3 Getting the Job 3.1 Getting an Interview MYPF 3 4/20/2017 Getting the Job 3.1 Getting an Interview 3.2 Applying, Interviewing, and Following Up Chapter 3

Lesson 3.1 Getting the Interview GOALS Prepare an application letter. Prepare a resume based on guidelines. Explain the importance of references and reference letters. Chapter 3

The Application Letter The application letter, or cover letter, introduces you to a potential employer. It should accompany your resume. The application letter is a sales letter. “Sell” your qualifications. Create interest in the enclosed resume. Make a good impression. Chapter 3

Contents of the Application Letter Specific Interesting Direct Chapter 3

Application Letter— First Paragraph Identify the purpose of the letter—why you are writing. Be specific. Tell the employer what job you want. Chapter 3

Application Letter— Middle Paragraph Give reasons why you are a good choice for the job. Explain your key qualifications—those that best fit the job. Express interest in the company. Describe experiences, classes, or skills that relate to the job. Be enthusiastic. Chapter 3

Application Letter— Closing Paragraph Wrap up the letter in a friendly yet assertive manner. Be direct. Ask for an interview. Give the employer your phone number and indicate a good time to call. Make it clear that you want an opportunity to discuss the open position. Chapter 3

Preparing of the Application Letter White, standard size (8½ × 11-inch) paper of good quality Mailing envelope of the same color and quality Clear, crisp printout Standard 12-point font, such as Arial or Times Roman Chapter 3

Parts of an Application Letter Return address The return address is the first thing to appear at the top of the letter. It contains your complete mailing address and the date. Letter address The letter address contains the name and address of the person or company to whom you are writing. It is also called the inside address. Chapter 3

Parts of an Application Letter (continued) Salutation The salutation is the greeting that begins your letter. Body The body is the message section of the letter. Complimentary close The complimentary close is a courteous phrase used to end a letter. Phrases commonly used in business are “Sincerely” and “Cordially.” Chapter 3

Return Address Chapter 3

Letter Address Chapter 3

Salutation Chapter 3

Body Chapter 3

Complimentary Close Chapter 3

Preparing an E-Mail Application Letter Set your e-mail to plain text Place everything at the left margin. Use no special formatting or tabs. Prepare your application letter in your e-mail message window. Chapter 3

Parts of an E-Mail Application Letter Date: Your message will be dated automatically. Subject line: Put the title of the job you are seeking in the subject line. Salutation: Start your message with the salutation. Body: The body of your message should contain the same content as any other application letter. Close: End the message with a complimentary close and your typed name, along with your mailing address, e-mail address, and phone number. Attachment: Send your resume as an e-mail attachment. Chapter 3

E-Mail Application Letter Chapter 3

The Resume A resume describes your work experience, education, abilities, interests, and other information that may be of interest to an employer. A portrait in words Other names Personal data sheet Biographical summary Professional profile Vita Chapter 3

Purpose of the Resume The resume tells the employer Who you are What you can do What your special interests are Chapter 3

General Guidelines for a Resume Keep resume to one page. Include all information pertinent to the job for which you are applying. Choose a format that is attractive, professional looking, and easy to read. Proofread thoroughly. Use a high-resolution printer and good quality paper. Chapter 3

General Guidelines for a Resume Proofread, Proofread, Proofread! The resume should be easy to read and follow. Ask yourself: Would I hire someone with spelling and grammar mistakes? Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume Personal information Career objective Education Experience Additional qualifications References Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume: Personal Information Appears First Includes Name Address Telephone Number (with area code) Alternate form of contact: cell phone, email address, or alternate phone number Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume: Career Objective Short, assertive statement indicating our career goal Include 1-2 descriptors that describe yourself Job title Business name Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume: Career Objective Experienced and responsible high school sophomore seeking a part-time position as a customer service representative at Virgin Records. People-friendly and patient high school sophomore seeking a part-time position as a customer service representative at Utz Quality Foods, Hanover, PA. Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume: Career Objective Efficient and self-motivated high school sophomore seeking a part-time position as a customer service representative at Snyder’s of Hanover. Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume: Education All secondary (high school) and postsecondary (college) schools you have attended. Start with most recent first and then work backwards. List major areas of study GPA (if good) Extra curricular activities Honors Specific courses that relate/apply to the job Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume: Work Experience and Community Service List all jobs that you have had—paid and unpaid. Volunteer positions List all community services that you have provided and any volunteer positions that you have held. Include a section for duties and learning Should be listed with most recent first and then work backwards. Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume Chapter 3

