UCF Career Services C A R E E R
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Contents
INTRODUCTION TO CAREER SERVICES........................................................................ 4 Services Offered to Students and Alumni.........................................................................4 Scheduling Appointments or Using Drop-in Services..................................................4 HOW TO CHOOSE A MAJOR/CAREER........................................................................... 4 Exploring Self: Values, Interests, Personality and Skills (VIPS).................................4 Exploring Careers: Informational Interviews.....................................................................5 GAIN EXPERIENCE WHILE AT UCF................................................................................. 6 KnightLink......................................................................................................................................6 Lockheed Martin College Work Experience Program...................................................6 Office of Experiential Learning..............................................................................................6 Other Options...............................................................................................................................6 HOW TO WRITE A RESUME............................................................................................... 7 Action Verbs..................................................................................................................................8 Sample Resumes.........................................................................................................................10 HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER................................................................................. 13 Sample Cover Letter..................................................................................................................14 REFERENCES......................................................................................................................... 13 Sample Reference Sheet..........................................................................................................15 JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES................................................................................................ 16 Know How to Network..............................................................................................................17 Social Networking.......................................................................................................................18 Career Expos—Network with Employers...........................................................................18 Connect Your Experience—Demonstrate Your Value to Employers........................19 On-Campus Interviewing.........................................................................................................20 PREPARE FOR THE INTERVIEW....................................................................................... 21 Types of Interviews.....................................................................................................................21 Interview Preparation................................................................................................................21 Practice Interview Program.....................................................................................................22 Dress for the Interview..............................................................................................................22 During the Interview..................................................................................................................22 Sample Interview Questions...................................................................................................23 Discriminatory and Illegal Questions...................................................................................23 Thank You Letters.......................................................................................................................24 WEIGH THE JOB OFFER..................................................................................................... 25 Negotiate Salary and Benefits...............................................................................................25 FIRST YEAR ON THE JOB: HOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL.. ............................................ 26 FEDERAL JOBS..................................................................................................................... 27 STUDENTS SEEKING INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES......................................... 27 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND THE JOB SEARCH............................................... 27 STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES........................................................................................ 28 IS GRADUATE SCHOOL IN YOUR PLAN?....................................................................... 30 CALENDAR OF EVENTS..................................................................................................... 31
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Introduction to Career Services
How to Choose a Major/Career
• Identifying academic and career options
Exploring Self: Values, Interests, Personality and Skills (VIPS)
Career Services will help you with information and resources to ensure that decisions you make today lead to job satisfaction tomorrow. We offer a comprehensive range of services to help you reach your academic and career goals. A staff of career specialists will guide you through this planning process by assisting you with:
• Gaining career-related experience • Developing resumes and interview skills • Searching for full-time employment • Researching and applying to graduate or professional schools It is never too early to work on your professional development plan. The more time you invest in this process, the more likely you are to achieve your goals.
Office Hours, Scheduling Appointments and Drop-in Services Visit our location on Memory Mall in building 140 (between the Psychology building and the Alumni Center). Our office is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. During these hours, students and alumni are able to meet with career counselors (by appointment), access our comprehensive career library and attend workshops.
Exploration is the process of learning more about how your values, interests, personality and skills relate to academic and career possibilities. We help you gather information about yourself, majors and careers, as well as set goals and make career decisions.
To help you choose a major and career, it is important to know yourself first. Look at the four puzzle pieces—your values, interests, personality and skills (VIPS)—and consider all four aspects when making a decision. Below are some questions to get you thinking about your VIPS. Values-What is important to you? High salary? Flexible hours? Interests-What activities do you find rewarding? What do you like to do? Personality-Do you like to be around lots of people or prefer to work alone? Enjoy structured work schedules or flexible hours? Skills-What are some areas in which you have natural skill and ability? What areas would you like to develop?
To schedule an appointment, call 407-823-2361.
Your VIPS Pass: Exploring Major and Career Options. Attend this
Drop-in career assistance is available Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. during Fall, Spring or Summer semesters. No appointment necessary.
interactive workshop to learn more about exploring academic and career options related to your values, interests, personality and skills (visit our website for current dates).
Every student must register with Career Services by creating a KnightLink account (career.ucf.edu) prior to using our services.
RESOURCES What Can I Do With My UCF Major? Learn more about course requirements, necessary skills, relevant student and professional organizations, and how majors relate to careers. Access in the “Explore Self and Careers” section of the Virtual Career Center. What Can I Do With This Major? This resource includes a list of potential employers and strategies designed to maximize career opportunities. Access in the “Explore Self and Careers” section of the Virtual Career Center. Majors Fair. This spring semester event is designed to offer students an opportunity to learn more about academic options. All UCF colleges and academic programs have representatives that share information about their majors. Student representatives from the many academic clubs and organizations also participate in the fair to share the professional development and networking opportunities provided to their members. Visit career.ucf.edu for scheduled dates.
MyPlan. Take free assessments online to determine your values, interests, personality and skills. Access a database that includes extensive information on majors, colleges and careers. To access MyPlan, go to career.ucf.edu, click on “Students,” then “Virtual Career Center” and click on “Explore Self and Careers.”
Here are some sample questions to get you started: •W hat kinds of tasks do you do in a typical day or week? • What do you like most about this job? •W hat characteristics or qualities does a person in this job need to have?
Career Counseling.
Meet with a Career Counselor to discuss major and career options. To arrange an appointment, visit the main office or call 407-823-2361.
•D o you usually work independently or as part of a team? • Is your schedule flexible or set? •W hat types of advancement opportunities are available in this career? •W hat emerging trends do you see in this career field?
Exploring Careers: Informational Interviews If you want to know what a career is really like, ask someone already in the field. Informational interviews are a great way to talk to people about their field while getting the information you need to make the right career choice. Select Individuals to Interview First, identify a few possible occupations—then look for people in those occupations. Ask professors, friends, family members or past coworkers if they know people in the field. You can also call professionals in the field. Most professionals are happy that you want to talk to them about their job and will schedule an interview with you. Research the Organization Knowing something about the companies will help you develop questions and show potential employers that you are interested in them and their organizations. Create a Resume Bring your resume to the interview. The person you are interviewing may critique your resume. You can also ask them what skills or qualifications you should develop to become a stand-out candidate. Develop Questions This is the most important step. Develop and write down open-ended questions. Think about what is important to you in a job. Get information about job tasks, working conditions and career preparation.
• How did you prepare for this career? •W hat was your major? What are typical majors for this career? •W hat type of entry-level jobs does the industry offer?
INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWING RESOURCES Externship/Job Shadowing–This program is held during the winter and spring breaks, and offers students the opportunity to shadow an employer in their professional area of interest. Apply early. Alumni Mentoring Program–This program provides you with an opportunity to meet with professionals in various career fields and gain real-world perspectives. To access the list of professionals who have agreed to volunteer their time to meet with UCF students, register with KnightLink.
Orlando Business Journal/Book of Lists–This journal provides industry-specific employer lists for metropolitan cities across the nation that you can use to find individuals to interview. Access the online journal through myUCF.
Demonstrate Professionalism • Dress appropriately. Dress how the person you are interviewing would dress on an important work day. • Arrive early. Be on time, but no more than 15 minutes early. • At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer for their time. A follow-up email or handwritten note also makes a great impression.
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Gain Experience While at UCF
Do you want to start your career a step ahead? Workplace experience helps you gain the skills employers are seeking in new employees.
Students in the Class of 2010
who had internship or co-op experience received an average salary offer of $41,580, while their classmates who did not have these experiences received an average starting salary of $34,601. –National Association of Colleges and Employers
KnightLink
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T O P 5 WAY S T O G E T T H E M O S T O U T O F YO U R EX P ER I EN C ES
e proactive and ask to participate on B committees or special projects Take initiative, ask questions and take advantage of mentoring opportunities Develop the best possible relationship with your site supervisor Observe the organization’s culture, political climate, communication modes and dress code
Strive for perfect attendance and be punctual
TIP: Send a formal letter of appreciation to your site supervisor for the opportunity.
hrough the KnightLink database, students and alumni T can research information on employers, as well as upload resumes, apply for part-time and full-time job opportunities, and schedule on-campus interviews. Access this database on our website.
