Getting a Job Process Kit

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J

Getting A 6E

OB PROCESS KIT

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J

Getting A 6E

OB PROCESS KIT

INSTRUCTION BOOKLET by Robert Zedlitz

Getting a Job Process Kit, 6th Edition Robert Zedlitz Vice President of Editorial, Business: Jack W. Calhoun Vice President/Editor-in-Chief: Karen Schmohe Vice President/Marketing: Bill Hendee Senior Developmental Editor: Dr. Inell Bolls

© 2011, 2005 South-Western, Cengage Learning ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this work covered by the copyright herein may be reproduced, transmitted, stored or used in any form or by any means graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including but not limited to photocopying, recording, scanning, digitizing, taping, Web distribution, information networks, or information storage and retrieval systems, except as permitted under Section 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

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Kit with Resume Generator CD ISBN-13: 978-0-538-45041-6 Kit with Resume Generator CD ISBN-10: 0-538-45041-X Kit with Online Resume Generator ISBN-13: 978-0-538-49754-1 Kit with Online Resume Generator ISBN-10: 0-538-49754-8 South-Western Cengage Learning 5191 Natorp Boulevard Mason, OH 45040 USA Cengage Learning products are represented in Canada by Nelson Education, Ltd. For your course and learning solutions, visit www.cengage.com/school Visit our company website at www.cengage.com

Printed in the United States of America 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 13 12 11 10 09

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Contents

Preface

ix

SECTION 1: Self-Assessment and Career Options

1

Step 1: Discover Yourself—Who Are You?

2

Step 2: Research and Explore Career Options

11

SECTION 2: Job Search: Employment Documents and Job Leads

25

Step 3: Resume

26

Step 4: Cover Letter

38

Step 5: Employment Application

44

Step 6: Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

49

SECTION 3: The Interview

63

Step 7: How to Prepare for an Interview

64

Step 8: During the Interview

74

Step 9: After the Interview

84

SECTION 4: Leaving a Job…Gracefully

90

Step 10: What to Do Before Leaving a Job

91

Step 11: The Best Way to Leave a Job

96

Step 12: Reference Letter

101

SECTION 5: Using the Resume Generator

107

Supplemental Documents

113

Contents

vii

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Preface

Getting a Job Process Kit provides an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide for obtaining the job you want. It offers an employment process, worksheets, and techniques that elevate your confidence level in obtaining employment. In addition, it offers a graceful procedure to use when leaving or changing a job. Getting a Job Process Kit includes the following:

• • • • •

Instruction Booklet Activity Worksheets Resume Generator A plastic resume cover An Employment Portfolio

Getting a Job Process Kit, your personal guide, is vital to your success in gaining employment. You will have the advantage of being prepared because you will have acquired the student’s Instruction Booklet, the Resume Generator to create and access important employment documents, and an Employment Portfolio, which establishes a record of valuable papers necessary for employment.

Organization of Instruction Booklet The Instruction Booklet is divided into five sections with supplemental documents at the end of the booklet. Sections 1 through 4 contain 12 Steps with activities, which form an effective workable guide for landing job positions as well as leaving a position with excellent references. Section 5 contains directions for using the accompanying Resume Generator. The last portion of the booklet contains 17 supplemental documents (SDs) that correlate with each step in the Instruction Booklet. Individualized material allows you to progress at your own pace. At the beginning of each Step in Sections 1 through 4, a summary of the important features provides a quick review and guide to the contents. The 12 steps in Sections 1 through 4 of the Instruction Booklet and a brief description about the Resume Generator instructions in Section 5 follow:

Section 1: Self-Assessment and Career Options This first section of two steps with activities starts with self-assessment exercises that lay the foundation for all additional steps in this process kit. Career options are researched, explored, and matched to the results of your self-assessment. Preface

ix

Step 1: Discover Yourself—Who Are You? In this step you will find out about yourself, your interests, values, and skills and develop a personal profile that will help you write effective resumes and cover letters, evaluate job leads, complete employment applications, and project your strengths in an interview situation.

Step 2: Research and Explore Career Options In this step, you will explore career options that appeal to you using the Occupational Outlook Handbook and/or the 16 Career Clusters with O*Net OnLine. You will get a picture of what a job is like by having an information interview with someone who has a job that interests you.

Section 2: Job Search: Employment Documents and Job Leads The four steps with activities in this section guide you through the employment process with the help of your Resume Generator. You will acquire a winning resume and cover letter, successfully complete an employment application, learn the most effective job leads, and learn how to research a company before a job interview.

Step 3: Resume This step deals with important information about preparing resumes. Two sample resumes and a reference list are included to ensure that your resumes are effective.

Step 4: Cover Letter This step deals with cover letters and their importance in looking for a job. Sample cover letters and instructions tell what a cover letter should say and explain how to write one.

Step 5: Employment Application This step deals with what employers look for in employment applications. A sample employment application and two practice application forms are included.

Step 6: Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company This step outlines the most important sources of job leads and how to pursue them. You will interview people who do the kind of work you would like to do, research companies that may have the job you want, and develop your network of people who can help you get a job interview. This section ends with suggestions for looking for summer jobs, part-time jobs, volunteer work, school-to-work programs, and jobs in a tight job market.

Section 3: The Interview Too many job applicants enter interviews vaguely aware of what they should expect. The three steps with activities give you a clear understanding of what to do before, during, and after your job interview.

Step 7: How to Prepare for an Interview This step tells what to take to a job interview and how to appear your best. Included are 12 of the most common interview questions and suggested answers.

x

Preface

Step 8: During the Interview This step tells what to do during an interview. A model interview, interview review activity, and a “Do’s and Don’ts” checklist are included.

Step 9: After the Interview This step outlines what to do after an interview to give you an edge over your competitors. You will learn how to write a successful post-interview letter as well as the best ways to follow up for a hiring decision.

Section 4: Leaving a Job…Gracefully This section contains valuable advice that can help you grow in your job, and insight concerning how to leave a job gracefully and with excellent references. There is far more to leaving a job than rashly saying, “I quit.”

Step 10: What to Do Before Leaving a Job This step presents important questions you should ask yourself before leaving a job, and how to “ace” your performance review.

Step 11: The Best Way to Leave a Job This step explains the positive way to leave a job. You will learn what to say to your employer and how to write a resignation letter.

Step 12: Reference Letter This step shows you how to obtain a reference letter that can be used to obtain future employment. This section ends by outlining positive procedures for handling serious employment problems. If you are laid off, downsized, or terminated, this information is essential.

Section 5: Using the Resume Generator A Resume Generator icon throughout the Instruction Booklet directs you to use the accompanying Resume Generator. Your Resume Generator contains sample resume and letter documents with correct content and formatting that you may use to supplement your activities and to create these documents. After you complete selected activity practice sheets in your Activity Worksheets, you may use your Resume Generator to key these documents.

Sample Documents The following sample documents are included in the Resume Generator:

• • • • • • •

General resume Specific resume Reference list Cover letter Post-interview letter Resignation letter Reference letter Preface

xi

After you enter your personal data, this easy-to-use software will generate a variety of personalized employment documents designed specifically to help you find a rewarding job. As you work through the Getting a Job Process Kit, you are encouraged to save all of your keyed resume and letter files to your own personal USB thumb drive or as an attachment to your e-mail account. Your thumb drive will allow you to instantly use and easily update your employment documents. If you don’t have an e-mail account available where you access the Internet, you can register with one of these free Web-based e-mail services: Google Gmail

mail.yahoo.com

gmail.google.com

Microsoft Windows Hotmail

Yahoo! Mail

hotmail.com

Supplemental Documents The final portion of the Instruction Booklet contains 17 SDs that correlate with each step in the Instruction Booklet and have important information that will enhance your knowledge of the employment process. This information and assistance is designed to give you an edge in your career development. They are as follows: Step 1 SD 1 The SCANS Report for America Step 2 SD 2 Getting a Job Now—Jobs that Do Not Require a 4–6-Year College Degree Step 3 SD 3 Job-Objective Resume Step 4 SD 4 Reading Between the Lines of a Classified Job Ad Step 4 SD 5 Action Verbs That Get Results Step 4 SD 6 Transferable Skills Cover Letter Step 5 SD 7 Reynolds Corporation Employment Application Step 5 SD 8 Mid-Level Employment Application—World Corporation Step 6 SD 9 Internet Links From the Bureau of Labor Statistics Step 7 SD 10 Practice Interview Evaluation Form Step 8 SD 11 Federal Laws to Prevent Discrimination in Hiring Step 8 SD 12 Pre-Employment Inquiry Guidelines Step 9 SD 13 Post-Interview Thank-You Letter Step 10 SD 14 What Your Boss May Expect You to Know Step 10 SD 15 Career Growth and Self-Evaluation Step 11 SD 16 Career Change Resignation Letter Step 12 SD 17 Employer Reference Letter

xii

Preface

Activity Worksheets Getting a Job Process Kit Activity Worksheets correlate with the Instruction Booklet and the Resume Generator to provide activities necessary for success in the job process. The steps in Sections 1 through 4 of the Instruction Booklet are reinforced by 19 self-directed, meaningful activities that allow you to participate while being led systematically through the kit. The activities make Getting a Job Process Kit action orientated. The following activities are included: Activity 1

Developing Your Personal Profile

Activity 2

Preferred Job Research with the OOH or O*Net OnLine

Activity 3

Matching Your Personal Profile to Jobs

Activity 4

An Information Interview

Activity 5

Construct a General Resume

Activity 6

Write Job Objectives

Activity 7

Construct a Specific Resume

Activity 8

Construct a Reference List

Activity 9

Write a Cover Letter

Activity 10 Complete an Employment Application Activity 11 Finding Job Leads Activity 12 Researching a Company Activity 13 Answering Interview Questions Activity 14 Model Interview Review Activity 15 Preparing a Post-Interview Letter Activity 16 Case Study: Decision Time Activity 17 Write a Resignation Letter Activity 18 Compose an Exit Conversation Activity 19 Construct a Reference Letter

Employment Portfolio As each activity in the Activity Worksheets is completed, including those keyed in the Resume Generator, a copy can be placed in your Employment Portfolio. This establishes a record of valuable papers necessary for employment. Your Employment Portfolio, with the completed activities, will provide guidelines for securing and leaving jobs now and in your future career. Be sure to also place in your Employment Portfolio new resumes and employment letters created by your Resume Generator. An Employment Portfolio, containing all of these materials, will be extremely convenient in the future, when easy access to these employment aids is needed.

Preface

xiii

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About the Author With over 40 years of instructional experience in business, work, and career education, Robert H. Zedlitz understands what is required for students to gain employment. His experience as a teacher and district coordinator in Work Experience Education in Fremont, California, gives him firsthand knowledge of the practical application of Getting a Job Process Kit. His experience includes membership in the Fremont Unified School System District Curriculum Committee and the Career Education Consortium Committee for the California State Department of Education.

Preface

xv

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SECTION

1

Self-Assessment and Career Options

Introduction This section of Getting a Job Process Kit consists of Step 1 and Step 2 with self-assessment exercises that lay the foundation for all additional steps in this process kit. Career options are researched, explored, and matched to the personal profile results of your self-assessment exercises. In the first step, Discover Yourself, a series of exercises will help you find out about yourself by identifying your personal qualities, interests, values, and skills. These results are used to create your personal profile. Your personal profile will help you write effective resumes and cover letters, evaluate job leads, complete employment applications, and project your strengths in an interview situation. The second step, Research and Explore Career Options, explores possible careers and jobs that appeal to you and match your personal profile, using the Occupational Outlook Handbook, and/or the 16 Career Clusters. You will get a picture of what a job is like by having an information interview with someone who has a job that interests you. There are guidelines for the right way to prepare for and follow up an information interview.

1

Step 1

Discover Yourself—Who Are You? In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • • •

The deﬁnition of a Personal Proﬁle An exercise to help you determine and rank your personal qualities An exercise to help you deﬁne and rate your work interests An exercise to help you examine and rate your employment skills An exercise to rank your personal values and select your important work values An activity to develop your Personal Proﬁle

What Is a Personal Proﬁle? To find a good job, you must first find out more about yourself. It is the first and most important part of the job search. In this first step, you will describe who you are and what makes you different from other people. This information will become your Personal Profile. Think of your Personal Profile as a picture of your important qualities, interests, skills, and values. Your Personal Profile will help you understand facts about yourself that will aid you find work you will love.

How Self-Assessment Will Help You Find a Job ©AKaiser, 2009/ Used under license from Shutterstock.com

Dare to dream what you want to do with your life.

Many people obtain a job and discover later that it does not suit them. It is easy to find just any job, but it takes an honest look at yourself to find the right job. When you explore different careers in Getting a Job Process Kit 6e, your Personal Profile will help you determine which fields of work best fit your interests and skills. Selfassessment will help you determine the types of potential employers to target. It will help you decide the kind of work settings that appeal to you. You will be able to match your Personal Profile information to a type of work that you will enjoy. Your Personal Profile will prepare you for getting a job in many ways. For example, it will help you complete your resume, cover letter, job application, and other documents in this Getting a Job Process Kit 6e Instruction Booklet. Understanding yourself better will help you communicate positively about yourself during a job interview. You may also be asked to complete a selfassessment when you apply for a job. Some employers require this to see if applicants fit the job qualification. Performing a self-assessment now will give you the information you will need to convince prospective employers of your ability to do the work that is required. Be sure to keep your Personal Profile in your Employment Portfolio and use it when you apply for future jobs. As you complete these self-assessment exercises, keep the following in mind. Try to be:

•

2

Section 1

Thorough—The more details you discover about yourself, the more revealing your self-assessment will be. The information you collect in this exercise is for your own use; so do not be afraid to be as detailed as possible.

•

Honest—If you are not honest, you will not help yourself in the long run. Answer all of the questions as honestly as possible.

•

Objective—Try not to be emotional as you complete your self-assessment.

