About to graduate... What Next?
TABLE of CONTENTS Mission Statement 4 Services Menu 5 Promoting the Pride
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Internship & Co-Op Guide
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Job Search Guide 10 Targeting 11 Marketing Materials 12 Pathways 14 Action Verbs 15 Résumé Examples 16 Headings 20 Education 21 Experience 22 Additional Sections
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Cover Letter Examples
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Cover Letter Tips 29 Online Presence 30 Online Portfolios 31 Online Identity 32 LinkedIn 34 3
Mission Statement Wallace State Career Services is committed to assisting students in achieving Career Readiness by development of employment soft skills, coordinating internship/co-op placement, sharing career opportunities, and supporting students and graduates in securing employment.
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WHat W e O f f e r Career Services offers a variety of resources to help you prepare and secure the career that you desire. Our services are available to all currently enrolled students and alumni
INDIVIDUAL CAREER PLANNING Individual consulting appointments are available to students to discuss career interest, self-assessment resources, job search strategies, interviewing issues, and internship information.
JOB AND INTERNSHIP WORKSHOPS Through a series of workshops, Career Services will offer activities that will aide in preparing you for your transition into a career.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS Through Wallace State’s Job & Career Fair, we provide you with an opportunity to meet top employers in the area and to interview for several positions during the day, allowing you to meet the people who make the hiring decisions. For event and exhibitor information visit www.wallacestate.edu/career. Wallace State offers the state credentialed “Ready-toWork” program which trains student in the basic soft skills and abilities required by most leading businesses and industries in Alabama.
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Services • Career related counseling • Assistance to aide individuals in developing their career goals • Career assessments • Employment soft skills education • Internships and co-op placement • Establish connections with: • University alumni • The community • Employers • Provide career preparedness for • Internships • Co-op placements • Career opportunities • Employment advancement • Mock interviews • Career Fairs • Career Center Website
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Students will be careerready and prepared to be successful in their chosen career
powered by
Pride Placement has an exciting new look, more powerful tools, and more ways for you to connect with employers, alumni, and staff. Purple Briefcase, the power behind our new system, is a cuttingedge career network used by many universities throughout the country. Purple Briefcase gives you access to jobs, on-campus recruiting activities, internships, and more. Additionally, you will find the superb job search platform Indeed.com, built right into the system. You can search jobs, save jobs, and apply to jobs. You can also follow companies and receive notifications when those employers have posted new opportunities into the system.
Everything you need to get prepared and get noticed is all built right into the platform. One platform handles all of your job preparation and job searching activities.
Every student is automatically created an account which can be accessed by direct link on https://app.purplebriefcase.com/pb/account/login/
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Internship
& Co-op Guide
CO-OP
A is an educational program where the student alternates periods of academic study with full time employment in positions related to their academic and/ or career interests. Co-ops last over a 9-12 month period.
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INTERNSHIP
An is an opportunity to enhance classroom learning and gain practical experience in an industry related to a student's field of study for a fixed, limited period of time. Internships can be full or parttime and paid or unpaid.
We provide steps that will assist in defining your internship experience, or adapting an existing job or volunteer experience into an internship, by creating a structured learning component that includes goal-setting, on-going supervision and experiential reflection.
91%
prefer work experience
Employers appreciate new graduates with a variety of career related experiences.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) "Internships are one of the most effective recruiting methods for hiring new college graduates. Internships and Co-ops can serve as extended interviews, allowing companies to more fully evaluate a student's potential, strengths, weaknesses, and fit in the company culture."
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Job Guide Obtain information that will assist in the research, preparation, and securing of career opportunities that lead to fulfilling employment 10
TARG ETI NG It is possible to secure a job that works for you, a fulfilling job that you can be proud to have. To sustain an optimal work life, decide what is vital in your desired career and what will fit best for you. To begin, select an industry that interests you. Then go about finding business in that industry and make connections. The Bureau of Labor statistics' occupational outlook handbook is one of the most popular resources for general career information such as duties, education, pay and growth. After choosing our occupational interest, we locate employers by searching online employer locaters, business directories, and career resources.
These websites are valuable resources for discovering the specific occupation and/or employers to target Online Industry & Occupation Research: bls.gov/ooh Online Employer Locators: careerinfonet.org, glassdoor.com Business Directory: smallbusiness.yahoo.com/local-listings Career Resources: rileyguide.com, wallacestate.emsicareercoach.com
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M A R K ET I N G M A T ER I A L S Marketing is an essential tool for all successful organizations. Without marketing, no matter how good the product or service, the organization will not make vital connections. Marketing defines the distinctive features and benefits of products and services, sets the price, and communicates those features and benefits to the audience. In today’s job-hunting environment, the most successful job seekers are those who understand the value of marketing and apply themselves to the simple principle that companies have used for years to sell their products; show your audience exactly how you can help them and what you can offer.
Although writing rĂŠsumĂŠs, CVs, and cover letters can be difficult, these documents are necessary to support qualifications and job experience.
