Preparing to launch your public health career

Using this presentation(Internet connection required)

1. View this presentation in PowerPoint’s “Slide Show” mode.

2. Notice the many Internet site links embedded throughout the presentation.

3. Right click on any slide and select “Pause” to have time to go review an Internet site.

4. Return to the slide show, right click on the slide and select “Resume” to continue the slide presentation.

Get started by getting focused What would be a good career “fit” for you?

Before trying to make a career choice it is important to “know yourself”. Be totally honest with yourself.

Start by evaluating your interests, values, and skills as well as certain personality traits.

You will find that some career paths will emerge as especially suitable for you while others less appropriate.

Here is a useful self assessment tool

Analyze your credentialsWhat are you qualified to do?

Once you have identified careers that appeal to you, you must assess whether you have the necessary skills and talents.

Keep in mind, that if this is your first public health position “entry level” positions are highly likely and represent an excellent launching pad for you.

[A TIP: Can you see how making the most of your public health “field experience” could be of great value to you?]

Identify your optionsWho could use you?

Where do public health professionals work and what do they do?

Send for your free copy of “Public Health Career Guide” (courtesy of Pfizer Corporation)

Presenting yourself Crafting your resume

A little research will reveal hundreds of good “how to”

resources to help you design and write an effective resume.

Here is a video clip to get you started:

Resume writing basics

Networking- Who can help you ?

Networking 101

Getting noticed Targeted cover letters

Cover letters are sent with job applications or resumes to provide some additional information while highlighting your interest in the job.

Cover letters are not “one size fits all”.

Make sure each cover letter aligns with the specifications of the specific job for which you are applying. Your objective: GET AN INTERVIEW.

Preparing a resume cover letter

Here’s a helpful web site

“Show time”Having a successful job interview

You will soon realize that each interview opportunity is precious so you must make the most of every one.

Tips for a successful job interview

A short video: "Interview Dos and Don’ts

The interview is overWhat do you do next?

Unless otherwise indicated during the interview, assume your interview went well.

• Follow- up the very same day with a brief “hand written note” (not a text message or e-mail) expressing your appreciation for the interviewer’s time and interest. [You want it to arrive while the interviewer still remembers you.]

• Indicate your heightened interest in the position and your confidence you are “right for the job and the organization”. Say, “If you would like any further information please feel free to contact me at ______________________________”.

Here are several more useful resources

ETSU Career Resources Center

Job listing sources for public health professionals

Public Health careers by discipline

Epidemiology

Biostatistics

Environmental Health

Global Health

Health Services Administration

Our best wishes to you in your public health career !