Lockheed Martin College Work Experience Program ockheed Martin College Work Experience Program L offers students training experiences with a Fortune 500 company and one of the U.S. government’s largest defense contractors. For additional information or application guidelines, visit our website or call 407-823-1366.
Office of Experiential Learning (OEL) The Office of Experiential Learning in Undergraduate Studies assists students to include major or careerrelated experience in their academic programs through co-op, internship, and service-learning courses. Each year, more than 20,000 UCF students benefit from participating in these applied learning courses and employers increasingly expect that students will gain this type of experience during their degree programs. Students can review open positions in the OEL online database and receive weekly advising, referral and instruction in experiential learning courses from OEL faculty. Drop-in hours are posted on the website and appointments are available, if necessary. For more information, come to CSEL 300, call 407-823-2667, or check the website at explearning.ucf.edu.
Other Options • Volunteer UCF • Study Abroad • Student Clubs and Organizations • Undergraduate Research Whether the experience is paid or unpaid, short-term or long-term, it will be worth more than the money or the time you invest. Consider it as a jump-start on your future.
According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the top skills and behaviors employers seek include: • Communication skills • Honesty/Integrity • Interpersonal skills • Motivation/Initiative • Strong work ethic • Teamwork skills • Computer skills • Analytical skills • Flexibility/Adaptability • Detail-oriented • Organizational skills • Leadership skills • Self-confidence • Friendly/Outgoing personality • Tactfulness • Well-mannered/Polite • Creativity
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How to Write a Resume
The resume is a professional summary of your education, experience and skills related to the type of employment you are seeking. The goal of the resume is to demon strate to potential employers that you would be a good fit for their position and that you would bring value to their organization. Although there is no single format that fits all individuals, design the style and content of your resume to emphasize your strengths. The two most popular styles are chronological and functional formats. Chronological Format The chronological resume is time-oriented and lists employment experiences in reverse order starting with your most recent job. This type of resume is typically preferred by employers and works well for students who have had several jobs or experiences showing advancement, increased responsibility or progression in their field of study.
KnightLink Resume Builder. This web-based tool helps you build your resume by providing a variety of formats and examples. Access through KnightLink on the Career Services website.
Online Workshops.
Access through the link on the Career Services website. • Write Winning Resumes • Cover Letters and Thank You Letters • Write a Combination Resume
On-site Workshops.
Access the calendar of scheduled workshops through the link on the Career Services website. • Your Online Job Connection: KnightLink Strategies • Success by Design: Build Winning Resumes • Hands-on Resume Builder
Functional Format The functional format can often be more helpful for individuals who change careers, have limited relevant experience or have gaps in their work history. This format focuses more on skills or knowledge and less on prior work experience or job progression.
TIP: You may choose to write a combination resume, which encompasses both format styles. For more information, contact us or attend our resume workshops.
Resume Design Basics • Be clear, concise, inviting to read and easy to access information • Use one inch margins • Keep to one page, no more than two • Use standard fonts (Times New Roman, Calibri, Arial) • Use 10–12 point type size • Paper: White, beige or light gray quality bond paper—use the same color paper for your cover letter and envelope • Use consistent formatting (italics, bold, underline, CAPS) • Use action verbs (see following page for examples) to start each line
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AC T I O N V ER B S
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Management & Leadership Achieved Administered Analyzed Appointed Approved Assigned Attained Authorized Chaired Coached Considered Consolidated Consulted Contracted Controlled Converted Coordinated Decided Delegated Developed Directed Eliminated Emphasized Enforced Enhanced Established Evaluated Executed Exceeded Generated Handled Headed Hired Hosted Implemented Improved Incorporated Increased Initiated Inspected Inspired Instituted Lead Managed Merged Motivated Negotiated Organized Originated Overhauled Oversaw Pioneered Planned Presided
Prioritized Produced Recommended Reconciled Reduced Reorganized Replaced Reported Resolved Restructured Reviewed Scheduled Selected Shaped Simplified Stimulated Streamlined Strengthened Succeeded Supervised Surpassed Transformed Unified Upgraded Vitalized Research Analyzed Applied Ascertained Assessed Audited Calculated Catalogued Charted Classified Collected Compared Compiled Completed Conducted Critiqued Defined Detected Determined Diagnosed Discovered Dissected Eliminated Established Estimated Evaluated Examined Experimented Explained Explored
Extracted Figured Formulated Gathered Identified Indexed Inspected Interpreted Investigated Judged Located Mapped Measured Modeled Observed Organized Researched Reviewed Searched Solved Studied Summarized Synthesized Systematized Tabulated Transcribed Technical Activated Adapted Adjusted Aligned Applied Assembled Built Calculated Calibrated Computed Conserved Constructed Converted Created Debugged Designed Detailed Diagnosed Engineered Expanded Extracted Fabricated Fixed Formulated Guided Indexed Installed Integrated
Invented Maintained Mapped Measured Navigated Operated Overhauled Painted Photographed Printed Processed Produced Programmed Rectified Regulated Remodeled Rendered Repaired Replaced Restructured Restored Shaped Sketched Solved Sorted Specialized Standardized Straightened Strengthened Studied Surveyed Transformed Upgraded Utilized Teaching & Training Adapted Addressed Advised Applied Assisted Clarified Coached Communicated Conducted Coordinated Counseled Defined Delivered Demonstrated Developed Devised Dramatized Drove Edited Educated
Effected Electrified Enabled Encouraged Examined Exhibited Entertained Evaluated Explained Facilitated Familiarized Focused Illustrated Increased Individualized Indoctrinated Informed Interpreted Introduced Instilled Instructed Lead Lectured Mentored Modeled Motivated Piloted Planned Reported Reviewed Scheduled Served Prepared Provided Recommended Referred Shaped Simplified Stimulated Summarized Taught Tested Trained Translated Tutored Finance & Data Adjusted Administered Analyzed Appraised Assessed Audited Budgeted Calculated Charted
AC T I O N V ER B S Collected Computed Conserved Consolidated Corrected Deferred Detailed Determined Developed Devised Diagnosed Dispensed Distributed Diverted Drafted Established Estimated Evaluated Examined Figured Filed Forecasted Formulated Gathered Generated Governed Helped Identified Increased Indexed Maintained Managed Marketed Measured Modeled Planned Predicted Prepared Processed Projected Purchased Quoted Raised Reconciled Recorded Reduced Reported Restructured Reviewed Saved Sold Studied Tabulated Transferred Transmitted
Helping Addressed Administered Adopted Advised Advocated Aided Affirmed Aligned Alleviated Arbitrated Arranged Assisted Attended to Backed Cared for Clarified Coached Collaborated Comforted Consulted Contributed Cooperated Counseled Demonstrated Detailed Eased Educated Encouraged Ensured Expedited Facilitated Familiarized Furthered Guided Helped Improved Increased Indoctrinated Informed Instructed Insured Interpreted Introduced Joined Lead Mediated Mentored Modeled Motivated Partnered Prevented Provided Referred Rehabilitated Serviced Simplified
Smoothed Supplied Supported Synthesized Teamed-up Translated United Vitalized Volunteered Organization & Detail Administered Appraised Approved Arranged Audited Calculated Calibrated Catalogued Charted Classified Coded Compiled Completed Computed Controlled Coordinated Detailed Diagnosed Dissected Distributed Edited Eliminated Estimated Evaluated Examined Executed Figured Filed Filtered Gathered Generated Governed Identified Incorporated Indexed Inventoried Investigated Logged Maintained Managed Monitored Obtained Operated Ordered Organized
Planned Prepared Prescribed Processed Provided Reconciled Recorded Registered Reorganized Reported Reserved Researched Restructured Reviewed Revised Routed Scheduled Screened Set up Sorted Specified Standardized Straightened Streamlined Submitted Validated Verifi Accomplishments Administered Appraised Approved Arranged Audited Calculated Calibrated Catalogued Charted Classified Coded Compiled Completed Computed Controlled Coordinated Detailed Diagnosed Dissected Distributed Edited Eliminated Estimated Evaluated Examined Executed Figured Filed
Filtered Gathered Generated Governed Identified Incorporated Indexed Inventoried Investigated Logged Maintained Managed Monitored Obtained Operated Ordered Organized Planned Prepared Prescribed Processed Provided Reconciled Recorded Registered Reorganized Reported Reserved Researched Restructured Reviewed Revised Routed Scheduled Screened Set up Sorted Specified Standardized Straightened Streamlined Submitted Validated Verified
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C H R O N O LO G I C A L R E S U M E
Chronological Resume
Wendy Worth 54321 East 1st Street Orlando, FL 328170 407-555-8355 wworth@aol.com OBJECTIVE
Part-time position with a national marketing firm
EDUCATION
University of Central Florida Bachelor of Science in Political Science GPA: 3.26 Earned 75% of college expenses through work experience
HONORS
Florida Bright Futures Scholarship University of Central Florida’s Dean’s List (three semesters)
RELEVANT COURSEWORK
MARKETING EXPERIENCE
- - Speech Communication - Marketing Strategy
Orlando, FL May 20XX
- Professional Selling - Marketing Analysis and Research
Saks Fourth Avenue Orlando, FL Intern-Marketing Coordinator Jun 20XX-Present • Develop marketing concepts and campaigns for Spring 2010 clothing line • Co-facilitate focus groups for upcoming shoe line • Coordinate the store’s marketing goals and objectives Travel Abroad, Inc. Apopka, FL Marketing/Sales Jan 20XX-May 20XX • Advertised special events and promotions • Researched travel opportunities to create cost effective trips for international tours • Maintained database that included over 200 clients • Developed individual and group pricing strategies that boosted company profits by $50,000 in six months Barefoot Shoe Sales Sales Associate • Assisted customers with merchandise questions • Awarded bonus for highest monthly volume sales for November • Coordinated a team of five floor representatives
Orlando, FL Oct 20XX-Dec 20XX
SKILLS
Language: Fluent in Spanish and English Computer: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Publisher, PowerPoint, Excel, Access Working knowledge of HTML and Java
ACTIVITIES
American Marketing Association, Recruitment Committee Rho Alpha Tau Sorority, Vice President Meals on Wheels, Community Volunteer YMCA, Weekend Youth Director
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Fall 20XX-Present Spring 20XX Fall 20XX Summer 20XX
FUNCTIONAL RESUME
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Resume Components
Critique Your Resume
The following components of a resume are listed in the order suggested for new or recent college graduates.
