Career Guide

CONTENTS Welcome

1

Four-Year Action Plan

2

Cardinal Career Network

3

Online Tutorials

4

Student Employment

5

Internships & Co-ops

7

Creating Your Resume

9

Writing Effective Bullet Statements

10

Writing Level 3 Bullet Statements & Maximizing Experiences

11

Power Words .

12

Sample Resumes

13

References

16

Cover Letters

17

Career & Employment Fairs

19

Professional Dress

20

Social Networking & Online Presence

21

Interviewing

22

Graduate School

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WELCOME! This career guide will help you identify the many resources available from SVSU Career Services. Take a peek inside — you will find advice on how to take the next step toward your future, whether you are applying for internships, your first job, your first choice graduate school, or even your dream job as an SVSU Alumnus. It is one more way your university is serving you, to help you find your next step in life.

At Career Services, we see your success as our success, and we will do our best to ensure that you have every chance to develop yourself as a professional. Feel free to stop by frequently, so you can walk out of SVSU saying...

ready

iforamsuccess!

RESOURCES Available through Career Services:

• Resume and cover letter assistance • Nationally recognized online tutorials • Mock interviews • Interview coaching • Career/Employment fairs on campus • Workshops • Internship and co-op advising • Job search strategies • Advice on how to develop your personal brand • One-on-one advising • On-campus job assistance • Alumni placement surveys • Alumni career assistance Be sure to use the online resources available at www.svsu.edu/careers

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Don't forget to stay connected via the Cardinal Career Network. About 20% of all postings are under the "Career/Degreed, 5+ Years Experience" category.

FOUR-YEAR ACTION PLAN

Freshman Year

Meet with a Career Services staff member for one-on-one career advising to get you started

Get engaged with Student Life to find out about and join Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) that interest you

Check out the "Online Tutorials" at www.svsu.edu/careers to learn about resumes and cover letters Attend a Career Services resume workshop to build your resume Build an effective cover letter; after you create a general template, a customized version should be submitted to each individual job application based on the position and your unique qualifications for that specific vacancy

and seek volunteer opportunities to add to your resume

Explore the Cardinal Career Network for employment opportunities on campus and around the community

Create a free LinkedIn account at www.linkedin.com and then register with www.SVSUconnect.com to network with

successful alumni; get your LinkedIn profile picture taken at the University-Wide Employment Fairs for free

Attend at least one Career Services event on campus – this is a great time to explore Career/Employment Fairs Develop your long-term career plan and determine the steps you need to take to achieve your career goals

Sophomore Year

Edit and update your resume; have it critiqued by Career Services

Re-evaluate your long-term career plan and make any necessary revisions to the steps you need to take to achieve your goals

Check out the "Online Tutorials" at www.svsu.edu/careers to learn about interviewing and professional dress Explore the Cardinal Career Network for experiential learning opportunities like internships, co-ops, or job shadowing Apply to the SVSU Cooperative Education/Internship Program If you haven’t joined an organization on campus, or engaged in volunteer activities through Student Life, do it this year!

Update your SVSUconnect.com information and contact at least one successful alumnus for career advice or job shadowing Go to at least one Career/Employment Fair to experience what it is like to network with employers – it is also a great place to search for co-op and internship opportunities

Junior Year

Update your resume, have it critiqued, and upload a polished version to the Cardinal Career Network Gain acceptance into the SVSU Cooperative Education/Internship Program and find an internship if you have not done this yet Check out the "Online Tutorials" at www.svsu.edu/careers to learn about interviewing and building a professional network Attend Career/Employment Fairs to research employers and look for internship opportunities Take a leadership position in your organization on campus – a great experience and great resume builder Schedule a mock interview Use SVSUconnect.com to seek mentorship in your field of study Re-evaluate your long-term career plan and continue to take the steps you need to take to achieve these goals

Senior Year

Update your resume, have it critiqued, and upload the new version to the Cardinal Career Network

Review the "Online Tutorials" at www.svsu.edu/careers to update your professional documents and review

Get references together from employers, faculty members, and advisors

interviewing and networking strategies Apply for jobs: it can take a student four to six months to secure a position, so START EARLY Attend as many Career Services events as possible, including Career/Employment Fairs, workshops and etiquette dinners Network and apply for jobs at Career/Employment Fairs and on the Cardinal Career Network Meet with Alumni Relations and utilize SVSUconnect.com to build a networking team for after graduation Don't forget, yourname@svsu.edu email address is yours as an alumnus free for life!

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Don't forget, your svsu.edu email address is yours as an alumnus free for life. Keep using it so Career Services can connect you with Career/Degreed 5+ Years of Experience positions!

CARDINAL CAREER NETWORK The Cardinal Career Network is a free resource for students and alumni to search for open positions around the region, state and country.

To access and search for opportunities: 1. Visit www.svsu.edu/careers.

2. In the left panel under Career Services, click on

“Cardinal Career Network.”

3. Enter your SVSU Network username and password to

access the database.

4. In order for you to apply for jobs, internships, and co-op

positions, you must upload a resume.

5. Under “Employment Opportunities” there are two options:

a. Select "Cardinal Job Postings" to search for positions

that are posted only for SVSU students and

alumni. There are various position types you can

search for including: Career/Degreed 0-5 Years

Experience, Career/Degreed 5+ Years Experience,

Part-Time, Internship, On-Campus Student

Employment, and more.

b. Utilize the "Extended Job Search" to perform a

keyword search by any location in the United States

and select countries around the world. The extended

job search will provide results from other databases.

Apply for positions that match your interests and qualifications. Some positions allow you to submit resumes directly through the Cardinal Career Network, while others will direct you to the company’s website or instruct you to apply via mail.

Read instructions for all postings very carefully as they vary and may require different information and documents, such as cover letters, reference pages, and transcripts.

You will be in direct competition with other qualified applicants for positions. It is necessary that you spend some time to develop your professional documents and interviewing skills by utilizing the resources and advising from Career Services for document critiques, mock interviews, and interview coaching. At a minimum, students are encouraged to watch the "Resume Overview and Best Practices" video in the "Online Tutorials" section at www.svsu.edu/careers In addition to the nationally recognized online tutorials, workshops and oneon-one assistance are also available to help you prepare these documents.

Schedules for workshops are posted each semester in the Career Services office and on the Career Services website at www.svsu.edu/careers and students/ alumni may call the office to schedule an appointment with a staff member.

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ONLINE TUTORIALS Online Tutorials for Your Career Planning SVSU Career Services has been recognized by the National

After

Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) for its online

recommends that students and alumni also attend a resume

tutorials for students and alumni. These videos supply students

workshop, schedule an individual appointment or email a

with a plethora of "how-to's" in regards to cover letter and

resume for review at careers@svsu.edu. By following-up with our

resume construction as well as job search and interviewing

office and attending one of these sessions, students and alumni

strategies. Subject matter ranges from general overviews

will receive additional tips and strategies, obtain clarification

and best practices to detailed snippets addressing specific

and reinforcement of key concepts, and be able to tailor their

information either necessary or recommended for inclusion

documents based on the personal recommendations of our

within the individual sections.

professional and highly trained staff.

