Career Services Guide by Wallace State Community College

PREPARING TO GRADUATE

CAREER SERVICES GUIDE

TABLE OF

CONTENTS Mission Statement 4 Services Menu 5 Promoting the Pride 7

Soft Skills 8 Internship & Co-Op Guide 10 Job Search Guide 12 Marketing Materials 14 Pathways 16 Action Verbs 17

Résumé Examples 18 Headings 22 Education 23 Experience 24 Additional Sections 25

Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Tips 31

Online Presence 32 Online Identity 33 Online Portfolios 34 LinkedIn 36

Career & Job Fairs 38 Interviewing 40 Types of Interviews 41 Interviewing Basics 42 Common Interview Questions 46 Illegal Questions 48 Dress for Success 50 Follow Up Etiquette 54

Evaluating Offers 56 2

WHAT WE OFFER

Career Services offers a variety of resources to help you prepare and secure the career 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 interests, 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

Mission Statement:

Wallace State Career Services is committed to assisting students in achieving Career Readiness by developing employment soft skills, coordinating internship/ co-op placement, sharing career opportunities, and supporting students and graduates in securing employment.

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 “Readyto-Work” Program which trains students in the basic soft skills and abilities required by most leading businesses and industries in Alabama. Career Services can provide students with a complete interview outfit, which may include shirt, suit, pants/skirt, tie, accessories, and shoes. Clothing is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so come early for best selection.

SERVICES

• Career-related counseling • Assistance in developing career goals

• Career assessments • Employment soft skills education • Internships and co-op placement • Establish connections with: • Wallace State alumni • The community • Employers • Provide career preparedness for • Internships • Co-op placements • Career opportunities • Employment advancement • Mock interviews • Career Fairs • Career Center Website

Promoting the Pride 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 cutting-edge career network system used by many recruiters 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/logout?s=WallaceStatelogout?s=WallaceState

Our services assist students in becoming career-ready and prepared for success in their chosen career. 6

SOFT

SKILLS

The phrase ‘soft skills’ is used to describe the skills which characterize your ability to nurture relationships with other people. They are the interpersonal or “people” skills that help you to successfully interact with others. ‘Hard skills’, by contrast, is a phrase usually used to describe job-specific knowledge and abilities required for a particular job.

When you are seeking employment, your soft skills can be as important as the hard skills required to achieve success on the job. Regardless of the job, you have to interact effectively with supervisors and people above and below you in the workplace, as well as clients, customers, vendors, patients, etc. Here are the top five most important soft skills to have for both interviewing and in the workplace.

COMMUNICATION • • • • • • • • • • •

Listening Negotiation Nonverbal communication Persuasion Presentation Public speaking Read body language Storytelling Verbal communication Visual communication Writing skills

LEADERSHIP

CRITICAL THINKING • • • • • • • • • • •

Adaptable Creativity Critical observer Design sense Desire to learn Flexible Innovator Logical thinking Problem solving Research Resourceful

• • • • • • • • • •

Conflict resolution Decision making Delegation Facilitating Give clear feedback Inspiring Having difficult conversations Managing remote teams Organizing virtual teams Meeting management

TEAMWORK Accept feedback Collaborative Handling difficult situations Managing office politics Disability awareness Diversity awareness Emotional intelligence Establish interpersonal relationships • Influential • Networking • Self-awareness • • • • • • • •

WORK ETHIC • • • • • • • • • •

Dedicated Dependable Follow direction Highly organized Motivated Multitasking Perseverant Planning Punctual Results oriented

WORK-BASED

LEARNING

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.

According to 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.