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Types of Marketing Materials Personal marketing materials can vary greatly. However, listed below are some of the most common tools used today. It is important to note that materials created for one employer usually do not fit for another. Marketing yourself requires that your résumé or CV, cover letter and portfolio are specifically tailored to each job you apply for and clearly explain how you are uniquely qualified for the position.
r és um é A résumé is a selective summary of your professional experiences and qualifications.
cur r i c ulu m v i ta e (c v ) CVs include information on your academic background, including teaching experience, degrees, research, awards, publications, presentations, and other notable achievements. Consequently, CVs are much longer than résumés and include more information, particularly related to experiential background. CV's are mostly used in the education/academia field and in countries outside of the United States.
Cov er Lette r A cover letter is often the earliest written contact with a potential employer, creating a critical first impression. A cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your résumé. Its purpose is to interpret the data-oriented, factual résumé and add a personal expression.
p ort foli o A portfolio is a portable collection of materials that provide graphic evidence of your accomplishments, skills, and abilities. The portfolio also documents the scope and quality of your experience and training.
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PICK YOUR
PATHWAY
Pathways is designed to streamline the path to completion, improve success, and reduce wasted time spent changing majors. Students are encouraged to contact their advisor to learn more
S.T.E.M.
Computer Science Engineering Pre-Engineering
Health Science Child Development Dental Assisting Dental Hygiene Diagnostic Imaging Diagnostic Medical Sonography Emergency Medical Services Health Information Technology Massage Therapy Medical Assistant Medical Coding Medical Laboratory Technician (CLT) Nursing Occupational Therapy Assistant Patient Care Specialist Pharmacy Technology Physical Therapist Assistant Polysomnographic Technologist Respiratory Therapy
Liberal Arts, General Studies
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Art/Visual Communications Criminal Justice Business Liberal Arts/General Studies Paralegal
Applied Technology Agriculture Production/Horticulture Automotive Service Technology Aviation/Flight Technology Helicopter and Fixed Wing Collision Repair Culinary Arts Diesel Technology Electronic Technology Engineering Technology HVAC & Refrigeration Machine Tool Technology Salon and Spa Management Welding
POWERFUL ACTION VERBS to create a RESUME separated by Pathways
Advised Aided Assisted Braced Contributed Diagnosed
Facilitated Guided Nursed Provided Performed Repaired
Analyzed Computed Compiled Designed Developed Generated
Installed Improved Launched Operated Programmed Networked
Built Composed Created Facilitated Interpreted Improved
Integrated Led Optimized Solved Upgraded Validated
Computed Conducted Developed Drafted Generated Operated
Processed Prioritized Remodeled Repaired Solved Systematized
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Resume e x a mples JANELLE DOE BSN, RN
PERSONAL PROFILE 205.123.1234
Use this area to sell yourself. The key to this area is to PROVE that you will be an asset to this company/business by listing achievements. Objective statements are far too
jdoe@email.com
outdated. The interviewer knows you want the job. They want to be 100% sure you will provide value to their establishment. PROVE YOUR WORTH!
Townsville, Tn
EXPERIENCE Registered Nurse June 2014 - June 2017
linkedin.com/ yourusername
SKILLS Communication Teamwork Problem Solving Professionalism Leadership
EDUCATION
Dr. James Doe - Townsville, TN Primary care, assessment, evaluation Collected samples for lab Educated patients on post-op care Led support groups related to physical and mental health Registered Nurse January 2009 - August 2014 West City Women's Care Organization - Townsville, TN
Masters Degree
Assessed patients vitals and collected lab samples
Your University
Worked with women on routine care and ways to
2007 - 2009
improve overall health Assisted doctor with in-house surgeries and other
Bachelors Degree Your University 2002 - 2006
procedures Managed HIPA compliance throughout nursing staff Trained new employees
REfer to Pathway icons to find the resume example 16
FOR YOU
It is estimated that on average an employer spends between six to fifteen seconds evaluating a résumé during the first review. For individuals with less than 10 years’ experience and no advanced degree, a résumé should be one page. There are some exceptions. For instance, some clinical and scientific majors require a student to record his or her clinical and research experience.
JOHNATHON DOE W E B
D E V E L O P E R
123 North West Apple Street Westbrook, OH
(300) 411 1230
johnathondoe@email.com
I am a web developer. I focus on creating the technical structure for websites. I make sure that the pages are easily accessible as well as downloadable through a variety of browsers and interfaces. I have an eye for creating web pages that maximize the number of views and visitors through search engines. My level of creativity and excellent communication skills will ensure I meet your needs.
