MAKE THE
CONNECTION HOW TO ACE YOUR JOB INTERVIEW STAY CONNECTED WITH THE FOUR-YEAR PLAN EXPLORE YOUR CAREER OPTIONS RESUME WRITING TIPS
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-COMMERCE
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Developmental Staff and Hours 3 Fall and Spring Events Mock Interviews
Groundhog Job Shadow Day Business Etiquette Dinners Professional Development Week Job Fairs
4 Job Fair Tips 5 Stay Connected with the Four-Year Plan 6 Code of Conduct 7 Making Major Connections 8 Resume Writing Resume Action Word List
Chronological Resume Functional Resume Combination Resume Reference Page
14 Job Search Letters Components of a Cover Letter
Letter of Inquiry Components of a Thank You Letter Letter of Acceptance
18 Etiquette Test 19 Dress to Impress Do’s and Don’ts for Her
Do’s and Don’ts for Him
21 Make the Connection in the Interview How to Ace Your Job Interview
Practice Interview Questions What You Should Ask the Company Career Resource Websites Salary Negotiations and Salary Guide
25 Graduate School
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DEVELOPMENT STAFF AND HOURS The “Make the Connection� Career Development handbook is intended as a guide to assist you in your professional development. All programs and services are available to current undergraduate and graduate students, as well as all TAMU-Commerce alumni. Please give us a call or come by the office if you need further assistance. Your success is our success! Tina Boitnott
Best Wishes,
Director
The Career Development Team
Office Hours Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Phone Fax
8:00-5:00 8:00-5:00 8:00-5:00 8:00-5:00 8:00-5:00
903-468-3223 903-886-5015
Gregory Shirley Coordinator
We are located at: One Stop Shop Student Access & Success Center Room 152 Commerce, TX 75429
Katrecia Sandlin Graduate Assistant
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FALL AND SPRING EVENTS MOCK INTERVIEWS Polish your skills by signing
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WEEK
GROUNDHOG JOB SHADOW DAY
JOB FAIRS Career Development sponsors three job
up in Career Development for a 30-minute interview session. This is a great way to connect with a professional interviewer and receive constructive feedback to gain confidence in future interviews. Dress is business professional, and don’t forget to bring your resume.
Join thousands of students across the country for this oneday event on February 1, 2010. Gain first-hand experience “shadowing” a professional in the field you are majoring or considering majoring in. Sign up at the Career Development Office between October and November, and we will make the connection between you and a workplace mentor and set up the day for you. Watch for emails to your My Leo account in early October. All students are encouraged to participate.
BUSINESS ETIQUETTE DINNERS
Come spend a delightful evening of fun mixed with learning as you hone your social skills at the “mocktail” gathering before sitting down to a six-course meal. Be prepared for that lunch or dinner interview with confidence in your dining etiquette. Cost: $20.00
(must pay when you sign up at the Career Development Office)
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All students are encouraged to attend. Prepare to enter the professional world and gain the extra confidence needed to be competitive in the job market. This Fall (Nov 2-6) and Spring (Mar 29-Apr 2) semester join us for fun, food and prizes while you gain valuable information and skills for your future success. fairs each year. Use these opportunities to connect with potential employers! For a complete listing of job fair participants, visit Lion Tracks at: www.tamu-commerce.com/liontracks
2009-2010 JOB FAIR DATES Fall - Oct 14 Spring - Feb 17 Teacher Job Fair – Apr 6
JOB FAIR TIPS Dress appropriately; jeans, shorts, flip flops, t-shirts and/or hats will NOT be permitted. Know your resume (bring copies) so you are able to tell an employer what you have to offer. Introduce yourself to recruiters in a positive and confident manner. Smile, project enthusiasm and offer a firm handshake. Research companies attending the job fair on Lion Tracks. Don’t assume there aren’t any companies looking for your degree. Talk to the recruiter anyway. Listen effectively. The recruiter may be able to refer you to another person who is better able to assist you. Ask about internship opportunities. Collect company literature and business cards so you may follow up later. In addition to providing interviewing opportunities, job fairs will offer you the chance to network and build contacts. Keep track of the people you speak to and follow up with a thank you note.
Aim for the sky and let your talents soar. As a Fortune 200 company and a recognized leader in aircraft modernization and special mission system integration, L-3 Communications Integrated Systems offers unmatched challenges and unparalleled career opportunities in a variety of disciplines.
L-3 MID is a major employer of new college graduates and co-op’s in many engineering, technical, and non-technical areas. We provide flexible work schedules, a wide variety of exciting projects, and an outstanding benefits package.