Looking at Your Personal Qualities Your personality is made up of a variety of personal qualities such as how you get along with other people, how you handle pressure, and how you accept responsibility. Your personality affects the career choices you make. If your job complements your personality, you will usually be happy with your work. Most employers are interested in finding out what type of person you are. Personality traits are often as important to prospective employers as previous work experience and academic qualifications. There are many personal qualities that can help you succeed in a job. Some of these include punctuality, reliability, enthusiasm, and flexibility. Listed here are words that describe personal qualities that you may have. These different personal qualities make up much of an individual’s personality. Follow the steps outlined below to complete this exercise.

Stage 1 Read the list of personal qualities. If there are other strong qualities that describe you, write them on the lines provided below the list. Circle each of the personal qualities on this list that you believe describe you. Personal Qualities accurate

direct

open-minded

adaptive

disciplined

organized

alert

efficient

patient

ambitious

energetic

persuasive

appreciative

enthusiastic

positive

assertive

fair

precise

athletic

flexible

productive

cautious

friendly

reflective

conscientious

helpful

reliable

considerate

honest

resourceful

consistent

humorous

self-confident

creative

independent

stable

decisive

logical

sympathetic

dependable

loyal

thoughtful

determined

objective

trustworthy

Discover Yourself—Who Are You?

3

Stage 2 Of the qualities you have circled, which single quality do you believe best describes you? Rank this number one in the Personal Qualities box. This should be your strongest personal quality. Continue this ranking with the second strongest, third strongest, and so on until you have ranked your five strongest personal qualities.

Personal Proﬁle: My Five Strongest Personal Qualities Rank 1: _______________________________ Rank 2: _______________________________ Rank 3: _______________________________ Rank 4: _______________________________ Rank 5: _______________________________

Deﬁning Your Work Interests Photodisc/Getty Images

Think of the skills that you have developed from all of your interests; many will transfer to jobs.

Interests I enjoy: working outdoors being physically active being mechanical

4

Section 1

Interests are those things that you enjoy doing the most. Some people like to be involved in sports, while others enjoy good books and movies. You need to be able to identify your likes in relation to your career plan. Your interests will have much to do with your choice of a career field and with your long-term job satisfaction. If your career involves doing things you are interested in and enjoy, you are more likely to have job satisfaction and to progress in your career field. Keep in mind that some of your interests will change and may be influenced by your economic needs. Interests change as you age and have different experiences. But some interests may stay with you all of your life; so the interests you have now are a great place to start for finding a job. When you apply for a job, you can compare your interests to what the job offers. You want to make sure that your strong interests are satisfied.

Stage 1 Here are activities that many people enjoy. If you have any other strong interests, write them on the lines provided below the list. Evaluate your feelings about these interests by marking 0 for little or no interest, 1 for some interest, and 2 for a strong interest.

little or no interest (0)

some interest (1)

strong interest (2)

Interests

little or no interest (0)

some interest (1)

strong interest (2)

working with my hands and objects solving problems working alone being creative expressing myself creatively being artistic exploring using computers investigating working with new ideas working with others training others helping others persuading others being a leader managing others selling working with numbers working with information working in a structured setting working in an informal setting working with animals playing and watching sports traveling working with money and investments gardening and environmental issues photography science and technology reading about and discussing current events cooking

Discover Yourself—Who Are You?

5

Stage 2 Now you have rated your interests. Look at your strong interests, those you rated 2. List your five strongest interests in the Interest box.

Personal Proﬁle: My Five Strongest Interests 1. _______________________________ 2. _______________________________ 3. _______________________________ 4. _______________________________ 5. _______________________________

Examining Your Employment Skills A skill is the ability you have to perform a certain activity or action. Entering data on a computer is an example of a skill. Skills can be developed in various ways. Skills are usually acquired as a result of training, experience, and knowledge. You can also learn skills through hobbies, leisure activities, or volunteer activities. You can learn skills in classes that you take in school or through work experience. Everyone has skills that are transferable to a variety of jobs. Transferable skills are nonjob-specific skills that you acquire during any activity or life experience. Teamwork, writing, time management, and listening are examples of transferable skills used in most jobs. However, just because you are skilled at something doesn’t necessarily mean you enjoy doing it. There are probably plenty of tasks that you can do but don’t often do. For example, you can have the ability to work math problems without especially enjoying math. But some skills you want to use often because you really enjoy using them. You probably perform these skills the best. You will want to find a job that uses your best skills most frequently. Can you describe your skills to a prospective employer? If you were asked in a job interview to describe the skills you would bring to the job, how would you respond? This exercise is designed to help you better understand your skills and how these may relate to different work situations.

Stage 1 Read the following list of skills. On the basis of your experience, estimate your level of ability for each by marking 1 for low skill, 2 for average skill, and 3 for a high level of skill. If you perform any other skills at a high level, write them on the lines provided below the list. You should find that the skills you rate high are the ones you enjoy using the most often. My level of skill for: leadership time management organizing ideas/information teaching/coaching working with people reading

6

Section 1

low skill (1)

average skill (2)

high skill (3)

My level of skill for:

low skill (1)

average skill (2)

high skill (3)

writing organizing people/things solving number problems listening to others communicating creating ideas growing/raising things performing researching planning debating reporting teamwork composing flexibility/adaptability motivating making decisions constructing problem solving self-management computer/technical knowledge working with data working with numbers working with technology operating tools and equipment making or fixing things repairing equipment woodworking selling/influencing drawing designing playing a musical instrument speaking a foreign language memorizing being artistic

Discover Yourself—Who Are You?

7

Stage 2 Now you have rated your skills. Look at your strong skills, those you rated 3. Which do you consider your five strongest skills? These should be your most favorite skills to use. Write your five strongest skills in the Skills box.

Personal Proﬁle: My Five Strongest Skills 1. _______________________________ 2. _______________________________ 3. _______________________________ 4. _______________________________ 5. _______________________________

Deﬁning Your Personal and Work Values Values are beliefs that you hold. They can be directed to both your personal life and your work. Understanding your personal and work values is a very important part of your Personal Profile. Personal values are beliefs that you hold about your personal life. Examples of personal values include spending time with family and friends, having time to go skiing, or dressing well. Work values relate to the type of work environment and the rewards from work that you may receive. People work for different reasons. The things you value about your work may not be at all important to someone else. Work values are those things that are most important to you in a job. How happy you will be in your job depends on whether the work you do will meet your own work and personal values.

Stage 1 The following exercise will help you understand your personal values. Study these values, and add any others you feel strongly about on the lines provided. Rank the values, including the ones that you listed, in order of their importance to you. Number 1 is the most important to you, and number 10 is the least important. Personal Values Rank _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

8

Section 1

Rank Good health Having friends and a family Being free to do what I want Making a comfortable living Living in a nice area ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________

_____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

Having enough leisure time Having physical activity Doing volunteer activities Having time to be creative Educational opportunities ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________

Stage 2 Write your five highest ranked personal values in the box provided.

Personal Proﬁle: My Five Strongest Personal Values Rank 1. _______________________________ Rank 2. _______________________________ Rank 3. _______________________________ Rank 4. _______________________________ Rank 5. _______________________________

Stage 3 Read the following list of work values. Study these values, and add any others that are important to you on the lines provided. Rank the values, including the ones that you listed, in order of their importance to you. Number 1 is the most important to you, and number 10 is the least important. Work Values _____ Working by myself on a job _____ Making an adequate wage _____ Being creative on a job _____ Working with equipment and machinery rather than people _____ Having a steady and secure job; not being subject to layoffs _____ Having physical activity _____ Having a variety of activities and problems to solve _____ Serving and helping others _____ Working in a team effort _____ Working outdoors _____ ___________________________ _____ ___________________________ _____ ___________________________ _____ ___________________________ _____ ___________________________

_____ Working in a small business _____ Working in a large business _____ Coordinating the work of others _____ Having others respect me _____ Learning to do new things _____ Working with people I enjoy _____ Having a flexible work schedule _____ Freedom from pressure and stress _____ Lots of public contact _____ Work that includes traveling _____ Working from home _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

Working with detail ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________

Stage 4 Write your five highest ranked work values in the box provided.

Personal Proﬁle: My Five Strongest Work Values 1. _______________________________ 2. _______________________________ 3. _______________________________ 4. _______________________________ 5. _______________________________

Discover Yourself—Who Are You?

9

Activity 1 Developing Your Personal Proﬁle ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

In this step you have identified your personal characteristics, interests, skills, and personal and work values. You have completed a self-assessment and found important facts about yourself. You have discovered what you like to do and what you are good at. Now you will put your Personal Profile together. This activity will help you understand how your Personal Profile relates to a future job or career. It will help you explore and research career options. Your Personal Profile will be a great help to you as you complete your resume, cover letter, job application, and other important papers in this Instruction Booklet. Remove Activity 1, Developing Your Personal Profile, on page 1 in your Activity Worksheets. When you have completed the Personal Profile to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for evaluation.

Information You Can Use SD 1 The SCANS Report for America Refer to the SCANS report Supplemental Document in the back of your Instruction Booklet. The report lists the competencies and foundation skills employers want. They are what we call transferable skills. These skills are needed in all jobs and can be improved throughout your life. The SCANS Report for America is the first of 17 Supplemental Documents. The information in these documents will give you an edge in your career development.

WEBSITE

What Do Employers Really Want? You have more skills and personal values than you think you do! Many “employability skills” or “soft skills” are what we call transferable skills. Visit the Quintessential Careers Web site to learn what these are. Become strong in these top skills and values, personality traits, and personal characteristics that employers seek from job candidates.

Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

10

Section 1

Now start building your Employment Portfolio. You have completed your self-assessment and Personal Profile. Put your Personal Profile activity in your Employment Portfolio. Place a check mark by Personal Profile on the back of your Employment Portfolio to show that you have completed this activity.

Step 2

Research and Explore Career Options In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • • • • •

Sources of information about career choices Guidelines for exploring career options with the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) An activity to research your favorite jobs with OOH Guidelines for exploring the 16 Career Clusters with O*Net OnLine An activity to research your favorite jobs with O*Net OnLine An activity to match your Personal Proﬁle with your job choices Guidelines for having an information interview An activity with questions you should ask in an information interview

Exploring Careers and Job Possibilities Step 1 helped you determine your personal qualities, interests, skills, and personal and work values. You have developed a Personal Profile. You now understand more about yourself. You will want to apply this information to selecting a career. You will continue to develop in all of these areas from your experience and education, but now you have a great opportunity to look into career fields that interest you and match your present Personal Profile. You may find interesting jobs you never knew existed or thought of doing. The information you collect will increase your awareness of what kind of work is right for you. Then you can develop skills that will help you find that kind of work.

Finding Careers That Interest You There are many ways to find career choices. It is important at this time not to narrow your options for a job. Gather and read as much information as you can about career fields that interest you. You may want to show your Personal Profile to people whose opinions you trust. Check with your school library, career center, placement office, or counselor; local library reference section; or local bookstores for resources about career fields and jobs. Many libraries have huge online databases for information about careers. You may be able to access their databases from a computer at home or school. You also have an understanding of particular jobs from hearing your friends and family members talk about their own occupations. Your classes in which you have done well and enjoy, activities in and out of school, work experience, and volunteer work can help give you job ideas. Make a note of interesting jobs that you notice when you watch TV or read the newspaper or magazines. Many job fairs are advertised in local newspapers. Job fairs offer an opportunity to meet employers in a casual environment, and some focus specifically on entry-level jobs. Finally, the index of your local Yellow Pages can help you find job titles you are curious about. Review Figure 1.1, Tomorrow’s Jobs, for examples of career fields and jobs that are expected to increase in demand through 2016. You may have the skill or interest for Research and Explore Career Options

11

one of these fields, such as health care or computer technology. It is important to be aware of career fields where there will be the greatest job opportunity.

Career News You Can Use: Tomorrow’s Jobs As you study Figure 1.1, notice where the greatest opportunities for workers will be. Identify occupations that are promising. The left side of the figure lists the fastest-growing occupations; the right side lists the occupations projected to produce the most number of job openings over the next several years. Notice that the jobs are grouped by education and work experience or training required. Think about where you might see yourself on this list in the future. It is important to be aware of the education, work experience, and on-the-job training you will need. Figure 1.1 Tomorrow’s Jobs Fastest growing occupations and occupations projected to have the largest numerical increases in employment between 2006 and 2016, by level of postsecondary education or training Fastest growing occupations Occupations having the largest numerical job growth First-professional degree Veterinarians Physicians and surgeons Pharmacists Lawyers Chiropractors Pharmacists Physicians and surgeons Veterinarians Optometrists Dentists Doctoral degree Postsecondary teachers Postsecondary teachers Computer and information scientists, research Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists Medical scientists, except epidemiologists Medical scientists, except epidemiologists Biochemists and biophysicists Computer and information scientists, research Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists Biochemists and biophysicists Master’s degree Mental health counselors Clergy Mental health and substance abuse social workers Physical therapists Marriage and family counselors Mental health and substance abuse social workers Physical therapists Educational, vocational, and school counselors Physician assistants Rehabilitation counselors Bachelor’s or higher degree, plus work experience Actuaries Management analysts Education administrators, preschool and child care Financial managers center/program Management analysts Computer and information systems managers Training and development specialists Medical and health services managers Public relations managers Training and development specialists Bachelor’s degree Network systems and data communications analysts Computer software engineers, applications Computer software engineers, applications Accountants and auditors

12

Section 1

Personal ﬁnancial advisors

Business operations specialists, all other

Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors

Elementary school teachers, except special education

Financial analysts

Computer systems analysts Associate degree

Veterinary technologists and technicians

Registered nurses

Physical therapist assistant

Computer support specialists

Dental hygienists

Paralegals and legal assistants

Environmental science and protection technicians, including health

Dental hygienists

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians

Legal secretaries

Postsecondary vocational award Makeup artists, theatrical and performance

Nursing aides, orderlies, and attendants

Skin care specialists

Preschool teachers, except special education

Manicurists and pedicurists

Automotive service technicians and mechanics

Fitness trainers and aerobics instructors

Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses

Preschool teachers, except special education

Hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists

Work experience in a related occupation Sales representatives, services, all other

Executive secretaries and administrative assistants

Gaming managers

Sales representatives, services, all other

Gaming supervisors

Sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing, except technical and scientiﬁc products

Aircraft cargo handling supervisors Self-enrichment education teachers

First-line supervisors/managers of food preparation and serving workers First-line supervisors/managers of ofﬁce and administrative support workers Long-term on-the-job training

Audio and video equipment technicians

Carpenters

Interpreters and translators

Cooks, restaurant

Athletes and sports competitors

Police and sheriff’s patrol ofﬁcers

Motorboat mechanics

Plumbers, pipeﬁtters, and steamﬁtters

Automotive glass installers and repairers

Electricians

Source: U.S. Department of Labor

Moderate-term on-the-job training Medical assistants

Customer service representatives

Social and human service assistants

Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks

Gaming surveillance ofﬁcers and gaming investigators

Truck drivers, heavy and tractor-trailer

Pharmacy technicians

Medical assistants

Dental assistants

Maintenance and repair workers, general Short-term on-the-job training

Personal and home care aides

Retail salespersons

Home health aides Gaming and sports book writers and runners

Combined food preparation and serving workers, including fast food

Physical therapist aides

Ofﬁce clerks, general

Amusement and recreation attendants

Personal and home care aides Home health aides Research and Explore Career Options

13

How Should You Explore Career Options? Image Source/Getty Images

Research is a smart way to ﬁnd a career ﬁeld with a job you will love.