EDUCATION
SKILLS
REPERTOIRE Campaign Websites
Wallace State • 2015
Illustrator
Visual Arts, Summer Residency
Photoshop
Graphic Design
Pine School of Design • 2014
Premiere
Typography and Lettering
Corel Draw
Online Shops
Microsoft Office
Print Design
BA Multimedia Arts
West Lake High School • 2009 Secondary Education
WORK EXPERIENCE Website Manager Great Ideas, Inc. Jan 2013 - Dec 2014
Responsible for and coordinated website development Project leader of feasibility and layouts Led and consulted teams on overall feel of website
Web Design Consultant David Media Interactive Feb 2011 - Dec 2012
Implemented and improved several company web pages Led design teams for overall design and inter-workings Consulted with a variety of businesses in creating web pages
Developer Intern HW Reid Multimedia Apr 2010 - Aug 2011
Researched designs for company Studied search engine popularity Worked alongside interns to brainstorm new designs
REFERENCES Ryan James
Maria Diaz
Lecturer, Pine School of Design
Creative Director, HW Reid Multimedia
(123) 123 1234
(123) 321 4321
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER
LAYOUT DESIGNER
SENIOR DESIGNER
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James Doe
REL ATED EXPERIENC E
CO NTAC T
C ERTIFIC ATIONS
PROFILE
T ECHNIC AL SKIL LS
MAC HINE O PERAT IO NS/ EQ U IP MENT PROCESSES
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H E A D I NG S HE NGS JOHNATHON DOE W E B
D E V E L O P E R
123 North North West West Apple Apple Street Street Westbrook, Westbrook, OH OH 123
(300) 411 411 1230 1230 (300)
johnathondoe@email.com johnathondoe@email.com
am aa web web developer. developer. II focus focus on on creating creating the the technical technical structure structure for for websites. websites. II make make sure sure that II am that the the pages are are easily easily accessible as accessible as well well as downloadable as downloadable through through a a variety variety of of browsers browsers and and interfaces. interfaces. II pages have an an eye eye for for creating creating web web pages pages that that maximize maximize the the number number of of views views and and visitors visitors through through search have search engines. My My level level of of creativity creativity and and excellent excellent communication communication skills skills will will ensure ensure II meet meet your your needs. engines. needs.
ED DU UC CA AT T II O ON N E Wallace State • 2015 Wallace University, 2015 Visual Arts, Arts, Summer Summer Residency Residency Visual Pine School School of of Design Design •• 2014 2014 Pine BA Multimedia Multimedia Arts Arts BA
West Lake Lake High High School School •• 2009 2009 West Secondary Education Education Secondary
SSKKI ILLLLSS Illustrator
Illustrator
Photoshop Photoshop Premiere Premiere Corel Draw Corel Draw Microsoft Office Microsoft Office
RE EP PE ER RT TO O II R RE R E Campaign Websites Campaign Websites Graphic Design Graphic Design Typography and Lettering Typography and Lettering Online Shops Online Shops Print Design Print Design
James Doe
WO OR RK K E EX XP PE ER R II E EN NC CE E W Website Manager Manager Website Great Ideas, Ideas, Inc. Inc. Great Jan 2013 2013 -- Dec Dec 2014 2014 Jan
Responsible for for and and coordinated coordinated website website development development Responsible Project leader leader of of feasibility feasibility and and layouts layouts Project Led and and consulted consulted teams teams on on overall overall feel feel of of website website Led
C ONTACT
Implemented and and improved improved several several company company web web pages • Include full name, mailing address, Implemented pages Web Design Design Consultant Consultant Web Led design design teams teams for for overall overall design design and and inter-workings inter-workings Led David Media Interactive Media Interactive David Consulted with with a a variety variety of of businesses businesses in in creating creating web phone number, and email address Consulted web Feb 2011 2011 -- Dec Dec 2012 2012 Feb pages pages • Name should be bold and between 18-22 point, or at minimum, at least Developer Intern Intern Researched designs designs for for company company Developer Researched one point than the body font HW Reid Reidlarger Multimedia Studied search engine popularity popularity HW Multimedia Studies search engine Apr 2010 2010 -- Aug Aug 2011 2011 Worked alongside alongside interns interns to to brainstorm brainstorm new new designs designs • Use anAprappropriate personalWorked email PROFILE address, never work email EF FE ER RE EN NC CE ES S E • Depending on your field, aRRlink Ryan James MariaDiaz Diaz Ryan James Maria to yourLecturer, online portfolio might be Pine School of of Design CreativeDirector, Director,HW HWReid Reid Multimedia Multimedia Creative Lecturer, Pine School Design 123 1234 (123)321 3214321 4321 beneficial (123) (123) (123) 123 1234
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EDUC AT I ON JANELLE DOE
• Education should be listed from newest to oldest JOHNATHON DOE BSN, • Include the degree title, school name, city and state, and W E B D E V E L O P E R graduation month and year North West Apple (300) 411 1230 johnathondoe@email.com • Include123your GPA ifStreet it isWestbrook, 3.0 or OH higher P E Rthe SO Nhigh A Lstructure Pschool ROF LE I am aspecified, web developer. I do focusnot on creating technical forI websites. I make sure that the • Unless include
RN
pages are easily accessible as well as downloadable through a variety of browsers and interfaces. I
have an 205.123.1234 eye for creating web pages that the number views and visitors through search Usemaximize this area to sellofyourself. The key to this area
is to
engines. My level of creativity and excellent communication skills will ensure I meet your needs.