LION TRACKS Lion Tracks offers online postings
for internships, full-time, part-time, and co-op jobs for all majors (www.tamu-commerce.com/liontracks). Posting your resume online gives you the opportunity to search job listings posted by employers and school districts. Your resume is available to them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s convenient and FREE. You may also view a listing of employers attending upcoming job fairs and receive event announcements.
Our employees power the core of our capabilities. From Intelligence Reconnaissance and Electronics to Aerospace and Flight Sciences, put your mind behind some of the world’s most sophisticated modernizations for business, commercial, and military aircraft.
www.L-3com.com/Jobs
Visit www.L-3com.com/Jobs
And click on Job Search to apply for opportunities at L-3 Mission Integration Division in Greenville, TX.
STAY CONNECTED WITH THE FOUR-YEAR PLAN FRESHMAN YEAR
Evaluation & Career Planning
Familiarize yourself with the Career Development Office. The services offered are located on the homepage at: (www.tamu-commerce.edu/careerdevelopment). Check out job opportunities in Lion Tracks (www.tamu-commerce.com/liontracks). Undecided about your major? Take career assessments at MyPlan.com (call Career Development at 903-468-3223 for FREE access code) and schedule an appointment with a career counselor. Attend job fairs to explore career opportunities (be sure to dress appropriately). Participate in Groundhog Job Shadow Day in February (sign up in October - November). Explore Disney or other internship opportunities.
SOPHOMORE YEAR
Career Exploration & Investigation
“Career Development prepared me thoroughly. They did all the leg work...I was paired with a very exciting career and my mentor did not cut back on a typical day of life...”
Robyn McCormick,Political Science and Business Major Explore career opportunities to confirm your major. Dallas STARS Participate in Groundhog Job Shadow Day in February (sign up in October – November) Begin to build your resume. Consider career-related activities (i.e. summer jobs, part-time jobs, job fairs, volunteer work, internships, and leadership roles in student organizations). Attend Career Development programs and events.
JUNIOR YEAR
Gain Career Experiences
Continue to explore career opportunities related to your major. Inventory skills and abilities. Plan your job search strategy. Post your resume in Lion Tracks. Begin evaluating your postgraduate choices (graduate school or employment). Attend Career Development programs and events. Participate in mock interview (FREE) Business Etiquette Dinner ($20 fee). Begin internship or volunteer experiences.
SENIOR YEAR
Job Search & Transition Into Workplace
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Attend Career Development programs and events, especially the Professional Development Week. Make an appointment with a career counselor to ensure your job search skills are polished and your job search is progressive. Assume responsibility for finding employment. Secure letters of recommendation and references. Update online resume in Lion Tracks (www.myinterfase.com/tamu-commerce/student). Make a list of potential employers, research companies, network, and interview. Attend job fairs and on campus interviews. Consider and review various job offers or graduate programs. Be prepared to negotiate your salary. Review your budget and cost of living index.
CODE OF CONDUCT The following policies and procedures are provided as a basis for ethical conduct with the intention to protect you and employers. The reputation of Career Development and Texas A&M UniversityCommerce are at stake with employers when a student displays unprofessional behavior. This can also result in the loss of recruiting opportunities for future students.
NO SHOW CANCELLATION POLICY
When you sign up for an On Campus Interview, Mock Interview, Groundhog Job Shadow placement, Business Etiquette Dinner, Resume Consultation, Career Counseling or Job Search Consultation you are making a commitment and are expected to show up or cancel within the given time frame outlined below.
ON CAMPUS INTERVIEW If you fail to appear
or do not cancel before 12 pm (noon) the day before an interview date, you will be considered a no show. You will be required to submit a letter/email of apology to the company recruiter within 2 working days of the missed interview and submit a copy to Tina Boitnott at tina_boitnott@tamu-commerce.edu. Contact our office to obtain the employer’s information.
MOCK INTERVIEW If you fail to appear or do not
cancel before 12 pm (noon) the day before the mock interview date, you will be considered a no show. You will be required to contact your instructor for permission to reschedule and ask the instructor to contact Career Development for confirmation to reschedule your interview. You will be required to write a letter/email of apology to the mock interviewer within 2 working days of the missed interview and submit a copy to Tina Boitnott at: tina_boitnott@tamu-commerce.edu. Contact our office to obtain the interviewer’s information.
“Shadowing was very helpful in helping me understand the aspects of the human resources field.” Stacie White, Human Resource Management Texas A&M University-Commerce, Human Resources
ACCURATE REPRESENTATION POLICY
Always provide accurate information on your resume and job applications. Do not falsify work experience, GPA, dates, qualifications, etc.