Internships are typically onetime work or service experiences related to the student’s major or career goal. The internship plan generally involves students working in professional settings under the supervision and monitoring of practicing professionals. Internships can be paid or unpaid, and the student may or may not receive academic credit for performing the internship. Cooperative education programs (Co-ops) provide students with multiple periods of work in which the work is related to the student’s major or career goal. The typical program plan is for students to alternate terms of full-time classroom study with terms of full-time, disciplinerelated employment. Since program participation involves multiple work terms, the typical participant will work three or four work terms, thus gaining a year or more of career-related work experience before graduation. In some cases, the classroom

study and work will be blended throughout the student’s final year. Virtually all co-op positions are paid and the vast majority involve some form of academic credit. Apprenticeships consist of an industry-driven, on-the-job training under the direction/ instruction of a company mentor/ journeyman AND classroom theory spread over a longer period of time (1 or more years). Apprentices earn a progressive salary while learning the skill trade necessary to succeed in high demand careers. Apprenticeship models can be used for newly hired employees and usually result in a permanent employment offer OR can be utilized for already employed individuals requiring additional credentialing in the workplace. Apprenticeship programs can be sponsored and customized through a company or offered through the US Department of Labor as a Registered Apprenticeship (RA).

JOB SEARCH

GUIDE

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.

TARGETING With the help of Career Services, you will obtain information that will assist in the research, preparation and securing of career opportunities that lead to fulfilling employment.

To begin, select an industry that interests you. Then, locate businesses 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

MARKETING MATERIALS 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 by setting the price and communicating features and benefits to its targeted 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 résumés, CVs, and cover letters can be difficult, these documents are necessary to support qualifications and job experience.

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 the résumé or CV, cover letter, and portfolio are specifically tailored to each job you apply for and clearly explains how you are uniquely qualified for the position.

RÉSUMÉ

COVER LETTER

A résumé is a selective summary of your professional experiences and qualifications.

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.

CURRICULUM VITAE (CV) 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.

PORTFOLIO 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.

APPLIED TECHNOLOGIES A Pathway is designed to streamline the path to completion, improve success, and reduce wasted time spent changing majors. Students are encouraged to contact his/her advisor to learn more.

PICK YOUR

PATHWAY

HEALTH SCIENCES

S.T.E.M.

Computer Science Engineering Mathematics Pre-Engineering 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

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

ACTION VERBS

TO CREATE A MORE POWERFUL RĂ&#x2030;SUMĂ&#x2030;

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

LIBERAL ARTS/GENERAL STUDIES Art/Visual Communications Criminal Justice Business Education Paralegal Religion

RÉSUMÉ

EXAMPLES

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.

REFER TO PATHWAY ICONS TO FIND THE RÉSUMÉ EX AMPLE FOR YOU. 18

H E A D I NG S

HEADINGS •

Include full name, mailing address, phone number, and email address.

•

Name should be bold and between 18-22 point, or at minimum, one point larger than the body copy.

•

Use an appropriate personal email address, never work email.

•

Depending on your field, a link to your online portfolio might be beneficial.

EDUCATION •

Education should be listed from newest to oldest.

•

Include the degree title, school name, city and state, and graduation month and year.

•

Include your GPA if it is 3.0 or higher.

•

Unless specified, do not include high school.

EXPERIENCE Provide name of employers, job title, city, state, beginning and ending month, and year of employment. (If ongoing, use hire date to “Present.”) •

•

Experience should be listed from newest to oldest. For an ongoing position, use present tense. For past positions, use past tense.

•

Be diverse in your use of verbs to demonstrate your vocabulary range. Use the “Action Verb” suggested on page 17.

•

DO NOT provide contact information for your current supervisor.

HOW EMPLOYERS DECIDE BETWEEN TWO EQUALLY QUALIFIED CANDIDATES 2018 AVERAGE INFLUENCE RATING, ON A SCALE OF 1–5

4.6

4.4

Has completed Has internship an internship with experience in your organization. your industry.

3.8

3.7

Has relevant college major

Has held leadership position

Has general work experience

Source: “Job Outlook 2018.” National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 2017

ADDITIONAL SECTIONS

SKILLS

INVOLVEMENT

This section can highlight the abilities and assets that your experience does not communicate (foreign languages, programming, etc.).

Participation in organizations and activities are a great way to showcase your social and team building skills.

HONOR & AWARDS Add this section to highlight academic honors and awards that you have earned.