PROVE that you will be an asset to this company/business
by listing achievements. Objective statements are far too
EDUCATION jdoe@email.com
SKILLS
want toIllustrator be 100% sure you will provide value to their Campaign Websites
Wallace State • 2015 Visual Arts, Summer Residency
Photoshop PROVE YOUR Graphic Design establishment. WORTH!
Pine School of Design • 2014 BA Multimedia Arts Townsville, Tn
West Lake High School • 2009 Secondary Education
REPERTOIRE
outdated. The interviewer knows you want the job. They
Premiere
Typography and Lettering
E X P E Corel R I EDraw NCE
Online Shops
Microsoft Office
Print Design
Registered Nurse June 2014 - June 2017
linkedin.com/ yourusername
WDr. O RJames K E X PDoe E R I E- N CE Townsville, TN
Website Manager Great Ideas, Inc. Jan 2013 - Dec 2014
SKILLS
Communication Teamwork
Problem Solving
Web Design Consultant Professionalism David Media Interactive Feb 2011 - Dec 2012 Leadership
EDUCATION Developer Intern Masters Degree HW Reid Multimedia Your University Apr 2010 - Aug 2011
2007 - 2009
Primary care, assessment, evaluation
Responsible for and coordinated website development
Collected samples forand lablayouts Project leader of feasibility
Led and consulted teams on overall feel of website
Educated patients on post-op care
Led support groups related to physical and mental health Implemented and improved several company web pages Led design teams for overall design and inter-workings
Registered Nurse Consulted with a variety of businesses in creating web pages
January 2009 - August 2014 West City Women's Care Organization - Townsville, TN Assessed and collected lab samples Researched patients designs for vitals company Studied search engine popularity Worked with women on routine care and ways to Worked alongside interns to brainstorm new designs
improve overall G R Ahealth PHIC
DESIGNER
Assisted doctor with in-house surgeries and other Bachelors Degree Your University James 2002Ryan - 2006
Lecturer, Pine School of Design (123) 123 1234
Rprocedures EFERENCES
Managed HIPA compliance throughout nursing staff Maria Diaz Creative Director, HW Reid Multimedia Trained new employees (123) 321 4321
LAYOUT DESIGNER
SENIOR DESIGNER
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E XP E RI ENC E JOHNATHON DOE W E B
D E V E L O P E R
123 North West Apple Street Westbrook, OH
(300) 411 1230
johnathondoe@email.com
I am a web developer. I focus on creating the technical structure for websites. I make sure that the • Provide name of employers, job title, city, state, beginning and pages are easily accessible as well as downloadable through a variety of browsers and interfaces. I ending and ofmaximize employment. (If ongoing, usesearch hire date have anmonth, eye for creating webyear pages that the number of views and visitors through engines. My level of creativity and excellent communication skills will ensure I meet your needs. to “Present”) • Experience should be listed from newest to oldest. For an EDUCATION SKILLS REPERTOIRE ongoing position, use present tense. For past positions, use past Illustrator Campaign Websites tense Wallace State • 2015 Visual Arts, Summer Residency Photoshop Graphic Design • Be diverse in your use of verbsPremiere to demonstrate your vocabulary Pine School of Design • 2014 Typography and Lettering Multimedia Arts range. BA Use the “Action Verb” Corel suggested on page 15 Draw Online Shops Lake High School • 2009 Microsoft Office for your current Print Design • DO West NOT provide contact information supervisor Secondary Education
WORK EXPERIENCE Website Manager Great Ideas, Inc. Jan 2013 - Dec 2014
Responsible for and coordinated website development Project leader of feasibility and layouts Led and consulted teams on overall feel of website
Web Design Consultant David Media Interactive Feb 2011 - Dec 2012
Implemented and improved several company web pages Led design teams for overall design and inter-workings Consulted with a variety of businesses in creating web pages
Developer Intern HW Reid Multimedia Apr 2010 - Aug 2011
Researched designs for company Studied search engine popularity Worked alongside interns to brainstorm new designs
REFERENCES Ryan James Lecturer, Pine School of Design 123 1234 REL AT ED EX P(123) ERIENC E
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Maria Diaz
Creative Director, HW Reid Multimedia (123) 321 4321
LAYOUT DESIGNER
SENIOR DESIGNER
C ERT IFIC AT IO N S
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[
ADDITIONA L SE CTION S
[
S K IL LS RELATED EX PERIENC E This section can highlight the abilities and assets that your experience does not communicate. (Foreign languages, programming, etc.)
INVOLV EMENT Participation in organizations and activities are a great way to showcase your social and team building skills. CERTIFICAT IO NS
HO NO R S & A WA RD S J O Hacademic NATH O NandDawards O E that you Add this section to highlight honors W E B D E V E L O P E R have earned. 123 North West Apple Street Westbrook, OH I am aLweb TECHNIC AL SKIL S
(300) 411 1230
johnathondoe@email.com
developer. I focus on creating the technical structure for websites. I make sure that the
pages are easily accessible as well as downloadable through a variety of browsers and interfaces. I have an eye for creating web pages that maximize the number of views and visitors through search engines. My level of creativity and excellent communication skills will ensure I meet your needs.