Parts of the Resume: References People who have known you for some time (at least a year) that can provide information about you and your work. Some companies require both professional and personal references. When not indicated, its best to provide professional references Chapter 3

Scannable Resumes Use the following Simple standard font Body of resume—11 or 12 point Headings—no larger than 14 point bold or caps Chapter 3

Scannable Resumes Avoid the following (continued) Avoid the following Fancy fonts, italics, underlines, condensed type, shading, shadows, and white type on black background Multiple columns Horizontal or vertical lines, boxes, and graphics Chapter 3

References References are people who have known you for at least a year and can provide information about your skills, character, and achievements. References should be over age 18 and not related to you. The best types of references include teachers, advisors, current and former employers, counselors, coaches, and adults in business. Be sure to ask permission before listing people on your resume. Chapter 3

Reference List If you choose not to list references on your resume, state “references available on request.” Then have a list of names, addresses, and phone numbers available for employers who ask for them. Chapter 3

References A reference letter is a statement attesting to your character, abilities, and experience, written by someone who can be relied upon to give a sincere report. It is helpful to give those writing a reference letter a copy of your current resume or a short summary of your accomplishments and background. Chapter 3

Lesson 3.2 Applying, Interviewing, and Following Up GOALS List steps for properly completing an employment application form. Explain how to prepare for and make a good impression on a job interview. Prepare a thank-you letter as follow-up to a job interview. Chapter 3

The Application Form An employment application, or job application, is a form that asks questions of people who apply for a job. Ways to complete an application form Use pen to fill out paper form Complete form online at company web site Download form and submit electronically Chapter 3

Completing an Employment Application Write neatly using a black or dark blue pen. Fill in all blanks appropriately. Be truthful. Have all necessary information with you. Proofread carefully. Chapter 3

The Job Interview A job interview is a face-to-face meeting with a potential employer to discuss a job opening. You should spend at least as much time preparing for the interview as you did getting the interview. Chapter 3

Preparing for the Job Interview Learn about the company. Be prepared to answer questions. Review your resume so that all your qualifications will be fresh in your mind. Be prepared to answer open-ended questions, which require you to respond in paragraphs (rather than “yes” or “no”) and talk about yourself. Be prepared to ask questions. Chapter 3

Things to Take to an Interview Bring copies of your resume, reference letters, and transcripts. Transcripts are school records that include a listing of courses you have taken along with the credits and grades you’ve received for them. Bring a pad of paper, a pen, and any information you may need. Use a briefcase or folder to keep your papers organized. Chapter 3

Making a Good First Impression Arrive on time. Dress appropriately. Go alone. Be prepared. Appear self-confident. Be courteous. Think before you speak. Emphasize your strong points. Be enthusiastic. Look for cues. Chapter 3

The Follow-Up Follow-up is contact with the employer after the interview but before hiring occurs. It reminds the employer of who you are and could improve your chance of getting the job. Chapter 3

Thank-You Letter The thank-you letter shows appreciation to the employer for taking time to speak with you. It also brings you to the forefront of the interviewer’s mind, providing a reminder of your qualifications and interest in the company. Chapter 3

Writing a Thank-You Letter Remind the interviewer of your interview. Remind the interviewer of your interest. Express your eagerness to hear from the interviewer. Keep letter short and to the point. Make sure the letter is error-free. Chapter 3