzmdse/merch .....................merchandisemin ...................................minimummtg ...................................mortgagenego ..................................negotiableoper .................................. operate/operatorPT .....................................part-timeperm .................................permanentPC .....................................personal computerpersn'l ..............................personnelphone/ph .......................... telephone/telephonespos .................................... positionprefd .................................prefer/preferredpres ...................................Presidentproc ..................................process/processing/processerprof ...................................professionalprog ..................................programmerPR/pub rel .......................public relationspurch ................................purchasingqual ...................................qualify xxrecept ............................... receptionistrefs .................................... referencesreqd .................................. requiredsal ..................................... salary xsecy ................................... secretarySASE ................................ self-addressed stamped.......................................... envelope

ship/rec ............................ shipping/receivingshnd .................................. shorthandstd ..................................... standardsteno ................................. stenographerste ..................................... suite xxxsupvr ................................ supervisortech ................................... technical/techiniciantemp ................................. temporarytransp ............................... transportationuniv ...................................universityvoc ....................................vocationalwhse ..................................warehousewhsle ................................wholesale

Section 3-- Making a Good Impression

54

Section 3

Making a Good Impression

This section is designed to help you handle job interviews. It covers:

1. Basic Tips for Interview Success

2. Grooming and Dressing Appropriately

3. Answering Questions

4. Dealing with Questions About Being on Welfare

4. Asking Questions in Your Interview

5. Saying Thanks

6. Post-Interview Checklist

7. Learning From Experience


55

• Bring anything unrelated to the job into theinterview (i.e., your kids, your friends, yourpets, your pager, your gym bag, etc.).

• Be late--even a little bit--without calling. It'salso not a good idea to be more than 20minutes early.

• Be rude or short with anyone--any person inthe building could be the boss!

• Pretend to be something you're not. Don'tlaugh too hard or try too hard to please.

• Exaggerate or lie about your skills orexperience--it will only come back to hauntyou.

• Mention any legal, financial, or personnelproblems the company may be having. Ifthese topics do come up, talk positively andoptimistically about the company's future.

• Ramble on about a question you havealready answered. Give thoughtful answers,but do not waste the interviewer's time withinformation that is not relevant to theinterview.

• Bring up past squabbles or problems withother employers. If the interviewer asksabout your previous employers, be aspositive as you can be without lying.

• Mention that you have been on publicassistance unless it is relevant or theemployer mentions it. Simply talk aboutyour strengths and experience instead.

HINTS FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW

IT'S A GOOD IDEA TO...

• Bring only essential items to the interview(i.e., resume, references, portfolio, licenses,datebook, etc.).

• Arrive 15 minutes early so you can relax andreview what you want to say.

• Be pleasant and friendly but businesslike toeveryone you meet.

• Shake hands firmly. Be yourself. Use naturalgestures and movements.

• Stress your qualifications and emphasizeexperience and training related to the jobopening.

• If you know about the company's productsand services, you should refer to them as youanswer questions. It is impressive if you havepositive knowledge about the company.

• After being asked a question, it is okay topause and think about your answer. Answerquestions with more than a "yes" or "no." Asuccessful interview occurs if the interviewertalks fifty-percent of the time.

• Speak positively about past employers. Stresswhat was good about previous workexperiences--even if you were unhappy withthe way things turned out.

• Talk about what you have done and whatskills you have as positively as possible.Remember that tasks you do at home, atchurch, and as a volunter all count.

IT'S NOT A GOOD IDEA TO...


56

• Know your salary range from your research.When asked "What are your ideas onsalary?" answer with a question for theinterviewer, such as "What do you paypeople with my skills and experience?"

• Ask questions about the company's plans,nature of the job, etc. Questions indicateinterest and motivation.

• Be prepared for the interviewer to say,"You're perfect for this job. When can youstart?" Planning ahead what you will say inthis situation will help keep your frommaking a snap decision. Most employerswill allow you time to make this decision.

• Thank the interviewer even if they indicatethat you are not right for the job. Ask aboutother companies that might be hiring. Get aname of someone to see.

• Send a brief thank-you note immediatelyafter the interview. Write neatly and brieflyre-state your interest in the position.

• Call a few days after the interview to see if ahiring decision has been made. Remind theperson what job you interviewed for andwhen they spoke with you.

HINTS FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW

IT'S A GOOD IDEA TO... IT'S A NOT GOOD IDEA TO...

• Say a number or a salary range before theinterviewer does. Let them make the firstmove and state a salary range or a specificnumber. Then, you respond to it. This helpsensure that you get a fair offer.