EDUCATION
SKILLS
REPERTOIRE Campaign Websites
Wallace State • 2015
Illustrator
Visual Arts, Summer Residency
Photoshop
Graphic Design
Pine School of Design • 2014
Premiere
Typography and Lettering
Corel Draw
Online Shops
Microsoft Office
Print Design
BA Multimedia Arts
West Lake High School • 2009 Secondary Education
WORK EXPERIENCE Website Manager Great Ideas, Inc. Jan 2013 - Dec 2014
Responsible for and coordinated website development Project leader of feasibility and layouts Led and consulted teams on overall feel of website
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cover
letter
A cover letter should always be included with your rĂŠsumĂŠ unless specifically instructed to omit this document. A cover letter is an excellent opportunity to stand apart, because not all applicants will invest the time, effort, and creativity to create a meaningful and compelling letter
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JANELLE DOE
BSN, RN
1234 North 6th Street Apt. 3 Townsville, TN 34309 / (205) 123.1234 / jdoe@email.com
March 14,2017
Michelle Davis Hiring Manager Limestone NW Hospital 222 Main Street Townsville, TN 34309 RE: RN Supportive Care Position Dear Ms. Davis: I see you are searching for a candidate for the RN Supportive Care Position. I am your match! I have over nine years of experience in providing service to a vast age range of patients. I have organized, as well as, led many research and development teams that teach patients about the physical and mental side effects of a majority of different conditions. I will deliver care to patients using the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation and evaluation. I have several professional references and recommendations available on my profile on Linkedin.com. Here's the link to my profile: Linkedin.com/JanelleDoe I look forward to meeting you to further discuss my qualifications and what I can provide for Limestone NW Hospital. I am so excited for an opportunity to join your team. Please see my attached résumé and thank you so much for you time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Janelle Doe Enclosure: Resume
REfer to Pathway icons to find the cover letter example
FOR YOU 25
JOHNATHON DOE W E B
D E V E L O P E R
123 North West Apple Street Westbrook, OH
(300) 411 1230
johnathondoe@email.com
May 9, 2017 123 North West Apple Street Ray Smith Management Team New Eyes Technology, Inc. 17th Street Railway Avenue Woodland, PA 12393 RE: Lead Web Developer
Westbrook, OH | (300) 411 1230 | johnathondoe@email.com
Dear Mr. Smith: Are you in search of a highly qualified, creative, and eager new Lead Web Developer? Look no further! I have a vast amount of experience in working with many different types of businesses. In 2015, I led a team that created a website that increased the company's sales by 30%. I have a keen eye for what sells, what interests people, and what will ultimately make you money. With my experience, I am certain that I can be a valuable asset to your team over at New Eyes Technology, Inc. Here are some of the many web pages I have designed in my career: www.vintagebluejeans.com www.cameraequiptment.com www.readysetimaging.com I look forward to meeting you and discussing my possibility of working for you. I am eager to provide my set of skills and expertise in web design and functionality to your company. Can we set up a call or meeting, so your business can grow 30% as well? Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,
Johnathon Doe
Johnathon Doe Attachments: Resume
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James Doe
James Doe
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Cover Letter TIPS
1
Address your letter to a specific person
Call the company and ask to whom the letter should be addressed or search for contacts using linkedin.com
3
Show enthusiasm and interest
5
Do not repeat your resume
Do not be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the company and position to which you are applying when writing your letter
Your cover letter should highlight your qualifications as they relate to the position and entice the employer to review your rĂŠsumĂŠ
Note:
2
tailor your letter to the specific position
4
Use confident language
6
Final action
Sending out generic cover letters tells the employer that you have not done your research on the company and position
Avoid using words like "I think, I feel, or I believe." Words like "I am convinced" or "I am confident" convey a more assertive message
Ask for the interview, "I look forward to hearing from you" or "I appreciate your time and consideration."
Do not use "I" or "My" repeatedly Don't start every sentence with "I" or "My" to avoid listing or repeating your resume. You will become more aware of this problem if you have a friend read the letter aloud to you. 29
ONLINE PRESENCE
digication Digication is an ePortfolio tool for students to share their work online with their friends, teachers, and potential employers
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https://www.wallacestate.digication.com/
ONLINE PORTFOLIOS
Professional online portfolios are websites that communicate and display your skills and experiences to an employer through the displaying of documents, pictures, and work samples. These items can include video presentations, internship highlights, photos of volunteer experiences, and project samples that relate to the position or company that you are targeting.
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Online Identity Before you begin your job search, you should know which details of your life are on the Internet and how to develop a positive online identity. Most employers now look online to see what information they can find about potential employees.