Employers may only spend 15-20 seconds scanning your resume. So your resume should be designed for readability.
Resumes do not have to include all of these components. Heading • Begin with your name, address, email and a phone number where you can be reached at the top • Make sure your voicemail and email are professional Objective • Write a clear and concise statement of what job title or type of position you are targeting (optional to include, but recommended) Summary of Qualifications • Provide a bulleted list with descriptions or overviews of relevant functional skill sets, including both hard and soft skills • Use keywords related to the field or industry • Consider incorporating related course work by providing descriptions of what you learned Education • List all colleges in reverse chronological order, beginning with the one you are presently attending • Include your degree, major and certification • Include your GPA if it is higher than 3.0 • Consider incorporating related course work by providing titles of courses you’ve taken or are currently taking Experience • Include related employment (full-time or part-time), internships (paid or unpaid), co-op, service learning, volunteering, projects or academic research, work experience abroad and capstone projects • List employers in reverse chronological order • May create two sections:
- Professional/Related Experience
- Additional Experience
Additional Components (Optional—include those relevant to position) • Professional affiliations • Honors and awards • Campus/community service • Leadership experience • Volunteer experience • Military service • Foreign language proficiency • Computer applications What Not to Include • Picture of yourself • Birth date • Gender • Ethnicity • Marital status • Religious/political affiliations • Acronyms/jargon • Hobbies, sports and interests
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•T arget your education, experiences and skills at a specific employment objective or career goal; you may need to develop more than one version of your resume to apply for positions requiring different qualifications •P rioritize the order of your information to best support your employment objective; relevant information that is most important should be toward the top of your resume or the beginning of a sub-category •C arefully check grammar, spelling and punctuation to ensure the resume is error-free—neither spell check and grammar check find all errors •U se present tense for current activities and past-tense for activities in which you are no longer involved •C onsider your resume to be an evolving document that needs to be updated as you develop new skills and experiences
TIP: Get your resume critiqued at Career Services during our drop-in hours from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Emailing Your Resume It is acceptable to email your resume and cover letter to an employer; in fact, it is often preferred. • Convert your resume and cover letter to a PDF •S ave your resume and cover letter documents using your name (ImaKnightResume.pdf) • Send the cover letter and resume as attachments— your email message should be a short introductory statement referring to your attachments
Online Applications Most online applications go through a keyword tracking system. When completing this form, it is important to use keywords and terminology specific to the employer or type of job to ensure that your application is considered. •F ollow directions, being careful to enter the correct data in the proper fields •C omplete all fields with detailed information, especially the “job tasks/responsibilities” sections, even though it may be on your resume; never include “See resume” on your application • Use the “comments” field to demonstrate you have researched the company or to provide additional information about specific qualifications or background •P roofread your application before submitting (run a spell check and grammar check, though it doesn’t catch all mistakes)
How to Write a Cover Letter
An effective cover letter introduces you and your resume to prospective employers. The content of a cover letter can be broken down into three basic parts: 1. I ntroduction: Why are you contacting this person? How did you learn about the job? Who are you? What do you know about their organization (do some research)? 2. B ody: How can you benefit them? Tell how you are an ideal match for the job. Expand on relevant education, skills and experience to offer additional details not found on your resume. 3. C onclusion: Focus on the next step: the interview. Thank the reader for their time and consideration. Request an interview to further discuss your qualifications. The Career Services Library has resume and cover letter books offering tips and examples for a wide variety of career fields.
General Tips for Professional Correspondence • Your correspondence should use professional content and format
References
References are always separate from the resume. If employers request references, they should be added as an attachment to the resume. If references are not requested when you initially apply for a position, employers may ask for them later in the hiring process. References are not usually contacted until you are a finalist for the job.
A reference list should include the following information: • Heading (same as the resume) • Full name of reference (include Mr., Ms., or Dr.) • Title or position held • Name and address of business/organization • Phone number • Email address Generally, employers expect three to five professional references. • References may include former employers, internship supervisors, faculty members, or anyone else who would have direct knowledge of your professional skills and qualifications • Obtain permission and provide references with a copy of your resume and a summary of the positions you are targeting • Ensure reference letters are current
• Ensure there are no mistakes such as typos, misspellings or factual errors • Always limit correspondence to one page • Be sure to sign all correspondence
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S A M P L E C OV E R L E T T E R
321 Graduation Way Orlando, FL 32817
April 15, 20XX
Ms. Connie Leibach Employment Manager Electronic Media, Inc. 2287 Peach Avenue Atlanta, GA 30821
Dear Ms. Leinbach: I am forwarding my resume in response to your April 14 advertisement in the Atlanta Journal & Constitution for a Human Resource Specialist. My interest in a position with Electronic Media, Inc. stems from your reputation in innovative training and development programs. In addition to having a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Organizational Psychology, I focused on course work relevant to industrial and labor relations along with mediation and conflict resolution. I also completed an internship with the Human Resources Department of ABC Enterprises where I was able to implement a successful mentoring program which is still in place today. The mentoring project gave me an opportunity to work with a growing staff of emerging and seasoned professionals. This initiative resulted in a successful match for 100 percent of interested participants. Additionally, I assisted with a companywide review and edit of position descriptions for all technical and support staff to improve hiring and retention. Since this position would require working with many department managers within Electronic Media, Inc., I would also like to stress my ability to work effectively in a team setting. My interpersonal communication skills, time management skills, and enthusiasm have consistently contributed to my success with team projects. I would be pleased to have the opportunity to discuss my qualifications relevant to your hiring needs during a personal interview. I can be reached at 407-555-1212. Thank you for your consideration and I hope to be hearing from you in the near future. Sincerely,
Ursula C. Smith
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SAMPLE REFERENCE SHEET
CHRIS SMITH 83 Prospect Road • Orlando, FL 32837 407-555-8975 • ChrisSmith@msn.com _____________________________________________________________________________ REFERENCES
Dr. Robert Jones Chair, Biology Department University of Central Florida 4000 Central Florida Blvd. Orlando, FL 32816 (407) 555-0000 rjones@ucf.edu
Ms. Louise Parker Research Coordinator Centers for Disease Control & Prevention 101 Peachtree Center Atlanta, GA 30001 (404) 555-1111 louparker@cdcp.gov Dr. Jonathan Hopkins National President American Society for Microbiology 1000 DuPont Circle Washington, DC 58221 (202) 555-2222 drjohn@asm.org
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Job Search Strategies
Clearly identify the career field, areas of specialization, relevant skills or qualifications you possess, and the type of employer or work environment you prefer. Your effectiveness in competing for a position can be enhanced by applying for jobs that appear to be a good fit for both you and the prospective employer. In a competitive job market, it is especially important to use all of the resources available to you. Career Services offers the opportunity to meet employers face-to-face at networking events, employer information sessions and career expos. Additionally, students and alumni are able to participate in on-campus interviews with local, regional, national and international employers.