• Ask about salary and benefits. This makesyou look like your only interest is money,money, money.

• Accept a job immediately if it is offered toyou at an interview, unless work needs tobegin immediately. Ask if you can thinkabout it, talk to your family and get backwith them the next day. This helps youmake a decision you will be happy with.

• Get angry or unpleasant if the employer tellsyou that you did not get the job. Be positiveand thankful anyway--you may apply for ajob with employer again later!

• Forget about the interview and assume youdid not get the job--even if you feel it didn'tgo well.

• Be a pest and call several times over severaldays. Call once and then wait. If you stilldon't hear after three or four days, call again.Remember: be patient!


57

LOOKING YOUR BEST!

First impressions are very important when interviewing. The way you look can help you get thejob you are trying for. Here are a few tips to assist you in getting ready for a job interview.

CLOTHINGWomen should wear solid, conservative colors:

��a skirt��business dress��pant suit��blouse & slacks��conservative accessories��one ring per hand��no dangling earrings��clean, ironed, well fitting

Men should wear solid, conservative colors:��suit��blazer/sports jacket��tie: darker than the shirt��dress shirt w/collar��dress shoes: polished and clean��belt: should match the shoes

Both men and women need to make sure to take a shower or a bath before an interview. Mouth-wash and deodorant are also a must before presenting yourself to a potential employer.

GROOMINGWomen:

��conservative hair: not too high or sticking out too far��mild, natural makeup��matching lipstick��moderate perfume/cologne

Men:��clean, nice haircut: if hair is long, put it in a ponytail��clean shaven face;��mustache/beard: make sure it is trimmed��moderate perfume/cologne


58

INTERVIEW APPEARANCE CHECKLIST

Before my interview I need to:

___ get a haircut ___ shine shoes

___ clean and press clothes ___ trim or shave beard/mustache

___ wash hands and cut nails ___ brush teeth

___ shower and use deodorant

___ use a minimum of perfume/after shave or not use any at all

___ buy a new _______________ (i.e.: article of clothing, briefcase, portfolio, etc.)

___ _______________________

___ _______________________

I will wear my:_________________________ suit/dress

_________________________ shirt/blouse

_________________________ pants/slacks

_________________________ tie

_________________________ belt

_________________________ socks/stockings

_________________________ shoes/work boots

_________________________ jacket/coat

_________________________ jewelry (be very conservative)

_________________________ purse or briefcase (not both)

_________________________ make-up (be very conservative)

_________________________

_________________________

I will bring:_______________ a note pad

_______________ two pens

_______________ extra copies of resume

_______________ a list of references

_______________ portfolio/work samples

_______________ necessary license (i.e., heavy equipment, limousine, bus, etc.)

_______________ date book or daily planner

_______________ application

_______________ research

_______________ questions


59

QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT BE ASKED AT A JOB INTERVIEW

Think about how you will answer these questions, then practice answering them aloud.

1. What do you know about our company? (Use company research.)

2. What qualifications do you have for this job? (Match what you know about the job and companyto your experience.)

3. What is your greatest strength? (Relate to job description.)

4. What is your greatest weakness? (Turn into a positive i.e., perfectionist with high self-expectations. Admit a past problem and what you learned from it.)

5. Tell me about yourself. (Reveal something semi-personal but still professional.)

6. Why did you leave your previous job(s)? (Turn into a positive.)

7. If you were hired, what ideas/talents could you contribute to the position or our company?

8. What would you do if....? (Imagine situations that test your knowledge of the job.)

9. Could you give me an example of how you have demonstrated _____________ skill? (Thinkfirst, be specific, speak only long enough to answer the question.)

10. Give me an example of how you handled a difficult situation on a previous job.


60

11. Why are you interested in working for this company? (Relate your skills to what you know aboutthe company.)

12. Tell me about your education. (Use examples that relate to the position.)

13. Why have you chosen this particular field?

14. Describe your best/worst boss. (Keep it positive, don't be critical.)

15. In a job, what interests you most/least? (Relate to position.)

16. How do others describe you? (Keep it positive.)

17. What do you consider the single most important idea you contributed or your most noteworthyaccomplishment in your last job?

18. Where do you see yourself in three years? (Demonstrate ambition and flexibility.)

19. How does this position fit into your future plans? (Demonstrate potential and ambition.)

20. What could you have done better on your last job? (Keep it positive.)

21. What have you done recently that shows your initiative and willingness to work?

22. How would you describe yourself to others? (Keep it positive and brief.)


61

ANSWERING QUESTIONS ABOUT BEING ON WELFARE

In an interview, an employer may ask you to discuss your recent work-related activities. If you havenot been working and have been on public assistance for more than a few months, these questionsmay be awkward and difficult to answer. The key is for you to be honest about your past and aboutyour present situation, but to be optimistic and enthusiastic about the future. Show the employer thatthe fact that you have been on public assistance does not mean that you are lazy or unskilled--useyour attitude and your abilities to prove that you are a skilled worker who can benefit their team.