Ma nag i n g / U T I L I ZI N G YOU R ONL I N E I DE N T I T Y • Explore your online personal profile by entering your name in popular search engines • Contact any website administrator and ask them to remove outdated, inflammatory, or misleading information • Many community sites prompt you to put personal information in your profile. Most of the time, you should be able to find a way to limit the amount of information you share • When you begin developing searchable material, you are taking control of your online identity • Think of everything you post as a professional reflection • Avoid typos and text talk/slang and be sure to proofread and edit your content from an employer’s point of view • When in doubt be conservative and use discretion.
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If you have questions regarding having a professional social media presence or how to utilize social media in your internship or co-op search, come see us in Career Services
According to a LinkedIn Survey from 2016
92%
recruit through
Social Networks
87%
Employers using LinkedIn
47% Employers using Twitter
55%
Employers using Facebook
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Li nkedI n LinkedIn is a social networking site designed specifically for the business community. The goal of the site is to allow registered members to establish and document networks of people they know and trust professionally. A LinkedIn member’s profile page, which emphasizes skills, employment history, and education, has professional network news feeds and a limited number of customizable modules. Basic membership for LinkedIn is free.
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Best Practices for LinkedIn
1
GET your profile to 100%
2
Use a professional picture
The site is helpful in instructing suscribers on how to improve their profile.
Use a photo where your face takes up at least 60% of the frame and the background is not distracting.
3
4
Be Professional
Being an active contributor to a group on LinkedIn is a great way to showcase your expertise and to network with other professionals.
Do not engage in debates or personal life drama on LinkedIn. Utilize the site to showcase your professional credentials.
5
6
Visit Linkedin.com/alumni
The university site has helpful tutorials and more tips for transforming novice LinkedIn users into veterans.
The alumni site allows you to search all current registered Wallace State Alumni. Currently there are 5,600 registered Wallace State alumni.
Join a group
visit university.linkedin.com
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80%
JOBS THROUGH NETWORKING
Despite the explosion of online job search tools, 80% of today’s jobs are still obtained via networking. This percentage of networkers represents savvy jobseekers that understand securing employment requires both online and personal networking such as attending Job & Career Fairs, Professional Associations, and other community networking events.
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CAREER
&
JOB FAIRS Meet with employers in an informal setting to learn more about job and internship opportunities offered by companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
Consider your Attire Your style of dress may vary according to the field you are considering and the employers you plan to meet. However, you will find that most employers will be wearing business-casual attire, which is always a good choice. For example, consider wearing pressed slacks or a skirt with a blouse, sweater, or collared shirt.
Eligibility The Job and Career Fair is open to the public, however, only registered Wallace State students can use the services of Career Development, including participating in Job and Career Fair/Forums.
Consider your Approach • Make eye contact, introduce yourself, and shake hands • Prepare and practice your introduction. What do you want the employer to know about you? Which of your skills and experiences do you want to highlight? • Have a concise 15-second “sales pitch” prepared • Make sure to develop some good questions of your own to ask the employer(s). • Collect business cards • Send a thank you note to employers you met
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Interviewing
When you have successfully mastered rÊsumÊs, cover letters, and developed a positive online presence, it’s time to prepare for job interviews. Even the smartest and most qualified job seekers need to prepare for job interviews because Interviewing is a learned skill, and there are no second chances to make a great first impression. 38
TYpes of Interviews Before the interview, realize that there are several common types of job interviews. Ask what type of interview will be conducted as to best prepare.
PHONE SCREENING A phone interview may be utilized for a position where the candidate is not local or for an initial prescreening call to see if they want to invite you in for an in-person interview. You may be asked typical questions or behavioral questions. Most of the time you will schedule an appointment for a phone interview. If the interviewer calls unexpectedly, it is acceptable to ask them politely to schedule an appointment. On a phone interview, make sure your call waiting is turned off, you are in a quiet room, and you are not eating, drinking or chewing gum.
VIDEO CONFERENCE Video interviews take the phone-screening interview to the next level, and they are becoming a regular part of the job application process for many companies. Dress for success and make sure all of your technical systems are operational before the interview.
TRADITIONAL The traditional interview consist of being interviewed by a representative of the company, most likely the manager of the position.
PANEL The panel may consist of different representatives of the company such as human resources, management, and employees. The reason why some companies conduct panel interviews is to save time or to get the collective opinion of the panel regarding the candidate. Each member of the panel may be responsible for asking you questions that represent relevancy from their position.
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Interviewing Basics Research the Employer You should understand the employer, the requirements of the job, and the background of the person interviewing you. The more research you conduct, the more you will understand the employer, and the better you’ll be able to answer interview questions. Research the organization’s website and other published materials and ask questions about the company through its suppliers.
Remember the Importance of Body Language Effective forms of body language include smiling, eye contact, good posture, active listening, and nodding. Detrimental forms of body language include slouching, looking off in the distance, playing with a pen, fidgeting in a chair, brushing back your hair, touching your face, chewing gum, or mumbling.
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Review Common Interview Questions & Prepare Responses First, ask the hiring manager as to the type of interview to expect. How many interviewers will be present? Your goal is to try to determine what you will be asked and to compose proper responses that focus on specific examples of your accomplishments. A good tool for remembering your responses is to put them into a story form that you can tell in the interview.