Research is a very important part of your career search. Two of the best ways to find information about careers and jobs is by reading career resource books and searching Internet Web sites. In this step, you will be given guidelines for doing both. You can choose off-line research and learn to use the OOH, or you can perform online occupational research with O*Net OnLine. Of course, there are many other books and Web sites you can use in your career search, but the OOH and O*Net OnLine are two of the most recognized and well-known. The skills you develop by following the guidelines in this step for exploring job possibilities can be used throughout your work life. In the future, you may want to explore related jobs in your field or even explore a new career field. If you are going to perform online research, go to page 17 and continue by reading the section titled “Exploring 16 Career Clusters With O*Net OnLine.” If you are going to research offline using the OOH, continue by reading the following section, “Exploring Career Options with the Occupational Outlook Handbook.”

Exploring Career Options with the Occupational Outlook Handbook Every two years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics updates the OOH, which contains the latest information about jobs in the United States. Using the OOH is an easy way to learn about career fields and identify jobs. Find the OOH in your school career center, school library, or at the public library. Read the table of contents, where related occupations are grouped in clusters. You will see several jobs listed under each Career Cluster. Persons who have jobs listed in a particular cluster share similar interests and skills. Carefully compare your Personal Profile with each Career Cluster. Also, carefully scan the alphabetical index in the back of the book. This index lists more than 800 job titles. Find ones that interest you. Some of the titles may be new and exciting job possibilities. Each job title has a page number that leads to the job description. Each job is described by significant points; nature of the work and the work environment; training, other qualifications, and advancement; employment; job outlook; earnings; and related occupations. The OOH follows a standard format. The categories that describe jobs are the same; so you can easily compare one job with another. While you explore the OOH, make a list of any jobs you want to consider for research.

Examine the 120 Most Widely Held Occupations To make your OOH job research more manageable, a list of the 120 most widely held occupations is presented here for you to rate. After you have finished this exercise, you may have more job titles to add to the list of those you found while exploring the OOH. Your particular talents and interests may be used in a variety of careers and jobs. You should look at many opportunities. By exploring a variety of jobs, you may find ones that are a better match for your Personal Profile. The following list of

14

Section 1

the 120 most widely held occupations will help you find jobs that may interest you and suit your skills. Using a three-part scale, rate each occupation according to your interest level. Choose yes for a job you would very much like, maybe for a job that may be a possibility, and no for a job you would definitely not desire.

Occupation

Yes

Maybe

No

Occupation

Accountant

Construction Worker

Actor

Correctional Officer

Advertising Salesperson

Counselor

Aircraft Mechanic

Dancer

Air Traffic Controller

Dental Hygienist

Airline Pilot

Dentist

Appliance Salesperson Appliance Repairer

Diesel Service Mechanic

Architect

Dietetic Technician

Athletic Trainer

Drafter

Auditor

Economist

Auto Mechanic

Engineer, all types

Auto Salesperson

Farmer

Auto Service Technician

Fashion Designer

Automotive Body Repairer

Fast-food Manager

Bank Officer

Fire Fighter

Bank Teller

Flight Attendant

Biologist

Floral Designer

Bookkeeper

Forest Ranger

Budget Analyst

Fork Lift Operator

Bus Driver

Freight Agent

Butcher

Funeral Director

Cable Technician

Geologist

Carpenter

Grade School Teacher

Cashier

Graphic Designer

Cement Mason

Home Health Aide

Chef

Hospital Administrator

Chemist

Hotel Manager

Claims Adjuster

Interior Designer

Clergy

Insurance Agent

Computer Programmer

Jeweler

Computer Repairer

Journalist

Computer Systems Analyst

Laboratory Technologist

Construction Equipment Operator

Lawyer

Yes

Maybe

No

Librarian Research and Explore Career Options

15

Occupation

Yes

Maybe

No

Occupation

Licensed Practical Nurse

Purchasing Manager

Loan Officer

Real Estate Agent

Machinist

Real Estate Appraiser

Mail Carrier

Receptionist

Maintenance Mechanic, general

Registered Nurse

Mathematician

Retail Buyer

Medical Lab Technician

Retail Salesperson

Medical Records Technician

Secretary

Military Officer

Social Worker

Musician

Sociologist

Nurse’s Aide

Stockbroker

Nutritionist

Surveyor

Office Clerk, general

Tailor

Optometrist

Taxi Driver

Paralegal

Telephone Operator

Paramedic

Travel Agent

Photographer

Truck Driver

Physical Therapist

TV News Reporter

Physician

Upholsterer

Plumber Police Officer

Vending Machine Repairer

Preschool Teacher

Veterinarian

Probation Officer

Waiter/Waitress

Property Manager

Welder

Psychologist

Word Processor

Public Relations Person

Writer and Editor

Yes

Maybe

No

Restaurant Cook

Select Preferred Job Possibilities Now choose three occupations that interest you and that you would most like to research. To help you make three job choices, you should consider jobs you found exciting from any career exploration you did. Look at the jobs that interested you from the list of the 120 Most Widely Held Occupations. Reread the list of jobs you wrote while searching the OOH. Perhaps some of the occupations listed in Figure 1.1 were intriguing.

16

Section 1

Next, compare your Personal Profile to your favorite job choices. Make sure your choices are compatible with the personal qualities, interests, skills, and personal and work values you identified in your profile. Finally, write the names of the three occupations you plan to research for future job possibilities here. 1. ____________________________________________________________________ 2. ____________________________________________________________________ 3. ____________________________________________________________________

Exploring 16 Career Clusters with O*Net OnLine If you choose to use the O*Net OnLine Web site to find information about careers, you will have access to the 16 Career Clusters. Career Clusters are groups of similar occupations and industries. They were developed by the U.S. Department of Education as a way to organize career planning. The Career Clusters divide the job market into groups so that you can view career possibilities more clearly. The occupations are grouped together because persons employed in these jobs share similar interests and skills. Career Clusters enable you to explore several jobs within a field of interest. You will find descriptions of jobs from entry level to professional. You will be able to see what knowledge and skills you may need to reach your career goal.

How to Use O*Net OnLine It will be easy for you to explore the 16 Career Clusters through the O*Net OnLine Web site. O*Net OnLine is continually updated and provides the latest career trends and job information. The information comes from the computerized database of O*Net developed under the U.S. Department of Labor. The 16 Career Clusters offer an easy solution to almost a thousand jobs listed on O*Net OnLine. You can focus on one Career Cluster at a time. By using O*Net OnLine and the Career Clusters, you will learn about career fields and identify jobs. Figure 1.2 lists the 16 Career Clusters you will find on the O*Net OnLine Web site. Read the list and examples of jobs that relate to each cluster. Find clusters that sound exciting to you and are a good match for your Personal Profile.

WEBSITE

Now go to the O*Net OnLine.org home page. Access the Career Clusters by clicking the Find Occupations link. The drop-down menu in the Career Cluster section of the Find Occupations page shows all of the Career Clusters that are listed in Figure 1.2. Select one of the clusters that looks interesting to you, and click the Go button. Each Career Cluster has several fields or career pathways. A career pathway will have a list of occupations that require similar skills. Click one of the occupations, and you will be linked to detailed information about it. This information is described by categories such as tasks; tools and technology; knowledge; skills; abilities; work activities; work context; job zone; interests; work styles; and work values. Occupations are described by similar categories so that you can easily compare one job with another. A list of related occupations that require many of the same skills, training, and education is also provided for most jobs. You can explore one of these related jobs, or select another Career Cluster for different job possibilities. As you explore O*Net, make a list of any jobs you want to consider for research. Research and Explore Career Options

17

Figure 1.2 The 16 Career Clusters The 16 Career Clusters Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Production, processing, distribution, development, and marketing of agricultural products such as food, ﬁber, wood, crops, and other plant and animal products. This cluster includes mining and extraction operations and environmental services. Veterinarian, Environmental Engineer, Butcher, Fish and Game Warden, Rancher Architecture and Construction Designing, planning, managing, building, and maintaining commercial and residential facilities, including the larger infrastructure such as roads and bridges. Carpenter, Electrician, Plumber, Civil Engineer, Interior Designer Arts, A/V Technology, and Communication Designing, producing, exhibiting, performing, writing, and publishing multimedia content, including visual and performing arts and design, journalism, and entertainment. Graphic Designer, Editor, Radio and TV Announcer, Musician, Desktop Publisher Business Management and Administration Planning, managing, and providing administrative support to information processing, accounting, and human resource services. Career opportunities are available in every sector of the economy. Computer Operator, Accountant, Advertising Sales Agent, Auditor, Secretary Education and Training Planning, managing, and providing education and training services and related services such as library services. School Counselor, Elementary School Teacher, Business Teacher, Library Technician Finance Planning, services for ﬁnancial and investment planning, banking, insurance, and business ﬁnancial management. Teller, Tax Preparer, Financial Analyst, Loan Ofﬁcer, Insurance Claims Clerk Government and Public Administration Government functions including national security, foreign service, planning, and revenue and taxes. Management and administration is at the local, state, and federal levels. Revenue Agent, Economist, Special Forces, Air Crew Member, Municipal Clerk Health Science Planning, managing, and providing therapeutic services, diagnostic support, and health information services. Includes biotechnology research and development. Biologist, Dentist, Registered Nurse, Physician Assistant, Medical Laboratory Technician Hospitality and Tourism Management, marketing, and operations of restaurants and other food services, lodging, attractions, recreation events, and travel-related services. Cook, Waiter/Waitress, Tour Guide, Recreation Worker, Bartender, Tour Guide Human Services Family and human needs including social and community services. Sociologist, Clergy, Hairdresser, Social Worker, Home Health Aide Information Technology Designing, developing, managing, and supporting hardware, software, multimedia, and systems integration services. Database Administrator, Computer Software Engineer, Network Systems Analyst

18

Section 1

Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security Planning, managing, and providing services such as legal, criminal justice, police and ﬁre, homeland security, and professional and technical support services. Fireﬁghter, Police Patrol Ofﬁcer, Law Clerk, Lawyer, Private Investigator Manufacturing Planning, managing, and manufacturing products with related professional and technical support such as maintenance and manufacturing/process engineering. Welder, Power Plant Operator, Machinist, Jeweler, Maintenance and Repair Worker Marketing Planning, managing, performing, and distributing services and merchandise both wholesale and retail. Ofﬁce Clerk, Sales Engineer, Cashier, Retail Sales Person, Real Estate Broker Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Planning, managing, and providing scientiﬁc research and professional and technical services (physical science, social science, and engineering, including lab and test services and research and development services.) Chemical Engineer, Historian, Mathematician, Microbiologist, Astronomer Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics Planning, managing, and moving people, materials, and goods by road, pipeline, air, rail, and water and related professional and technical support. Airline Pilot, Truck Driver, Industrial Safety and Health Engineer, Air Trafﬁc Controller

Select Preferred Job Possibilities Now choose three occupations that interest you and that you would most like to research. To help you make three job choices, you should consider jobs you found exciting from any career exploration you did. Consult the list of jobs you compiled while exploring O*Net. Perhaps some of the occupations listed in Figure 1.1 were intriguing. Next, compare your Personal Profile to your favorite job choices. Make sure your choices are compatible with the personal qualities, interests, skills, and personal and work values you identified in your profile. Finally, write the names of the three occupations you plan to research for future job possibilities here. 1. ____________________________________________________________________ 2. ____________________________________________________________________ 3. ____________________________________________________________________

What Is an Information Interview? Now that you have explored different careers and found jobs that interest you, you can still do more to find out if a job is right for you. The next step is to find people who work in the career fields you have chosen and arrange to have an information interview. An information interview is a casual conversation with someone who has a job that interests you. It is not a hiring interview. Never ask for a job in an information interview. In an information interview, you will ask questions, and the answers will give you a picture of what the job is like. Most people enjoy talking about the work they do and will be happy to share this information with you. Research and Explore Career Options

19

Blend Images/Jupiter Images

The visit should take place at the workplace so that you can observe the work environment. Here are some good questions you can ask to get the information you need. You may want to think of an additional question you could ask.

Information Interview Questions 1.

What are your job duties or responsibilities?

2.

What education and training are required for this job?

3.

What do you like most about your job? What don’t you like?

4.

What is the average starting pay for this job?

5.

Can you recommend anyone else I should talk to?

An information interview is a casual conversation with someone who has a job that interests you.

Why Is an Information Interview Important? By asking the right questions in an information interview, you will know what you might need in terms of education or experience for the job. You will be able to see the organization from the inside. You will have a better sense of whether or not you will enjoy the job. The more information interviews you have, the more confident you will become. You will have more confidence during job interviews. The more you know about the job, the more comfortable you will be telling a prospective employer how your skills relate to it. Often a lack of work experience can be offset by your enthusiasm for the job.