The following are a few suggestions about how you can deal with questions about your work historyand your time on public assistance. Remember, be honest with yourself and with the employer!

"You know, I haven't really been working for the past two years. I was down on myluck for a while and had to turn to public assistance for help. But during the time I'vebeen on welfare, I've learned to manage my time and my money very well. I have runa house of 4 people on a very limited budget and have juggled my kids' school andactivity schedules. I have been practicing my typing and writing skills when I havetime. I am really excited about getting back to work and learning new skills so I cangrow as a person and a professional."

"I've been unable to find a job lately. But I have been volunteering at my church--I'vebeen working on a fund-raising campaign to buy new pews and a small play gym forthe children. Doing this has taught me to keep a budget, talk to strangers, beenthusiastic all the time, and love to work. I am really glad to have the opportunitynow to get a full-time job."

"My work experience recently hasn't been that great. I've been spending a lot of timefixing up the house, though, and even helped my neighbor, Mrs. Graber, redecorateher bathroom. I put in the new light and water fixtures for her. Construction is what Ilove--even when I'm not working, I just can't stop doing it!"

"Being on welfare can teach you a lot about money and the importance of work. Ihave learned a lot about how good it is to have a job and get a paycheck every month.Before things got rough for me, I was a secretary for a small manufacturing company.I was great at answering the phones, typing, filing, and keeping the office organized. Imiss the satisfaction I got from working--I'm looking forward to working again."

"It was really hard for me to not be working. After I got the kids off to school andpicked up the house, I would go to the library and research companies I wanted towork for and jobs I would want to have. That's how I found you. This companyseemed perfect for where I want to be--I think my clerical skills and enthusiasm arejust right for this office!"


62

QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT WANT TO ASK AT A JOB INTERVIEW(Add questions as you research careers and companies)

1. How do you feel about working in this organization?

2. Were there any questions that I didn't provide an adequate answer to?

3. As you think about the position, what aspects of this job could be performed better?

4. What are the key challenges or problems of this position?

5. Where can I go from here, assuming that I meet/exceed the job's responsibilities?

6. What are the company's short- and long-term objectives?

7. When will a decision be made about this position?

8. What do you see as my greatest strengths and weaknesses pertaining to this position?

9. What are the opportunities for personal growth?

10. What makes your firm different from its competitors?

11. What do you see as the company's strengths and weaknesses?

12. How would you describe your corporation's personality and management style?

13. What is the overall structure of the department where this position is located?

14. What characteristics does a successful person within your company possess?


63

SAMPLE INTERVIEW THANK-YOU NOTE

Immediately after the interview send either a handwritten or typed thank-you note to the interviewer.Use the following sample as a guide. You can also mention a topic discussed, a problem you can helpsolve or something you may have forgotten to mention in the interview.

Ronald Morgan123 Main Street Apt. C-3St. Paul, MN 55050(123)123-4567

January 19, 1998

Mr. Vincent KelgerResearch and Development ManagerComputers International11234 West Ivanto AvenueSt. Paul, MN 55051

Dear Mr. Kelger:

I wanted to thank you for the time you spent reviewing and discussing my skills for the computeranalyst position. I enjoyed learning more about your company and plans for the future.

The position sounds very interesting, particularly since it would be an opportunity for me to use myskills and experience in computer programming and troubleshooting.

I will call you in a few days in the hope that you have reached a decision favorable to both of us.

Sincerely,

Ronald MorganRonald Morgan


64

POST-INTERVIEW CHECKLIST

Company Name: _____________________________ Date of Interview: ____________________

Interviewer's Name: _______________________________________________________________

Date to Call Back: ________________________ Date of Decision: _______________________

1. Was I on time? Yes ___ No ___

2. Did I dress appropriately? Yes ___ No ___

3. Do I need to send additional information?- resume or application Yes ___ No ___- reference list/letters of reference Yes ___ No ___- work samples Yes ___ No ___

4. Did I give a positive indication of my interest in the job? Yes ___ No ___

5. Did I mention who referred me? Yes ___ No ___

6. What was the interviewer's general impression of my resume? ____________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

7. What was discussed the most? _____________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

8. What did the employer seem particularly interested in? __________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

9. What questions did I have the most difficulty answering? ________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

10. What questions did I answer most effectively? ________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

11. What further information did I obtain about the company by asking questions? ______________

________________________________________________________________________________

12. What can I do to improve my effort? _______________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________


65

LEARNING FROM EXPERIENCE

Whether or not you got the job you were applying for, try to turn every interview into a positiveexperience by taking a hard look at what happened and learning from it. Use the information belowto guide you in your preparation for your next interview.