Resume Tutorials • • • • • • • • • •

Overview and Best Practices Contact Information Section Objective Section Education Section Writing Effective Bullet Statements Relevant Experience Section Work Experience Section

reviewing

these

tutorials,

Career

Services

highly

i am

going to check out the "Online Tutorials" at www.svsu.edu/careers today!

Computer Skills Section Honors/Awards/Activities Section References Section

Cover Letter Tutorials

• Overview and Best Practices • Heading Section • Opening Paragraph • Body Paragraph • Conclusion

Job Search Strategies •

Building a Personal Network

Interviewing Tutorials

• Overview - Four Stages • Preparing for an Interview • Types of Questions • Managing a Panel or Group • Follow-Up • Professional Dress

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Your Financial Aid Award Letter, viewable on Cardinal Direct, may reflect that you are eligible for Federal College Work Study. For this to happen automatically, you had to have expressed interest in work study on your FAFSA and be eligible for the award. Work-study funds do not initially count toward any bill a student may have at SVSU. The student earns work-study funds by being hired into an on-campus student employment position. The student will receive a paycheck for their completed hours every other week.

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT Types of Student Employment The on-campus Student Employment Program includes part-

Student Eligibility General requirements for on-campus student employment include:

time positions funded through Federal Work Study and SVSU's

1. Fall and Winter employment: Undergraduate students

general fund. Being awarded work study does NOT guarantee

must be enrolled in at least six (6) credit hours, and

a position on-campus nor does it guarantee that the student

Graduate students must be enrolled in five (5) credit

will be able to earn the entire amount awarded. Student

hours during both fall and winter semesters.

Employment positions are funded in the following ways:

Spring

Federal College Work Study (CWS) Federal College Work Study is a federal student employment program for students that have financial need. Under this program, the federal government pays the majority of student wages. Students are required to apply for financial assistance on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can be obtained from SVSU’s Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid or completed online (www.fafsa.ed.gov). Based upon the student’s financial need as ascertained by the FAFSA information, students may be awarded Federal Work Study.

students must either be enrolled in six (6) credit hours OR

be registered for at least (6) credit hours for the

upcoming fall semester. Graduate students must be

enrolled in five (5) credit hours or be registered for

at least five (5) credit hours for the upcoming fall semester.

2. Student employees must be current students at SVSU; incoming freshman and transfer students are

not permitted to work until their first semester of classes.

3. Guest students do not qualify for employment.

4. Student employees must have a valid social security number.

This award allows students to apply for positions that require

Equal Opportunity Employment

Federal Work Study as a qualification in addition to positions

It is the policy of Saginaw Valley State University that no unlawful

open to all students.

discrimination will be practiced or tolerated in the provision

Saginaw Valley Work Study (SVWS)

public accommodations and other services to the public. Equal

Saginaw Valley Work Study is a student employment program funded by SVSU. In order to receive SVWS, a student must submit a FAFSA and be awarded Federal College Work Study. These positions are posted as "Federal Work Study" on the Cardinal Career Network.

Regular Student Employment (RSE) Regular Student Employment is funded entirely from the SVSU general fund. All enrolled students are eligible to earn RSE funding. Departments may choose to continue employing a student using RSE funds once they have earned their total Federal College Work Study award as long as the department has RSE funding available in their budget. These positions are posted as "Open to all students" on the Cardinal Career Network.

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and Summer employment: Undergraduate

of employment, education, organizations, athletics, housing, opportunity will be provided regardless of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital or familial status, color, height, weight, handicap or disability.

For additional information regarding student employment, please visit www.svsu.edu/careers.

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION PROCESS Online via the Cardinal Career Network SVSU’s Student Employment Program positions are posted on the Cardinal Career Network, SVSU’s online job database (www.svsu.edu/careers). Students must apply for vacant positions via the Cardinal Career Network. Students will be in direct competition with other qualified applicants. It is highly recommended that students develop professional documents and practice interviewing skills prior to application.

PLEASE READ EACH JOB DESCRIPTION CAREFULLY AS POSITIONS POSTED HAVE DIFFERENT ELIGIBILITY AND WORK SHIFT REQUIREMENTS. ADDRESS THESE REQUIREMENTS IN YOUR COVER LETTERS AND RESUMES.

To Apply for a Posted Position: • Log into the Cardinal Career Network, www.svsu.edu/careers.

• Select the "Student Login" link.

• Enter your SVSU network username and password to access the database.

• Upload your resume under "Documents."

• Under "Employment Opportunities," select "Cardinal Job

Postings" and select “On-Campus Student Employment” under the "Position Type" option. (Note: You may also use the “JobID” option to look up specific positions under "Keywords.")

• Apply to those positions for which you qualify.

If you have questions regarding the Federal or Michigan Work Study Programs, please refer to the Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid in Wickes Hall or www.svsu.edu/financialaid for additional information.

Tips to Success:

• Watch the Online Tutorials at www.svsu.edu/careers • Attend a resume workshop • Email your documents for an advisor to review at careers@svsu.edu

• Schedule an appointment or visit our office during walk-in hours for a one-on-one meeting with a staff member

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Relevant experience in your field is one of the most important factors employers consider when making hiring decisions.

By participating in internships, co-ops, externships and field placements, you not only better your understanding of your future profession, but also increase your value to potential employers.

INTERNSHIPS & CO-OPS Co-ops

A co-op is a paid, on-going relationship between the employer, student, and university.

Students in the program gain work-related experience and actively participate in the professional workplace. The co-op program is open to all undergraduate students currently enrolled at SVSU. (International students are required to provide proper work authorization to work off-campus.) Because of the high expectations, students must meet several requirements to participate in the co-op program:

• A

minimum of 24 college level credit hours from SVSU or another accredited college or university must be completed prior to application.* • Students must meet and maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average.

• Candidates must have completed a minimum 24 credit hours in past academic year.

• Applicants must have at least one year of coursework remaining until graduation.

• Students are required to fulfill any additional requirements set forth by the employer or SVSU. • Candidates must submit applications for the Co-op/Internship Program through the Cardinal Career Network. Visit Career Services in Wickes 270 or www.svsu.edu/careers for further details and instruction.

Non-Academic Credit Internships

An internship is an experience with a definite time frame (e.g., four months in the summer) that can be either paid or unpaid, and can involve projects that vary in intensity based on the student’s level of experience. Unlike co-op positions, the requirements for internships vary from employer to employer and by academic background. To participate in SVSU’s internship program through Career Services, you must meet certain requirements:

• Applicants must be currently enrolled at SVSU, regardless of class standing.

• Students must meet and maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average.

• Candidates must submit applications for the Co-op/Internship Program through the Cardinal Career Network. Visit Career Services in Wickes 270 or www.svsu.edu/careers for further details and instruction.

Internships for Academic Credit

Credit-earning internships combine a structured learning experience with academic requirements that must be met. If you are interested in an internship and wish to seek out information regarding earning academic credit, you must first speak to a faculty representative from your respective department. Each academic department has unique guidelines. To earn academic credit, students must seek out an advisor within their department well in advance of the semester they wish to complete their credit-earning internship experience. In order to gain permission to enroll in the internship or independent study course, a plan with course content and requirements will be devised with your advisor.

Credit is not simply granted to you without an academic component or plan. After a mutual agreement between the faculty, student, and employer with a well-defined description of tasks, academic components, and responsibilities, the student may receive permission from the faculty member for enrollment to earn academic credit.