GROUNDHOG JOB SHADOW DAY
If you fail to appear or do not cancel before 12 pm (noon) the day before the placement date, you will be considered a no show. You will be required to submit a letter/email of apology to your job shadow mentor within 2 working days for the missed date and submit a copy to Tina Boitnott at: tina_boitnott@tamu-commerce.edu.
BUSINESS ETIQUETTE DINNER
Failure to appear or cancel before 12 pm (noon) three days prior to the dinner results in forfeiture of the $20 reservation fee.
RESUME ASSISTANCE, CAREER COUNSELING, AND JOB SEARCH CONSULTATION
If you fail to appear or do not cancel before 12 pm (noon) the day before your appointment, you will be considered a no show. You will be asked to write a letter of apology within 2 working days of the missed date to the Career Development staff member you were scheduled to meet with. Not adhering to the no show/cancellation policies may result in a loss of campus recruiting privileges. If you have questions about the Code of Conduct or wish to make an appeal, please contact: Tina Boitnott, Director Career Development at 903.886.5108 or tina_boitnott@tamu-commerce.edu.
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MAKING MAJOR CONNECTIONS MyPlan.com Whether you are undecided
on a major or you are not sure which direction to go with your chosen major, MyPlan should be in your plans. Take the FREE online assessment and call for a Career Counseling appointment. Visit www.myplan.com Click on the “Account” tab at the top of the page Under “New User” click on “Create Free Account” Enter free license code (contact Career Development for the code) Click submit Take all FOUR assessments and print results:
Career Personality Test Career Interest Inventory Career Skills Profiler Call Career Development at 903-468-3223 to get a free access code for the assessments and then make a career counseling appointment to go over your results.
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FIND YOUR DIRECTION
with MyPlan.com
RESUME WRITING The key to obtaining a job is to present a good impression of you to the potential employer. Often the first impression is your resume. Remember, your resume gets you the interview and the interview gets you the job!
GENERAL GUIDELINES
There is no perfect resume format. You want to consider the job you are applying for and keep it relevant to that position.
LENGTH
One page is preferable; two are acceptable if your information is relevant.
APPEARANCE
It is best not to use a resume template. Make sure there are no typographical, spelling or grammatical errors. Use Arial or Sans Serif font. Use resume paper in white or ivory and make sure the watermark is displayed properly when printed.
CONTENT Have a particular objective in mind and keep
your resume relevant to your career objective. Use action verbs to describe your background. Include heading, objective, education, experience, professional affiliations and optional summary of qualifications and additional skills.
AVOID THESE RESUME PITFALLS TOO LONG
Most employers take a 15 to 30 second look at each resume. It is important to make your resume eye catching and informative.
HARD TO READ Use an easy to read 10 to 12 point
font such as Arial or Sans Serif typeface. Bullets and boldface text should be used to make your resume easier to read and highlight important information, but be consistent with the usage.
TOO VERBOSE
No complete sentences or paragraphs. “A”, “an” and “the” can almost always be left out. Don’t use personal pronouns (I, my, mine, etc).
BORING
To describe your work experience, begin every line with action verbs. Do not write what you were told to do in a job; write what you did. A list of action verbs is on page 10. Be sure to watch your tense.
