Job Seeking Skills Basic Concepts

Arrange for an Interview: Job Seeking Skills Arrange for an Interview: Know the name and position of the interviewer Correct pronunciation Write down information Make and keep your appointment Call to ask for an interview Plan what you want to say Speak clearly and distinctly Explain reason for calling immediately Short phone conversation

Job Seeking Skills Timing is everything: Arrive a few minutes early Know directions ahead of time – look it up on Google Maps if you don’t already know the way Be sure of transportation

Conversation with a purpose: Job Seeking Skills Conversation with a purpose: Employer wants to find out about you You want to find out about the company Let the interviewer lead the discussion

First Impressions Count: Job Seeking Skills First Impressions Count: Look like you would make a good employee Avoid attire that calls attention Not too tight, too short, or too baggy Skin, hair, nails, clean and neat Avoid excessive perfume/cologne Introduce yourself right away Offer a firm handshake

Keeping Your Attitude in Check Job Seeking Skills Keeping Your Attitude in Check Keep a positive attitude at all times Take advantage of questions to provide information Take samples of your work Mention further education Show letters of recommendation Qualifications and abilities

Filling out a job application: Job Seeking Skills Filling out a job application: Print neatly and clearly Be accurate – never lie Use a blue or black ink pen Read and follow instructions Watch spelling and grammar Re-read all information for accuracy

Do not leave blank spaces: Job Seeking Skills Do not leave blank spaces: Draw a line through a space or write N/A Have previous work experience written down Have names and addresses of references Have education information Have drivers license and/or social security numbers

Job Seeking Skills DO NOT: Criticize past employers Discuss hours, salary, benefits until close of interview Try too hard to make an impression Argue with the interviewer Plead how much you need the job

At the End of the Interview: Job Seeking Skills At the End of the Interview: Leave promptly Thank the interviewer for their time Write a thank you letter immediately after interview

Internships – Another Option Job Seeking Skills Internships – Another Option Another alternative to applying for a job is an internship An internship is a temporary opportunity for someone (intern) to learn job relevant skills rather than just employment An internship can be paid or unpaid Internships can be a great way to discover whether or not you would like to continue your educational endeavors in a particular field Participating in an internship will give you a competitive edge over others