How to Get an Information Interview Almost every community has people working in jobs that may be similar to the one you would eventually like. An easy way to find someone in your career field is by looking in the index of your local Yellow Pages. Find a business category that interests you. You will find several related businesses to contact. Also make contact with your community service organizations, and find someone to talk with about the jobs that interest you most. Don’t forget your “people” network. Tell everyone whose judgment you trust about the career field you want to explore. They may be able to help you. Once you have identified a business you want to contact, you can call to set up an appointment to speak with somebody. If it is a small business, you may be able to walk in and make an appointment in person. When you make an appointment, you should leave your name and contact number and a list of the questions you wish to ask the person you will interview. If you make an appointment when you walk in, the person might be willing to speak with you immediately. Be prepared for that by always taking the questions with you when you ask for an appointment.

20

Section 1

Develop and practice what you want to say to get the appointment. Keep it short and simple, such as: “Hello, my name is John Sayers. I am a student at Irvington High School. When I graduate I would like a career in business. I’m thinking about being an accountant, but I want to know more what the job is like before I make a decision. Would it be possible for me to make an appointment to speak to someone who does this kind of work with your company? The interview will only take 20–30 minutes or whatever amount of time the person can allow.”

How to Prepare for an Information Interview Before the information interview, read this: Practice, practice, practice Dress appropriately Do not ask for a job Share something about yourself

Be sure you have researched the job or career field before the interview. Before your appointment, practice, practice, practice the questions you will ask. Practice in front of a mirror, or with your family, or with relatives who can give you practical advice. Dress appropriately and arrive on time. Introduce yourself, make eye contact, and extend a firm handshake. As you listen to the person’s answers, take brief notes—a few words to remind yourself what was said. You can complete the information later. Do not overstay the time you arranged. Be sure to ask for the business card of the person you interview. A business card will give you the information you need to write a thank-you note, as well as a contact for job information in the future.

Take brief notes Be a good listener Do not overstay Get a business card Try for referrals

After the Information Interview You positively must thank the person who took time to talk to you. Do this immediately while it is most effective. Send an e-mail, mail a short thank-you note, or do both. Keep it short—three or four sentences. Thank the person for his or her time and for the information you were given. Tell the person that you appreciate knowing more about the job and seeing the workplace. Use a small plain note card to handwrite a thank-you. Before you write the note, practice writing what you want to say and check your spelling. Use the same pen you will use on the card. It is really important to put your best effort into this. The card you send is a reflection of you. You want to look your best. Figure 1.3 illustrates a simple thank-you note.

Research and Explore Career Options

21

Figure 1.3 Thank-You Note

Dear Mr. Hudson I enjoyed meeting you today. Thank you for taking the time to talk to me about your job. It gave me a better idea of what an accountant’s workday is like. I got a feeling for what it would be like to work at a company such as yours. Sincerely Bob Overmeyer

Activity 2 (for students performing ofﬂine research) Preferred Job Research with the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

You have completed a job search and found three job possibilities. Now it is time to research the three jobs you recorded in this step on page 17. A visit to your school career center, or school or local library, will likely be necessary to complete this activity. An excellent source for researching a job and career is the OOH. By becoming familiar with the OOH, you will be able to use it throughout your work life when a career or job change is desired. Turn to the index in the back of the book for the three jobs you selected to research. Now remove the forms for Activity 2, Preferred Job Research, on pages 3-6 in your Activity Worksheets. Research the three preferred jobs using the OOH. Read the information about your first job choice, and then complete the career information form. Repeat this for your remaining two job choices. After you have completed the research, you will have a better understanding if any of these jobs relate to your future. When you have completed your preferred job research forms to your satisfaction, show them to your teacher for evaluation.

Activity 2 (for students performing online research) Preferred Job Research with O*Net OnLine ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

WEBSITE

22

Section 1

You will use the Web site O*Net OnLine.org to complete this activity. By becoming familiar with this site, you will be able to use it throughout your work life when a career or job change is desired. You have used O*Net OnLine and explored the Career Clusters that interested you. You recorded three jobs in this step on page 19 that you want to research. Now remove the forms for Activity 2, Preferred Job Research, on pages 3-6 in your Activity Worksheets. Log on to O*Net OnLine, and click the Find Occupations link to access the drop-down menu in the Career Clusters section. Use the drop-down menu to find the jobs you identified. Read the information about your first job choice, and then complete the career information form. Repeat this for your remaining two job choices. After you have completed the research, you will have a better understanding if any of these jobs relate to your future. When you have completed your preferred job research forms to your satisfaction, show them to your teacher for evaluation. As an alternative, you may print the information found in O*Net OnLine for each job, and using a marking pen, highlight the information the forms require.

Activity 3 Matching Your Personal Proﬁle to Jobs ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Now you have researched three occupations that interested you. How do you know if these jobs really are ones you would enjoy and find satisfying? You should take into account all of your attributes that make up your Personal Profile. Review Step 1 to complete this activity and help decide for yourself if your job selections are really what you want to pursue for a career. Remove Activity 3, Matching Your Personal Profile to Jobs, on page 7 of your Activity Worksheets. List on this form the Personal Profile attributes you identified in Step 1. Then list the three job titles you researched in Step 2. Compare your preferred job titles to each of your Personal Profile attributes. The results will give you facts toward selecting the right job. When you have completed your Personal Profile and job comparisons to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for evaluation.

Activity 4 An Information Interview ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

An information interview is a very important way to find out about your career choice. A good subject for an information interview is someone who is working in the field you have chosen and who holds a position similar to the one you would eventually like to have. If possible, conduct your interview at the person’s place of employment so that you can observe the work environment. Be sure you have practiced asking the interview questions. Before you leave for the interview, remove Activity 4, Information Interview, on page 9 of your Activity Worksheets. Take this form with you to the interview. Remember to dress appropriately, arrive promptly, shake the person’s hand, and introduce yourself. As the interview proceeds, take notes of the answers you receive on the interview form. Keep within the time to which the person agreed. When you leave, thank the person for his or her time and information. Afterwards, complete the information from the interview that you want to remember. Do not forget to send the person you interviewed an appropriate thank-you note. When you have completed the interview form to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for evaluation.

Information You Can Use SD 2 Getting a Job Now—Jobs that Do Not Require a 4–6-Year College Degree Seventy-five percent of all jobs do not require four or more years of college. There are millions of jobs available if you have a high school diploma and are willing to learn on the job. Experience gained in these jobs may lead to advancement and/or establishing your own company. In many cases, passion pays more than a college education!

Research and Explore Career Options

23

Reference Books Find the following in your school career center or school or public library: Encyclopedia of Careers and Vocational Guidance This is a five-volume reference with Volume 1 describing 95 career fields. This is a good place to start if you want to know more about a particular field of work. Volumes 2 through 5 have an alphabetical listing of job titles with easy-to-understand job descriptions. Included are what can be done while in high school or early college to learn about jobs, and organizations, associations, and Web and e-mail addresses that can provide career information. O*Net Dictionary of Occupational Titles This book is like the O*Net OnLine Web site, but in printed form. The benefit of this book is that you can look up jobs by special categories: career interest; education and training requirements; best jobs by pay; and jobs for which openings are increasing and those which have the most openings. It also briefly describes by alphabetical listing more than 1,000 job titles. EZ Occupational Outlook Handbook This guide has one-page descriptions of nearly 270 jobs, held by 90 percent of the workforce. This is a great resource for fast, easy research of all major career opportunities.

The Career Interests Game WEBSITE

This is a fun game that will match your interests and skills with similar careers. It will help you see how your personality fits specific work environments and careers. The game provides links to job descriptions on the Occupational Outlook Handbook Web site. http://career.missouri.edu/students/explore/thecareerinterests game.php

Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

24

Section 1

You have completed Step 2. Put any job research, the Personal Profile and job comparison sheet, and information interview form you wish to keep in your Employment Portfolio. Place a check mark by Preferred Job Research, Making Comparisons, and Information Interview on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

SECTION

2

Job Search: Employment Documents and Job Leads Introduction Section 2 of Getting a Job Process Kit consists of Steps 3–6 with activities that guide you through the employment process with the help of your Resume Generator. You will acquire a winning resume and cover letter, successfully complete an employment application, learn the most effective job leads, and learn how to research a company before a job interview. Step 3, the resume, contains many important questions about resumes and carefully explains how to develop a resume. Samples of two types of resumes and a reference list are included, with detailed guidelines to ensure that the resumes you construct are effective. The cover letter in Step 4 deals with its importance in looking for a job. Two sample cover letters and instructions tell what a cover letter should say and explain how to write one. Step 5, employment application, deals with what employers look for in employment applications. A sample employment application and two practice application forms are included. You will learn the necessary information and materials you need to successfully complete your employment applications. Finding job leads and researching a company are explained in Step 6. This Step outlines the 11 most important sources of job leads and how to pursue them. You will interview people who do the kind of work you would like to do, research companies that may have the job you want, and develop your network of people who can help you get a job interview. This section ends with suggestions for looking for summer jobs, part-time jobs, volunteer work, school-to-work programs, and jobs in a tight job market.

25

STEP 3 Resume In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • • • • •

The deﬁnition of resume

•

A plastic cover for your keyed resume

Reasons why your resume is important Instructions for writing your resume Two sample resumes Two resume writing activities An activity to write job objectives An activity to construct a reference list An activity using the Resume Generator to complete your resumes and reference list

What Is a Resume? A resume is a personal data sheet. It is a short summary of important facts about you. These facts help an employer decide whether or not you are an appropriate candidate for a job. Any person who is serious about seeking a job should always have a well-thought-out, up-to-date, and well-prepared resume. It must be accurate and error-free. Remember, the resume creates a first impression and may get you an interview.

Why Is Your Resume Important? You should prepare a resume for the following reasons:

26

Section 2

•

To help you complete an employment application quickly and accurately. An employment application is a form used by many companies to gather information about a job candidate. Employment applications are discussed in detail in Step 5.

•

To demonstrate your potential as an employee. Resumes provide additional information and reflect a job applicant’s potential better than an employment application. When you visit a job site for a job lead, give an employer a copy of your resume along with your completed employment application, even if you do not have an interview. Often having both of these documents on file will help you get an interview at a later date. Once an employer has met you face-to-face, you may be remembered when there is a job opening.

•

To show the employer that you are organized, prepared, and serious about getting a job. Employers often consider you an above-average candidate for a job because you included a resume that was well-written and accurate.

•

To feel self-assured during an interview because all the facts and dates are in front of you. Having a resume helps you feel prepared and professional and

Stockbyte/Getty Images

adds to your self-confidence when you present an employer your reasons to be hired.

•

To mail, fax, or e-mail to potential employers with whom you would like to arrange an interview. You can mail or fax copies of your resume to more employers than you can visit. This saves you time and money. Remember, the primary purpose of a resume is to convince someone to interview you for a job. Be sure to include a cover letter with any resume you send. You may also want to e-mail your resume to an employer or post your resume on employer Web sites or job sites such as Monster.com. Be aware, however, that electronic resumes need to be formatted differently than traditional resumes. For important information on preparing an electronic resume, go to the Web site for rileyguide.com. For step-by-step directions for creating a scannable resume or a plain-text resume ready to copy and paste into online forms or post in online resume databases, go to susanireland.com Web site. This site also shows how to create an e-mail-friendly resume that is formatted for the length of line restrictions. You may want to create and save copies of each type of electronic resume on your thumb drive.

Distribute your resume to relatives, friends, counselors, teachers, and other persons who are willing to help you ﬁnd a job.

It is important that you protect your privacy when posting your resume online; you can find excellent tips for doing so at job-hunt.org. At the left of the home page, click the links Protecting Your Privacy, Using Web Job Sites, and Safe E-Mail and Blogging.

•

To distribute to relatives, friends, guidance counselors, teachers, character references, and other persons who are willing to help you find a job. Your resume gives these important people in your network a clear picture of your qualifications. It also acts as a constant reminder that you are seeking employment. A job lead could very well result from one of these close contacts.

What Should Be Included in a Resume? The guidelines and resumes on pages 27–34 identify the elements of successful resumes. Carefully read the descriptions of each section of the resume, and examine the sample resumes. See how each description compares to the same section of each resume. Notice that both sample resumes are on a single page. Resumes should be limited to one or two pages. Notice that the general resume on page 32 lists “work skills,” and the specific resume on page 34 lists “special skills.” You can learn skills through work experience and classes that you take in school. You can also learn skills through hobbies or leisure or volunteer activities. Everyone has skills that can be applied to a variety of jobs. These are called transferable skills. Reread the work skills you rated the strongest in your Personal Profile, Step 1, on page 8. Next, read the examples of transferable skills that are rated most in demand by employers. Can you describe in your resume for a prospective employer how any of these skills apply to a job?

•

Communication—good listener and can explain information well verbally and in writing

•

Teamwork—team player who is trusted by coworkers and customers Resume

27

Photodisc/Getty Images

• •

Analytical—likes to analyze the best way to accomplish a task

•

Computer—understands basic hardware and knows how to use word processing, spreadsheets, and e-mail.

• •

Organizational—can plan and organize work to meet a deadline

Interpersonal—gets along well with coworkers and encourages working together

Leadership—likes to set goals and help coworkers meet standards

Think about the skills you enjoy using the most—you probably perform these the best. Be sure to emphasize on your resume the work skills you rated the strongest in your Personal Profile as well as any of the following you believe describe you.

Consider full-time, part-time, summer, or volunteer jobs when you write your resume.

• • • • • • • • •

Active Learning—seek out, understand, and use new information Learning Strategies—use training or instruction to learn or teach new things Active Listening—pay attention without interrupting, ask good questions Speaking—convey information well orally Reading—understand and can perform written instruction Writing—convey information well in writing Thinking—use logic and reason to solve problems Mathematics—use math to solve problems Science—use scientific rules and procedures to solve problems

In addition to work skills and special skills, employers also look for good personal qualities in a job candidate. Reread Step 1, page 4, and the five personal qualities you ranked your strongest in your Personal Profile. Next, to further define your personal traits, read the following list and find qualities that describe you. Be sure to emphasize on your resume the personal qualities you listed in your Personal Profile as well as any of the following you believe describe you.