If you are an unpaid intern, please be aware of specific criteria for unpaid internships under the Fair Labor Standards Act of the U.S. Department of Labor.

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*A freshman whose high school co-op employer has requested that the student continue their co-op at SVSU is exempt from this requirement; however the student must still register through the Cardinal Career Network.

INTERNSHIPS & CO-OPS Parameters for Unpaid Internships (Source: United States Department of Labor)

There are some circumstances under which individuals who participate in “for-profit” private sector internships or training programs may do so without compensation. The Supreme Court has held that the term “suffer or permit to work” cannot be interpreted so as to make a person whose work serves only his or her own interest an employee of another who provides aid or instruction. This may apply to interns who receive training for their own educational benefit if the training meets certain criteria. The determination of whether an internship or training program meets this exclusion depends upon all of the facts and circumstances of each such program.

The following six criteria must be applied when making this determination:

• • •

The internship, even though it includes actual operation of the facilities of the employer, is similar to training which would be given in an educational environment; The internship experience is for the benefit of the intern; The intern does not displace regular employees, but works under close supervision of existing staff;

•

The employer that provides the training derives no immediate advantage from the activities of the intern; and on occasion its operations may actually be impeded;

•

The intern is not necessarily entitled to a job at the conclusion of the internship; and

•

The employer and the intern understand that the intern is not entitled to wages for the time spent in the internship.

If all of the factors listed above are met, an employment relationship does not exist under the FLSA, and the Act’s minimum wage and overtime provisions do not apply to the intern. This exclusion from the definition of employment is necessarily quite narrow because the FLSA’s definition of “employ” is very broad. Some of the most commonly discussed factors for “for-profit” private sector internship programs are considered below.

Similar To An Education Environment And The Primary Beneficiary of The Activity

In general, the more an internship program is structured around a classroom or academic experience as opposed to the employer’s actual operations, the more likely the internship will be viewed as an extension of the individual’s

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educational experience (this often occurs where a college or university exercises oversight over the internship program and provides educational credit). The more the internship provides the individual with skills that can be used in multiple employment settings, as opposed to skills particular to one employer’s operation, the more likely the intern would be viewed as receiving training. Under these circumstances, the intern does not perform the routine work of the business on a regular and recurring basis, and the business is not dependent upon the work of the intern. On the other hand, if the interns are engaged in the operations of the employer or are performing productive work (for example, filing, performing other clerical work, or assisting customers), then the fact that they may be receiving some benefits in the form of a new skill or improved work habits will not exclude them from FLSA’s minimum wage and overtime requirements because the employer benefits from the intern’s work.

Displacement And Supervision Issues

If an employer uses interns as substitutes for regular workers or to augment its existing workforce during specific time periods, these interns should be paid at least the minimum wage and overtime compensation for hours worked over forty in a work week. If the employer would have hired additional employees or required existing staff to work additional hours had the interns not performed the work, then the interns will be viewed as employees and entitled compensation under the FLSA. Conversely, if the employer is providing job shadowing opportunities that allow an intern to learn certain functions under the close and constant supervision of regular employees, but the intern performs no or minimal work, the activity is more likely to be viewed as a bona fide educational experience. On the other hand, if the intern receives the same level of supervision as the employer’s regular workforce, this would suggest an employment relationship rather than training.

Job Entitlement

The internship should be of a fixed duration, established prior to the outset of the internship. Further, unpaid internships generally should not be used by the employer as a trial period for individuals seeking employment at the conclusion of the internship period. If an intern is placed with the employer for a trial period with the expectation that he or she will then be hired on a permanent basis, that individual generally would be considered an employee under the FLSA.

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Because a resume is the employer’s first impression of you, it should be flawless and professional. Resumes should be no longer than one page for most recent college graduates. Students who have a lengthy list of pre-professional experiences (like some education and healthcare majors) may require two pages. The following components are suggestions to include on your resume.

CREATING YOUR RESUME* Contact Information

Your first heading should include your name, address, phone number, and email. You should also include a link to your ePortfolio if you have one. It is important to use a professional email on your resume. Your SVSU email is a good choice because it establishes a connection with the university and is free to SVSU alumni for life.

Customized Header Tip: You can be creative when writing resume headers. Customize heading names to fit unique experiences. Examples include: Intercollegiate Athletic Experience, Campus Leadership, Research, and Community Service.

Objective

An objective is not required. If you choose to have one, it must be specific and concise, and should support the position for which you are applying. Below are example objectives.

Generic Example: To apply my exceptional interpersonal, creative and teamwork skills to gain experience through a co-op or internship position in the field of sales and marketing.

Specific Example: To utilize my exceptional communication, leadership and lesson planning skills as a Fifth Grade Math and Language Arts Teacher at Binder-Stec Elementary School.

Education

Your education section should include a full spelling of the degree, your major(s), minor(s) if applicable, and your grade point average if it is above a 3.0. Only list institutions where you are working toward a degree or from which you have earned a degree. Academic honors, such as the "Deans' List" may also be listed in this section. Undergraduate degrees earned at SVSU include: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Professional Accountancy, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Social Work.

Relevant or Work Experience

These sections should be listed in reverse chronological order, with the name of the employer, your position, location, and dates of employment. Each position should contain two to five bullet point statements that highlight your significant responsibilities and accomplishments while employed in that position. Everyone should be able to pick up your resume and have a clear idea of what value you added to the position.

Relevant experience is defined as any related experience that you believe an employer may deem relevant to the specific position you seek.

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*Section-by-section breakout information is available in the Online Tutorials section at www.svsu.edu/careers

Involvement & Honors

Your involvement and honors section should list any organizations to which you belong(ed) in reverse chronological order, along with any awards or honors you have received, such as scholarships. You may also include 1-2 bullet statements to clarify or highlight significant accomplishments or statistics to strengthen the value of the involvement or honor to potential employers. Consider writing customized headings to capture a reader's attention.

Computer and Technical Skills

Some majors develop a specific skill set that employers require for certain jobs. It’s very important to include these skills on your resume to showcase your expertise and maximize your marketability. For example, Graphic Design majors typically develop a skill set that includes various programs including Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop. Computer Science majors may include language proficiency such as CSS, C++, Java, and HTML. The same holds true for Engineering students and majors in Health & Human Services.

WRITING EFFECTIVE BULLET STATEMENTS Overview

It is said that “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Writing effective bullet statements can help you paint a picture in the mind of the person reading your resume. In order to effectively accomplish this feat, your bullet statements should be clear, concise and detailed. List accomplishments over tasks.

Remember, in many cases the position title explains the duties that you performed. For example, writing that you "used a cash register" as a Cashier adds no value to your resume. (See the "Power Words" list on page 12 for more ideas.)

Number of Bullet Statements

Generally, you should include a minimum of two and no more than five bullet statements under each position listed on your resume employment history.

Formatting Bullet Statements

Bullet statements are intended to be concise and to the point.

Do not embellish or use ten words when five will do. Your bullet statements may extend to a second line if necessary to clearly describe the accomplishment. Bullet statements do not need to end with periods or other punctuation. If you choose to use punctuation, be consistent throughout the document.