Dress for Success
Plan a wardrobe that fits the organization and its culture, striving for a professional appearance. Remember to wear clothing that fits well, is clean, and pressed. Keep accessories and jewelry to a minimum. Try not to smoke or eat right before the interview and if possible, brush your teeth, or use mouthwash.
Arrive on Time & Prepared for the Interview Arrive about 15 minutes before the scheduled interview to complete additional paperwork and allow time to acclimate. Arriving a bit early is also a chance to observe the dynamics of the workplace. The day before the interview, prepare extra copies of your rĂŠsumĂŠ or CV and reference list. If you have a portfolio or samples of your work, bring those along too. Also, remember to bring several pens and a pad of paper to take notes. Finally, as you get to the destination, shut off your cell phone.
Make Good First Impressions Offer a warm greeting to everyone you meet from the receptionist to the interviewer. Employers are often curious how job applicants interact with staff members. Make a strong first impression by dressing well, arriving early, and when greeting your interviewer, stand, smile, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. Remember that having a positive attitude and expressing enthusiasm for the position and employer are important; studies show that hiring managers make critical decisions about applicants in the first 20 minutes of the interview.
Be Authentic, Upbeat, Focused, Confident, and Concise The key to success is the quality and delivery of your responses to the questions. Your strategy is to provide short narratives, which provide solid examples of solutions and accomplishments. By preparing responses to common interview questions, you will ideally avoid long, rambling responses. Finally, no matter how much an interviewer might press you, never speak negatively about a previous employer, boss, or co-worker. The interview is about you and making your case that you are the ideal candidate for the job.
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Prepare Questions to Ask Studies continually show that employers make a judgment about an applicant’s interest in the job by whether the interviewee asks questions. Thus, even if the hiring manager was thorough in his or her discussions about the job opening and what is expected, you must ask questions to clarify your interest. This shows that you have done research and that you are insightful. The smart jobseeker prepares at least two questions to ask days before the interview.
Sell Yourself and then Close the Deal The winning candidate is often the jobseeker who does the best job responding to interview questions and displaying his or her fit with the job, department, and organization. You are the salesperson, and the product you are selling to the employer is your ability to fill the organization’s needs, solve its problems, and further its success. Finally, as the interview winds down, ask about the next steps in the process and the timetable in which the employer expects to come to a decision.
Thank Interviewer(s) in Person, by Email, or Postal Mail Common courtesy and politeness make an impact in interviewing; thus, the importance of thanking each person who interviews you should come as no surprise. Writing thank-you emails and notes shortly after the interview will not get you the job offer, but doing so will certainly give you an edge over any of the other finalists who did not bother to send thank-you notes.
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ILLEGAL
questions
While looking for a new job, you are going to have to answer some tough questions in the interview process. However, did you know there are some questions that are illegal for employers to ask you? For instance, it is illegal to ask any questions related to our human rights. These include race, gender, nationality, religion, military status and age (40 and up). Usually, such questions have little to do with the job's essential duties. However, these questions are usually unintentionally disguised.
Who will take care of your children while you are at work? The law prohibits making employment decisions based on gender stereotypes. Assuming, that women or men with children are less committed to work than those without.
How did you get that scar/mark/other physical abnormality?
The ADA prohibits not only discrimination against those with an actual disability but against those who are regarded as disabled. Questions about an employee's physical disability are prohibited.
How often are you deployed for your Army Reserve training exercises? Employers cannot make employment decisions based on a service member's membership or active duty service in the military. Essentially, the employer cannot ask questions about the effect of the employee's military service on his or her ability to work for the employer.
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When are you planning to have children? Employers cannot make judgments about a person’s dedication to their work by whether they have kids or will have them in the future. Even a question such as “when is your baby due?” to a pregnant applicant is not illegal, but it presents a risk for employers because it obviously seeks information about an applicant’s pregnancy, and discrimination based on pregnancy is illegal.
Have you ever been arrested? It is legal to ask about whether candidates have been convicted of a crime, but not if they have been arrested. Cases may have been dismissed without a conviction, or the original charges may have been lowered to lesser charges.
Where do you live?
What is your native tongue? While it is okay to ask if a candidate is legally eligible for employment in the U.S., it’s not okay to ask about citizenship or national origin.
Are you planning on retiring? Asking candidates what their future goals are is okay, but asking when they plan to retire is off the table.
Asking candidates where they live could be interpreted as discrimination based on their location and is therefore illegal. Asking them if they are willing to relocate, however, is okay.
I see you were in the military, were you honorably discharged? Asking how a military veteran was discharged is illegal; however, asking what type of education, training or work experience received while in the military is not.