28

Section 2

• • • • • •

Integrity—always think about doing what is right

• • • •

Professionalism—keep work separate from personal life

Hard-Working—dedicated to completing the work well Self-Motivated—can accomplish work independently with little help Loyalty—show great pride in the company Responsibility—arrive at work early and do not waste time Self-Confidence—enjoy the work and recognize that it is important to the company

Flexibility—can easily make changes to get the work done well Positive Attitude—energized and enthusiastic about the work Willingness to Learn—excited to learn new job skills

Creating a General Resume The resume sample on page 32 is known as a general resume. It does not specifically state a job objective. Many people use a general resume when seeking temporary or part-time employment, or when a specific job objective or career goal is not known. First-time job seekers might find a general resume convenient. The main advantage of a general resume is that the prospective employer may consider you for more than one job opening. The disadvantage is that a prospective employer may not want to take the time to analyze your resume to decide for which job you are best qualified.

Creating a Speciﬁc Resume The resume sample on page 34 is a specific resume. Note that the specific resume lists memberships, honors, special skills, and a separate reference list. Specific resumes also state a job objective. A job objective may identify a specific job title, a type of work, or a career goal. If you know of a specific job opening, include a job objective specific to that opening. For example, if the job opening is for a computer support specialist, your job objective could say: “To work as a computer support specialist and pursue my strong interest in software.” Here are other examples of job objectives:

•

To obtain an entry-level management position that utilizes my leadership and communication skills

• • • •

To work as a waiter at a fine restaurant

•

To obtain a full-time position as a clerical assistant with the possibility of advancement

•

To use my education and experience in a challenging position as a computer technician for customer support

•

To be hired as a restaurant cashier or hostess

To work in a full-time position as a security alarm technician To obtain full-time employment as a parts department service representative To be hired in a position in sales with the opportunity to reach a position in management

An advantage of a specific resume is that you can tailor the contents to the job objective. For example, if you were applying for a job as a computer support specialist, it would be advantageous to include in the Special Skills section your knowledge of software such as web development, desktop operating systems, or spreadsheets. This information may be unimportant on a general resume or on a specific resume with another job objective. Compare the general and specific resume headings. Since both resumes play an important role in getting a job, good judgment is necessary to determine which resume would be the most effective for getting you an interview.

Creating Your Perfect Resume To create a professional-looking resume, study the sample resumes on pages 32 and 34. Notice the margin and spacing guidelines. Refer to the Formatting Guidelines, which Resume

29

explain how to format your resume. Your resume will be organized and readable if you include section headings and add space between sections. Keep in mind that you want to limit your resume to one or two pages.

Formatting Guidelines Spacing: Correct spacing between parts of a document is indicated as the following: 2S Double space: Insert one blank line and key on the second line. Press the Enter key or return bar twice to double space between sections. 4S Quadruple space: Key on every fourth line with three blank lines between each line. Press the Enter key or return bar four times to quadruple space between sections. Margins: Correct top, side, and bottom margins are stated in inches from the edge of the document to the point where keying should begin or end. Top margins are also indicated with the proper line to begin keying on. Callouts and Notes: Explanatory information is linked to sections of documents with an arrow or with letter markers like this one: A Look for the note that accompanies a document for an explanation of each marker.

Activity 5 Construct a General Resume ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

RESUME GENERATOR

30

Section 2

Remove Activity 5, the general resume outline sheet for Step 3, from page 11 of your Activity Worksheets. Use the sample general resume on page 32 in this step as a guide. Fill in the spaces. This activity will require time and research to present as good an image of yourself as possible. It is important that you put forth your best effort in this activity. Employers will judge you on how thoroughly the facts are presented and how accurate and attractive your completed resume appears. After you have completed the resume worksheet to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any necessary corrections. Then, using your Resume Generator, follow the instructions in Section 5, pages 108–109 to key your resume. Follow the formatting guidelines in this step to complete your final resume and save it on your personal thumb drive. Print your final resume on a good grade of white, beige, buff, or cream 8 1/2" × 11" bond paper. You may make photocopies of your resume as long as they are clearly reproduced. Professional copies can be ordered from a copy center. Look in the Yellow Pages under “Printers” or “Printing.” Put the original copy of your resume in the plastic cover provided with this kit.

Figure 2.1 Guidelines for Creating a General Resume Guidelines for Creating a General Resume

A PERSONAL INFORMATION List your name, address, telephone and cell phone numbers, and e-mail address. The prospective employer may need to know some additional facts about you, but this information must stay within the bounds of your state’s fair employment laws. The prospective employer will use this information to contact you.

B EDUCATION List the schools you have attended in reverse chronological order (most recent ﬁrst). Include dates of attendance, the name and location of the school, the curriculum studied (general education, college preparatory, business education, etc.), and the degree or diploma earned. If you are still attending school, place your expected graduation month and year in parentheses next to diploma or degree. For example: High School Diploma, (June, 20--). You need not list your elementary school or other education considered insigniﬁcant.

C WORK EXPERIENCE List all full-time, part-time, summer, or volunteer jobs. Work of any kind (paid or unpaid) shows responsibility. Present your work experience in reverse chronological order (most recent ﬁrst). Include the dates of employment, name and location of the company or organization, and your job title.

D WORK SKILLS Skills that you have learned either in school or somewhere else are important in getting the job you want. An employer will carefully examine your skills to determine if those skills can be utilized by the business. Examples of skills include the following: • • • • •

Mechanical experience Foreign language proﬁciency Ofﬁce machine operation Bookkeeping Computer operation

• • • • •

Report writing Mathematical problem solving Sales ability Software knowledge Keyboarding

Your skills can also be demonstrated in two other areas: human relations and organization. Your ability to get along well with other people is essential to any company, and you will be perceived as being an efﬁcient worker if you can show you have strong organizational skills.

E HONORS, ACHIEVEMENTS, AND OTHER INTERESTS Honors, achievements, and other interests can sometimes be substituted for actual work experience. Include your grade point average (GPA) if it is 3.0 or higher. Your participation in sports, music, etc., in school should be listed, along with any special recognition you may have received. Community activities such as scouting, the American Red Cross, Kiwanis Key Club, 4-H, etc., should also be listed in this section. Placing something here about how you spend your time tells an employer who you are and how you are unique. An employer may have a personal interest in one of these areas, and you may be able to capitalize on this mutual interest. If you have no honors, achievements, or other interests, eliminate this section.

F REFERENCES Be prepared to list several references who are willing to speak well of you. Usually the name, business title (if any), company or organization, address, and telephone number of the reference are required. Ask permission of those whom you plan to list as references. Good references include former employers, teachers, or friends who are well established in business. If you decide not to list references on your resume, insert the phrase “References available” under the heading “References.” You should have a separate list of references in case they are requested. (See page 36 for an example.)

Resume

31

Howard Washington will graduate from Foothill High School in June 20–. He wants to apply for several different summer jobs. Here is the general resume Howard completed. Figure 2.2 General Resume 1⬙ (Line 7)

A

Howard Was Washington ash as hin ncer Street S 4825 Spencer Chicago, IL 60004 (847) 555-0167 Cell (847) 555-0175 [email protected] 2-4S

B EDUCATION 2S 20-- to present 1⬙ 20 to 20-20--

Foothill High School, Chicago, IL General Education High School Diploma (June, 20--) 2S Groveland High School, Fort Wayne, IN General Education 2S

1⬙

EXPERIENCE C WORK 2S 20-- to present 20-- to 20--

Dominick’s – Courtesy Clerk 1847 Black Avenue, Chicago, IL 60004 2S Starbucks – Counter Sales 200 Main Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 2S

SKILLS D WORK 2S

E F

32

• Fluent in Spanish • Math • Microsoft Word • Keyboard 70 wpm 2S HONORS, ACHIEVEMENTS, OTHER INTERESTS 2S • Student Government • Interact Club • Soccer Team • Fly Fishing 2S REFERENCES 2S Mr. Richard Cross, English Teacher Foothill High School 41800 Dublin Blvd. Chicago, IL 60004 (847) 555-0126 2S Ms. Jane Heinz, Manager Dominick’s Market 1847 Black Ave. Chicago, IL 60004 (847) 555-0176

Section 2

• Sales • Data Entry

• Team player

Ms. Sandra Brown, Manager Starbucks 200 Main Street Fort Wayne, IN 46825 (260) 555-0145 2S Ms. Patricia Wong, Student Body Advisor Foothill High School 41800 Dublin Blvd. Chicago, IL 60004 (847) 555-0194

Figure 2.3 Guidelines for Creating a Speciﬁc Resume Guidelines for Creating a Speciﬁc Resume

A PERSONAL INFORMATION List your name, address, telephone and cell phone numbers, and e-mail address. The prospective employer may need to know some additional facts about you, but this information must stay within the bounds of your state’s fair employment laws. The prospective employer will use this information to contact you.

B JOB OBJECTIVE The job objective states which position you are seeking. It should be clearly and concisely written. For example: To work for a small- to medium-size company as a computer programmer. A well-written job objective can also include a career goal or the ultimate job position you would like to achieve. Your job objective and career goal should be closely related. For example: To work for a small- to medium-size corporation as a computer programmer, which could lead to a position as a systems analyst or operations manager.

C EDUCATION List the schools you have attended in reverse chronological order (most recent ﬁrst). Include dates of attendance, the name and location of the schools, the curriculum studied (general education, college preparatory, business education, etc.), and the degree or diploma earned. Also list any courses that relate to your job objective. If you are still attending school, place your expected graduation month and year in parentheses next to diploma or degree. For example: High School Diploma, (June, 20--).

D WORK EXPERIENCE List all full-time, part-time, summer, or volunteer jobs. Present your work experience in reverse chronological order (most recent ﬁrst). Include dates of employment, the name and location of the company or organization, job title, work responsibilities, and the name of your supervisor. Show how your previous work and skills apply to your job objective and career goal.

E

MEMBERSHIP

Include memberships in professional, career-related, and special-interest organizations and associations in your school or community. This shows that you are willing to donate valuable time to worthy causes without compensation. Use good judgment, however, before listing religious, political, or any other sensitive organizational memberships. You are not required to disclose any memberships that are not job related. If you have no memberships, eliminate this section.

F

HONORS

List any honors, special certiﬁcates of achievement, and awards you have received. If you had a high class ranking, mention it here. If you have no honors or special awards, eliminate this section.

G SPECIAL SKILLS List any special skills that you wish to highlight, even if they are not job related. A prospective employer should be aware of all of your talents, such as proofreading, document writing, computer repair, and speaking knowledge of Spanish. Also, you may want to list strong personal qualities here (for example, dependable and trustworthy). If you have no special skills, eliminate this section.

I

REFERENCES

Place the following statement at the bottom of your resume: References available upon request. Provide a separate list of references when you interview. The name, business title (if any), company or organization, address, and telephone number of your references are usually required. Be sure to ask permission of those references you plan to provide. Include former employers, teachers, or friends who are well established in business and know your character and accomplishments. See page 00 for an example of a reference list.

Resume

33

Linda Avila is a recent high school graduate attending Highland Community College. Her career interest is in marketing. She wants to apply for the marketing position Lewis Interior Designs has available. It is a beginning position, and Linda believes she has the qualifications and interest for this job. Linda developed the following specific resume for the position. She also presented a separate list of references shown on page 36 of this Instruction Booklet. Figure 2.4 Speciﬁc Resume 1⬙ (Line 7)

A

B C

JOB OBJECTIVE 2S EDUCATION 2S 20-- to present

20-- to 20-1⬙

EXPERIENCE D WORK 20-- to present Sales Associate

20-- to 20-Counter Sales

E

MEMBERSHIPS

F

HONORS

G SPECIAL SKILLS H 34

REFERENCES

Section 2

LINDA A AV AVIL AVILA 4904 Omar Street mar St Fremont CA 94538 (510) 555-0112 Cell (510) 555-8834 [email protected] 2-4S

To work as a marketing representative for a small- to medium-size business

Highland Community College, Fremont, CA Curriculum: Marketing Degree: Associate of Marketing, June 20-Courses: Math, marketing, economics, macroeconomics, accounting, professional selling, business law, advertising, retail strategies, computer information systems: Microsoft word and web development 2S Irvington High School, Fremont CA Curriculum: General Education Degree: High School Diploma Courses: Standard courses with above-average proficiency in English, computer science, retail sales, math, and keyboarding 2S Best Electronics, 444 Harvard Avenue, Fremont, CA 94536 Supervisor: Carlos Ramirez Responsibilities: Sales, customer service, training new employees, inventory, cashiering, display design, special orders 2S Mc Donald’s, 1016 Blacow Road, Fremont, CA 94538 Supervisor: Frank Lowenthal Responsibilities: Customer service, sales, food preparation, training new employees, general maintenance of store 2S Key Club, Student member of Kiwanis Club, Student member of Bay Area Marketing Association, Blood Bank volunteer, Softball team 2S 3.4 GPA Key Club Service Award Jr. Achievement Marketing Award 2S Fluent in Spanish Computer literate: Macintosh/Microsoft Keyboarding—70 wpm Self-Motivated 2S References available upon request.

1⬙

Activity 6 Write Job Objectives ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

To complete this activity, study the examples of job objectives on page 29 in this step. Notice that these job objectives are clearly and concisely written. Now, remove Activity 6, the Job Objectives worksheet, from page 15 of your Activity Worksheets. This worksheet includes three help-wanted advertisements. After each ad, write a job objective that would be appropriate for the job described. Next, look at the three jobs you researched in Step 2, and write a job objective for the one you would most enjoy. After you have completed the job objectives worksheet to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any corrections needed.

Activity 7 Construct a Speciﬁc Resume

ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

RESUME GENERATOR

Now that you have practiced writing job objectives, remove Activity 7, the specific resume outline for Step 3, from page 17 of your Activity Worksheets. Study the sample of a specific resume on page 34 in this step, and the job objectives you wrote for Activity 6, to complete this activity. Now complete the specific resume, using one of the jobs described in your workbook, Activity 6, or another one, perhaps a job you researched in Step 2. If you use a job described in Activity 6, or the one you added, be sure to include the job objective you wrote for that job. If you have a different job in mind, write a job objective for that job. Make any other content changes that are appropriate for the specific job. After you have drafted the specific resume outline to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any changes necessary. Then, using your Resume Generator, key, print, and save your resume to your personal thumb drive, following the directions given for constructing a specific resume. Put the original copy of your resume in the plastic cover provided with this kit.