COVER LETTER

A cover letter should always be included with your résumé 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.

REFER TO PATHWAY ICONS TO FIND THE RÉSUMÉ EX AMPLE FOR YOU. 26

Johnathon Doe

COVER LETTER TIPS

ADDRESS YOUR LETTER TO A SPECIFIC PERSON

SHOW ENTHUSIASM AND INTEREST

DO NOT REPEAT YOUR RESUME

Call the company and ask to whom the letter should be addressed or search for contacts using linkedin.com.

Do not be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the company and position to which you are applying when writing your letter.

James Doe

Your cover letter should highlight your qualifications as they relate to the position and entice the employer to review your résumé.

TAILOR YOUR LETTER TO THE POSITION

Sending out generic cover letters tells the employer that you have not done research on the company and position.

USE CONFIDENT LANGUAGE

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.

FINAL ACTION

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.

ONLINE PRESENCE Your online presence is the sum of all identities you have created on the web and is very important because it is what allows employers to find you, interact with you, and trust you. When built successfully it will not only spread a positive awareness of your background and skills but will create employment leads and business opportunities.

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.

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.

MANAGING/UTILIZING YOUR ONLINE IDENTITY •

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 presence.

•

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.

DIGICATION

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.

https://www.wallacestate.digication.com/

Digication is an ePortfolio tool for students to share their work online with friends, teachers, and potential employers.

92%

EMPLOYERS RECRUIT THRU SOCIAL NETWORKS

SOCIAL NETWORKS

87% Employers using LinkedIn for recruiting

facebook 55% Employers using Facebook for recruiting

47%

Twitter

Employers using Twitter for recruiting

Today, it is important that you have profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. Recruiters inspect social profiles to target likely candidates and to get a sense of whether an applicant is likely to fit into the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture. Figures compiled from a LinkedIn survey in 2016

LINKEDIN 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

BEST PRACTICES FOR LINKEDIN memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

GET YOUR PROFILE TO 100% The site is helpful in instructing suscribers on how to improve their profile.

USE A PROFESSIONAL PICTURE Use a photo where your face takes up at least 60% of the frame and the background is not distracting.

JOIN A GROUP Being an active contributor to a group on LinkedIn is a great way to showcase your expertise and to network with other professionals.

BE PROFESSIONAL Do not engage in debates or personal life drama on LinkedIn. Utilize the site to showcase your professional credentials.

VISIT UNIVERSITY.LINKEDIN.COM The university site has helpful tutorials and more tips for transforming novice LinkedIn users into veterans.

VISIT LINKEDIN.COM/ALUMNI The alumni site allows you to search all current registered Wallace State Alumni. Currently there are 5,600 registered Wallace State alumni.

CAREER JOB FAIRS 80%

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. 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 Job and career fairs are excellent opportunites for you to meet with employers from local, national, and international businesses.

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.

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.

ELIGIBILITY: The Job and Career Fair is open to the public; however, only registered Wallace State students and alumni can utilize the full resources of Career Services, including participating in job and career fair forums.

TYPES OF

INTERVIEWS Before the interview, realize that there are several common types of job interviews. To best prepare, we need to know which type of interview will be conducted.

PHONE SCREENING

Get to know the job intimately that you’re applying for. Don’t just read the job description, but picture yourself performing every task required of you.

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 phonescreening 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.

When you have successfully mastered résumés, 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.

TRADITIONAL The traditional interview consists 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 his/her position.

MAKE GOOD FIRST IMPRESSIONS

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.

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.

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.

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 résumé 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.

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, & 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 coworker. The interview is about you and making your case that you are the ideal candidate for the job.

PREPARE QUESTIONS TO ASK

ASK BETWEEN 1-3 QUESTIONS AND MAKE SURE THEY ARE APPROPRIATE, THOUGHTFUL, AND ARTICULATE.

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.

Write a short thank you email, no more than a few sentences, within 24 hours of the interview. Also, when addressing more than one interviewer, customize each email. Interviewers often compare notes.

