Careers Part 2

Job Search Procedures Unit 1 Objective 3.03

Procedures for a Successful Job Search Locating job openings Newspapers-want ads in Classifieds (Winston-Salem Journal, Lexington Dispatch) Schools-bulletin boards, websites (WSSU, WFU, Forsyth Tech) Employment agencies (Employment Security Commission) Internet leads (job search sites and company websites) Networking (Word of Mouth, Who you know) Social Networks (Facebook, Twitter)

Technology and Job Search Procedures Examples to illustrate how technology is changing job search procedures “Social” networking used in work/professional settings Posting availability and openings on the Internet Obtaining and submitting job applications electronically Using electronic portfolios, including resumés and work samples

Technology and Job Search Procedures Tips for networking safely on “social” networks Use a “strong” password that is difficult to guess Avoid sharing full date of birth Use privacy controls Avoid posting names with photos, especially of children Avoid posting photos that could damage your credibility Avoid stating when you will be away from home Avoid checking the box for public search results; select “Only Friends”

Technology and Job Search Procedures Tips for sending materials electronically Label attachments appropriately with your name, purpose of file, and date Make E-mail messages concise, but have proper word usage, no acronyms Use a businesslike, professional tone

Job Search Assignment Complete in a Word Document For each of the three careers you have researched you are to find 2 job postings using 2 different resources listed below: Newspaper online (Winston-Salem Journal, Lexington Dispatch, Charlotte Observer, etc) Schools (ASU, WFU, Forsyth Tech, DCC, UNCG, etc) Employment Agencies (NC Employment Security Commission) Company Websites (Coca-cola, Bank of America, etc) Networking (Heard from friends and family) Social Networking (Facebook and Twitter) For each job posting answer the following: Resource used to find this posting Date posted and job description Required Education Experience needed Salary/Wage Benefits

Preparing a Successful Resume Information to Include on a Resume: Heading: name, address, phone number, and e-mail address of the individual Objective: clearly describes the position one would like to attain Education: history of educational background Experience: describes work responsibilities at each job

Preparing a Successful Resume Information to Include on a Resume: Skills: list skills related to a desired job (how did you acquire them, use them?) (ex: Proficient in all Microsoft and Adobe software) Honors, Awards, Activities, Volunteer Services: list any accomplishment or leadership experience related to these fields References: never list them directly on resume but should state “References available upon request”

Preparing a Successful Resume Information to NOT include on a Resume: Height Weight Social Security Number Birth Date Marital Status Photos Salary History Reasons for leaving past jobs Hobbies, activities, and memberships not related to desired job

Preparing a Successful Resume How a Resume should look: Placed on 8.5” x 11” white or off white colored paper One to two pages in length Neat and easy to read Have all the required components Free of staples and folds

Preparing a Successful Resume General Tips: Be honest – never stretch the truth Never list exact dates, just month and year Do not used “I” statements (ex: I can type 75 words a minute) Use acronyms only after defining them

Preparing a Successful Resume Using Action Words in Statements: Action words are used to emphasize responsibilities related to work experience: Examples: Clubs: Conducted weekly meetings, utilizing parliamentary procedure Part-Time Job: Assisted in training three new employees Farm-Hand: Managed and maintained the feed for 100 animals Sports: Communicated effectively with 35 football teammates

Resume Assignment Complete in a Word Document Use the “Basic Sample Resume” on the website to construct your own personal resume to use to find a job in high school or college. Within the template type in your personal information and use the “Developing a Resume” guide to assist you with your resume and finding action words. You may look at “Coach Stewart’s Resume” to get additional ideas as to how to use action words or categories.

Application Completion Procedures Completing an application Prior tasks Collect records on previous work experience Get permission to use names for references Identify skills needed for the position Standards for applications Typed or printed with black or blue ink Free of grammatical or spelling errors Answer all relevant questions Give specific, accurate information Answer with action verbs where appropriate List any honors, awards, and volunteer services that highlight general employability or specific skills needed for the position. Review “Job Application Example” located in Unit 1, Objective 3.03

Cover Letter Essentials What is a Cover Letter? A cover letter is a personalized, three to four paragraph business communication which generally accompanies a candidate’s resume. What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter? To get an Interview What is the Goal of a Cover Letter? To convince your potential employer you are a candidate worthy of serious consideration A well written cover letter presents your ability to communicate in writing, as well as your organizational ability

Cover Letter Components 3 Critical Parts of a Cover Letter: 1) Introduction – introduces yourself to the prospective employers 2) Body – your sales pitch, why you are the best candidate for the job 3) Conclusion – Politely indicate your desire for an interview

Cover Letter Tips Advice when writing Cover Letters: Should accompany every Resume Should be typed and font same as Resume Cover Letter should be addressed to a specific individual, particular the hiring manager Proofread several times Use “I” statements sparingly Be sure to sign Cover Letters in Black Ink Cover Letters should never be longer than 1 page Review “Cover Letter Tips” located in Unit 1, Objective 3.03

Cover Letter Assignment Complete in a Word Document Open “Developing a Cover Letter” from the website and read, then use this along with the “Sample Cover Letter” to create a cover letter for a job you have in mind or may some day.

Proper Interview Dress Interview attire One step above required attire for the position Dark neutral colors with white, cream, or light blue shirt Clean and well pressed Closed toed, polished shoes, with socks or hose Simple, conservative jewelry Well groomed hair worn off the face Avoid cologne and perfumes

Preparing for the Interview Interview Etiquette Before the interview Plan and check condition of attire Confirm location, directions, and travel time Research the company and the job opening Prepare answers for typical interview questions Prepare a list of questions about the job opening and work environment

Preparing for the Interview Interview Etiquette: During the interview Arrive about 15 minutes early Carry a notebook with your resumé, cover letter, job application, references, pen, and paper to take notes on Be cordial to everyone from arrival until you leave Greet interviewer by name with a firm handshake and smile Wait for the interviewer to direct you to a seat Sit straight and slightly forward with hands ready to take notes and ankles crossed or feet flat on the floor Think before answering Maintain eye contact, good posture, and avoid fidgeting DO NOT smoke, chew gum, lie, or use slang Be honest

Preparing for the Interview After an interview Evaluate where you need improvement Send a thank you note immediately Follow up several days later with a phone call Continue the job search

Interview Follow-Up Thank you notes Send a thank you note to a person who: referred you to an employer interviewed you for employment offered you a position rejected you for employment provided you with general information wrote a recommendation

Interview Follow-Up Thank You Notes: Contents Addresses Date Salutation with title and last name Body with at least three sentences Typed DO NOT start first sentence with Thank you Mention something specific about the person or the interview Mention what your grateful for Proofread for appropriate content, spelling, and grammar Sign and type name

Interview Assignment Complete in a Word Document On the website, open up “Interview Etiquette Tips”. Read the entire document. Once read, write a 5 paragraph essay on what you have learned about interviews and the process. Each sentence should be at least 5 full sentences.