Activity 8 Construct a Reference List ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Next, develop a reference list to present with your specific resume. A sample reference list is shown on page 36. Carefully review this sample reference list, and then construct your own. Remove Activity 8 from page 21 in your Activity Worksheets. Use references who will speak well of you when they are asked about you by a prospective employer. Always ask permission of potential references before including them on your reference list. If you have several references, select those who can talk about skills that relate to the specific job for which you are applying. Good references include former employers, teachers, friends, or neighbors who are well established in the community. In general, family members or relatives should not be used as references. After you have drafted your reference list, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any corrections needed.

Resume

35

Figure 2.5 Reference List 1½⬙ or 2⬙(Line 10 or 13)

References off L Linda in Avila 4S Mr. Carlos Ramirez, Manager Best Electronics 444 Harvard Avenue Fremont, CA 94536 (510) 555-5882 2S Ms. Linn Stevens, Manager Bank of America 4139 Washington Blvd. Fremont, CA 94538 (510) 555-0123 Ext. 21 2S Mr. James Cheng, Marketing Instructor Highland Community College 2214 Fremont Blvd. Fremont, CA 94536 (510) 555-1414 Ext. 445 2S Mrs. M rs Fran Galandri, Attorney Galandri & Reed Law Firm 864 Willow Road Fremont, CA 94538 (510) 555-8647 Ext. 217

2⬙

RESUME GENERATOR

Then, using your Resume Generator, follow the instructions in Section 5 to key your reference list, and save the final list on the same thumb drive you used to store your resumes. Print your final reference list on the same size and quality paper you used for your resumes. Put the original copy of your reference list in the plastic cover provided with this kit.

Information You Can Use SD 3 Job-Objective Resume This is a specific resume with a job objective. The format lists personal qualities and work skills in bullet form. You may want to use this resume style.

Career Games WEBSITE

36

Section 2

Check the Web site nextsteps.org. This colorful site has quality information that will help you write your resume.

Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

For protection and presentation, place your completed resumes and reference list in your plastic cover. Put your covered resumes and reference list and your job objectives in your Employment Portfolio. Place a check mark by General Resume, Specific Resume, Job Objectives, and Reference List on the back of your Employment Portfolio to show that you have completed these activities.

Resume

37

Step 4

Cover Letter In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • •

The deﬁnition of a cover letter Guidelines for writing a cover letter Two sample cover letters A cover letter–writing activity An activity using the Resume Generator to complete your cover letter

What is a Cover Letter? A cover letter consists of a few simple paragraphs that state the job for which you are applying, your qualifications, and your request for an interview. It is important that this letter be clearly and concisely written, as it is usually the first contact you have with a prospective employer. You may also want to use a cover letter when presenting your resume in person. Remember the rewards of a good first impression. Always use a cover letter whenever you send a resume to a prospective employer.

How Should You Write a Cover Letter? Use the following guidelines when writing a cover letter:

1. Address your letter to a specific person, if possible. Use the printed Yellow Pages or an online telephone directory such as superpages.com or yellowpages.com. If you do not have the name of a contact person, call the company and ask for the name of the human resources manager or the manager in the department in which you want to work. Some employment ads do not contain the name of a contact person, company name, or street and city address; instead, a fax number or P.O. Box replaces an address. Refer to the cover letter on page 42 to see where to place a fax number. If you cannot obtain an individual’s name, create a greeting by adding the word “manager” to the hiring department—for example, Dear Human Resources Manager, or Dear Human Relations Manager, or Dear Personnel Manager. You can also add the word “manager” to the company department that has the position you want. Or you can add the word “manager” to the job title you want—for example, Dear Office Manager, or Dear Office Receptionist Manager, or Dear Cable TV Installer Manager, or Dear File/ Mail Clerk Manager.

2. State the purpose of your letter and the position for which you are applying. 3. State those qualifications that make you well suited for the job. 4. Request an interview. 5. Sign your letter before sending it.

38

Section 2

Photodisc/Getty Images

Your cover letter should be brief, clear, and carefully written. Proofread your letter for content. Have someone who is proficient in grammar edit your letter for correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Remember, any error in your cover letter will reflect poorly on you. Be sure to include a copy of your resume with each cover letter. Also include any other requested information, such as samples of your work.

Content of a Cover Letter The content of a cover letter varies considerably depending upon the job you are seeking. Your cover letter paragraphs should include the following:

1. Opening paragraph. State why you are writing, the name of the position for which you are applying, and how you learned of the opening. If you are responding to an ad, state the date and name of the newspaper or other source in which you saw the ad. Skills learned in school, such as teamwork and research, are important to many employers.

2. Middle paragraph. State why you are interested in working for the employer and why you desire this type of work. This is a good place to bring attention to your personal qualities and work skills. Point out your special qualifications, achievements, and training. 3. Closing paragraph. Refer to your resume and encourage action. Ask for an interview or end with a question that encourages a reply. Instead of a statement such as “I would appreciate hearing from you in the future,” which does not draw action, you might say, “I will call you next week to determine when we might meet to discuss the job opening.” Or you may say, “Please call me at (837) 555–0154 concerning an interview to discuss this opening.”

Sample Cover Letters Two sample ads and the cover letters that were written in response to them are presented on pages 41 and 42. In the first cover letter, Kevin Komara, a student with a part-time job at Home Center, Inc., is applying for a full-time job he would like after he graduates in June. In the second cover letter, Carol Loomis, who has work experience, is applying for a full-time position as a delivery driver for Valley Bank. Both Kevin and Carol state the purpose of their letter, list their job-related qualifications or reasons why they should be interviewed for the position, and request an interview. Notice how Carol uses her cover letter to explain how her good driving record, reliable work attendance, and excellent customer service qualify her for the job. Notice that neither ad asks for a cover letter. However, employers recognize that a cover letter shows a job applicant’s extra effort, and both Kevin and Carol want jobs! Kevin sends his cover letter and resume to the person identified in the ad. The ad Carol is responding to uses a fax number in place of an address. She properly faxes her cover letter and resume to Mr. Tanimoto, the name provided in the ad. Make sure you follow the directions in the ad exactly or your letter and resume may be disregarded. Also notice that the candidates include their telephone number, cell phone number, and e-mail address. Try to make it as convenient as possible for an employer to reach you to establish a time for an interview.

Cover Letter

39

Remember, even if you have little or no paid or volunteer work experience, you can still use your school subjects and relevant skills, strong personal qualities, and interests to develop a winning cover letter. If that is the case for you, refer to Supplemental Document 6, Transferable Skills Cover Letter to see an example of a cover letter you might like to use.

Activity 9 Write a Cover Letter ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

RESUME GENERATOR

Review all of the newspaper employment ads on page 43. Select the job that is of most interest to you, and assume you have all of the qualifications. If you prefer, you may select an appropriate employment ad from your local newspaper. Then remove the practice paper provided for Activity 9 on pages 23–24 of your Activity Worksheets and draft a cover letter. You may refer to the sample cover letters on pages 41 and 42 in this step when constructing your cover letter. After you have drafted your cover letter, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any needed corrections. Then, using your Resume Generator, follow the instructions in Section 5 to key your cover letter, and save the final cover letter on the same thumb drive you used to store your resumes. Print your final cover letter on 8 1/2" × 11" paper, on the same grade and paper color used for your resume.

Information You Can Use SD 4 Reading Between the Lines of a Classiﬁed Job Ad This information will help you read and understand a classified job ad. Note the list of common abbreviations you see in job advertisements and their meanings. SD 5 Action Verbs That Get Results You can find powerful action verbs in this list that you can use to describe your skills in your cover letter. SD 6 Transferable Skills Cover Letter This is an example of a cover letter for someone who does not have work experience. If you do not have work experience, describe your school courses, volunteer work, and interest in the work to qualify you for the job. Notice that the greeting in the letter is to the Office Manager because a name was not available in the ad.

Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

40

Section 2

You have now completed Step 4. Put your printed cover letter in your Employment Portfolio for future reference. Place a check mark by Cover Letter on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

Figure 2.6 Cover Letter 1 2⬙(Line 13)

1100 Southway ou uth thw Road Detroit, MI 98824 March 15, 20-4S

1⬙

A B

C

SECURITY TECHNICIAN Hometown Builders is seeking entry-level security technicians for installing access controls and security systems. We provide great benefits and pay. This is a growing industry. Send resume to Hometown Builders, Mr. James Washington, 4551 Beal St., Detroit, MI, 98821.

Mr. James Washington Hometown Builders 455 4551 Beal Street Detroit, MI 98821 D et 2S Dear Mr. Washington 2S Please consider me for the position of security technician for access controls and security systems as advertised in the Detroit Free Press on March 14, 20--. 2S Customer service and sales is a must in my present position as a salesperson for Home Center, Inc. In January and February I was recognized as salesperson of the month for part-time employees. In addition, I have a responsibility for maintaining a satisfactory electrical hardware inventory. This part of my work requires knowledge of electrical wiring and use. It also requires mathematical calculations, construction specifics, attention to detail, and organization. 2S Enclosed is my resume. I would appreciate discussing my qualifications. I will call you next week for a possible interview date and time. You can call me if you prefer at (783) 5558211. My cell number is (783) 555-3116, and my e-mail address is [email protected] 2S Sincerely

1⬙

Kevin Komara

4S

Kevin Komara 2S Enclosure To prepare a professional-looking letter, follow the formatting guidelines shown. Remember that 2S means double space (or two returns) and 4S means quadruple space (four returns). Do not include this information on your cover letter. A.

Purpose of Letter

B.

Qualifications or reasons why applicant should be interviewed

C.

Request for an interview

Cover Letter

41

Figure 2.6 Cover Letter 2 1” (Line 7)

Carol Loomis oom omis om 243 Shoreview iew Way W Minneapolis, MN 55454 (612) 555-8043 (612) 555-2344-cell E-mail: [email protected] 4S

May 9, 20-4S 1⬙

A B

C

Fax No. (612) 555-4800 2S Dear Mr. Tanimoto De 2S Please consider me for the Valley Bank driving position advertised in the Star Tribune on May 8, 20--. My experience includes the following: 2S • Lifetime resident of Minneapolis • 7-year driving experience within Minneapolis • 2-year florist delivery in Minneapolis area • Clean driving record—drug free • Bondable 2S My driving record, dependable work attendance, and excellent customer service qualify me for this position. Enclosed is my resume. After you review my resume, I will call you next week to discuss my qualifications for the job opening. 2S Sincerely 4S

Carol Loomis

Carol Loomis 2S Enclosure

42

A.

Purpose of Letter

B.

Qualifications or reasons why applicant should be interviewed

C.

Request for an interview

Section 2

DELIVERY DRIVER Valley Bank needs a F/T driver. Must have a clean driving record. Drug test mandatory. Should have street knowledge. Very good benefits. Competitive pay w/annual increases. Fax resume to William Tanimoto (612) 555-4800.

1⬙

Figure 2.7 Newspaper Employment Ads MANAGER TRAINEE 84 LUMBER Company, the fastest-growing national lumber chain, has career opportunities today. Advancement is rapid, and all promotions are from within. First-year earnings average $22,000–30,000. Beneﬁts include hospitalization, proﬁt sharing, and much more. If you enjoy a combination of sales and physical work and have completed high school, then you may qualify. No knowledge of building materials necessary—we’ll train. Immediate openings act now! Fax resume to: (754) 555-0116.

Villa Hick’ry Pit RestauVilla’s ran 1200 Lakeshore Ave., rants, Suit 16-B, Dept. CC 1223, Suite Cha Charleston, SC 29406.

BANKING BA

Alexandria Arlington Overload of Work Looking for 20 individuals to ﬁll these positions: Warehouse, Shipping/Receiving, Inventory Control, Sales/Marketing, Management. Fax resume to: (956) 555-0144.

RESTAURANT Assistant Managers Look At Us & Start Your New Year Right! We are a high-volume, multi-unit, full-service family restaurant chain-seeking professionals with successful MANAGEMENT experience in the hospitality industry. A strong back-of-the-house orientation including scratch bakery is preferred. We fully understand that our future growth and success will be absolutely based upon the talent we hire today. We offer outstanding salaries with quarterly bonus potential and a comprehensive beneﬁts package including a 401(k) plan with 25% company match in a friendly, highly professional, aggressive, and entrepreneurial environment. Opportunity for growth will be based upon your contribution. Send detailed resume to Richard

Bookkeeper: Bo exp Resume with salary exper. history to our ofﬁce at The hist RDS Co., 1220 Richards Rd. #200, Leesburg, VA 22075. #20

Summit Bank Sum Has openings for New Account, Bookkeeping, & Acc Receptionist. We’re looking Rec for prof., highly motivated individuals with appropriindi ate banking exper. for our Arlington ofﬁces. Salary Arli commensurate with exper. com F/T, Mon.–Fri., no wknds. Send resume to: P.O. Box Sen 898, Ashland, OR 97520. 898

CABLE TV INSTALLER CA WAREHOUSE 2 LOCATIONS

COMPUTERLAND CO

$15 $15–20/hr. after free training. Must be Fairfax Co. resident Mu &m meet eligibility requirements. Send resume to TEI men Cable, 2600 Stanwell Dr., Cab Cleveland, OH 45202. Clev

CO COMPUTER TEC TECHNICIAN Gro Growing Fairfax computer co. seeking motivated, put hardworking PC Tech. Send har resume to RYNO Computer res Systems, 4271 Park Rd., Sys Fairfax, VA 22030. Fair

ACCOUNTING CLERK AC Fas Fast-paced aviation business seeks experienced nes person in A/P, A/R, Lotus, per data entry, 10-key by touch, dat with switchboard relief. Fax (980) 555-0124. (980

CLERICAL CLE We have 2 openings for high-energy, motivated high people! Duties include peo answering phones, helping ans callers with inquiries. Highcall pressure positions. Will pre train the right people. Send trai your resume to HUMAN you RESOURCES DEPT. 11301 RES Wilson Ave. Pittsburgh, PA Wil 15219. 152

MO MOTORCYCLE ME MECHANIC Sal negotiable, DOE. Salary Health beneﬁts included. Hea Send resume to Archer MoSen tors 7956 Hopyard Vienna, VA 22180.

spo sponsible, articulate? We’re loo looking for you (and your clo clone!) to handle phones, ma mail, faxes, light keyboarding ing, and visitors at the front des desk of our busy publishing ofﬁce. Job share arrangeme ment allows you ﬂexibility to ddevelop scheduling that me meets your needs. No experien rience necessary; will train can candidates with potential. Sen Send resume & cover letter c/o Times Job Network, And Andover, NJ 07821.