Reason for Rejection

Poor personal appearance and careless dress.

Lack of enthusiasm and interest.

Lack of clear goals or ambition.

Poor speech habits or inability to express self.

Lack of preparation. Failure to research thecompany. Inability to ask intelligent questions ormake intelligent comments.

Failure to look at interviewer or demonstrate interest.

Unrealistic salary demands or more interest in salarythan opportunity.

Inability to relate skills and knowledge to job orindefinite responses to questions.

Negative comments about previous employers orshowing dislike for various types of authority.

Lack of interest in company/industry.

Weak excuses or hedging about unfavorableinformation in background.

Unwillingness to start where needed and work yourway up.

Lack of knowledge in specialized areas.

Poor attitude as shown by being rude or negative,showing prejudice, or having low moral standards.

Ways to Control

Follow grooming and dressing guidelines.

Express your enthusiasm with your voice--talk withenergy and optimism.

Link your skills to the position; emphasize whereyou want your career to go.

Practice answering questions so you use goodgrammar and improve your presentation.

Research the company and practice answeringinformed questions about it.

Always look the interviewer in the eye and nod withinterest at the interviewer's comments.

Research and discuss a realistic salary.

Prepare and practice answers to expected questions.Emphasize your skills.

Consider and practice answers about workexperience and your relationship with previoussupervisors and employers.

Research the company/industry.

Admit your mistakes, talk about learning fromthem, and present a positive picture.

Stress that you want the job and are willing to makea commitment.

Practice answers to expected questions so you canshow your relevant knowledge.

Consider how you present yourself. Think beforeyou speak.

Section 4 --Success that Lasts

66

Section 4

Success that Lasts

The purpose of this section is to help you succeed in your job once you get it. It focuses on two mainareas:

1. Getting Ready to Work

2. Being Successful at Work.


67

ARE YOU READY TO WORK?

Here is a list of items you might want to think about and take care of before your first day of work--doing so will help ensure that you arrive at your job on time and ready to work every day. Checkeach item off the list as you make arrangements for it. There is also some extra space available foryou to write in other items necessary for you.

� Alarm clock

� Clean, professional outfits

� Transportation to work (bus pass or gas and parking money or carpool

arrangements)

� Back-up transportation plan

� Daycare arrangement

� Back-up daycare plan

� Kid pick-up plan

� Back-up kid pick-up plan

� Prepared lunch or brought lunch money

�

�


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20 TIPS FOR LASTING SUCCESS ON THE JOB

1) Do not make long personal phone calls.

2) Know your work schedule and show up when you are scheduled to work.

3) Make prior arrangements for any potential emergencies that may come up. Have a back-up planto take care of them.

4) Put yourself in the employer’s position so you can understand where they are coming from.

5) Call ahead if you know you are going to be late or if you have a conflict.

6) Do not make problems getting to work or being on time a habit. Your employer and othercoworkers are depending on you.

7) Do not be late for the first six (6) months.

8) Ask for more work when your work is complete.

9) Do not think that you are the only one who can perform your job--you're not.

10) Repeat back what you are asked to do. It allows for more understanding of what the job/task isand lessens the chance that you will do something incorrectly.

11) Ask questions if you do not understand something that has been told or given to you.

12) Remember that you are at work, not at home. Make sure your language and attitude match theenvironment that you are in.

13) Treat everyone with respect.


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14) Avoid gettting involved in office politics. Keep things confidential and try not to participate ingossip.

15) Do not be afraid to speak up--if you have ideas or opinions, share them!

16) Be a team player: listen more and talk less.

17) Know and understand what is appropriate to talk about in the work place and what is not.

18) Know and understand where you fit in the office. (i.e., when is it appropriate to offer suggestionsor give input about work related issues and when it is not).

19) Have solutions to work-related emergencies before they occur. Think of problems that couldarise and then write down solutions to them. Keep your list of solutions some place where youcan find it easily.

20) Have fun! This is important because it helps to keep you interested and excited about yourwork. Being positive and enthusiastic about work makes you a better worker and a happierperson!

Acknowl and Intro - University of Colorado DenverIvy Carroll Lisa Bobulinski Jessica Spangler...

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