In preparing for the job search, it is helpful to understand that the job market constantly fluctuates. You should be aware of the current job market and trends. Students seeking employment during a recession will need to be more flexible in their job search. Exploring how you can use your knowledge and skills within a variety of employment fields or considering opportunities in different geographic areas will result in more options for you. There are many ways to look for job opportunities. The most successful job search plan is one in which a variety of search strategies are used. Presented below are some of the most popular strategies for job searches as well as benefits, challenges and tips.
STRATEGY/TOOLS
BENEFITS
CHALLENGES
TIPS
CAREER EXPOS/FAIRS Attend career expos and fairs sponsored by Career Services, academic colleges and other community groups
Opportunity to meet with a number of recruiters in person and in one location; build networking contacts
Not all fields and areas of study are equally represented; students with very specific career goals may benefit from seeking field-specific or geographically specific fairs
Plan ahead and research companies attending; follow up to learn about opportunities in your area of interest; bring resumes and dress in appropriate business attire
Register with KnightLink to search for jobs from employers interviewing on campus
Employers are specifically seeking UCF students to fill employment openings
Not all industries use oncampus interviewing as a recruiting strategy
Check job listings on a weekly basis paying close attention to deadlines
KNIGHTLINK Update your personal and academic information, upload your resume(s) and cover letter(s), search for job postings, find details on employer recruiting activities
Access to a wide variety of jobs posted by employers who may or may not come on campus to interview; job listings are for UCF students and alumni only
Not all fields and areas of study are equally represented
Check job postings regularly as they come in on a daily/ weekly basis, or set up a job search agent so postings that match your criteria are emailed to you automatically
NETWORKING Talk to everyone you know to develop a list of contacts; ask these contacts for information on jobs/companies and circulate your resume with them
One of the top job search strategies is to identify potential job opportunities and learn more about a position, company or industry
Takes time and effort to build your network; requires skill in organizing contacts and following through on recommendations received
Join networking programs: KnightLink, LinkedIn groups and college/department contacts
Allows you to be more proactive and take charge of your search, instead of waiting for companies to post positions
Takes investment of time to search and tailor your resume/ cover letter to the organization and the position
Use online resources on our website, Orlando Business Journal (access in myUCF), and employer websites
Overwhelming number of sites and positions to sift through; may not receive responses
Check listing of recommended sites in this guide and use online resources on our website
A source of networking information and career opportunities; build contacts with individuals who share your professional interests
Entry level positions may be limited; may need to belong to association to access job postings
Ask faculty to suggest professional associations to research, and research specific professional associations online
Helpful in identifying employment opportunities; some agencies offer temporary assignments and temporary to permanent assignments
May have fees associated with the employment services (legitimate agencies will charge employers, not candidates)
Research each agency before signing a contract; talk to others who have used employment agencies
ON-CAMPUS INTERVIEWING
TARGETED SEARCH Identify the types of organizations you would like to work for, develop a targeted list, research the companies, and apply directly through their websites
INTERNET JOB SEARCH ENGINES Scan job openings on various May help you identify types job search websites; most of positions available sites allow you to identify a career field and geographic location PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS Research professional associations related to your career interests, as most provide a “career opportunities� section on their website EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES Inquire whether these agencies offer opportunities in your career areas
Open & Hidden Job Markets Job Search Strategy Appointment. Meet with a career advisor during drop-in hours on Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. or schedule an appointment with a Career Counselor.
GENERAL PUBLIC
REFERRALS
Know How to Network It is important to begin networking early, not just before you begin looking for a job. The goal of networking is to exchange ideas and information through a long-term mutual relationship. Approximately 80 percent of available jobs are filled through the hidden job market. These job openings are not typically published through sources such as the Internet, newspapers or employment services. To increase your chances of finding employment, it is important to connect with people who make hiring decisions or people who can refer you to hiring managers.
Things to Remember About Networking
DECISION MAKER Job seeker directly known to decision maker
Job seeker indirectly known to decision maker
Job seeker unknown to decision maker
• Follow-up after making a valuable contact
Open Job Market: Includes positions announced to the general public.
• Bring a portfolio with business cards, resumes and a calendar/planner to all networking functions
Hidden Job Market: Includes positions that may not be announced to the general public.
Strategies for Networking with Faculty • Visit regularly during the semester (appointments or scheduled office hours) • Attend departmental events and socials • Volunteer or apply to work on research projects with faculty • Ask faculty to review or provide feedback on your relevant projects
• Volunteer to serve on a departmental or university committee
On-site Workshops. Access the calendar of scheduled workshops through the link on the Career Services website. • Plant the Seed: Networking Basics • How it Works for You: Networking Techniques
Orlando Business Journal Book of Lists. Provides local business news and industry-specific employer lists for metropolitan cities across the country. Access the online journal through myUCF.
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to expand your network even further. Search for the “UCF Alumni, Faculty, Staff & Students” group to get you started. KnightLink Mentor Database at career.ucf.edu The mentor database in KnightLink includes professionals in a variety of fields who have all agreed to be mentors to UCF students and alumni. This is a great opportunity to network with someone in your major/career field. Access the KnightLink Mentor Database under the “Networking” tab. Click on the individual’s name that you would like to speak with to view their email address. MyPlan Community in career.ucf.edu MyPlan is an online resource for career assessments and information on colleges, majors and careers. After you register for MyPlan through the Career Services website, you can send messages to people within the MyPlan system. Through the Major and Career tabs, you can click “Community” to see who is registered for that major or career. Then you can send messages to ask for more information and begin networking.
Career Expos—Network with Employers Career Services offers three career expos each year to give students the opportunity to meet with large numbers of potential employers. These campuswide expos are attended by companies and organizations representing broad areas of business, industry, government and non-profit. We encourage all students and alumni to attend the expos and take advantage of the opportunity to explore career options, internships and employment.
On-site Workshop.
Social Networking—Another Option for Making Connections Social networking can be used to locate and connect with people from a variety of different fields and occupations. This can be helpful in arranging informational interviews or researching job opportunities within a company. Do not underestimate the importance of using social networking—as approximately 65 percent of jobs are found through networking alone. Always be professional when networking, whether it is in person or online.
TIP: Promote, not demote! When you post a status update or a picture on Facebook or Twitter you are sending it out into the world. Be sure you are sending the image of yourself you want to display. Below are links to social networking tools that can assist you in expanding your network. LinkedIn at linkedin.com Linkedin is an online professional networking site. You can use Linkedin to connect with professionals in any field imaginable. You will create a profile much like an online resume. Search for people and send messages to individuals in your network. Consider joining groups
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Access the calendar of scheduled workshops through the link on the Career Services website. • Get Noticed. Shine at Career Expos.