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DRESS for SUCCESS
Before you say a single word to the interviewer, you have already made an impression based on how you are dressed. The guidelines given here are commonly accepted as appropriate for interviewing. Every company has a different dress code; how you dress at the job may have very little to do with how you dress for an interview
gentlemen • Dress in a manner that is professionally appropriate to the position for which you are applying. It is rarely appropriate to “dress down” for an interview, regardless of company dress code policy, go conservative • You should wear a suit to interviews. “Suit” means the works: a matching jacket and pants, dress shirt, tie, coordinating socks and dress shoes. A dark-colored suit with a light colored shirt is your best option • Your clothes should be comfortable and fit you well so that you look and act your best • Avoid loud colors and flashy ties • Clothing should be neat, clean, and pressed. If you do not have an iron, either buy one or visit the dry cleaner. • Be sure to shower or bathe the morning of the interview to look fresh and awake. Wear only deodorant rather than cologne or aftershave to avoid having an over powering smell or causing an allergic reaction • Make sure you have fresh breath. Brush your teeth before you leave for the interview, and do not eat before the interview. Do not smoke right before an interview • Your hair should be neat, clean, and conservative
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dress shirt
Note:
tie
dress shoes
Remember to dress for your audience. It is not always appropriate to wear a suit. 47
Ladies • Generally, you should wear a blazer with a skirt or a pant suit. When in doubt, be more conservative • Interview suits should be simple and dark in color. Anything tight, bright, short, or sheer should be avoided. Knee-length skirts are appropriate • Wear a conservative blouse with your suit. Do not wear bright colors, animal prints, or anything lacy, sheer, or low-cut • Make-up and nail polish should be understated and flattering; shades that are neutral to your skin tone are generally advisable. Avoid bright or unusual colors or very long nails • Keep your jewelry and hair accessories to a minimum, and stick to those that are not flashy, distracting, or shiny. One ring per hand is best • Shoes should be conservative and low-heeled. They should be in reasonably good condition, not scuffed or run-down at the heels • Dress in a manner that is professionally appropriate to the position for which you are applying • Your clothing should always be neat, clean, and pressed. If you do not have an iron, either buy one or visit the dry cleaner. • Be sure to shower or bathe the morning of the interview to look fresh and awake. Wear only deodorant rather than perfume to avoid having an over powering smell or causing an allergic reaction • Make sure you have fresh breath. Brush your teeth before you leave for the interview, and do not eat before the interview. Do not smoke right before an interview
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conservative knee-length closed toed dress skirt heels
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FOLLOW UP
Etiquette
After the interview, sit down and write a thank-you note to each person with whom you interviewed. Thank you notes can be emailed or handwritten. In this job market, which can often demand several interviews, thank you notes may demand quite an investment. However, it is an investment well worth the time. Next, a hiring manager will give you an idea of when the company plans to decide. Never follow up before that date. However, if the date the hiring manager indicated has passed, it is time to follow up with an email or phone call.
“Hi, Jamie. I interviewed with you on Monday for the XXX position. I thought I would follow-up with you since mentioned you might have a decision by Thursday. How is the process going?�
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things might happen here: 1. You will find that either you did or did not get the job 2. They will respond to let you know the process is on-going 3. They may not respond at all
If you did get the job, congratulations. If you did not get the job, just brush yourself off and get back in the saddle. The right job is still out there. If the hiring process is still underway, wait a week and then send another email.
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"Good Afternoon, Jamie. Thanks again for the great interview. I just wanted you to know that I am still very interested in this opportunity with [name of company]. Please call or email me with an update on your hiring process at your earliest convenience."
Handwritten
"Thank You" sample
Dear [Interviewer]: Thank you very much for the interview today. In reviewing the opportunity with [name of company], I feel confident that I would be a great fit for the position. In closing, let me say that no matter how many people you interview, what his or her education or experience is, you will not find anyone who wants to work for you more than I do.
Very truly yours,
[your name]
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Evaluating offers
Respond Appropriately It is common for the topic of salary to be discussed before an offer is presented. When filling out applications always respond to salary requirements as “negotiable,” and salary history as “competitive.” Should an employer ask you during the interview what your salary requirements are, indicate a range rather than a dollar amount, “Based on the industry average and my level of experience, I am seeking between $32k and $34k.”
Knowing Your Value Although many entry-level positions are in a fixed salary range, your ability to negotiate your salary range depends upon your qualifications and the depth of your salary research.
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Congratulations, you got a job offer!
All the hard work you did in networking, perfecting your résumé and cover letter, interviewing, and followingup with employers has paid off. There is no reason to accept an offer “on the spot,” and most employers will not expect you to do so. Give yourself several days to evaluate the offer before making a final decision, even if you are certain you want the job
Evaluating Job Offers Once you received a job offer, never accept or reject the offer immediately. Ask for 24-hours to consider it. Next, compare the offer to your salary research, consider the companies opportunities and training, as well as insurance plans. If the salary is nonnegotiable then ask about bonuses, performance evaluations with salary reviews, overtime opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and moving expense reimbursements.
Accepting or Declining If you accept or decline the offer, do so both verbally and in writing. Thank them for the job offer and inform them of your decision. It is always in your best interest to maintain a positive, professional relationship.
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Get ready for your tomorrow,
Get Placed Today
Wallace State Community College Career Services 801 Main Street Hanceville, Al 35077
256.352.8461
Room 903 of the Bailey Center