Conveying Your Message

For each bullet statement, use an action or power word that supports one of your professional strengths or skill areas. Do NOT recycle action or power words. In other words, if you "processed financial transactions" in one bullet statement, do not use the word "process" or "processed' in subsequent statements. Find another word to convey your achievement.

Use descriptive versus general language. For example, instead of writing that you presented to a group of students write that you presented to a group of 25 high school seniors. This strategy allows you to paint a "word picture" for the person reading your resume, giving them a better idea of how you might be a good fit for their company or organization.

Don't forget! The Online Tutorials at www.svsu.edu/careers are a great resource to help you put together a fantastic resume.

Bullet Construction Levels

The stronger your bullet statements, the greater your value proposition will be to an employer. There are three levels of bullet statements: Level 1 (not very impressive): Listing your duties, tasks and responsibilities.

Examples:

Sales Associate • Dealt with customers* • Stocked shelves • Used cash register • Cleaned store *Think about the negative tone of certain word choices. "Dealt with customers" has a negative connotation. Rephrasing this statement as "Assisted customers" would convey a more positive attitude. Avoid using level #1 bullets at all times.

Level 2 (more impressive): How or in what way did you perform Level #1 exceptionally well? Are there any additional duties that you initiated that were not part of your job responsibilities?

Employers want to hire individuals that show initiative.

Examples:

Sales Associate • Assisted customers in a warm and friendly manner • Stocked shelves during down times to ensure a professional environment • Processed financial transactions through the cash register in a fast and efficient manner • Cleaned store to maintain an appealing atmosphere to enhance customer satisfaction (Level #2 bullets are okay to use occasionally on your resume to clarify accomplishments. However, you do not want to rely on them to earn you an interview.)

Level 3 (most impressive): What value did you bring to your previous employer? Did you make something better or solve a problem? Employers want to hire individuals with a track record of accomplishments. Be able to support all Level #3 bullets with detailed examples or anecdotes during an interview.

Examples: Sales Associate • Earned Associate of the Month honors for outstanding service in June 2014 • Created effective displays which increased monthly sales by 200% in a two-month period (Employers want someone who can make a difference. Demonstrate your specific accomplishments and achievements.)

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Your bullet statements are what makes you unique and special.

Your bullet statements should not look like any other applicants.

WRITING LEVEL 3 BULLET STATEMENTS AND MAXIMIZING EXPERIENCES Writing Level 3 Bullet Statements

Maxmizing RSO Experiences

In order to do this, think about what value you added in the previous positions you’ve held. Ultimately, any organization is looking for employees who have these three skills: 1. The ability to communicate effectively, written and oral 2. Critical thinking 3. The ability to solve complex problems

Remember, resumes are about highlighting your specific accomplishments and achievements. Create custom headings to organize the information and be sure to explain why these activities are important.

The key to writing effective bullet statements is simple: they need to reflect your accomplishments and achievements.

What do you do in a position that is special, unique, different, and better than your peers? When written correctly, your bullet statements should not look like anyone else. They should be unique to your resume.

Employers want to see how you’ve demonstrated these skills in your previous positions. Keep a journal of your accomplishments, whether it’s at a part-time job, internship, volunteer experience, or study abroad opportunity. The more you can list specific information, the better for employers. For all your positions, ask yourself these questions: • How are the things you have done been measured?

• What were the specific outcomes of projects?

• What is the cause and effect of actions you’ve initiated?

• Where can you use words like “increased” and “decreased” to demonstrate success?

A Basic Format

Any Position Any Location, Any City, Any State • Created ____ that led to ____ over a ____ period of time • Oversaw the development of ____ that resulted in ____ • Managed a team of ____ co-workers that ____ • Processed over $____ worth of transactions over a ____ hour shift with a 100% accuracy rate

Examples

INTERCOLLEGIATE VARSITY ATHLETIC EXPERIENCE Men’s Varsity Basketball Team 2012 - Present Saginaw Valley State University • Devoted 20 hours per week to athletics while carrying full course load of 30 credits per year • NCAA Academic All-American

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CAMPUS LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Recruitment Chair, Delta Sigma Pi 2012 - Present Mu Phi Chapter, Saginaw Valley State University • Led four recruitment activities that increased membership from 25 to 40 members for a co-ed, professional business fraternity • Coordinated the Relay For Life booth and organized 15 volunteers for 24 continuous hours, raising $6,954 for charity

Many resume templates emphasize work experiences and limit your extra-curricular activities to one line.

However, SVSU offers students the ability to grow and develop in ways that are desirable to organizations.

Whether you are a student leader engaged in registered student organizations, participating in community service or even conducting research related to your program of study, you are earning experiences that can help you in your career.

Here are some bullet statements for Registered Student Organization (RSO) experiences to consider using to best personalize your document for your experiences: • Participant in a national service fraternity in which I perform over 125 hours of community service per year • Mentored new members on the culture and traditions of an organization with a rich history dating back to 1965 • Served as volunteer coordinator and successfully arranged over 75 service hours in support of over 13 annual events • Hosted team building exercises for 23 members that fostered a closer bond among fraternity members • Completed leadership courses that covered topics including effective problem solving, conflict negotiation, ethics implications and project management strategies RESEARCH EXPERIENCE Project Title August 2015 - Present Saginaw Valley State University • Selected to participate in an elite program designed to partner undergraduate students with Ph.D. faculty research • Conducted ____ on the topics of ____ • Prepared an annotated bibliography of ____ peer reviewed sources on the topic of ____ • Presented findings at ____ in ____ • Assisted primary investigator in preparing documents for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval STUDY ABROAD

French Immersion, Montreal, Canada

January - June 2015

• Studied French Canadian literature and culture for six months while living with a host family that spoke only French

Using power words on your resume are very important when it comes to developing effective bullet points. Power words, or actions, begin each bullet point describing your responsibilities. Power words help the employer understand what you did with solid action.

POWER WORDS Communicate Addressed Advertised Arbitrated Articulated Authored Collaborated Communicated Condensed Conferred Consulted Contacted Conveyed Convinced Corresponded Debated Defined Discussed Drafted Edited Elicited Enlisted Explained Expressed Furnished Influenced Interacted Interpreted Interviewed Involved Judged Lectured Listened Mediated Moderated Negotiated Observed Outlined Participated Persuaded Presented Promoted Proposed Publicized Reconciled Recruited Referred Reinforced Reported Resolved Responded Solicited Suggested Summarized Synthesized Translated Wrote

Teaching

Advised Coached Conducted Coordinated Critiqued Educated Enabled Encouraged Evaluated Facilitated Focused Guided Individualized Informed Instilled Instructed Motivated Simulated Stimulated Taught Tested Trained Transmitted Tutored Financial Administered Adjusted Allocated Analyzed Appraised Assessed Audited Balanced Budgeted Calculated Computed Conserved Corrected Determined Estimated Forecasted Managed Marketed Measured Netted Planned Prepared Programmed Projected Qualified Reconciled Reduced Researched Retrieved

Research

Analyzed Collected Compared Conducted Critiqued Detected Determined Diagnosed Evaluated Examined Experimented Explored Extracted Formulated Gathered Inspected Interviewed Invented Investigated Located Measured Organized Researched Reviewed Searched Solved Summarized Surveyed Systemized Tested