How to Make the Career Expo Work for You Before the Expo: •A ttend workshops and events sponsored by Career Services that are focused on resume writing, interviewing and preparing for the expo •D evelop a professional resume targeting the types of employment you are seeking—this may require several versions of your resumes with different career objectives •R egister with KnightLink and upload your resume, since many of the employers use this system for scheduling interviews •R esearch the participating employers of interest so you know the job opportunities being presented and something about the companies or organizations (employers expect you to take the time to learn about what they do and the types of positions they offer)
• Have a business suit or professional clothing ready for the day of the expo—business or professional attire is required to participate in these events (remember, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression)
After the Expo:
• Prepare a one-minute infomercial about your employment goals and qualifications
•F ollow up with potential employers by completing applications and/or checking for on-campus interview options through KnightLink
What should you say when you walk up to an employer’s info table? Develop a one-minute script to help organize your thoughts and start a conversation. Prepare, but don’t sound rehearsed. Speak naturally. The better prepared, you are the more confident you will be. The infomercial should include: • Self-introduction
•S end a follow-up note or email to any employers you spoke with to thank them for their time and information. Tailor your thank you note to the conversation you had with the employer.
Examples of questions to ask employers: •W hat opportunities might exist with your company for someone with my major and experience? •W hat are typical career paths for new employees in your organization? • What qualities do you look for in a candidate?
• Brief summary of your academic program • Related experience or skills • Employment goal •R easons you are interested in this company or organization
During the Expo: • Arrive early. If you come during the last 30 minutes of the expo, you will limit your number of contacts. Many of the employers plan to leave early to catch planes and others may be eager to close up after a long day of interviewing students. • Start with the employers you are most interested in meeting. If you are apprehensive about introductions and want to practice, start with an employer that is not your top choice. • As you stand in line, respect others’ privacy as they complete their conversations.
Connect Your Experience— Demonstrate Your Value to Employers Employers want to know how you can add value to their organization. When job searching, determine how your background overlaps the needs of the employer. How do your education, skills and experiences relate to your ability to perform this job? These skills and traits can be acquired through classes, jobs, volunteering, internships, cooperative education and involvement with student organizations, study abroad programs and more. Transferable skills are the applicable skills you have developed. Even if you have never worked in your chosen career field or you have a limited work history, focus on the skills and knowledge gained that are transferable to the type of jobs you are seeking. Do you have any of these transferable skills? • Writing
• Supervising
• Foreign language
• Planning
• Project management • Coordinating
• Proofreading/ Editing
• Decision-making
• Goal setting
• Interpreting data
• Marketing
• Ask questions to get as much information as possible about employment options.
• Researching
• Managing
• Teaching/Training
• Problem solving
• Collect business cards and literature from companies that interest you.
• Managing conflict
• Multi-tasking
• Delegating
• Crisis management
• Take a few moments after each meeting to jot down notes about the company and positions.
• Public speaking
• Technology
• Negotiating
• Scheduling
• Budgeting
• Designing
• Present a confident image when approaching employers—establish eye contact, smile, present a firm handshake and introduce yourself using your one-minute infomercial. • Convey professionalism, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude through verbal and non-verbal communication.
• Some employers may not be actively recruiting at the expo or may direct you to apply online. Keep in mind that the expo is an excellent place to network with and meet employers.
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On-campus Interviewing
Online Workshops. Access through the “Downloads” link on the Career Services website. • Conduct Career Research • Strategize for the Job Search On-site Workshops. Access the calendar of scheduled workshops through the “events and workshops” link on the Career Services website. • Your Online Job Connection: KnightLink Strategies • Where to Look and How to be Found: Job Search Strategies
Job Choices Magazine. A comprehensive guide to job searching, offering a focus on resume writing and job search correspondence. Employer Information Sessions Employers frequently conduct information sessions to inform students about employment opportunities within their organizations. Company information sessions are advertised on the Career Services website, KnightLink, and via emails. Active participation in information sessions is an effective strategy to be noticed by employer representatives. These sessions help students better understand an organization and its culture. Additionally, information sessions are an excellent way to network and make connections with company representatives. Professional attire is encouraged. Employer On-campus Interviews Students are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities to interview with leading local, regional and national employers who recruit at UCF. Students can utilize KnightLink to see who is recruiting at UCF and to review application criteria and procedures. Students who sign up for on-campus interviews are expected to show up for their scheduled interview on time and in professional attire. In the event of a cancellation, students must give notice two business days in advance. Missing an interview without notification will result in suspension of the students KnightLink account and on-campus interviewing privileges.
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TIP: Interview preparation workshops, the online ‘Perfect Interview’ program, and opportunities for practice interviews with staff and employers are all excellent resources for students to enhance their interviewing skills. Through KnightLink, there are three types of on-campus employer interviews: 1. Open: Any student meeting the employers’ criteria can sign up for interviews 2. Pre-Select: Students who meet qualifying criteria may submit resumes for consideration via KnightLink. Employers then pre-approve the candidates they would like to interview 3. R eservation Only: The employer manages their own interview schedule, frequently identifying interview candidates at Career Expos, company information sessions, and from the KnightLink Resume Book (under privacy settings) Start Early, Be Realistic, and Persevere Start the job search process early. The sooner you begin, the greater your chance of having a job upon graduation. Peak campus recruiting periods for spring graduates begin the fall prior to graduation. Looking for a job is a full-time job, so be prepared to commit enough time to this process. Plan your time well and keep organized records of your contacts and employer research. Don’t give up. Although you will receive rejections to your applications, don’t take them personally. Realize you may get a lot of “nos,” but you only need one “yes.” Visit the Career Services website for more job search websites and other resources.
Prepare for the Interview
The interview provides the opportunity for a faceto-face communication and interaction to determine the fit between the job candidate and the position requirements. By learning more about the interview process and types of questions you may be asked, you can be better prepared to make a good impression.
Types of Interviews Two types of interviews are screening interviews (in-person or by telephone) and selection interviews. Your goal is to present your qualifications to the hiring manager. Not everyone will be a decision maker; however, you should treat all individuals as though they have the authority to hire you, from the parking attendant to the administrative assistant to the chief executive officer.
1. Screening Interview This interview is used to verify the candidate’s qualifications for the position and to establish a preliminary impression of the candidate’s attitude, interest and degree of professionalism. The screening interview may be conducted by the search committee or the human resources department. At this stage, the goal is to select candidates to meet with the decision maker. Employers are increasingly searching for ways to save time and money. Telephone screening interviews are becoming a common practice. Telephone Interview Tips Before the Interview: • Approach this process as if you were in a face-toface interview • Arrange to interview in a quiet place where there are no distractions (roommates, pets, etc.) • When setting up the interview, request the names and positions of the individuals who will be interviewing you to better prepare and make the interview more personal • At a desk or table, have a notepad, pen and support material available (resume, company research notes, prepared questions, etc.) During the Interview: • When they are introduced write their names down to use when responding to questions or sending thank you notes • Write down key words or phrases to ensure that you answer all parts of the question • Think about the question and your response before answering—if you need to process your thoughts for a few moments, let the committee know that you are thinking about the question to effectively deal with the brief silence • Answer questions fully, but do not ramble—if the interviewers are silent after your response, you may have to signal you are finished—don’t allow their silence to unnecessarily extend your answer
•B e especially attentive to voice quality—speak loudly since you may be on a speaker phone, convey confidence and communicate enthusiasm •T hank the interviewers for their time during the closing of the interview
2. Selection Interview Conducted by the decision maker, the purpose of this interview is to explore the candidate’s qualifications and to access the comfort level with which the candidate might establish working relationships. Your ability to connect with the employer and present yourself as the right person for the position is critical. There may be numerous interviews at this stage. As the number of candidates is reduced, you may be invited back to speak with the same person and/or with other managers or members of the work group. Even if there is only one decision maker, the opinions of the others will be sought and will probably have an effect on the outcome. When you are invited to interview with a number of people, it is important that you present yourself effectively to each one of them. Remember, they will be evaluating your skills along with your ability to fit in with the organization.
Practice Interview.
Schedule an appointment with a Career Counselor at 407-823-2361 to arrange a practice interview.
Online Workshops. Access through the “Downloads” link on the Career Services website. • Interview workshops On-site Workshops. Access the calendar of scheduled workshops through the “Events and Workshops” link on the Career Services website. • Interview workshops
Interview Preparation It is not easy to articulate your strong points to an interviewer if you cannot articulate them to yourself. Be sure you can discuss your related skills, training, experience, education and career goals. A common reason employers reject applicants is their inability to convey strengths and how they can add value to the organization.