Make an appointment with a Career Professional for a Resume Consultation at (903) 468-3223
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RESUME ACTION WORD LIST
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Creative Skills
Helping Skills
Technical Skills
Acted Adapted Combined Composed Conceptualized Condensed Created Customized Designed Developed Directed Displayed Drew Entertained Established Fashioned Formulated Founded Illustrated Initiated Instituted Integrated Introduced Invented Modeled Modified Originated Performed Photographed Planned Revised Revitalized Shaped Solved
Adapted Advocated Aided Answered Arranged Assessed Assisted Clarified Coached Collaborated Contributed Cooperated Counseled Demonstrated Diagnosed Educated Encouraged Ensured Expedited Facilitated Familiarized Furthered Guided Helped Insured Intervened Motivated Prevented Provided Referred Rehabilitated Represented Resolved Simplified Supplied Supported Volunteered
Adapted Applied Assembled Built 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
Financial Skills
Teaching Skills
Research Skills
Administered Adjusted Allocated Analyzed Appraised Assessed Audited Balanced Budgeted Calculated Computed Conserved Corrected Determined Developed Estimated Forecasted Managed Marketed Measured Netted Planned Prepared Programmed Projected Qualified Reconciled Reduced Researched Retrieved
Adapted Advised Clarified Coached Communicated Conducted Coordinated Critiqued Developed Enabled Encouraged Evaluated Explained Facilitated Focused Guided Individualized Informed Instilled Instructed Motivated Persuaded Simulated Stimulated Taught Tested Trained Transmitted Tutored
Analyzed Clarified 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 Systematized Tested
Clerical or Detailed Skills
Communication Skills
Management Skills
Approved Arranged Catalogued Categorized Charted Classified Collected Compiled Corrected Corresponded Distributed Executed Filed Generated Incorporated Inspected Logged Maintained Monitored Obtained Operated Ordered Organized Prepared Processed Provided Purchased Recorded Registered Reserved Responded Reviewed Scheduled Screened Submitted Supplied Systematized Updated Validated Verified
Addressed Advertised Arranged Articulated Clarified Collaborated Composed Condensed Conferred Consulted Contacted Conveyed Corresponded Debated Defined Directed Discussed Drafted Edited Expressed Formulated Furnished Influenced Interacted Interviewed Joined Lectured Listened Marketed Mediated Moderated Negotiated Observed Outlined Participated Persuaded Presented Promoted Proposed Publicized Reconciled Recruited Referred Reinforced Resolved Responded Solicited Suggested Summarized Translated
Administered Appointed Approved Assigned Authorized Chaired Considered Consolidated Contracted Controlled Converted Coordinated Delegated Directed Eliminated Emphasized Enforced Enhanced Established Generated Handled Headed Hired Hosted Improved Incorporated Increased Initiated Inspected Instituted Led Managed Merged Motivated Navigated Organized Originated Overhauled Oversaw Planned Prioritized Produced Recommended Reconciled Reorganized Replaced Restored Reviewed Streamlined Strengthened Supervised Terminated
CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME LESLIE P. GRADUATE 9000 Monroe Street Commerce, TX 75428 903-886-1234 Leslie_Graduate@yahoo.com OBJECTIVE
Early Childhood Education Teacher
EDUCATION Pursuing, Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, EC-4 Generalist with Bilingual Delivery, Expected 5/2010 Texas A&M-Commerce University, Commerce, TX GPA 3.4 RELEVANT COURSE WORK Educational Psychology Spanish I-IV Child Development
Effective Teaching in Elementary Classroom Language and Society Bilingual Instruction for the Content Areas
RELATED EXPERIENCE Student Teacher, Pre-Kindergarten Classes, 1/2010-Present D.B. White Elementary, Learning, TX • Develop daily lesson and unit plans • Instruct diverse student population including ESL students • Participate in staff development focusing on district curriculum alignment • Assist with after-school tutoring program Field Experience, (Professional Development Classes), 9/2006 to 12/2009 Savoy Elementary School, Savoy, TX • Taught beginning reading to a group of 6 students • Developed learning stations in reading and science • Worked closely with 3 special needs students WORK HISTORY Sales Clerk, Bealls Department Store, Sherman, TX, 8/2007-12/2009 Swim Instructor, Bonham Golf Club, Bonham, TX, 6/2005-8/2007 (summers only) PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS Member, Commerce Professional Educators, 9/2006 to Present Vice President, Alpha Chi National Honor Society, 5/2006 to Present HONORS Distinguished Student, Spring 2009, Fall 2008, Spring 07, Fall 2006 Recipient, Education Department Scholarship, 2008/2009 10
FUNCTIONAL RESUME Pat Wilson 2200 Taylor Drive Commerce, Texas 75428 (903) 886-5000 Pat_Wilson@gmail.com