QUESTIONS

C O M M O N

I N T E R V I E W

While we unfortunately can’t prepare for every possibility, we have the next best thing: a list of the some common interview questions and answers. While we don’t recommend having a canned response for every question, we do recommend spending some time getting comfortable with what you might be asked, what hiring managers are looking for in your responses, and what it takes to show that you’re the right man or woman for the job. Can you tell me a little about yourself? This question seems simple, so many people fail to prepare for it, but it’s crucial. Here’s the point: Don’t give your complete employment or personal history. Instead give a pitch—one that’s concise and compelling and that shows exactly why you’re the right fit for the job. Begin with the 2-3 specific accomplishments or experiences that you most want the interviewer to know about, then talk about how that prior experience has positioned you for this specific role. How did you hear about the position? Another seemingly painless interview question, this is actually a perfect opportunity to stand out and show your passion for and connection to the company. For example, if you found out

about the job through a friend or contact, name drop that person, then share why you were so excited about it. If you discovered the company through an event or article, share that. Even if you found the listing through a random job board, share what, specifically, caught your eye about the role. What do you know about the company? Any candidate can read and regurgitate the company’s “About” page. So, when interviewers ask this, they aren’t necessarily trying to gauge whether you understand the mission—they want to know whether you care about it. Start with one line that shows you understand the company’s goals, using a couple key words and phrases from the website, but then go on to make it personal.

Why do you want this job? Again, companies want to hire people who are passionate about the job, so you should have a great answer about why you want the position. First, identify a couple of key factors that make the role a great fit for you (e.g., “I love customer support because I love the constant human interaction and the satisfaction that comes from helping someone solve a problem”), then share why you love the company (e.g., “I’ve always been passionate about education, and I think you guys are doing great things, so I want to be a part of it”). Why should we hire you? This interview question seems forward, but if you’re asked it, you’re in luck: There’s no better setup for you to sell yourself and your skills to the hiring manager. Your job here is to craft an answer that covers three things: that you can not only do the work, you can deliver great results; that you’ll really fit in with the team and culture; and that you’d be a better hire than any of the other candidates. What are your greatest professional strengths? When answering this question, share your true strengths, not those you think the interviewer wants to hear, and choose strengths

that are most targeted to this particular position. Then, follow up with an example of how you’ve demonstrated these traits in a professional setting. What do you consider to be your weaknesses? What your interviewer is really trying to do with this question— beyond identifying any major red flags—is to gauge your selfawareness and honesty. So, think of something that you struggle with but that you’re working to improve. For example, maybe you’ve never been strong at public speaking, but you’ve recently volunteered to run meetings to help you be more comfortable with crowds. What is your greatest professional achievement? Nothing says “hire me” better than a track record of achieving amazing results in past jobs, so don’t be shy when answering this interview question! A great way to do so is by using the S-T-A-R method: Set up the situation and the task that you were required to complete to provide the interviewer with background context (e.g., “In my last job as a junior analyst, it was my role to manage the invoicing process”), but spend the bulk of your time describing what you actually did (the action) and what you achieved (the result).

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). Typically, when an illegal question is asked, it’s not intentional. You don’t want to appear elusive, and or emotional with your responses because the interviewer may simply be trying to connect with you by discussing subjects other than work. Try to diplomatically respond to illegal or inappropriate questions by reversing it.

DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN? 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. Suggested Response: After noticing the family photos in your office, It looks like you do. How old are your children?

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.

Suggested Response: It’s a long story, but it hasn’t been an obstacle to my effectiveness in the past. Do you suspect it could affect my ability to do this job?

DO YOU PLAN ON HAVING CHILDEN SOON? Employers cannot make judgments about a person’s dedication to their work by whether they plan to have kids 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. Suggested Response: We’ve considered it. How do you feel about children?

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN ARRESTED?

ARE YOU PLANNING ON RETIRING?

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.

Asking candidates what their future goals are is okay, but asking when they plan to retire is off the table.

Suggested Response: If it is necessary for this position, I don’t forsee any problems in obtaining security clearance. Do you need my consent for a background check?