TIP: List your strongest skills with examples of how you have demonstrated each of them. Be prepared to share details of the experiences in which you used those skills.
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Do Your Research Thoroughly research each employer with whom you have an interview to familiarize yourself with product lines, services offered and growth prospects. Possible Research Resources Include: • Company websites—Most organizations have a wealth of information about their history, structure, locations, products or services available on their websites • Career Insider (access on the Career Services website) • Career Services Employer Information Sessions • Personal contacts and networks • Magazines and Newspapers–Orlando Business Journal (access online through myUCF), Bloomberg Businessweek, Fortune, Forbes, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal
Perfect Interview. This web-based tool helps you learn more about the types of questions employers ask as well as the responses they want. Practice your skills by customizing an online practice interview, receive expert advice from a career coach, and view perfect examples of student responses to a variety of questions. Access through the Career Services website under “Virtual Career Center” and “Prepare for the Job Search.” Follow the on-screen steps to begin your practice interview.
•R emember: the moment you arrive on site, you are being evaluated •B e aware that you are being evaluated on your communication and interpersonal skills •M ake sure that you have a clear understanding of the position and the company; if not, ask clarifying questions •S tructure your answers to be specific, concrete and detailed when discussing your qualifications • Be yourself—let the interviewer get to know you •C onsider offering examples of your work (e.g., a portfolio) that will demonstrate your accomplishments •B e prepared to leave copies of your resume, transcripts and reference letters Deal-Breaker: Employers who recruit at UCF stated that students who don’t ask questions at the end of the interview, typically are not considered for the position.
Behavioral-based Questions Most employers use behavioral-based questions on the premise that the most accurate predictor of future performance is based on past performance in a similar situation. Behavioral-based questions provide employers with more objective information about a candidate than any other type of question. Sample Question: Describe a time when you “went the extra mile” to help a customer. The STAR technique offers a three-step process for answering behavioral-based questions:
Practice Interview Program Career Services offers practice interview appointments. During this appointment, a practice interview tailored to the position for which you’re applying will be conducted, followed by specific comments and feedback that will help enhance your interview skills. Contact Career Services to schedule a practice interview.
Dress for the Interview Professional business attire is an important factor in projecting a competent image. “Business casual attire” is a common phrase in today’s workplace. This is a more relaxed mode of dressing, and is acceptable in a growing number of employment settings. However, while you are in the interviewing process it is important that you wear professional business attire, unless you are specifically instructed otherwise (such as an environmental studies position where you may interview in the field).
1. Situation or Task: Describe a challenge you faced similar to the example posed by the interviewer 2. Action: Explain the actions you took to resolve the situation 3. Result: Detail the benefit or positive outcome that came from your initiatives What to Wear FOR WOMEN Conservative Suit Light-colored blouse (avoid lace, ruffles and shiny fabrics) Closed toe shoes Subtle jewelry and makeup Simple hairstyle
During the Interview
FOR MEN
• Arrive at least 15 minutes early to park and locate your check-in area as well as allow time to relax before the interview
Dark-colored suit
• Learn the interviewer’s name in advance and greet the interviewer by name with a firm handshake. If you have sweaty palms, you should subtly wipe them prior to shaking hands
Conservative tie
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Light-colored dress shirt
Polished dress shoes Well-groomed hairstyle
Sample Interview Questions
Discriminatory and Illegal Questions
Tell me about yourself. Use a “one-minute Infomercial” that gives an introduction into who you are, why you are interested in the position, and why you’re an ideal candidate. You may want to choose a leadership example from your education and/or experience and briefly elaborate, as well as discuss your educational background.
Various federal, state and local laws regulate the questions that an employer can ask job candidates. An employer’s questions—whether on the job application, in the interview, or during the testing process—must be related to the job you’re seeking. For the employer, the focus must be: “What do I need to know to decide whether this person can perform the functions of this job?”
Why are you interested in this position? The employer is looking to determine your potential “fit” within their organization. Understand the responsibilities of the job for which you are interviewing and relate your skills to them. Discuss aspects of this job that make it ideal for you, and highlight your desire to work within the company’s culture, as well as the specific role.
Samples of Illegal Questions • What is your age or date of birth? •H ave you ever been arrested? (An employer has the right to ask if you’ve been convicted of certain crimes for certain jobs; however, it is illegal to ask questions about arrests.)
Where do you see yourself in five years? Provide a meaningful and realistic vision, and explain how your vision will motivate you to achieve a personal, professional or academic goal. Ensure that your example aligns with the organization’s interests.
•H ow many children do you have? What are their ages? Have you made child care arrangements?
What is your greatest strength/weakness? For strength, highlight a proven skill and relate how it is important to the role you are seeking. Be proud, not arrogant. For a weakness, talk about a skill you would like to develop and share an example of how you are already working on strengthening this area.
• What is/was your spouse’s name or line of work?
How have you handled a difficult working relationship? Describe the difficult relationship (be sure to keep a positive attitude), explain how you handled the relationship, and talk about what you learned from the experience. How did it help you understand diverse working styles?
• Are you taking any prescribed drugs?
How would your supervisor describe you? Provide examples demonstrating that you have the skills and personal traits that match the organizations values and culture. Do you have any questions for us? Always have questions prepared for the interviewer in advance that demonstrate a genuine interest in the organization, as well as show that you have done your research. Questions May Include: • What are the three most important attributes for success in this position?
• What is your race, religion or national origin? • Do you own your own home?
•D o you have physical impairments which would prevent you from performing the job? • I s there any health-related reason you may not be able to perform the job?
•H ave you ever been treated for drug addiction or alcoholism? If You Are Asked an Illegal Question, You Have Three Options: 1. You can answer the question. However, if you choose to answer illegal questions, you may be giving information that could unfairly reduce your chances of getting the job. 2. Y ou can refuse to answer the question, which is well within your rights. Unfortunately, depending on how you phrase your refusal, you run the risk of coming off as uncooperative or confrontational. 3. Y ou can examine the question for its intent and respond with an answer that would apply to the job. For example, you are discussing travel. The interviewer asks, “Do you have young children?” You might answer, “I can meet the travel requirements and the daily work schedule that this job requires.”
• What are some of the challenges with this position?
Interview Follow-up
• What professional development opportunities are available?
Always send a thank you email, card or letter to the employer within 24 hours indicating your appreciation for the interview and your interest in the position.
• When can I expect to hear from you regarding your hiring decision? or more sample interview questions, visit the Career F Services website.
Follow up with a phone call to the employer in one to two weeks (or employer’s designated time period) to check on the status of the hiring decision.
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S A M P L E T H A N K YO U L E T T E R
April 15, 20XX
Ms. Sheila J. Smith Manager Atlantic Publishing 999 E. Orange Blvd. Orlando, FL 32801 Dear Ms. Smith: Thank you very much for interviewing me yesterday for the associate editor position. I enjoyed meeting you and learning more about your publications. My enthusiasm for the position and my interest in working for Atlantic Publishing were strengthened as a result of the interview. My technical writing skills along with my internship experiences with copy editing and reviewing proofs would allow me to make a significant contribution to your expanding Editing Department. I want to reiterate my strong interest in the position and in working with you and your staff. You provide the kind of opportunity I seek. Please feel free to contact me at 407-823-1234 or iknight@knightsmail.ucf.edu if I can provide you with any additional information. Again, thank you for the interview and your consideration. Sincerely,
Ima Knight
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Thank You Letters
Negotiate Salary and Benefits
In addition to expressing appreciation, the thank you letter should highlight positive aspects of the interview and reiterate your interest in the position. This is also a good way to include information you may have forgotten to discuss in the interview that you think is important for the hiring decision. This letter may be emailed or handwritten depending on how quickly a decision will be made. Also, keep in mind the culture of the company. For example, if you’re interviewing with an environmentally conscious company, an emailed thank you letter would likely be viewed more positively.
When evaluating job offers, pay attention to the benefits offered by each employer. A good benefits package can add up to 30 percent of your overall compensation.
