Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Chapter 48 Employment Strategies
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Developing a Strategy Attitude and mindset –Self-assessment –Direct and transferable skills
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Developing a Strategy Budgetary needs analysis –Determine required income –Keep diary of all purchases –Itemize basic expenditures –Estimate amount of money needed to live on
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Job Analysis and Research Begins before graduation –Visit or telephone clinics to determine duties of a medical assistant –Dress appropriately when visiting –Consider geographical area where you want to work
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Job Analysis and Research Compile list of potential employers –Yellow pages –Job expositions –Internet –Want ads
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Job Analysis and Research Compile list of potential employers –AAMA/AMT publications –Program directors and instructors –Network with externship site personnel –Employment agencies –Your personal provider and staff –Network with previous graduates –Friends and acquaintances
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Job Analysis and Research Begin research Use contact tracker to prevent confusion and keep track of valuable information
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Preparation Definition of a résumé Uses of résumés Résumé specifications –One page long –One to one and one-half inch margins –Capitalize major headings
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Preparation Résumé specifications –Single space between lines –Double space between sections –Use bullet point lists –Bond stationery 8 1/2 x 11 inches –Weight between 16 and 25 pounds –Buff or ivory paper with matching envelope –Use computer or word processor
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Preparation Clear and concise résumés –Short –Easy to read and understand –Positive statements –Do not mislead or exaggerate –Leave out the word “I”
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Preparation Accomplishments –Accomplishment statements –Power verbs
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Preparation References –Variety of references –How to choose someone as a reference –Ask permission to use as reference –References can help you –Keep in touch with references –Thank your references
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Preparation Accuracy –Proofread –Eliminate repetition –Summarize employment prior to 10 years ago
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Styles Chronological résumé –Organized with most important information listed first –Managers take only about 10 seconds to scan a résumé –Advantages and disadvantages
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Styles Functional résumé –Highlights specialty areas of accomplishment and strengths –Advantages Targeted résumé –Focuses on a clear, specific job target –Contains career objective –Adds substance when work experience is minimal
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Styles E-résumé –Electronic résumé delivered via , submitted to Internet job boards, or placed on Web pages –Employers posting jobs on their own Web sites generally expect an e-résumé –Requires special preparation
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Styles E-résumé –Text résumé is very versatile –Use keywords that relate to the position –Front-load the résumé with key words
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Résumé Preparation Vital résumé information –Your full name and address –Your telephone number –Your education –Your work experience –Skills necessary for the job Top errors found in resumes
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Application/Cover Letters To potential employers Highlights qualifications and experience Enhances résumé
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Application/Cover Letters Should sell you Guidelines to follow Information mapping
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Completing the Application Form Answer every item completely Read all directions carefully Application organized to suit needs of employer
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Completing the Application Form Include volunteer or externship experience if possible Refer to copy of your résumé, application letter, and reference list
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The Interview Process Interview definition –Goal of the interviewer and interviewee The look of success –Outward appearance –Project a confident and professional appearance
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The Interview Process Preparing for the interview –Study the organization –Have available: copy of cover letter, résumé, transcript, recommendation, and any certifications –Check map for directions or make trip day before interview –Introduce yourself confidently –Observe office setting while waiting
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The Interview Process The actual interview –Take your cues from the interviewer –Sit erect in chair with feet flat on floor –Be prepared for kinds of questions –Think before answering questions
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The Interview Process Interviewing the employer –Danger signs –Questions to ask the interviewer Closing the interview –Ask questions about the organization –Thank interviewer –Ask about follow-up procedures
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Interview Follow-Up Follow-up letter –Day or two after interview –Express interest in organization –Express being considered for position Follow up by telephone –Week after interview –Tell reason for calling –Thank person
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. After You Are Employed Advancing your career Dealing with difficult people Getting a raise
Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Professionalism Display a professional manner and image Promote your credential