Objective:
Sales / Management Trainee
Summary of Qualifications: • Over two years sales and marketing experience • Demonstrated effective leadership, organization and communication skills • Hard working and goal oriented professional Education: Pursuing, BBA in Management, Expected May 2010 Texas A&M University–Commerce, Commerce, Texas GPA: 3.5 Skills: Planning/Organization
• Planned student leadership conference, involving representatives from 18 diverse campus organizations • Organized fundraiser that netted $463,000 for campus scholarships • Developed residence life 2007-2008 programming plan, scheduled speakers and facilities
Marketing
• Created marketing campaign for local business resulting in 10% increase in customers • Developed and implemented marketing plan that increased membership in organization by 50% • Led team in creating advertising plan for fictional corporation (class project) Computer
• Created web pages for campus, utilizing Dreamweaver • Studied basic computer programs and systems, including Windows 2007, MS Office, FoxPro, and Novell Netware • Created client database and accounting spreadsheets Work History
Sales Associate, Office Depot, Greenville, Texas, Jan 2008-Present Intern, Texas A&M University-Commerce, Career Development, Commerce, Texas, Aug 2007- Dec 2007
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COMBINATION FORMAT RESUME Permanent: 3135 Seawell Drive Galveston, TX 77554 (409) 481-1622 Objective
Kelly Adams
Kelly_Adams@hotmail.com
School: 220 Park Drive Commerce, TX 75428 (903) 886-5000
Program/Event Coordinator
Summary of Qualifications • • • •
Over 3 years progressive experience in program/event coordination Demonstrated ability to work in a fast paced environment Excellent customer service, organization and communications skills Dedicated, ethical and trustworthy professional
Education Bachelor of Science in Communications, Minor in English, May 2009 Texas A&M University – Commerce, Commerce, TX GPA: 3.2 Associate of Arts, May 2002 Paris Junior College, Paris, TX Related Experience Event Coordinator (Internship), Jan 2009 – May 2009 Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center, Grapevine, TX • Organized and booked events for groups of 20-500 • Developed list of supplies, scheduled servers and coordinated set-up • Provided information to potential clients regarding pricing and availability Public Relations Assistant, May 2008-Dec 2008 Schaumburg Architects, Fort Worth, TX • Coordinated public relation events to showcase multi-million dollar condominiums • Negotiated advertisement space in D Magazine and Architectural Digest • Attended social networking functions resulting in potential clientele Relay For Life Chair, Sep 2006-Apr 2007 Colleges Against Cancer, Texas A&M University-Commerce, Commerce, TX • Organized campus wide Relay for Life event • Met with executive committee to ensure timelines and objectives were met • Presented to classes and organizations about Relay for Life Work History Server/Bartender Applebee’s Restaurant, Rockwall, TX, May 2005 – May 2008 Student Assistant, Gee Library, Texas A&M University- Commerce, Commerce, TX Jan 2004 – May 2005
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REFERENCE PAGE
Local 205 Arp Street Commerce, Texas 75428
Leonard Tamuc
(903) 886-5000 Leonard-tamuc@tamu-commerce.edu
REFERENCES Dr. Larry Jones Professor Department of Literature & Languages Texas A&M University – Commerce (903) 886-5160 Larry_Jones@Tamu-commerce.edu Ms. Eleanor Powell Mentor Teacher A.C. Williams Elementary School (903) 886-2345 Mr. Adam Smith Manager Applebee’s Restaurant (903) 455-1111
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Permanent 220 Taylor Drive Stephenville, Texas 74607
COMPONENTS OF A COVER LETTER 100 Lion Way Commerce, Texas 75428 November 4, 2009 Ms. Mary Smith, Personnel Director Accounting Software International 478 East Commerce Street, Suite 208 Dallas, Texas 75160 Dear Ms. Smith: I am submitting my resume for the Service Representative position advertised on your website. I will graduate in December from Texas A&M University-Commerce with a BS in Computer Information Systems. I will be relocating to the Dallas area. I am particularly attracted to the position because of my interest in accounting software and the opportunity to use my computer skills in a more specialized career. I have extensive experience and skills in implementing conversions to new computer software systems and programs. I feel that these talents could be valuable to Accounting Software International since I know you are expanding into new markets throughout the nation. Thank you for your time and consideration. If I have not heard from you by December 1, I will contact you to ensure you received my application. You may reach me at (903) 886-5000 or by e-mail at: leonard_tamuc@tamu-commerce.edu.