RETAIL RET FILE/MAIL CLERK FIL Bus Alexandria ofﬁce lookBusy ing for reliable, hard-working person for this entry-level per position. 10-key, data-entry pos experience helpful, but not exp necessary. Send resume or nec request for application to req A/R Manager, P.O. Box 5011, Alexandria VA 22312. Ale

CU CUSTOMER SERVICE/ WR WRHSE. Nat National distributor looking for a positive, high-energy person for our location in per Falls Church. Qualiﬁed canFall didate will have excellent did communication, organizacom tional, & computer skills. tion No experience necessary. EOE. Send resume to Vallen EOE Safety, 4300 82nd St., Unit C, Saf Falls Church, VA 22046. Fall

MAINTENANCE MA Imm maintenance openImmed. ing at luxury Walnut Creek apt. community. We are apt looking for min. knowledge loo in pplumbing, electrical, carpentry, & painting. Duties car will incl. general maint. with some painting & cleaning som req. F/T, $1400 per mo. bnfts. req Send resume to Ms. Marie Sen Strong 1623 Parkwood TerStro race, Alexandria, VA 22304. rac

RECEPTIONIST REC BRI BRING A FRIEND… or come alone! Are you cheerful, realo

LOO at this: STORE MANLOOK AGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES. AG The most successful retailer in tthe closeout industry has store management opporsto tunities for career-oriented tun professionals. Our expandpro ing chain offers outstanding advancement opportunities adv in tthe area. We offer competitive salaries, and our pet generous beneﬁts program gen features company-paid proffea it ssharing, health insurance, AND MORE! Successful AN management or supervisory ma experience in a self-service exp mass merchandising retail ma operation is required. Fax ope your conﬁdential resume to you (734) 555-0104. (734

COOK CO Pre Cook/Hostesses F/T Prep MONDAY–FRIDAY. For MO Hayward Retirement Home. Hay Excellent salary. Fast worker Exc who enjoys working with the wh elderly. Send resume to Bareld celon Assoc., 3685 Sunrise cel Valley Dr., Suite 201, Reston, Val VA 22091. Fax resume to (731) 555-0111. (73

Chu Church, VA 22046, ATTN: C. Ga Gabbert. -----------

RETAIL SALESPEOPLE RE PEE PEET’S COFFEE AND TEA Join a team that is commitJoi ted to excellence. Peet’s Coffee & Tea is seeking Cof additional permanent, partadd time sales staff to assist our tim loyal customers. Beyond loy our competitive wages and excellent beneﬁts, we also exc offer one of the best coffee offe and tea educations in the area. Fax resume to: (236) are 555-0170. Peet’s is an Equal 555 Opportunity Employer, and Op we encourage applications from people of all races & fro ethnic backgrounds. eth

SECURITY SE by WESTEC TELEMARKETERS. Fax resume to (530) ERS 555-0112. Attn: Lyle Brief/ 555 Telemarketing Manager Tel $15–20/hr. plus commis$15 sion. Market alarm/security sio services & equipment to ser homeowners throughout hom greater Washington via gre telephone, ascertain potentele tial customers’ interests & needs, and set appointnee ments for follow-up by outme side salespersons. Leads sid provided. PT, 5–9pm Mon.– pro Thu. Growth & quality-oriThu ented company has been in ent the alarm industry over 20 yrs. Requires ability to work yrs hard & continuously at a har fast pace in a professional fas telemarketing environment. tele Must be a results-oriented Mu self-starter. Training prosel vided. EOE vid

-----------

SH SHIPPING AND RE RECEIVING

RECEPTIONIST RE

Eas Co. seeking nonexperiEast enced shipping and receivenc ing person. We will train in domestic and international dom shipping. Resume to C.L. shi Ford, PO Box 2706, Arlington, For VA 22211.

Tele Telephone Operator for busy ins. co. located near bus Metro Stop. Courteous, Me prof. person with good compro munication skills & excel. mu attendance req’d. Co. offers atte pleasant working conditions ple & eexcel. bnfts. Send resume to: P.O. Box 1777, Falls

Cover Letter

43

Step 5

Employment Application In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • •

What employers want in an employment application Information needed to complete employment applications A completed employment application to study An employment application to complete and use as a reference

What Is an Employment Application? Most employers require applicants to complete an employment application. An example of a completed employment application is on pages 47–48. Employment applications are company documents that give the employer facts about you that can be kept on file. These facts include basic information on your education, skills, work history, and references. Even if you have a resume and a scheduled interview, you will usually need to complete an employment application form. You should be prepared to complete the form when you go on an interview or when you make a cold call to a company. Be honest when you fill out an employment application. If you are hired and it is learned later that information on your application is untrue, you could be terminated for falsification of company documents. For example, if you falsely claim to be a college graduate on your application and are subsequently hired, your manager might decide to fire you if he or she finds out about your deceit.

What Do Employers Look For in an Employment Application? ©PicsFive, 2009/ Used under license from Shutterstock.com

The information you provide and how well you present the information create an image of the type of employee you would be. The information indicates to an employer the following:

1. Your ability to follow instructions. Have you carelessly or carefully filled out the employment application? Keep it neat. Your application may also indicate how well you can read and write. 2. Your ability to hold a job. There will be questions concerning your employment history. You may be asked to explain gaps in employment. 3. Your achievements. The employment application allows you to mention past accomplishments.

How well you complete an employment application could determine whether you are granted an interview.

44

Section 2

4. Your thoroughness. Did you answer all of the questions on the employment application? Don’t leave blanks. Drawing a line or writing N/A (not applicable) shows the employer you have read the question and it does not apply to you. Completing an employment application does not mean you will have an interview. The outcome could depend on how well you completed the employment application. Remember: Always include a copy of your resume with

your employment application. A copy of your resume will help the hiring manager remember you.

Completing An Employment Application Carefully read the completed employment application for Delta Memorial Hospital on pages 47– 48 in this step. Be sure to follow the side heading instructions as they are very important for correctly completing an employment application. Notice that a Social Security number is requested. If a Social Security number is requested on the application, write “Submit when hired.” This is private information. Only give your Social Security number to an employer when you are hired. Make sure you have the following when completing an employment application:

1. Two pens (blue or black ink), two pencils, an eraser, paper clips. 2. Your current and previous addresses. 3. Education information, usually from high school to present. Give names and addresses of schools, the diplomas or degrees you earned, and the dates you attended each institution. Indicate any subjects in which you excelled, particularly those relating to the job opening. 4. Work records. Be able to provide the names, addresses, and phone numbers of past employers, the dates of employment, job responsibilities, the wages earned, the names of your supervisors, and your reasons for leaving each job. Keep your reasons for leaving a job positive. Include military experience (if any) and volunteer work. 5. List of your work skills, and business machine operation skills. 6. Names of certificates, licenses, professional organizations, and other businessrelated documents, honors, and achievements that could give you an advantage over other applicants. 7. A list of references that shows names, job titles, company names, addresses, and telephone numbers. 8. Copies of your resume. Remember to attach your resume to any completed employment application with a paper clip.

Activity 10 Completing an Employment Application ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Before you begin, gather the information and materials noted above. Be sure to have a copy of your resume because the application will require the same or similar information. First determine what job title you are seeking from the three jobs you researched in Step 2. You need to be specific. The key is to choose the job title that you are most interested in or will be qualified for in the near future. Make sure it is the one you would enjoy and find satisfying. The Reynolds Corporation is a very large business organization. It has many job opportunities, including the position you want.

Employment Application

45

Remove and complete the first blank employment application in pencil for Reynolds Corporation in Activity 10 on pages 25–26 of your Activity Worksheets. When you have completed the employment application to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval, and then make any necessary corrections. Next, using your pencil draft, carefully complete the second Reynolds Corporation employment application in your Activity Worksheets using a pen with blue or black ink. This practice will help you complete employment applications in the future.

Information You Can Use SD 7 Reynolds Corporation Employment Application This is another copy of the employment application in your Activity Worksheets. Print this if you would like additional practice. SD 8 Mid-Level Employment Application—World Corporation After you have job experience and are looking for the next step in your career field, this employment application may be like the one you will be required to complete.

Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

46

Section 2

You have now completed Step 5. Put your employment application in your Employment Portfolio. You can use it as a guide when completing applications for future jobs. Place a check mark by Employment Application on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

Figure 2.8A DMH Delta Memorial Hospital Employer Application Follow directions.

DELTA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT Type or Print Clearly

If possible, use a fountain pen for neatness and effect. (use blue or black ink.)

SOCIAL SECURITY

PERSONAL INFORMATION

NAME

VILLAGOMEZ

DATE

Last

PRESENT ADDRESS

JUNE 1, 20-- NUMBER EDUARDO First

Street

City

SAME Street

State

City

ZIP Code

State

ZIP Code

(209) 555-2909

CAN YOU, AFTER EMPLOYMENT, SUBMIT VERIFICATION OF YOUR LEGAL RIGHT, TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES? CIRCLE ONE:

Yes

No

EMPLOYMENT DESIRED

MEDICAL LAB TECHNICIAN

DATE YOU CAN START

(IF YES, VERIFICATION WILL BE REQUIRED)

JUNE 15, 20--

SALARY DESIRED

STARTING WAGE

If you have no telephone, arrange to get a number where a message can be left. Write “(message)” next to the number.

Employees with little or no work experience IF SO, MAY WE INQUIRE ARE YOU EMPLOYED NOW? YES-INTERNSHIP OF YOUR PRESENT EMPLOYER? YES should indicate “starting wage.” EDUCATION Experienced NAME AND ADDRESS OF SCHOOL DEGREE OR CERTIFICATE SUBJECTS STUDIED employees should write MISSION HIGH SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL STANDARD HIGH “negotiable.” 4843 MISSION BLVD. DIPLOMA SCHOOL SUBJECTS HIGH SCHOOL Negotiable FRESNO, CA. 93703-8211 MEDICAL LAB INCLUDING BIOLOGY, means that you WESTLAND MEDICAL COLLEGE TECH CERTIFICATE KEYING, CHEMISTRY would like to UNIVERSITY OR 8924 STEVENSON BLVD. CLINICAL LAB talk about the COLLEGE FRESNO. CA. 93889-6483 PROCEDURES, OFFICE wage you have PROCEDURES, MEDICAL in mind.

POSITION

Write out full school names, no abbreviations.

Middle

4576 HAMILTON WAY FRESNO CA. 93703-1257

PERMANENT ADDRESS

PHONE NO.

SUBMIT WHEN HIRED LUIS

Your Social Security number is private information. Write “Submit when hired.” Tell the employer, “ if hired, I will provide my Social Security number.”

TRADE, BUSINESS, OR CORRESPONDENCE SCHOOL

TERMINOLOGY

GENERAL DO YOU HAVE ANY EXPERIENCES, SKILLS, OR QUALIFICATIONS THAT WILL BE OF SPECIAL BENEFIT IN THE POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE APPLYING?

PROOF READING AND KEYING SKILLS WHAT FOREIGN LANGUAGES DO YOU SPEAK FLUENTLY?SPANISH READ? WRITE?

YES YES

Drawing a line shows you have read the statement or question and it does not apply to you.

WHAT PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS DO YOU BELONG TO? Continued on other side.

Employment Application

47

Figure 2.8B DMH Delta Memorial Hospital Employer Application WORK EXPERIENCE List all present and past employment, including part-time or seasonal, beginning with the most recent.

EMPLOYMENT DATES AND SALARY

EMPLOYER NAME

RAVENWOOD HOSPITAL

ADDRESS

4242 BLACOW RD.

PHONE

(209)555-1816

FRESNO/CA.

SUPERVISOR

MRS. R. POHLI

ROUND TABLE PIZZA 296 DURHAM RD.

PHONE

(209)555-4155

JAN., 20-- MEDICAL LAB TECH COLLECT AND EXAMINE TO: PRESENT BLOOD TISSUE AND FLUID SLIDES SAMPLE. PREPARED NONE SALARY: STAIN SLIDES FOR MICROORGANISMS AND ANALYZE CHEMICAL COMPONENTS. COUNTER PERSON, CASHIER, SEP., 20-FROM:

CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE

FRESNO/CA.

TO:

JAN., 20--

SUPERVISOR

JOHN ROBERTS

SALARY:

$ 6.25

FRESNO MAIN LIBRARY

JUNE, 20-- LIBRARY ASSISTANT STACKING AND FILING 3846 PASEO PADRE FRESNO/CA. TO: AUG., 20-PHONE SUPERVISOR BOOKS. CODING (209)55-6132 DONALD CONLEY SALARY: MINIMUM LIBRARY MATERIALS NAME FROM:

MERCY HOSPITAL 312 BALBOA DR.

PHONE

(209)555-8300

CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE

FRESNO/CA. SUPERVISOR

DANA WALSH

WAGE JUNE, 20-- VOLUNTEER ASSISTANT, GIFT SHOP, SERVE TO: AUG., 20-CUSTOMERS, GENERAL NONE SALARY: MAINTENANCE FROM:

Keep your reasons for leaving past jobs positive. They should sound good.