Leadership

Administered Analyzed Appointed Approved Assigned Attained Authorized Chaired Considered Consolidated Contracted Controlled Converted Coordinated Delegated Directed Eliminated Emphasized Enforced Enhanced Established Executed Generated Handled Headed Hired Hosted Improved Incorporated Increased Initiated Inspected Instituted Managed Merged Motivated Navigated Organized Originated Overhauled Oversaw Planned Presided Prioritized Produced Recommended Reorganized Replaced Restored Reviewed Scheduled Secured Selected Streamlined Strengthened Supervised Terminated

Creative

Acted Adapted Began Combined Composed Conceptualized Created Customized Designed Displayed Drew Entertained Established Fashioned Founded Illustrated Instituted Integrated Introduced Invented Modeled Modified Originated Performed Photographed Planned Revised Revitalized Shaped Solved

Organization Approved Arranged Catalogued Categorized Charted Classified Coded Collected Compiled Corrected Distributed Executed Filed Generated Incorporated Inspected Logged Maintained Obtained Operated Ordered Organized Prepared Processed Provided Purchased Recorded Registered Reserved Responded Reviewed Routed Scheduled Screened Submitted Supplied Standardized Systematized Updated Validated Verified

Helping

Adapted Advocated Aided Answered Assessed Assisted Clarified Coached Contributed Cooperated Counseled Demonstrated Diagnosed Educated Encouraged Ensured Expedited Facilitated Familiarized Furthered Guided Helped Insured Intervened Motivated Prevented Provided Rehabilitated Represented Resolved Simplified Supplied Supported Volunteered

Technical

Adapted Applied Assembled Calculated Computed Conserved Constructed Converted Debugged Designed Determined Developed Engineered Fabricated Fortified Installed Maintained Operated Overhauled Printed Programmed Rectified Regulated Remodeled Repaired Replaced Restored Solved Specialized Standardized Studied Upgraded Utilized

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SAMPLE RESUME 1

An example resume intended for most college students NOTE: Level 3 bullet statements will stand out. There is a big difference in the sample resume when comparing the Level 3 (accomplishment) to the rest of the items. Your goal is to list only Level 3 bullet statements on your resume.

Coop T. Cardinal

7400 Bay Road, University Center, MI 48710 | ctcardinal@svsu.edu | 989.964.4954 | ePortfolio: www.svsu edu/~coop EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Computer Science

Second Major: Graphic Design

Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI

Minor: Physics

GPA: 3.66 / 4.0 RELEVANT COURSE WORK

C++ Programming

Computer Programming I & II

COMPUTER/TECHNICAL SKILLS

Programming Languages: C++, Perl, SQL, ASP.NET, C, Java Applications: MS Visual Studio, Eclipse

Application Server: JBoss, Tomcat

Operating Systems: Windows, Unix, Linux Multimedia: Camtasia, Adobe Flash, Quicktime

Anticipated: May 2018

Algorithm Design and Unix Visual Basic.NET Programming Note how the computer skills section is brought to the top for a technical resume. Be sure to highlight your skills that matter most to an employer

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

IT Co-op May 2016 - Present

SpeedNet, Saginaw, MI • Field customer phone calls to ensure quality assurance along the company’s range of products • Manage the operation of the business’ servers and maintain the local network • Assisted with the implementation of a wireless internet network to local residential and commercial properties CAMPUS LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Club Red Ambassador January 2015 - Present

Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI • Lead prospective students and parents on campus tours to develop an understanding of SVSU and its programs • Represent SVSU in the highest regard to demonstrate a cohesive and diverse environment for prospective students WORK EXPERIENCE

Sales Associate July 2013 - December 2014

American Eagle, Saginaw, MI • Scanned incoming and outgoing merchandise for inventory control The bullet points are weak and should be converted into Level 3 Bullet Statements that include quantities • Collaborated on store projects with store management • Facilitated store growth through various marketing and advertising campaigns

VOLUNTEER WORK

Green Cardinal Initiative, Saginaw Valley State University August 2015 - Present A hiring manager would not know what Green

Alternative Breaks, Saginaw Valley State University July 2015 - Present Cardinal Initiative or Alternative Breaks are. Write a

Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Saginaw, MI August 2012 - Present Level 3 Bullet Statement to explain the significance • Earned "Outstanding Big" award for spending over 1,000 hours with four littles; all of whom went on to attend college Proper example of Level 3 Bullet Statement

INVOLVEMENTS & HONORS

Recipient, Deans' Scholarship, SVSU

A hiring manager would not know what Conversation Pods Member, Conversation Pods are. Write a Level 3 Bullet Statement to explain the significance

Member, National Society of Leadership and Success

May 2014 - Present February 2014 - Present January 2014 - Present

1st Place, 24th Annual Sims Public Speaking Competition November 2014 • Delivered a persuasive speech on the dangers of society's increasing dependence on computer technology

13

Green: Examples of proper resume formatting and things to consider

Red: Examples of poor resume formatting and things to avoid

SAMPLE RESUME 2

An example resume intended for students with pre-professional experience NOTE: Level 3 bullet statements will stand out. There is a big difference in the sample resume when comparing the Level 3 (accomplishment) to the rest of the items. Your goal is to list only Level 3 bullet statements on your resume.

Coop T. Cardinal

7400 Bay Road, 1010 7A Pine Grove, University Center, MI 48710 cooptcardinal@svsu.edu | 989.964.4954 EDUCATION Bachelor of Science, Health Science Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI Minor: Psychology President's List: Fall 2015 Deans' List: Four Semesters GPA: 3.72 / 4.0 Include GPA if it is above a 3.0

Anticipated: May 2017

FIELDWORK Physical Disabilities October 2015 - Present Mid-Michigan Medical Center, Midland, MI

• Evaluate and treat clients from diverse backgrounds and with various diagnoses in an inpatient rehabilitation setting

• Implement treatment following clinical pathways and protocols in an acute care setting

• Assist physician in assessing psychological effects of patient disabilities to provide the best and most appropriate care RELATED EXPERIENCE Medical Receptionist Family Practice, Dr. Montgomery Shepherd, Midland, MI

• Aid in making patient visits with the doctor as smooth and relaxed as possible

• Prepare and update patient charts for physicians to maintain continuity

• Schedule appointments and receive messages using a multi-line phone system

May 2014 - Present

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Club Red Ambassador January 2014 - Present Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI

• Lead prospective students and parents on campus tours to develop an understanding of SVSU and its programs

• Represent SVSU in the highest regard to demonstrate a cohesive and diverse environment for prospective students WORK EXPERIENCE Server August 2011 - April 2013 Bennigan’s Restaurant, Saginaw, MI

• Reviewed patrons’ identification to ensure that they met minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages

• Recorded customer food orders on order slips, memorized orders, and entered orders into computers for transmittal to kitchen staff This bullet point is not valid because this task is implied by the position title • Checked with customers to ensure that they were enjoying their meals and took action to correct any problems INVOLVEMENTS & HONORS Treasurer, Health Professionals Association January 2014 - Present Proper example of Level 3 Bullet Statement

Organized a charity event that raised over $5,000 for United Way • Recipient, President's Scholarship, SVSU August 2013 - Present Member, Pre-Physical Therapy Club January 2014 - Present A hiring manager would not know what these clubs are.