Sincerely,
(Sign your name in black ink) Leonard Tamuc Enclosure
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LETTER OF INQUIRY
1305 Park Street Commerce, Texas 75428 March 30, 2009 Mr. Peter Smith Director Universal Company 4593 Stafford Lane New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Dear Mr. Smith: I am seeking a position in material evaluation at a high-level technology company such as yours. I am aware from researching your firm that you have a training program for physicists and engineers. As you will note from the enclosed resume, I am majoring in physics and have participated in significant research. This background, as well as several business courses, has prepared me to combine an interest in motivating people with a desire to work in a technical environment. I would like to learn more about your trainee position, and will contact your office the week of April 15th to arrange an appointment at your convenience. Sincerely,
(Sign in Black Ink) Your Name Enclosure (include if appropriate)
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COMPONENTS OF A THANK YOU LETTER
Your address City, State Zip Date Name Title of Interviewer Business Address City, State, Zip Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Last Name: Thank you for the interview on (date) at (location). I am very interested in the (position, kind of work) and hope that the interest is mutual. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your organization. (Describe what is sparking your interest.) I feel my (name your background, skills or educational emphasis) would enable me to make the transition to a position in your firm with relative ease. Optional Paragraph Enclosed is (anything that would strengthen your candidacy for the position). (Tell why you are enclosing this item and how it relates.) If you have any questions, please call me at [(area code) phone number]. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further (name opportunities) at (name of employer business). Sincerely,
(sign in black) Your Name Enclosure(s) (include if appropriate)
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LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE
100 Lion Way Commerce, Texas 75428 May 15, 2009
Mr. Peter Smith Director Universal Company 4593 Stafford Lane New Brunswick, NJ 80901 Dear Mr. Smith: I am writing to confirm receipt of your letter offering me a position in Universal Company’s Technical Program at an annual salary of $36,000 plus benefits. I am very pleased to accept this offer and I am proud to have been selected for the program. I will contact your office for more details, such as when the training sessions begin. Thank you for the offer and for your consideration throughout the past few weeks. Sincerely,
(Sign in Black Ink) Your Name Typed
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ETIQUETTE TEST
a? 1. When using sweetener for coffee or tea during a business luncheon/dinner, you should not use more than two packets. 2. When sitting down at a formal dinner, the man on the left side of the woman should pull out her chair. 3. It is acceptable to leave your seat during a meal, but only between courses. 4. When leaving the table during a meal, your napkin may be placed either on the left or right side of the dinner plate. 5. When salad dressing is on the table, it is proper for any of the guests to begin the process of passing, as long as they first offer it to the person on the right side. 6. It is proper to pass salt and pepper separately. 7. Once seated at the table, your napkin should immediately be placed in your lap. 8. When attempting to determine which utensils to begin your meal with, a good rule of thumb is to work from the outside toward the inside. 9. During a formal meal, all forks will be placed on the left side of the plate. 10. Tough foods to eat, such as cherry tomatoes, should be left on the plate rather than attempted. 11. To properly remove seeds or pits from your mouth, it is best to utilize your napkin 12. The American style of utensil holding has the fork being passed back and forth between the right and left hand. 13. The European/Continental style of utensil holding has the fork being held in the left hand and the knife in the right hand during the entire meal. 14. It is proper to cut several bites of meat at a time. 15. Bread should be buttered all at once so not to be a distraction during the meal. 16. Utensil(s) for the dessert course are placed at the top of the place setting and should be moved down after the main course has been removed from the table. 17. At a business meal the host orders first. 18. You always talk business before the first course is ordered. 19. If your fork falls on the floor, pick it up immediately. 20. Plated food is generally served from the left and removed from the right. 21. The appearance of your shoes is just as important as your suit or dress. 22. Thank you letters should be mailed out after a job interview or business meal within 24 hours. 23. When introducing or addressing female clients, it is best to utilize the “Ms.� 24. When making introductions between a client and a supervisor, proper etiquette says to say the supervisor’s name first then the clients name. Answers: 1. T 2. T 3. T 4. F 5. F 6. F 7. T/F (only after everyone at your table is seated) 8. T 9. F 10.T 11.F 12. T 13. T 14. F 15. F 16. T 17. F 18. F 19. F 20. F 21. T 22. T 23. T 24. F
True / False
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DRESS TO IMPRESS Interview Dress for Her
DONT’S DO’S sunglasses
large jewelry
large bag
iPod or Cellphone
casual jeans
Professional Look FROM HEAD TO TOE
flip-flops
The interview is your first chance to impress your future employer. Make sure your first impression isn’t your last by making a few, smart wardrobe choices appropriate for your industry. Trade your flip flops for closed-toed flats or two-inch heeled pumps. Opt for a suit rather than jeans and a wrinkled button-up. Take time to style your hair or pull it back so your employer can focus on your smile, not your split ends and bed head. When in doubt, it’s best to overdress.
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Interview Dress for Him
DONT’S DO’S disinterested look
short sleeved shirt
no belt
visible pen and paper
wrinkled clothes
sneakers or tennis shoes
Professional Look FROM HEAD TO TOE
Jeans and t-shirts may impress in the classroom, but they’ll put you at bottom of the resume pile in a job interview. Dress to impress with a suit, tie and polished shoes to match (remember-black shoes with black clothing, brown shoes with brown clothing). Take time to iron your suit, or take it to the dry cleaners if you don’t know how. Employers see a wrinkled suit as a sign of the care you will (or will not) put into future projects. A clean, pressed suit says you’re ready to tackle to the job.
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HOW TO ACE YOU INTERVIEW JOB CHECKLIST BEFORE THE INTERVIEW
DURING THE INTERVIEW
Know Yourself ...What do you have to offer?