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? 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. Suggested Response: I’ve lived in a handful of places and fluent in these languages... Does the position require I know another language?

WHERE DO YOU LIVE? 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. Suggested Response: I would enjoy the short commute here. Do you live nearby?

Suggested Response: Definitely, in the future. Someday.

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. Suggested Response: Today, all military personnel are trained not to answer that particular question; however, I can speak about my skills and experience as it relates to this job. Have you served in the military?

HOW OFTEN ARE YOU DEPLOYED FOR TRAINING EXERCISES? Employers cannot ask questions about the effect of the employee’s military service on his or her ability to work for the employer. Suggested Response: It varies. However, my deployment will not affect my ability to perform my duties.

SUCCESS

DRESS FOR

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 its interview.

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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.

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Although a suit is not always appropriate, it’s better to dress-up too much, than not enough. Usually your best option is a dark-colored suit with a light colored shirt and matching pants, tie, coordinating socks, and dress shoes.

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Clothing should be neat, clean, and pressed. If you do not have an iron, either buy one or visit the dry cleaner.

Your clothes should be comfortable and fit you well so that you look and act your best.

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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.

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Your hair should be neat, clean, and conservative.

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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.

Avoid loud colors and flashy ties. •

Career Services can provide students a complete interview outfit, which may include shirt, suit, pants, tie, belt and shoes. Clothing is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so come early for best selection.

Your resume is up-to-date, you’ve practiced your answers to every possible question, and you’ve got the perfect combination of personality and skills for the job. This job should be yours, right? Not necessarily. You can sabotage even the best prospects by making a bad first impression because of a wardrobe or grooming mistake. Utilize this checklist to ensure you close the deal. •

Shoes should be conservative and low-heeled. They should be in reasonably good condition, not scuffed or run-down at the heels.

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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.

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Wear a conservative blouse with your suit. Do not wear bright colors, animal prints, or anything lacy, sheer, or low-cut.

Dress in a manner that is professionally appropriate to the position for which you are applying.

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

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An easy way to keep your hairstyle from being a distraction is by pulling it back into a low ponytail, braid, low chignon, or high bun.

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LADIES

Career Services can provide students a complete interview outfit, which may include blouse, suit, pants/skirt, accessories and shoes. Clothing is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so come early for best selection.

FOLLOW-UP ETIQUETTE After the interview, sit down and write a thank-you note to each person with whom you interviewed. Emails are always very appropriate for a phone interview or initial screen; however, always plan on handwritting a thank you note following a personal interview. Thank you notes are traditional, thoughtful, and generally show more interest in the position. To leave both an immediate and lasting impression, send both an email thank you immediately following the onsite interview, followed by a handwritten note in the next 24-48 hours. 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.

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]

NO RESPONSE? 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 [specific position]. I thought I would follow-up with you since mentioned you might have a decision by Thursday. How is the process going?

Three 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. 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.

EVALUATING OFFERS Congratulations! You received a job offer! All the hard work you did in networking, perfecting your résumé and cover letter, interviewing, and following-up 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.

RESPOND APPROPRIATELY WHEN EVALUATING A JOB OFFER, CONSIDER THE ENTIRE PACKAGE.

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.

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 company’s opportunities and training, as well as insurance plans. If the salary is non-negotiable then ask about bonuses, performance evaluations with salary reviews, overtime opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and moving expense reimbursements.

Websites like www.bls.gov/ooh/ can assist in career information and statitistics.

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.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT CAREER SERVICES.

WSCC Career Services

256.352.8461

801 Main Street

Bailey Center, Room 904

Hanceville, AL 35077

career@wallacestate.edu

It is the policy of Wallace State Community College, a postsecondary institution under the control of the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees, that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, or sexual orientation be excluded from participation in, be denied benefit of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program, activity or employment. The College will not retaliate against any person because they have engaged in a protected activity opposing the College or because they have made a complaint, testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in an investigation, proceeding or hearing alleging discrimination on a basis specified above. Wallace State Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.