Write a Level 3 Bullet Statement to explain the significance Member, Health Science Association August 2013 - Present

Green: Examples of proper resume formatting and things to consider

Red: Examples of poor resume formatting and things to avoid

14

SAMPLE RESUME 3

An example resume intended for experienced individuals NOTE: Level 3 bullet statements will stand out. There is a big difference in the sample resume when comparing the Level 3 (accomplishment) to the rest of the items. Your goal is to list only Level 3 bullet statements on your resume.

Coop T. Cardinal 7400 Bay Road, University Center, MI 48710 • 989.964.4954 • ctcardinal@svsu.edu • ePortfolio: www.cooptcardinal.com EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Secondary Mathematics Education

Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI Minors: History and English

May 2010

CERTIFICATIONS & QUALIFICATIONS

History (CC) 6-12

Mathematics (EX) 6-12

English (BX) 6-12

Social Studies (RX) 6-12 EXPERIENCE

Math Teacher July 2013 - Present

Bay City Public Schools, Bay City Central High School, Bay City, MI

• Develop daily and unit lesson plans to facilitate educational development for students in Algebra, Advanced Algebra, Geometry, and ACT Prep

• Institute subject-specific after-school tutoring system that led to a 10% increase in overall ACT score average

• E2020 Online Learning Program Administrator for over 1,200 users Proper example(s) of Level 3 Bullet Statement

• Selected as Learning Options Program Junior class STAR/Grad Plan Supervisor

Math Department Head-Teacher February 2012 - July 2013

Beal City High School, Beal City, MI

• Instructed Business-Consumer Math, Algebra, Algebra 2, Geometry, and Calculus

• Created and taught three separate hybrid classroom online-learning courses

• Tailored teaching methods to suit individual needs of students from diverse cultural backgrounds to encourage development in all students

• School Improvement Co-Chair/School Technology-E2020 Online Learning Program Coordinator

Math and History Teacher January 2011- May 2012

Carrollton Public Schools, Carrollton High School, Saginaw, MI

• Taught 8 block schedule Math courses: Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, and U.S./Michigan History

• Instituted subject-specific after-school tutoring system that enhanced learning experiences for Carrollton students

• Served as school Core Skills Representative/Teacher Representative to PTO COACHING EXPERIENCE

Varsity Baseball, Bay City Central High School July 2014 - Present

• Earned Saginaw Valley League Conference Coach of the Year in 2012 Proper example of Level 3 Bullet Statement

Varsity Golf, Beal City High School February 2012 - July 2014

Co-ed Softball, William R. Stec Elementary School January 2011 - June 2012

15

Green: Examples of proper resume formatting and things to consider

Red: Examples of poor resume formatting and things to avoid

References should be able to speak about your skills and work ethic. Most employers are looking for former supervisors, instructors, advisors, or coaches as references. Avoid using family friends if they have not directly supervised you.

REFERENCES PAGE About References

Building relationships with supervisors and professors is important to maintain a good circle of references that you will need when you apply for internships, co-ops, or jobs. A reference page includes professional and academic references that can speak to your abilities. Personal references should not be included; they tend to have bias and cannot speak to your professional attributes. This page should include the same header as your resume and cover letter and should include:

• Name of reference • Occupation • Employer name • Employer address • Employer phone number • Business email

Tip: Be sure to let your references know you are applying for positions and frequently update them on your job search.

Example: Coop T. Cardinal 7400 Bay Road, University Center, MI 48710 • 989.964.4954 • ctcardinal@svsu.edu • ePortfolio: www.cooptcardinal.com

REFERENCES Mr. Thomas Barnikow, General Manager Mooney’s Ice Cream 1234 Some Road Saginaw, MI 48602 989.555.0000 tbarns@email.com

Dr. Kimberlee Stec, Professor of Early Childhood Education Saginaw Valley State University 156 Brown Hall 7400 Bay Road University Center, MI 48710 989.555.1234 kstec@svsu.edu

Dr. Michael Major, Physician Mid-Michigan Medical Center 4005 Orchard Drive Midland, MI 48670 989.555.9090 drmajor@medical.com

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Many employers require that a cover letter be sent in addition to a resume. A cover letter should be brief, specific, and convey that you want an opportunity to interview for a position.

COVER LETTER Some necessary components to all cover letters are: • A heading that contains your current address • The date of the letter • The recipient’s name, title, company name and business address • A proper salutation (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms., Dr.) • Do not start cover letters with "To Whom it May Concern" or the person's first name

Additional information on cover letters is available in the Online Tutorials section at www.svsu.edu/careers COVER LETTERS ARE AN IMPORTANT WAY TO MATCH YOUR SKILLS TO SPECIFIC POSITIONS. AVOID USING GENERIC, "ONE SIZE FITS ALL" LETTERS WHEN APPLYING FOR POSITIONS.

Paragraph 1

State the purpose of your letter and the position for which you are applying. Also indicate how you found out about the position, and thank the person and the company for taking the time to review your application.

Paragraph 2

Inform the reader why you are interested in the position, and reveal how your qualifications align with the responsibilities and duties of the position for which you are applying. Always provide specific examples to demonstrate your skills.

Paragraph 3

Now that you have informed the employer of your interest, market yourself. Make it known why you are the best candidate for the position, and what skills and qualities you will bring to the job and the employer. Be modest, yet firm, and provide examples.

Paragraph 4

Thank them again for taking the time to review your resume, and indicate your interest in an interview with the employer. Provide your contact information – email and phone number will suffice.

Important Tip: Avoid 17

using a generic cover letter. Write a new cover letter and personalize it for every position for which you apply. Employers can tell the difference between the two, so make the effort.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER 7400 Bay Road University Center, MI 48710 December 1, 2015 Megan Major Human Resources Vandelay Industries 3901 South Saginaw Road Midland, MI 48640 Dear Ms. Major: Please consider the enclosed resume as my application for the Human Resources Co-op position at Vandelay Industries. I learned of this opportunity through an employee, Gloria Wagener, and received additional information through the Career Services office at Saginaw Valley State University. Thank you for taking the time to review my application materials.

While employed at Matrubin Enterprises, I utilized my administrative, organizational and communication proficiencies to perform tasks that included answering phones, responding to emails, running errands, sorting mail and using a multi-purpose copier. In addition, I helped multiple departments maintain documents such as invoices, statements, packing slips, non-conforming product reports and data analysis sheets. Most importantly, I ensured customer satisfaction by providing customers with elemental analysis before orders were completed and performed advanced research to resolve any customer issues.

My background of working in a professional office setting and my education are excellent indicators that I will be successful in this position. A co-op position will allow me to utilize my administrative skills and gain professional experience in a corporate setting while pursuing a degree in business administration.

I look forward to starting and advancing my career through a co-op position at Vandelay Industries. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have and would appreciate the opportunity to interview with you.

You may contact me by phone or email at 989.964.4954 or ctcardinal@svsu.edu. Again, thank you for your time and the opportunity to apply.

Sincerely,

Coop Cardinal

i am

going to write a specific cover letter for each position I seek.

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Fun Fact: The #1 way most organizations want to recruit college students and alumni is by meeting them at Career and Employment Fairs.