Be Prompt and Prepared
Skills Accomplishments Goals
Research the Company Learn as much as you can beforehand:
Size of company Public or private company Products and services Number of employees Types of customers Key competitors Sales and profit trends Possible future ventures Department or division reporting structure
Where to find the information Company Web sites Local newspapers Chamber of Commerce Library
What questions should you ask an interviewer?
See list in Career Development Handbook
Practice
Sign-up for a mock interview with Career Development Practice interviews with family or friends Practice by yourself in front of a mirror
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before the interview Bring extra copies of your resume and reference sheet Have questions for the interviewer Folio with pen and paper Don’t be a no-show or no-call
First Impressions Count
Dress Appropriately Make sure clothing is pressed Shoes polished Attention to personal grooming Give a firm handshake and make eye contact Smile!! Avoid nervous laughter
Q&A
Answer the interviewer’s questions thoroughly, yet concisely Ask questions yourself Be enthusiastic Show you’re a go-getter and excited about the company
Closing
Be prepared with your closing statement expressing interest Ask the interviewer for a business card Thank the interviewer
AFTER THE INTERVIEW Follow-up
Send a thank you note a.s.a.p. (E-mail or hand written) Jot down information about the interview Evaluate
Attend a workshop offered by Career Development
Resume, Cover Letter, Interviewing/Job Fair Prep Professional Development Week Business Etiquette Dinner Life After College: Money Matters Dress For Success
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Is this job for you? A good fit = A successful career Was I prepared? What would I do differently next time?
PRACTICE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS “Tell me something about yourself.” This is a frequent opening question. It provides you the opportunity to sell yourself and to prove to the employer that you have what he/she needs. Take no more than 1-2 minutes to offer a concise, well-organized presentation of yourself. Keep it relevant to what you have to offer them.
“Which of the qualities that you possess makes you feel that you would be successful at this job?” If you did your research, it will be easier for you to focus on the qualifications that they are looking for. Pay particular attention to areas in which your strength relates either directly or indirectly to the position.
“What interests you about our company and why do you want to work for us?” Again, your research is essential! Find out what products they offer and what services they render. Your answer should reflect your career goals as they relate to the goals of the company. Attempt to show why this particular company, and not any other, is important to you. You should convey that you are looking for a particular job and not just “any job.”
Additional Interview Questions
“When can you begin work?” If you are not employed at the time of the interview, there should be no problem in answering this question. If you are working, you should alert the employer that you need to give the present employer fair notice that you are leaving. Your consideration in this manner will show the new employer that you are interested in leaving behind a positive impression of your term of employment.
“Do you prefer working alone or with others?” The employer is really looking for a sign that you are confident and able enough to work without supervision. Let him/her know that while you enjoy the freedom of working alone, you also enjoy the team spirit of working with others.
“What activities did you engage in while at school?” Employers are interested in persons with varied interests. Having no outside interests indicates that you are either dull, or that you need all your spare time to get by in you studies.
“What are you strengths? Your weaknesses?” Attempt to turn your weaknesses into strengths and to explain what constructive ideas you have about handling them. Your strengths should relate directly to that which is required in performing the job.
What is your GPA? What courses did you like best/least and why? What is the ideal job for you? What would you like to be doing five years from now? Have you had any special training for this job? Why should I hire you? What would you do to improve our operations? Who has exercised the greatest influence on you? How? Which supervisor did you like best and why? How many people have you supervised? What are your greatest accomplishments to date? Why are you leaving military service? What did you do in military service?
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WHAT YOU SHOULD ASK THE COMPANY What future changes do you see for the company? Who are your competitors? What makes your company different from others? How does my job fit with the mission of the organization? What will I be contributing to the organization? What do you wish you knew about the company before you started? How would top management describe the corporate culture, and how does this compare with things in the organization as they really are at the lower levels? What are the ethical and environmental philosophies of your company? What is the company’s philosophy towards their employees? What values are sacred to the company? What do you see as the biggest areas of needed improvement with the company? What are short and long-term strategic directions of the company? What is the greatest challenge, from your perspective, does the organization face? Can I expect opportunities for advancement with the company if I prove myself? Where would be my career progress from my first assignment? What was your career path within the company? What makes your association with this employer enjoyable? What are the company’s goals for the future? If I do well, what will I be doing in five years? What programs for minorities does your firm have?
