Unit G Workplace Readiness 7.02 Demonstrate effective employability skills.

Networking A method of making links through the people you know to the people they know to expand the base of contacts for sharing information.

Importance of Networking  S S S Source of information, knowledge, new ideas, and opportunities CCCContacts become resources for leads and referrals and a way to qualify research or secure career advice.  N N N Networks are not formal groups that operate with formal rules. No one is in charge; they are shaped like a spider web that varies in size. All networks are optional and built on support. They may not provide immediate rewards but are resources to be utilized in the future.

Importance of Networking (cont.)  “ “ “ “Word of mouth” is one of the most powerful forms of communication in the business world. CCCContacts can be a source of endless possibility if the relationships are managed well and new ones are constantly developed. SSSSuccessful businesspeople may spend a large portion of their day networking and establishing contacts.

How do you establish and nurture contacts?  Attend functions that provide opportunities to meet and connect with other people interested in doing business.  Join clubs and trade associations and attend conferences.  Go to lunch with associates.  Network at church, community functions, and athletic events.  Join networks that are built around activities you enjoy and that will help you achieve your goals. Be willing to give, and you will receive.  Work to improve your conversational skills. Read, listen, and ask questions to learn all you can so that you become a more confident and interesting person with whom others will seek to network.

What are some networking obstacles?  P P P Personal barriers. Many people are either uncomfortable reaching out to others or see no value in doing so. This can stem from shyness, selfishness, or an unwillingness to trust others. LLLLack of knowledge. Some people do not understand the benefits of networking or do not know how to find a network to join.  L L L Lack of foresight. Some people do not look ahead to the value of what networking may bring them in the future. They do not have time to network today and will not make the time tomorrow.  L L L Lack of work ethic. Some people are satisfied doing just enough to keep a job and do not see the value in putting forth the extra effort to network.

Fashion Networks  Work to improve their segment of an industry and the success of their members  Often sponsors trade shows  Examples: American Textile Manufacturers, The Fashion Group International, National Retail Federation (NRF), and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CAFDA) Trade associations: Nonprofit, voluntary organizations made up of business associates that have common interests. American Apparel Manufacturers Association

Fashion Networks (cont.)  Headquartered in NY  Regional and local chapters around the world  Members must have a record of achievement and executive level success in the fashion industry.  Members include fashion designers, magazine editors, and retail executives. The Fashion Group: A global, nonprofit association of women executives who represent every segment of the fashion industry.

Fashion Networks (cont.)  American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): An association of home fashions professionals.  Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI): A main trade association for industrial textiles businesses. IFAI holds an annual conference and exhibition and produces two trade publications.

Documents for use in promoting oneself for employment  Resume  Cover letter  Application  Reference letter

Resume AAAA personal data sheet that provides a summary of the skills, abilities, and accomplishments of an individual. MMMMany resumes are completed online and ed to potential employers.

Resume (cont.)  Personal information provides the heading for the resume. It should include the name, address, telephone number, address, and fax number for contacting the applicant.  “Job Objective” identifies the position for which the applicant would like to be considered.  The “Education and Training” section provides information about formal education and any additional training acquired. This information should be listed in reverse chronological order.

Resume (cont.)  The “Work Experience” section describes work history, including any related volunteer work experience, and any specific skills one has acquired to enable him/her to perform a task more effectively. This information should be listed in reverse chronological order.  The section for “Activities, Honors, and Interests” provides information to show that the applicant is a well-rounded person.

Resume (cont.)  The “References” section, if included, lists individuals who can and will give the applicant a positive recommendation. Each reference should include the person’s name, title, business name, address, phone number, fax number, and address. Current practice is to omit the reference section and write a statement at the end of the resume that reads “References available upon request.”

Resume (cont.)  The resume should provide information related to the job you are seeking. Irrelevant information may draw attention away from your strengths.  Keep the resume simple and limit it to one page if possible.  The resume should be attractively formatted and completely free of errors.

Cover letter A personal business letter that accompanies a resume and introduces a person to the company.  May indicate how the applicant became interested in this particular company  Usually addresses a few strengths that qualify the applicant for the job  Requests an interview

Application A company-provided form on which the job applicant supplies requested information to be used in making a hiring decision.  With increased use of the Internet, applications are often completed online.

Reference letter A letter written by a former employer or business acquaintance describing an individual’s previous position, duties, job performance, and personal characteristics.  It is wise to keep a portfolio of these letters that can be used even if you lose touch with previous employers.

The Interview Process: Create a Positive First Impression  A good appearance has nothing to do with brand labels in clothing, beauty, good looks or sex appeal.  A professional appearance looks fresh and clean, appropriately dressed, and appears poised and confident.

The Interview Process: Create a Positive First Impression (cont.)  Dress in clothing that would be appropriate to wear to work if you are hired for the job. Executives wear business suits. White-collar workers wear dress clothes. Blue-collar workers sometimes wear dress clothes, but may wear work clothes or uniforms.  Clothes must be neat, clean, and pressed. Shoes must be clean and shined.  Trendy fashions may be appropriate for a job in the fashion industry. Otherwise, avoid extreme fashions, patterns that clash, and excessive jewelry, make-up, and cologne.

The Interview Process: Create a Positive First Impression (cont.)  Attitude. Employers say a positive attitude separates the winners from the losers. Be alert, enthusiastic, and motivated to work. Look the interviewer straight in the eyes, give an honest smile, and ask questions. Don’t be afraid to say you want the job.

The Interview Process: Advance preparation  Plan ahead of time for what you will wear.  Make your arrangements to arrive at the location 10 minutes early.  Study the company so you can be knowledgeable.

The Interview Process: Advance preparation (cont.)  Think about your answers to questions the interviewer may ask you.  Why do you want this job?  Why are you leaving your current job?  What do you have to offer this company?

The Interview Process: Advance preparation (cont.)  Think about questions you will want to ask the interviewer.  What opportunities for advancement does the job offer?  Who would be your immediate supervisor? What is his/her management style?  Ask questions about the job, but refrain from asking about salary and vacation.

The Interview Process: Advance preparation (cont.)  Practice for the interview.  Have a friend or parent practice with you in the interviewing process.  Practice giving a firm businesslike handshake. A handshake should begin as well as end the interview.  Practice answering sample interview questions.  Think of ways to sell yourself.  Remember that projecting your positive attitude is the key.

The Follow-Up Process Thank-you Notes  Thank-you notes should be used with all of your contacts, not just following an interview.  Never take someone’s good nature for granted.  It is important to thank the interviewer for his/her time and for considering your application.  Always send a thank-you note within a couple of days after your interview.

The Follow-Up Process Phone Calls  Follow up after sending a resume. Call to confirm that your resume has been received and to determine if you can schedule an interview. This implies you are serious about wanting to work for the company.  Follow up after the interview. If the interviewer indicates a decision will be made within a week, then call after one week and ask if that decision has been made. This demonstrates assertiveness.

Resigning from a Job GGGGive the current employer at least two weeks notice. For executive level jobs, a longer notice might be required.

Resigning from a Job (Cont.) WWWWrite a resignation letter politely announcing your intention to leave the job. SSSState your resignation. MMMMention your acceptance of another position or other reasons for your decision to leave if that is appropriate. IIIInclude the date of your last day of employment. TTTThank the employer for the opportunity to work for his/her organization.

Resigning from a Job (Cont.) MMMMake an appointment and personally deliver the resignation letter.