Weigh the Job Offer
Before you accept or decline the offer, you should weigh the decision. In addition to salary, there are many other factors to consider in your decision. Develop your own list of criteria in order of importance.
Areas to consider may include: Company • Is the company growing or downsizing? • Does the company have a high retention rate? • Does the management team support employee development? Position • Are the job responsibilities consistent with your goals and expectations? • Can this position lead to future opportunities?
You should enter a negotiation with a clear idea of what is important to you. Rather than trying to negotiate every possible benefit, identify those which are critical to your acceptance of an offer and make those needs known early in the negotiation process. Knowing your value in the marketplace will be the best way to ensure you are getting what you are worth. Reliable information pertaining to your market value can help you be less likely to accept unreasonably low offers or expect unrealistically high offers. Check out Salary.com or NACE Salary Calculator Center on the Career Services website. Avoid discussing salary and benefits during the interview unless the employer brings it up first. If you are pressed for an answer, refer to your research and quote a salary range. The bottom line is, you have more negotiation power once you know the employer is interested in hiring you. Attend our Salary Negotiation Workshop (online or in-house) for more information.
Environment • Does the company demonstrate a positive work environment (high employee morale)? • Is the level of formality/informality consistent with your needs? • Does communication within the organization appear valued and effective?
Commonly Offered Benefits
• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision) • Retirement plans •S tock ownership/Profit sharing plans •R elocation costs •F lex scheduling/Telecommuting •P aid vacation time • Professional development opportunities • Tuition assistance • Employee assistance program • Child care assistance • Parking/Transportation reimbursements
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First Year on the Job: How to be Successful
Treat your professional “launch year” as the transition period it is. Professional etiquette is of great importance in the workplace and will get you off to a good start. Understand Organizational Culture Identify the expected ways of interacting within the organization (company politics, formalities, confidentiality issues and communication modes). Positive Work Behaviors • Review the employee handbook or any written policies • Wear appropriate office attire representative of your workgroup or department • Be attentive to personal hygiene and grooming • Use courteous and proper language when communicating verbally or through email • Maintain a professional demeanor at after-hour events such as happy hour, holiday parties or sporting events • Demonstrate a positive attitude and a strong work ethic • Display a readiness to learn and ask questions to understand how and why things are done in your new organization • Demonstrate teamwork by helping colleagues do whatever needs to be done • Respect other people’s time by adhering to schedules and being punctual • Display appropriateness when decorating your work area—ensure you are not offensive to others • Clean up after yourself so that shared work spaces remain clean for others Build Effective Relationships Understand the benefits of good working relationships with co-workers and supervisors. Being a team player means learning to share successes, becoming less competitive and possessive about your ideas, and being open to other viewpoints. • Align yourself with positive individuals who have good reputations within the organization • Take the time to understand how each member of the team functions and how their daily tasks connect with yours • Take advantage of structured mentoring programs if they are available or seek out experienced colleagues who have expressed an interest in helping you
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Master the Tasks for Your Position Identify skills you need to improve, seek out options for improving them, and develop a timeline for accomplishing this. •E stablish short-term, intermediate and long-term goals to help you gain acceptance, respect and credibility during your first year in the workplace. Talk with your supervisor to ensure your goals fit within the organization’s mission and goals • Take advantage of any training opportunities provided to enhance your professional development • Demonstrate commitment by volunteering for projects and putting in extra time to learn your tasks
Federal Jobs
There are many opportunities to work for the federal government in a wide variety of career fields. It is estimated that more than 550,000 federal employees will leave the government workforce by 2015 making the federal public sector a strong option. There are overseas and domestic opportunities.
Students Seeking International Opportunities
Most federal government jobs are advertised on one website: usajobs.gov. There are some “excepted service” positions not listed on USAJOBS, so it is important to view individual agency websites for these types of job announcements.
Our world is becoming a more global marketplace. Employers and graduate school recruiters know the importance of cross-cultural understanding and have an appreciation for different points of view. They gravitate toward students who demonstrate adaptability, maturity, initiative and creativity. All of these qualities can be demonstrated through international experience.
The federal government has its own resume system. Your federal resume can be different from your private sector resume in a few ways:
Useful Tips • Identify international academic programs and specific international courses of interest
• Typically two to three pages
• Join international clubs and organizations
• Qualifications are used to confirm eligibility by Human Resources • Requires additional information and personal detail such as Social Security number, citizenship status, and date of birth
•A ttend Study Abroad Fairs and participate in Study Abroad Programs • Develop foreign language and cultural skills • Network with faculty and advisors • Research work permits and travel documents • Research international organizations and employers
KSAs In addition to creating a federal resume and completing any forms, federal applications will ask you to prove how qualified you are, through either a questionnaire or essays, called KSAs (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities). Draw from your academic history, experience and other involvements. When describing your knowledge, skills, and abilities, you should give examples and explain how often you used these skills the complexity of the knowledge you possessed, the level of the people you interacted with, the sensitivity of the issues you handled, etc. KSA Essay Response Approach: CCAR Context Describe the specific problem you had to address. What did you have to solve, resolve, respond to, handle, etc.? Challenges Describe the factors that contributed to a particular challenge such as limited resources and time constraints. Action Describe the steps you took to solve the problem. Stay away from the ordinary— be extraordinary in your response! Result Describe the outcomes of your actions—use percentages, numbers, and grades. What was the difference you made? Highlight your greatest accomplishments.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES usajobs.gov makingthedifference.org
International Students and the Job Search Career Services can help international students with academic and career planning, as well as employment readiness skills. The university’s International Services Center is knowledgeable of the legal requirements associated with employment in the United States and can assist you with information. They will also be able to help you with questions regarding when to disclose international status. Visit their website at intl.ucf.edu.
Going Global.
Provides country-specific information and has more than 80,000 resources for finding employment at home and abroad. Updated daily, this resource includes worldwide internship and job postings, H1B employer listings, corporate profiles and career resources for numerous countries. Access this resource at career.ucf.edu.
Useful Tips • Research advantages to employers hiring international students • Join UCF’s International Student Association •V isit the International Services Center to learn more about Curricular Practical Training, Optional Practical Training and other international work visas Visit the Career Services website for more resources on international opportunities.
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Students with Disabilities Career Services can provide assistance and educate students in the following areas:
• Career exploration of interests, strengths and limitations as they relate to academic opportunities and occupational requirements
• How to request accommodations and resources necessary for professional development and success
• Understanding the risks and benefits of disclosing disability status to employers
In order to keep the focus on your abilities when marketing your education, skills and experience to prospective employers, it may be helpful to understand the risks and benefits of disclosing disability status to employers at key points in the job search. It’s your decision when you decide to disclose. The following table provides advantages and disadvantages for each time of disclosure.