CAREER & EMPLOYMENT FAIRS Why You Should Attend Career Fairs

Career and employment fairs provide an exceptional opportunity to network with employers looking to fill current positions or seeking candidates for future opportunities. In this day and age, society's reliance on social media and digital communication seems to have obscured the importance of face-to-face contact and the impact of a firm handshake. The truth is that Career and Employment Fairs are more relevant than ever and may be the decisive factor in obtaining gainful employment in a competitive job market.

Attending career fairs and meeting directly with potential employers gives candidates an advantage over applicants whom the employer has not had the opportunity to meet directly. According to a 2014 survey by the National Association of Colleges & Employers (NACE), "nearly 40% of recruiters plan to attend more career fairs." Furthermore, "over 70% of human resource departments participating in fairs are expecting to hire qualified candidates," according to the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM)/Career Journal Poll Search Tactics Survey.

SVSU Career Services organizes several employment fairs available to students and alumni free of charge. Our annual employment fair schedule typically includes several fairs in which employers are hiring from a wide variety of industries:

• • • •

Part-time Job Fair Fall University-Wide Employment Fair Spring University-Wide Employment Fair Summer Job & Internship Employment Fair

In addition, Career Services also puts together industry-specific fairs for majors that might require a designated skill set for employment, such as:

• • • •

Accounting & Finance Employment Fair Health and Human Services Employment Fair Manufacturing & Information Technology Employment Fair Education Employment Fair

Our website also lists a variety of off-campus Employment Fairs that are open to the general public. Please visit the Employment Fairs section of our website at www.svsu.edu/careers for a complete listing of employment fairs in addition to a link detailing job fair etiquette, including tips for effective networking.

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For interviews, career fairs or other networking events, dress the part and be impressive. Your clothes say a lot about you as a professional, so take the time to make a great first impression.

Don't be remembered for something other than your answers!

PROFESSIONAL DRESS Professional Dress for Men • Suit — two- or three-button: black, navy, or gray • Shirt — long sleeve, solid white or pale blue • Tie — complements the suit (no graphics or pictures) • Shoes and belt — must match each other; black or brown • Socks — match pants • No excessive cologne • Hair — neat and trimmed • Facial hair — clean shaven or neatly trimmed • Jewelry — minimal and conservative • Remove visible body piercings • Tattoos should be covered

Professional Dress for Women • Conservative suit — black, navy, or gray • Skirt — no shorter than knee length • Blouse — solid white or pale blue; be mindful not to show too much skin

• Hosiery — match suit or skin color • Shoes — polished with small to medium heel, neutral color • Hair/Nails — well-groomed with no loud colors • Jewelry — minimal and conservative • Visible body piercings, aside from earrings, should be removed • No excessive perfume • Appropriately sized purse, bag, or briefcase, but only one • Tattoos should be covered

Be sure to check out the "Clothing Guide" video of our "Interviewing Tutorials" available in the Online Tutorials section at www.svsu.edu/careers

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SOCIAL NETWORKING & ONLINE PRESENCE Facebook (facebook.com)

As most are aware, Facebook is the largest and most popular social network. You use it to have conversations, post pictures/videos, and catch up with old friends. Unfortunately, many Facebook users disclose more information than they should. If you don't edit your Facebook site, it could have a significant impact on the way that potential employers look at you as a candidate, and might make or break a decision to hire you. Clean up your page. Remove and untag inappropriate photos, remove questionable wall posts, and edit your privacy settings for maximum security.

However, you can use Facebook to your advantage. By “liking” pages of employers and companies in which you are interested, it keeps you updated on what’s going on in their worlds. It’s impressive to a recruiter when you know current news about their company. Career Services also uses Facebook to post news, articles, events, along with career, internship, and co-op opportunities. By “liking” SVSU Career Services, you will get special access to all of this FREE information that helps to foster your career and professional development.

Twitter (twitter.com)

Twitter is used by many different organizations and people as another social media and networking tool. If used correctly, Twitter can be beneficial to your job search and to learning tips on career and professional development.

By using strategic hash tags (e.g., #careers #resume #jobs #jobsinMI), you can find jobs that companies are posting on Twitter or advice on career development.

Many employers have Twitter accounts dedicated solely to tweeting information about new job postings within their companies. It is a good idea to follow these accounts for upcoming news on the company and information that might be helpful in an interview. The more you know about an employer, the better off you will be. Remember, unless your tweets are private, employers can still search for you and see what you’re tweeting, so be careful and mindful of the information that you are posting. If you have a job, be sure to add a disclaimer that your tweets are your own.

In addition, if you follow SVSU Career Services on Twitter, you will get tons of tweets regarding events, career development tips and ideas, and job postings that we retweet from employers. Follow us @SVSUCareers.

21

LinkedIn (linkedin.com)

LinkedIn is a professional social network. On LinkedIn, you will find over 300 million students and professionals connecting from around the world. Instead of personal information, LinkedIn is like an electronic resume that houses information on your professional life including student status, occupation, skills, involvements, honors and much more. By making connections on LinkedIn with prominent SVSU alumni, colleagues, peers and employers, you create a network of professionals. LinkedIn can be used to find jobs and opportunities, including a specific site for students seeking post-graduate employment (www.linkedin.com/studentjobs). In order to have an effective LinkedIn profile, it must be complete and current.

Collect recommendations from past supervisors or peers, join groups, follow companies and most importantly, maintain your network by using LinkedIn.

SVSUConnect (svsuconnect.com)

SVSUConnect is a resource offered by Alumni Relations that enables SVSU alumni and students to network.

Sign-up to SVSUConnect using your LinkedIn profile at www.svsuconnect.com. By using SVSUConnect, you can communicate with successful SVSU alumni in your field of study and seek mentorship and job shadow opportunites.

ePortfolios

An electronic portfolio (ePortfolio) is a tool students and professionals use to showcase their academic and professional achievements via the Web. This visual representation of yourself allows employers to evaluate a comprehensive collection of your accomplishments and gauge your capacity for growth within their company. ePortfolios also demonstrate your organizational and communication skills as well as technological aptitude.

When done correctly, your ePortfolio can be the first thing an employer finds if they Google you.

Don’t forget to Google yourself to assess the impression an employer could get if they "Googled" you

While a resume can get your "foot in the door," the interview is the most important element in the job search process. Through interviews, you and the employer have a chance to exchange information and participate in a discussion to determine whether you are a good fit for their organization and whether the organization is a good fit for you.

INTERVIEWING TIPS Conversation Skills

Despite your best intentions, if you have not practiced before the interview, you will probably make a mistake.

Try not to abuse words and phrases such as, “like,” “uh,” “um,” or “you know.” These overused words and phrases are nervous habits that make for awkward conversation.

Though acceptable in informal conversations, they may leave a lackluster impression of you with the employer.

Body Language

Exercise eye contact, a firm handshake, proper posture and a positive demeanor. It is important to maintain all of these in the interview. Be enthusiastic and interested. Research suggests that body language has over 50 percent impact on what you are verbalizing, so it is important to exercise it well.

Know Your Resume

It is inevitable that you will get questions regarding the work and educational experiences that appear on your resume. Be sure that you know everything on your resume and that you can answer questions about it, especially specific examples that demonstrate characteristics you claim to possess.

