The Post-Graduation Experience
description
Transcript of The Post-Graduation Experience
CiCi Shamieva | Career Center | 16 September 2013
THE POST-GRADUATION EXPERIENCE
TOPICS COVERED
Resumes/ Cover Letters/ Portfolios
Networking
Graduate School
Job Search
Internship Search
Career Center Resources
RESUMES AND COVER LETTERS
RESUME WRITING REALITIES
Provides a summary of experience,
education, and skills
Resumes should be
tailored and targeted to a
specific job/industry
Purpose of a resume?
INTERVIEW
1 full page or 2 full pages
RESUME WRITING IS AN ART, NOT A SCIENCE
20-40 seconds of read time—
TOPS!
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Contact Information
Degree(s), Education
Professional/Work experience
MyResum
e
OTHER OPTIONS
Volunteer, Community Service, and Extra Curricular Activities
Honors and Accomplishments
Other possibilities: Summary of Qualifications section, technical skills, languages, related coursework, skill sets (certifications, training, etc.)
FORMATTING
Consistency! Punctuation, spacing, verbs, bullets
Free of erors (proofread + spellcheck) Appropriate use of font style/font size Clean, organized, and easy to read Print on high-quality resume paper No funkiness
Paper color, prints, patterns, watermarks
Tips
TRICKS OF THE TRADE
Match resume to the job/grad school (keywords) Focus on transferable skills Prioritize from top to bottom Hold page at arm’s length
Balanced and consistent? Too much white space?
Be able to talk about anything on the resume Show finished document to multiple people
Tips
WHAT STAYS OUT… Hobbies and interests
Abbreviations, acronyms, and Truman jargon – spell it out!
High school*
I, me, we
Lengthy paragraphs, long sentences: - take out the fluff!
Cute symbols for bullet points
(i.e. , , , , etc.)
Additional personal info, headshots
Tips
WHAT’S IN A RESUME?Recommendations for sections and what information goes in each
Spike Dawg Local Address Permanent Address432 Ashland Road 6579 Juniper WayKirksville, MO 63501 Hazelwood, MO 63125314-555-9878 [email protected] Spike Dawg 432 Ashland Road Kirksville, MO 63501 314-555-9878 [email protected]
CONTACT INFORMATIONSections
EDUCATION Truman State University Kirksville, MOBachelor of Science in Business Administration May 2013 GPA: 3.75/4.00
EducationTruman State University, Kirksville, MO May 2013Bachelor of Science in Business AdministrationConcentrations in Marketing and Management 3.75/4.00 GPA
EDUCATION/TRAININGSections
DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE
Important and relevant info goes first Capitalize on ALL experiences
Don’t be afraid to show off your skills Focus on outcomes and contributions Use vocabulary of the profession Utilize good action verbs Quantify your experiences using numbers
Provides context to employers
RELATED EXPERIENCE
Camp Counselor, Camp Arcadia May 2011 – August 2011Lee’s Summit, MO
• Supervised a co-ed group of 16 at-risk children, ages 8-10 years, attending an all day sport-oriented camp for 8 weeks.
• Created daily curricula of physical activities and team projects related to performance standards.
• Communicated weekly with parents in one-on-one sessions regarding their child’s progress, behavioral issues, and individual successes.
• Provided additional resources to struggling children in individual practice sessions, resulting in greater success of camp participants.
• Collaborated regularly with 16 staff counselors to problem solve, plan activities, and combine groups for particular activities.
Strong action verbs Numbers to add context Descriptive words/phrases
Sections
ACTIVITIESPublicity Co-Chair, Habitat for Humanity, March 2012–August 2012• Marketed organization through email campaigns and
local newscast spots to recruit 200 volunteers for Mid-Missouri construction
projects, resulting in houses for 6 families Volunteer, Humane Society, January 2011 – February 2012• Provided administrative support, assisted with animal
care, and maintained facility for 5 hours weekly
Treasurer, Delta Sigma Pi Fraternity, June 2011 - August 2012• Accurately tracked funds by maintaining database of
collected dues and monies rendered for projects, promotions, and events
COMMUNITY, VOLUNTEER, AND EXTRA CURRICULAR
Volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) January 2011 – Present Language Partner Women’s Center, Truman State University August 2010 – May 2012 Receptionist Family Care Center May 2010 – June 2011
HONORSWriters Digest published essay: “Volunteerism in College”, 2011
Lambda Pi Eta– Communication Honor Society Member, 2010-Present Dean’s List each semester, 2010-2012
HONORS & AWARDSSections
ELECTRONIC RESUMES
Attachment PDF document is the way to go!