Disclosure Options for Job Search TIME OF DISCLOSURE
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
ISSUES
On resume or application
Honesty and peace of mind; allows employers to decide if disability is an issue
Might disqualify you with no opportunity to present yourself and your qualifications
You may have a harder time finding work, but less likely to have any disability related issues after hire
During employer call to arrange an interview
Honesty and peace of mind; reduces “shock value” upon initial meeting
May not get an interview or receive serious consideration during interview
Without “shock value,” employer may feel more comfortable
During initial meeting at interview
Demonstrates positive self-perception to employer
“Shock value” may distract employer
May have to refocus employer
During the interview
Offers you the opportunity to respond briefly and positively in person to specific disability issue—discrimination is less likely face-to-face
Responsibility is on you to discuss a disability issue in a clear, non-threatening way—too much emphasis on issue may suggest a possible problem and you may not be evaluated on your abilities
A positive outcome may depend on how comfortable you are discussing your disability (without being pre-occupied with it)
After the interview but prior to an offer
Letting employer know prior to making an offer may convey honesty
Employer may feel you have been less than honest by waiting this long and could lessen the chance of getting an offer
If you require accommodations, you may need to consider disclosing at this point
After receiving a formal offer, but prior to accepting it
If the disability disclosure changes the hiring decision, there is legal recourse
Employer may feel you should have disclosed disability before hiring decision was made and could lead to distrust if hired
You may need to evaluate your disability and explain that it will not interfere with your ability to perform the job functions
After you begin the job
You have the opportunity to prove yourself on the job and demonstrate your value; if disclosure affects employment status (but not your ability to perform the job), you may be protected by law
Possible discomfort on the job with supervisors and co-workers and possible employer accusations of falsifying your application
The longer you put off disclosing, the more difficult it becomes
After experiencing a problem on the job
You have the opportunity to prove yourself on the job and demonstrate your value
Possible employer accusations of falsifying your application; may have prevented accommodations that could have helped to avoid problems
Relationships with coworkers may be affected if they feel you have not been truthful—leading to difficulty reestablishing trust
Never
Avoidance of potential for a negative response from employer
If disability affects work performance, you may be dismissed and have no legal recourse
If you are sure your disability will not affect job performance, the issue of disclosure becomes less critical
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Adapted from Witt, M.A. 1992
Additional Resources sds.sdes.ucf.edu Visit Student Disability Services to learn about accommodations and helpful resources available for UCF students. askjan.org Ask JAN answers questions about workplace accommodations or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). cosdonline.org Career Opportunities for Students with Disabilities (COSD) is a unique and dynamic national professional association comprised of more than 600 colleges and universities and more than 500 major national employers. COSD’s mission is to improve the employment rate of college students and recent graduates with disabilities. weconnectnow.wordpress.com We Connect Now is dedicated to uniting college students with disabilities in access to higher education and employment issues. disaboom.com Disaboom provides people with disabilities answers, solutions and connections you need for living your life to the fullest. wrpjobs.com Coordinated by the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) and the U.S. Department of Defense, the Workforce Recruitment Program is a
recruitment and referral program that connects federal and private sector employers with highly motivated postsecondary students and recent graduates with disabilities. two6resources.org Two6Resources is designed to promote inclusion and diversity in the workforce through the employment of individuals with disabilities. eop.com Equal Opportunity Publications has led the way in diversity recruitment with a portfolio of seven national career magazines, a diversity website, online job board, and career expos for people with disabilities.
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Is Graduate School in Your Plan?
Are You Considering a Graduate Degree? Deciding to pursue graduate or professional school requires time, money and commitment. It’s a decision that requires careful consideration. Below are some questions that you should consider: • Do you have clear career goals? Is a graduate degree required in your area of interest? • Will a graduate degree make you more competitive within your field of interest? • How will a graduate degree impact your career advancement? • Will a graduate degree impact your earning potential? • Are you a lifelong learner who simply has an interest in enhancing your knowledge? • Are you considering changing careers and feel that a graduate degree will ease your transition? • When is the best time to enroll in graduate school?
Find the Graduate Program that is Right for You As you research graduate programs, identify and visit the schools that interest you. Consider the following: Reputation/Ranking: Consider the reputation of the program. Different organizations rank graduate programs, therefore it is very important to investigate the source of the rankings. Examples of organizations that rank graduate programs include U.S. News and World Report and Bloomberg BusinessWeek. However, remember that a school can be ranked highly in one area but weak in another. Research/Academic Focus: Most graduate programs tend to have specializations in one or two areas within a specific discipline. Which program closely meets your academic and professional interests? Take the time to investigate the research areas and interests of the faculty. Faculty: Become familiar with the faculty who teach in your programs of interest. Investigate the reputation of the faculty by investigating their academic and professional contributions. Many universities provide faculty CV’s on their website.
Advantages of Working First and Going to Graduate
Cost/Financial Aid: Research all associated costs, including tuition, books and supplies, housing, and miscellaneous fees and expenses. Evaluate the types of financial assistance that programs offer, including grants, loans, fellowships and graduate assistantships. If you are considering out-of-state schools you need to research the admission criteria and costs for out-of-state residents versus all other applicants.
School Later • Clarify your career goals and decide on the graduate program that is best for you
Size of Institution: Consider the faculty-to-student ratio and assess the best fit for you.
Deciding the best time to apply for graduate school can be a difficult decision to make. Is it better to attend graduate school immediately after completing a bachelor’s degree, or is it better to wait a few years and gain work experience?
• Gain the relevant work experience many competitive graduate programs require • Bring a real world perspective to the classroom • Be reimbursed by your employer for all or some of your graduate school expenses • Obtain relevant work experience to strengthen your graduate school candidacy Advantages of Going to School First and Working Later • Gain entry to careers that require an advanced degree for “entry-level” positions • Receive grants, scholarships or assistantships that will help pay for your education • Maintain the momentum of being a student Advantages of Working and Going to School Simultaneously • Apply what you learn in the classroom to the workplace and vice versa • Be more marketable with an advanced degree and relevant experience • Advance your career with a graduate degree
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Location: Is the school located in a desirable location and do you see yourself residing in that geographic location beyond graduation? Do you prefer a big city or a small town? What is the employment outlook in that area? Part Time vs. Full Time: Investigate if the program accommodates both full-time and parttime students. Will the program accommodate your needs? Academic Requirements: What are the required GPA and graduate entrance exam scores? What additional academic requirements do you need to be accepted into the program?
Online Resources. Researching Grad Schools gradschools.com gradsource.com petersons.com princetonreview.com myplan.com gradview.com Personal Statements accepted.com/grad uwc.ucf.edu essayedge.com Financing Grad School accessgroup.org finaid.ucf.edu finaid.org Standardized Testing Prep Classes UCF Continuing Education ce.ucf.edu Kaplan kaptest.com Princeton Review princetonreview.com
Calendar of Events
Events are planned throughout the year to help students with their career development needs such as deciding on a major, preparing for the career expo, meeting employers with current and future employment opportunities, and more.
Contact us at 407-823-2361 or visit our website at career.ucf.edu for specific dates and information about upcoming events.
FALL
Employment Prep Conference, Fall Career Expo, Rosen Hospitality Career Expo, Graduate and Professional Schools Fair, Winter Break Externships
SPRING
EXPOmania, Spring Career Expo, Rosen Hospitality Career Expo, Majors Fair, Spring Break Externships, Spring Education Job Fair, Graduate and Professional School Symposium
SUMMER
Statewide Job Fair
Event Descriptions Employment Prep Conference/EXPOmania: Career Services staff members are available to critique resumes and offer assistance with infomercials. This event is designed to better prepare students for success at the Career Expo. Career Expo: Held in the fall and spring, meet with employers and discuss internship, career and employment opportunities. Statewide Job Fair: Held in the summer, meet with employers and discuss internship, career and employment opportunities. Graduate and Professional Schools Fair: Meet with representatives of graduate, law and professional schools nationally and abroad. Graduate and Professional School Symposium: Attend employment readiness seminars for all graduate students on a variety of topics. Education Career Fair: Held in the spring, this event provides the opportunity for district and private schools to meet with UCF teacher candidates regarding employment opportunities. Majors Fair: Explore the many academic areas of study offered at UCF and meet faculty and advisors representing these program areas. Externship Program: Held during the winter and spring breaks, shadow an employer in their professional area of interest to learn more about the career field as well as the organizations culture, products and services. Rosen Hospitality Career Expo: Held in the fall and spring, meet with employers specifically in the hospitality field at the Rosen campus to discuss internship, career and employment opportunities.
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“Career Services’ practice interview program is one of the golden resources available to students on campus. I utilized this service for both my UCF College of Medicine and Order of Pegasus interviews, and without the advice I received from them, I would not have been nearly as prepared or successful.” Kumail Merchant Biomedical Sciences Major Order of Pegasus 2011 UCF Class of 2015 “The services offered at the Career Services Center have tremendously helped me fine tune and perfect my personal statement for law school. The genuine advice and critique that I was given about my statement was a major factor which contributed to my five law school acceptances and three full scholarship offers.” Nicole Barrera Legal Studies Major UCF Class of 2011 “The personal statement critique was an excellent resource during my application process. With my counselor’s guidance, I was able to write a personal statement that highlighted my strongest accomplishments without hiding my personality. I was able to strike a perfect balance between professional and personal.”
DIVISION OF STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT SERVICES
UCF CAREER SERVICES Bldg. 140 on Memory Mall Orlando, FL 32816-0165 career.ucf.edu
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Brittany Wycoff Health Sciences Major UCF Class of 2011