Be sure to review our Interviewing Tutorials at www.svsu.edu/careers in the Online Tutorials section

STAR Guide

The STAR guide is a technique to learn and use for interviewing when you answer behavioral questions about previous experiences. By utilizing this method, you are ensuring that your answers are clear, thorough and complete. Use the STAR Guide whenever you are asked a question referring to "tell us about a time when..."

Situation

Briefly describe the background of your example and include your role.

Task

Share the details of the problem or responsibility you were charged with in the situation.

Action

Describe the various courses of action you could have taken and why you chose a certain action. Detail what you did in this action.

Results

Describe the outcome and/or resolution of the situation. If positive, what was successful? If negative, what could you have done differently?

22

Interviewers will ask a variety of questions to ascertain whether an applicant is qualified for the position and assess a candidate’s growth potential within their company. The following questions are not all-inclusive, but provide a guideline for several you should expect during the course of an interview. It is highly recommended that students participate in a Mock Interview through Career Services.

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS Tell us about yourself. You will likely be asked this question, so use it to your advantage! Stay clear of personal information. Answer using the most recent and relevant information. “I am a recent graduate of SVSU with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication. I enjoy keeping up with trends in social media, writing in my music blog, and creating infographics.”

Tell me about a time when you... This type of question digs for information from you regarding a specific scenario and is commonly known as behavioral interviewing. The employer might ask about a time when you had to work with a difficult customer and how you handled the situation. The STAR method is very valuable to counter these types of questions. Remember, "a time" is one, specific event.

What would you do if...

Situational questions are very common. The employer may want to see how you will react by presenting a hypothetical scenario. Answer thoroughly and try to incorporate examples of similar situations you may have encountered from previous experiences by using the STAR Method.

Do you have any questions for us? Never leave a job interview answering this question with “no.” By asking an employer a question or two, you will exhibit interest in the employer and the position. Preparing these questions in advance is easy. Also, pay attention to the questions they ask you during the interview. Ask the interviewer questions that show that you learned new information about their company or organization:

• What would a typical day be like?

• Can you tell me how success in this position is measured?

• Who would I work with most closely on a daily basis?

• What do you consider the most challenging aspect of

this position for someone who is new to your organization?

• What are your major projects in the coming year?

It is imperative to research the employer prior to the interview to avoid asking questions that are already answered on their website.

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ADDITIONAL COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS • Tell us about yourself (Be prepared with a 30-second pitch.)

• What do you know about our company?

• Why did you choose to attend SVSU? (Tip: Know

• Are you a team player?

something about your program's accreditation to demonstrate an "informed" decision. For example, a business major may discuss AACSB and how only 20% of all business programs attain it.)

• Why should we hire you? (Be ready for this one. Even if it is not asked directly, the answer to this should be woven throughout all of your responses.)

• Tell me about your most significant work experience.

• Why are you the best candidate for this position?

• Have you ever supervised anyone?

• What are your strongest skills? (Back up answers with specific examples.)

• How do you handle conflict?

• How competitive are you?

• What do you expect from your supervisor?

• Describe to me the best and worst supervisor you ever had. (Never talk badly about a previous employer.)

• How do you define success?

• What are the most important qualities necessary for success in this field and which of these qualities do you possess?

• How did you motivate a resistant student or client to comply with your instructions?

• Tell me about the most difficult experience you’ve faced and how you handled it. (STAR Response.)

• Why should we hire you? (Be ready for this one. Even if it is not asked directly, the answer to this should be woven throughout all of your responses.)

• What do you think is the most significant problem in our field today?

• Why are you interested in this position?

• Why are you interested in working for us?

• Describe your greatest strength.

• Describe your greatest weakness. (The key to this question is to be honest about a work-related flaw and to thoroughly describe how you are working to improve. By being honest, you can build trust with the employer in addition to demonstrating your ability to overcome challenges.)

• How would you be described by former colleagues?

• How would you describe yourself?

• How would a supervisor or colleague describe you?

• When did you know you wanted to be in this field?

• What are your long-term career goals?

• Where do you see yourself in five years? (You

may wish to answer this in terms of skills acquired or further education.)

• What do you do in your spare time?

• What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?

• How do you relieve stress?

• What gives you the most satisfaction in your work? Why? • What two or three things are most important to you in your job?

Be sure to review "Interview Tutorials" in the Online Tutorials section at www.svsu.edu/careers

24

Start the application process at least a year in advance!

GRADUATE SCHOOL Graduate School While the graduate school process is a long one, and you may feel you have plenty of time to write essays, get recommendations, or take your tests, you will find that the time passes incredibly quickly. Don’t let these deadlines sneak up on you and avoid unnecessary stress as you wait for the last professor to finish a recommendation or try to cram for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Planning to Apply You can begin contacting schools and getting graduate school applications at any time. Start at least a full year in advance! Though the time it takes to prepare for the application process may depend on the program you are applying for, give yourself ample lead-time to fulfill any requirements. If you are changing careers or entering a program that is different from your undergraduate studies, you may find that there are prerequisite courses necessary in order to gain admission into your intended program. You also want plenty of time to gather information on the various programs in your area of interest and to evaluate the relative benefits of different schools before you start applying.

Planning a year ahead will give you time to consider what you want out of your graduate school education, gather information from various sources on the best programs and schools, and assess the overall costs of graduate school.

The graduate school application process is highly competitive.

Apply to enough schools so that you will have options should you not be accepted into your first, second, or even third school of choice. You will want at least one "safe school" that you are confident you can get into, as well as at least one school that presents a real challenge in terms of competitiveness.

25

Need help finding a program? Check out www.graduateguide.com for a complete guide to accredited graduate programs.

GRADUATE SCHOOL Interviews

One of the best ways to gather information is to talk to people.

Talk to experts in the field, talk to your professors, talk to people who attended the schools or programs you are considering.

The most valuable thing you can do is to learn all you can about different schools and programs. Gathering information from a variety of sources is your first step to getting the answers you need.

Tests

Almost all graduate programs require some type of standardized test, whether it be the GRE, LSAT, MCAT, or GMAT. Since these tests have a significant impact on the success of your application, you might want to invest in some test preparation materials.

Recommendations

While it is a bit early to be asking for recommendations as a first-year student, you can always work on building relationships with your professors. You are much more likely to get a positive recommendation if your professors know you and can speak from personal experience rather than solely reciting a list of your accomplishments. If you have the opportunity to be an assistant to one of your professors during your senior year, capitalize on it. Take the opportunity to talk to your professors about your interest in graduate school. You may be surprised to discover how receptive they will be. They were in your shoes at some point and will probably be more than happy to help you with advice or assistance.

Essays

You can also begin drafting the personal statement you will need for your application essays. For some people, writing their personal essay is the most difficult part of the process; starting early can help alleviate the stress as deadlines are still far away.

One benefit of writing your application essays in advance is that you are able to think through your reasons for pursuing a graduate education and consider your qualifications for graduate school. Frequently, students will learn something about themselves through this highly introspective process that helps them better define their academic and personal goals. This clarity can be of great benefit when considering where to apply.

Source: GradSchools.com

26

i am

going to thrive as a graduate of Saginaw Valley State University.

27