Online forms Formatting and style options are limited
Regular bullets may not be an option (consider * or - )
Can be impersonal, may not be able to tailor
Scannable Usually looks for keywords
Plain format: unusual fonts and italics may not scan well
RESUME VS. CV (CURRICULUM VITAE)
1-2 full pages
Brief and concise targeted summary of skills
Includes:
Education
Skills
Experience
Purpose:
Job Interview
At least 2 pages
In-depth summary of achievements
Includes:
Academic background
Research Experience
Publications
Presentations
Purpose:
Academic, education, scientific or research positions
Resume CV
List on a separate sheet of paper Same contact info heading as resume
Name, title, employer, address, phone, and email (if available)
Check with your references in advance! How would they prefer to be contacted? (email,
phone, etc.) Choose professional references (school, work)
vs. personal character references (friends, family) 3-5 professional references
List in order, strongest reference first
REFERENCES
Spike Dawg1703 Choctaw Street, Columbia, MO [email protected] References Taylor Paleet Public Relations DirectorUniversity of Kansas1450 Jayhawk Boulevard Lawrence, KS [email protected](Former Supervisor) Abby KashExecutive DirectorGreater Kansas ChapterMarch of Dimes 4400 College Boulevard, Suite 180Overland Park, KS [email protected](Former Supervisor)
COVER LETTERYou’ve got a great resume, now add a great cover letter to set yourself apart from the pack
WHAT IS A COVER LETTER?
Document included with a resume to:
Tell specifically what type of position you are seeking
Entice the employer to learn more about you by reading your resume
Further detail your experience and potential fit with company/organization
Show how you express yourself, particularly your written communication skills
Ask for an interview!
Read on…
Cover
Cover HEADING AND OPENING
Heading
Your address could be listed standard or use heading from resume
Date, employer name and address
Salutation: be specific if possible
Dear Ms. or Mr. _____________ ,
Option to not use a salutation*
Opening Paragraph
Job, company, where you found it, and who you are
Laura Stuhlman8356 Big Bend Road Saint Louis, Missouri 63124 [email protected] 573-555-6849
March 7, 2012
Ms. Amanda Keller ** Notice the difference in Managing Editor company from inside addressAmazon.com to the body of letter!! OOPS!! P.O. 8349Seattle, Washington 98621
Dear Ms. Keller,
While researching internship opportunities on Truman State University’sExperience.com website, I discovered the Marketing Communications Internship position for Google, Inc. As a junior seeking a degree in journalism and anxious to make a contribution to an institution of Google’s caliber, I am very interested in this position.
BODY OF DOCUMENT
Second Paragraph Draw attention to your resume and explain
how you are qualified
Highlight specific/relevant skills and achievements
Mention items not in your resume if necessary
Third Paragraph Why are you right for this job?
Do company research and cite how you fit with the mission, style, work projects, and overall philosophy
How can you contribute to the employer, not what the employer can do for you
I have had extensive experience in media writing at newspapers and magazines, along with writing creatively in the corporate world. However, my true interest lies in merging writing with cutting edge marketing strategies. For the past year, I have been an on-line editor and web designer for the Index, Truman’s weekly student newspaper . In addition, I have worked as a reporter for the technology beat at the Index and as a feature editor for Detours. I am confident, because of these experiences, that I can bring creativity, style, and solid writing skills to the internship.
I understand that Google has been at the forefront of technology and market innovation since its inception. With my skills, I will work to enhance your already thriving marketing department to exceed its goals. Your emphasis on originality is unmatched in the industry which is a focus I deeply share. I feel I could substantially aid your company with not only my writing and advertising experience, but my interest in providing only the best for product users.
Cover
Cover
CLOSING IT OUT
Closing paragraph states what you will do next
Take action. Ask for an interview. Inform the employer when you will make contact with them (if appropriate)
Give a timeline when you will follow up on receipt of materials
Thank the employer for their time
Restate your phone number and e-mail address
Closing:
Sincerely,
Add some space to sign your name, then type your name
Enclosure(s)
Please refer to my enclosed resume for further information on my qualifications. I would like to discuss my background with you in person and would be willing to travel to California at my own expense to do so. I will contact you at the end of next week to discuss whether such a meeting would be possible and to confirm that you have received my resume and writing samples.
Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to meeting with you.
Sincerely,
Laura StuhlmanLaura Stuhlman
enclosures
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
http://career.truman.edu Guide to Resumes Guide to Cover Letters Guide to Transferable Skills Career Spots GoinGlobal
Truman Career Center Services Get individualized critiques Resource library Presentations on career topics Appointments available Personality & Interest Inventories And more!!!
INTERNSHIP & JOB SEARCH 101
DETERMINE YOUR TARGETS
Step 1
Don’t let your major
define you too
narrowly, but be sure to
make selections based
on your interests and
passions.
WHAT ARE MY CAREER GOALS?
By selecting five
locations, your job
search will be effectively
defined and much easier.
WHERE DO I WISH TO LIVE?
Your four year plan should
include:
• Internships
• Part-time employment
• Job
Be aware that each of these
takes months of planning.