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CAREER RESOURCE WEBSITES Salary
http://www.salary.com/ public.wsj.com/ salaryexpert.com quintcareers.com/salary_negotiation.html jobstar.org homefair.com http://swz-hotjobs.salary.com
Career Exploration
http://online.onetcenter.org/ www.wave.net/upg/immigration/dot_index.html www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm www.acinet.org
Job Search/Career Development
www.rileyguide.com www1.umn.edu/ohr/ecep/resume www.eresumes.com (Electronic Resume Development) www.careerjournal.com (Salary Information) www.collegegrad.com (Internships, Entry Level) www.degreedjobs.com www.jobweb.com www.monstertrak.com www.wetfeet.com www.jobpostings.net www.jobs.com www.net-temps.com
TEXAS JOB SEARCH
www.austinemployment.com www.dfwemployment.com www.houstonemployment.com www.texasjobs.com www.cnmdallas.org
NATIONAL & FEDERAL JOB SEARCH
www.jobbankusa.com www.chronicle.com/jobs (Higher Ed Jobs) www.monster.com www.careerbuilder.com www.usajobs.opm.gov (Federal Jobs) www.fedworld.gov/jobs/jobsearch.html www.fedjobs.com www.twc.state.tx.us (Texas Workforce Commission) www.nationjob.com www.hscareers.com (human/social service) www.nbdc.com (National Disability Council)
INTERNATIONAL JOB SEARCH
www.idealist.org http://us.councilexchanges.org www.overseasjobs.com www.eurojobs.com www.h1visajobs.com www.footprintsrecruiting.com (teaching abroad) www.mofa.go.jpb/jet/ (teaching in Japan)
SALARY NEGOTIATIONS Avoid discussing salary until you have been offered the job. You should have an idea of the salary range being offered. Salary questions you might be asked: What do you require? What is the minimum pay you will accept? What is your pay record for the last five years? Why do you believe you are qualified for so much more? We can’t pay the salary you should have. Would you be willing to start lower and work up to that figure? What do you expect to be earning five years from now?
SALARY GUIDE Starting Salary Offers – National Average (Bachelor Degrees)
Discipline Regional Average Accounting $48,377 Agriculture Business/Mgt. $40,258 Business Administration/Mgmt. $45,778 Communications $35,011 Finance $49,754 Marketing/Marketing Mgmt. $42,053 Computer Science $57,693 Information Sciences & Systems $52,418 Criminal Justice/Corrections $41,036 Civil Engineering $51,793 Industrial/Manufacturing/Engineering $58,581 Journalism $35,527 Psychology $34,054 Visual/Performing Arts $36,997 Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers Salary Survey Spring 2009. Contact Career Development for additional salary information.
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GRADUATE SCHOOL
Going to graduate school can be one of the best next steps in your career journey. However, you must begin the admissions procedure right away. Application requirements differ substantially among institutions and programs, so read each school’s material conscientiously to make sure you file a complete and timely application. Admission tests are generally required for most graduate schools. Check when your applications are due to make sure that you take the test on an early enough date. Refer to the Web sites below for dates. DAT (Dental Admissions Test) – Dental –www.ada.org GRE (Graduate Record Examination) – Arts & Sciences – www.gre.org GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) –Business – www.gmat.org LSAT (Law School Admission Test) – Law – www.lsat.org MCAT (Medical College Admissions “Test) – Medical – wwww.mcat.org MAT (Miller Analogy Test) – Education – www.swsc.edu Official transcripts of your undergraduate work must be sent to the graduate schools to which you are applying. Go to the Registrar’s Web site: www.tamu-commerce.edu/registrar/transcript.asp for transcript request information. Letters of recommendation are generally required for admission. It is best to get three letters of recommendation to send to your schools. Usually a student asks two professors in their major and a professor or advisor from another field. Try to get a person that has known you and your work for a while. An essay is usually required so they have a better idea of your writing skills and what activities you have been involved in at Texas A&M-Commerce and your community. For assistance, contact Career Development (903-468-3223). These are some ideas to get you started as you pursue graduate school. If you have a clear sense of what career you want to pursue, and if an advanced degree is required for entry into that field, then graduate school is for you. Check the TAMU-Commerce catalog or contact College of Graduate Studies, Administration Building, Room 142 (903-886-5163), for more information concerning the TAMU-Commerce graduate programs offered.
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GET CONNECTED WITH CAREER DEVELOPMENT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-COMMERCE Career Development PO Box 3011 Commerce, TX 75428 Contact us by phone at:
903-468-3223 Visit us on the web at:
tamu-commerce.edu/careerdevelopment
A Member of the Texas A&M University System
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AND
FIND YOUR DIRECTION
GET CONNECTED
with Career Development VISIT US ONLINE AT TAMU-COMMERCE.EDU/CAREERDEVELOPMENT
OR CALL US AT 903-468-3223 A Member of the Texas A&M University System