WHEN AM I GRADUATING?
PREPARE YOUR PROFESSIONAL MATERIALS
Step 2
RÉSUMÉS & COVER LETTERS
Accomplishment Oriented Tailored to Position
Created membership marketing plan
Increased attendance by 17%
Developed and managed organizational
budget for $2000
Experienced with membership database
management
As your mission statement outlines…
Fulfill your need for web design
REFERENCES & LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
• Be certain to ask whether they would be able to provide you a highly positive recommendation
• Provide them copy of résumé.
PRACTICE INTERVIEWING
Step 3
Student Led Mock Interviews
Sign up in advance in the Career Center with
resume
S.C.O.R.E. mock interviews
Sign up in advance in the Career Center with
resume
RESOURCES AVAILABLE
BEGIN YOUR SEARCH
Step 4
Identify & Research Companies (Top 20)
Read company websites, business
journals, and popular business magazines
Contact people within organization Network online
Stay on the radar screen of the
company
Keep the traditional search methods going
TARGETED JOB SEARCHING
Job Search
Hoovers
Salary Wizard
Employer Search
EXPERIENCEBEHANCE.COM
NETWORKINGStep 5
As many as three out of four job
openings are not posted online. These
positions are obtained through networking.
Career & Grad School Expo
October 2nd
Networking—on-line and traditional
The Importance of Networking -- Career Spot
Professional Associations/Organizations
Federal & state employment sites
And more!
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
POSITIVE ONLINE PRESENCE
Facebook Maintenance
Professional Photo
Build contacts & recommendations
Join groups
Before, During and After
CAREER EXPO
BEFORE CAREER EXPO:
Be
prepared!
Prepare Materials• Résumés• Electronic Résumé• Padfolio & Pen• Notes
Prepare Business Attire
• Suit• Well-groomed
Practice Posture & Demeanor
• Confident• Calm & Poised• Interested
MOCK INTERVIEWSStudent Mock
InterviewSCORE or
Employer Mock Interview
Requirement √
No/Limited Experience
√
Limited Availability
Personal Development
√
Actively Interviewing
√ √
Conduct research so you can ask informed questions to provide evidence of your
potential.Company & Job Info
Facts & News
Examples of Your FitProof of
QualificationsImmediate
contributions you could make
APPROPRIATE EXPO ATTIRE
Everyone
No Fragrance
Shined Shoes
Groomed Hair
Dress Above Requirements
Cover Tattoos
No Obvious Piercings
30-SECOND COMMERCIAL
Using the format of past, present, and future, give a “commercial” about yourself.
State your name, major, and year in school.
Share information about yourself, your background, and professional and personal interests.
Practice this again and again before Expo.
Be sure you stand out in their minds.
DURING CAREER EXPO
Be
Confident!
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING TO CAREER EXPO?
Materials
Résumés
Padfolio
Pen
Notes
Notes should Include:
List of companies
Research about companies/positions
Notes on your strengths/qualifications
MAKE A GOOD FIRST
IMPRESSION
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Smile
Eye Contact
Firm Handshake
“The deciding factors are professional attire and a
professional attitude, including interest in and
knowledge of the company, and unfailing politeness.”
“‘Many candidates lack communication and people skills,’ Reeves says, explaining that he’s more likely to hire a good communicator with a slightly imperfect grade point average over someone with a 4.0 GPA but poor communication skills.”
COMMUNICATION
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Ap
proach
•Confidently•With Knowledge
Av
oid
•Taking freebees without talking•Treating Expo Casually
Mark
et
•Your skills and qualifications•Professional experience
WHAT SHOULD YOU SAY?
If they are recruiting your major:
Inquire about potential professional opportunities including full-time positions and internships.
Inquire about the recruiter's background and how he/she joined the company.
Also ask questions about how he/she got started and for any advice for pursuing a similar career.
Ask recruiters for their business cards so that you know with whom you have spoken, and have proper spelling of names, titles, etc.
If they are not recruiting your major:
Ask him/her for the name of the person who recruits your major or to forward your résumé to the appropriate person.
“They don’t know you, so you have to tell them what
you can do.”-Job Choices
BE POLITE
Thank
Representative
for their time.
SEND THANK YOU NOTES
Write thank-you notes within 1 week to each employer with whom you speak. This letter should thank the employer for their info, review your qualifications, and ask for an interview.
FOLLOW-UP
Continue Researching
Keep Communication Open
Keep in touch with connections you have made!
CAREER CENTER RESOURCES REVIEW
Resume/Cover Letter Critiques
Personal Statement Critiques
Student led mock/S.C.O.R.E./Alumni Interviews
Career Center Library
Online Resources: Experience.com, GoinGlobal
Career Expo
CAREER EXPOWednesday, October 2, 2013
11am-4pmSUB
•Register at http://career.truman.edu•Dress: Business Professional•Bring Your Résumé•Network