TO PURSUE A CAREER POSITION

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE

ADDRESS

INTERNSHIP

SERVE CUSTOMERS,

NAME

ADDRESS

REASON FOR LEAVING

FROM:

CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE

NAME

ADDRESS

DESCRIBE THE WORK YOU DID IN DETAIL

END OF SUMMER EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM RETURN TO SCHOOL

WORK EXPERIENCE Give below the names of three persons not related to you, whom you have known at least one year.

NAME

ADDRESS

4242 BLACOW RD. 1. MRS. ROBERT POHLI FRESNO CA. 93703-1245 296 DURHAM, RD. 2. MR. JOHN ROBERTS FRESNO, CA. 93703-6844 3846 PASEO PADRE FRESNO, CA. 93889 3. MR. DONALD CONLEY

BUSINESS

YEARS ACQUAITNED

RAVENWOOD HOSP. 6 MONTHS FRESNO, CA. INTERNSHIP ROUND TABLE (MANAGER) 21/2 YEARS FRESNO MAIN LIBRARY, FRESNO, CA. 1 YEAR

IN CASE OF

MRS. ANNA VILLAGOMEZ NAME 8233 FREMONT AVE., FRESNO CA. 93703

EMERGENCY NOTIFY

ADDRESS

(209) 555-3838 PHONE NO.

I AUTHORIZE INVESTIGATION OF ALL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION. I UNDERSTAND THAT MISREPRESENTATION OR OMISSION OF FACTS CALLED FOR IS CAUSE FOR DISMISSAL. FURTHER, I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT MY EMPLOYMENT IS FOR NO DEFINITE PERIOD AND MAY, REGARDLESS OF THE DATE OF PAYMENT OF MY WAGES AND SALARY, B TERMINATED AT ANY TIME WITHOUT ANY PREVIOUS NOTICE.

DATE

48

JUNE 1, 20--

Section 2

SIGNATURE

When signing your application use your full name. Never use a nickname.

Step 6

Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • • • •

The deﬁnition of a job lead How to prepare for job leads Eleven sources of job leads Information for researching a company How to ﬁnd jobs in special circumstances An activity for recording job leads An activity for researching a company

What Is a Job Lead? From your selfassessment in Step 1 and job research and information interview in Step 2, you know the type of work you want. You have a few dream jobs in mind. If your education and experience do not qualify you for that dream job at this time, find an entry-level job in the same career field. Always have an alternative job you could be happy doing.

A job lead is a contact that may direct you to a job opening. The most promising job leads may be found in the following ways:

1. by using your network of people to find job openings 2. by using the Yellow Pages to find employers to visit 3. by acting on newspaper help-wanted ads 4. by finding employment sources on the Internet Notice that each of the ways to find a job lead will take action on your part. The time and effort you spend looking for a job represents a considerable investment in your future. Finding the right job takes time, organization, and commitment.

How Should You Prepare for Job Leads? •

Be organized. Make your job search effective. Establish a target date for getting a job. Decide how much time you will allow. If you are a student, start your job search months before you need a job. If you are unemployed, you should spend 8 hours every day (40 hours per week) on your job search—this is your job! Plan the minimum number of contacts you will make each day, or the minimum number of people to meet each day. Set daily and weekly goals for yourself. Use the system provided in your Activity Worksheets for recording contacts and follow-up actions.

•

Have business cards made. Giving a business card to a prospective employer and networking contacts may be just the edge you need to be remembered when a job opening appears. A local print shop can prepare business cards for you—you need Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

49

only to provide them with the proper information. Include your name, e-mail address, cell and telephone number, and career objective on the front of your business card. On the back, list your skills for your career objective. When you visit companies that have no openings, ask if they would keep your business card on file. If they would like you to submit a resume, attaching your business card serves as a reminder of your visit. In fact, you may want to attach your business card along with your resume to any application form you complete. This will set your application apart from the others. See the example provided in Figure 2.9.

•

Plan your 15–30-second pitch. Prepare what you will say to a person in your network who may find a job lead for you. You might say, “When I graduate I am looking for an entry-level job as _____. Do you know of someone I can contact about a job opening?” If you meet your contact personally, give him/ her a business card.

•

Never overlook sending a thank-you note. Buy note cards to write a thank-you to anyone who gave you a job lead, referred you to others who helped, or as a follow-up to a prospective employer. Send the thank-you note immediately after your contact. The note reaffirms your interest in the job and shows you are serious about your job search. The note should be legible, short, and grateful. You may want to e-mail your thanks, but a handwritten note often makes a greater impact. See the sample provided in Figure 2.10.

•

Find a mentor. A mentor is someone who will give you encouragement, guidance, and support throughout your job search. Your mentor can be a

Figure 2.9 Business Card Frank Nelson E-mail: [email protected] (925) 555-1415 Cell (925) 555-1948 Career Objective: Computer Support Specialist

Skills: Computer Programming Logical Thinking/Multitasking Organization Bilingual in English/Spanish Computer Security Network Installation Extensive Software Knowledge

Figure 2.10 Thank-you Note

Dear Ms. Sanchez, Thank you for taking the time to meet with me yesterday. The information you shared was very important to me. I plan to continue my job search in this career field and will keep you informed of my progress. Sincerely, Todd Martin

50

Section 2

parent, a relative, or someone whom you know well and trust. Try to find a mentor who has contacts in the town where you want to work. Check with your mentor often and seek advice.

Proven Ways to Find Job Leads

Stockbyte/Getty Images

There are many ways to get a job other than just shotgunning your resumes. You must do more than mailing resumes and waiting for an answer. When you pursue job leads, many people get to know you and your career goals. Job leads can direct you to work sites that have the job you’re looking for. Be aware, however, that trying several job lead techniques may not be as helpful as concentrating on only a few. To make sure your job search efforts are successful, you may want to choose three or four of the following job lead techniques. Job Lead 1: Networking. It is estimated that up to 90% of jobs are found through networking. In fact, the more contacts you make, the better your chances of finding employment. Most people like helping others. People you see in places you go every day may have a lead—you just have to let them know about the job you want! Ask them if they have any advice or suggestions about your job search. Tell everyone you know and people you meet socially or from business about the job and career field you want. Ask them if they know of any potential contacts in politics, banking, real estate, or service clubs such as Rotary, Lions Club, or Kiwanis. Someone may be able to assist you in speaking to those persons about your job search. Going to job fairs and trade shows, volunteering, or taking a class in your field will also expand your network. Contact is best face-to-face, but don’t forget to call or e-mail people whom you have not seen for awhile. For Internet networking advice, visit knockemdead.com.

Most jobs are never advertised. You discover them through your network and direct contact with prospective employers.

Networking may help you find jobs that are not advertised. Employers often hire from recommendations their employees tell them about. It may be that the person who gives you a lead may not know you at all. It could be a friend of a friend of a friend. This is the power of networking. The more contacts you make, the better your chances of finding employment. Your contact list may include the following: family

bankers

friends

advisors

parents

coaches

real estate people

coworkers

relatives

doctors

neighbors

team members

business people

dentist

teachers

salespersons

counselors

barber/hairdresser

church members

waiters/waitresses

club members Give people who offer to help you a copy of your business card and, if appropriate, a copy of your resume. Keep in touch by calling or e-mail, and keep a record of your contacts on the forms provided in your Activity Worksheets. By following up with Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

51

your contacts, your request is a reminder that you are still looking for work. Your contacts are more likely to inquire about job leads for you when they talk to their friends or people they know in business. They may hear about a job opening before it becomes public and may agree to act as a reference for you.

Take Advantage of Local Networking Events Job fairs are mainly held for companies to attract new hires. Attending job fairs is a casual way of coming face-to-face with employer contacts. Some fairs focus on entry-level jobs, while others are hosted by specific industries such as tech industries. Remember to dress as if you are going to a job interview and bring copies of your resume and business card. Human resource personnel often attend job fairs, hoping to hire enthusiastic new employees. At job fairs, you can get inside information such as what companies are looking for and who to contact (by picking up business cards). You can also obtain employment applications. Many high schools and colleges host job fairs. Job fairs are also advertised in the newspaper or on careerrelated Web sites. Tradeshows are another way to develop contacts. Tradeshows are held by companies coming together to display and advertise their products and services. Attend and introduce yourself to as many people as you can. This is a good chance to hand out your business card, explain what job you are looking for, learn about companies you may be interested in, and ask for job advice. Job Lead 2: The Yellow Pages. One of the most successful ways to find a job is by calling or visiting the businesses in the field in which you are interested and asking if they have any job openings. In Step 2, you found jobs that matched your Personal Profile. The next step is to find employers who may have these kinds of jobs. Use the local Yellow Pages index to make a list of all the companies that you want to contact to see if they need someone with your skills and interests. You may be attracted to an organization or company because you have heard it is a good place to work, because you like the products they make, or because they do the kind of work in which you are interested. To find what you should know about the company before your contact, read the section “How to Research a Company” on page 57 of this Instruction Booklet. If you want a job in a different town, use the Internet Yellow Pages sites listed below. Search by business categories as well as names. Use both Web sites since each cover its specific calling areas. Verizon: superpages.com AT&T: yellowpages.com Here are tips for contacting employers whether they have an opening or not.

•

52

Section 2

Rather than calling, walk right in. Without an introduction, walking into a workplace is best for entry-level to mid-level jobs. If your interest is in a skilled trade, skilled labor, or service industry job, walking in is the most effective way to get a job lead. This work includes manufacturing, technical installations, and maintenance and mechanical work, along with office work and retail and outside sales. Walking in is particularly effective with small companies. You may be able to make an appointment, or be interviewed immediately. Once you have met the employer face-to-face, you might be remembered when there is an opening! Armed with your resume and business card, give your pitch.

Introduce yourself and say, “Hello, I am --------------- and a student at --------------. When I graduate I am looking for an entry-level job as -----------------. I am interested in working in this career field. Is there someone I can talk to about a job opening?” Always ask if you may leave your resume and business card, and be sure to check back often.

•

If you are considering a few small and growing companies in your field of interest, prepare and send a different letter to each. Be sure to find something specific to say about each company. (Read the section “How to Research a Company” on page 57 of this Instruction Booklet for assistance.) For example, you might explain what it is about the organization that appeals to you or what it does that you want to be a part of. If you don’t hear back within a short time, call or e-mail to get an interview.

•

For large organizations, call and ask to talk with the personnel manager or office manager of the department in which you are interested in working. Ask if the company is hiring for your type of position. If not, ask what experience is needed and how you could eventually qualify. Ask what you should do next, if there is someone else you should talk to, or if there is an upcoming event that you should attend. This is a much better approach than just sending out your resume.

•

Another approach to take when you call a company is, rather than presenting yourself as a job seeker, say something like: “I am really interested in working with computers (or cars or clothing) when I finish school. I would like to find out all I can about jobs in this field. Can you tell me about the work that is done here, and how a person like myself could get started in this field?”

•

Ask if you could visit the workplace. This method allows you to learn about the company even though there may be no job openings. Reread about this technique of information interviewing in Step 2, on pages 19–21. Most people enjoy talking about their work and giving advice to a good listener. Furthermore, they may remember you when a job does become available or be able to give you names of other people to call about job openings.

•

After you contact an employer, remember to send a thank-you note and stay in touch by calling in a few weeks to see if there are any openings. It is good to call more than once to an organization for which you would like to work. This shows your enthusiasm and interest in the company.

Job Lead 3: The Local Newspaper. Don’t forget one of the most common sources of job leads. If networking is hard for you and you do not know many people in your field, the want ads and the business section in your local newspaper can help you find a job.

•

Read the help-wanted ads in your local newspaper regularly. Promptly send a specific resume and cover letter to each business or job for which you may be qualified. Carefully look at the job description. Words such as “self-starter, challenging” will require a different kind of person than “reliable, conscientious.” Carefully tailor your resume and cover letter to the job requirements in the ad. Reread the information about cover letters in Step 4, on pages 38–40. Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

53

•

Many newspapers partner with online job services such as Yahoo HotJobs to match the skills and experience of job seekers with employers’ hiring needs. Look in your local newspaper for ads such as this.

•

Read the business section of your local newspaper for companies reporting business plans, expansions, and new locations. You will learn about the community and its employers and identify individuals to contact within these organizations.

•

Watch for news stories about small companies creating more jobs as their business grows. Managers are always looking for good workers, even if there are no openings. They may be hiring for a wide range of positions. They may file your resume and call you at a future date.

•

Newspapers in large cities may have their own Internet job boards. Check newsvoyager.com for a newspaper and search keywords or browse the contents.

Job Lead 4: One-Stop Career Centers. These centers are sponsored by federal, state, and city agencies through the U.S. Department of Labor, and they are located throughout the United States. You will find local job openings here, and you will be given individual attention in your job search. One-Stop Career Centers offer complete employment services including career counseling, resume help, and job-hunting workshops. Their services are free. Many programs are available, including mock interviewing and youth employment opportunity programs for individuals aged 15–21 years. If you are just starting in the workforce, laid off, re-entering the workforce, learning new skills, or have special needs, One-Stop Career Centers give personalized help. To locate the nearest One-Stop Career Center, check the telephone Business Listings, call 1-877-872-5627 and give your zip code, or go online at servicelocator.org.

• • • •

Call the Career Center, and ask about their procedures for assisting you.

•

Contact the Employment Development Department (EDD) office located in the One-Stop Career Center for the benefit of both government services.

•

Access CareerOneStop online at careeronestop.org, and click the Student or Job Seekers links for excellent help in your job search. CareerOneStop has developed a job bank locator at jobbankinfo.org that brings together private, state, and federal Web sites to help connect job seekers and employers.

Visit the Career Center, and check the job openings that are posted or filed. Fill out an application. Set up an interview with a case manager. The counselor will match your qualifications to current job openings.

Job Lead 5: Temporary Employment Agencies. Temporary employment agencies are listed under “Employment” or “Employment—Temporary” in the Yellow Pages. Their listings or ads will usually tell what their specialties are. You may want a temporary job simply to get work experience. Temporary jobs can last from a few hours to several months. Many employers need extra help during rush seasons, when inventories must be completed, for special projects, and to fill in for employees who are on vacation or taking a leave of absence. There are temporary agencies for many occupations. Temporary employment may lead to a permanent job. These temporary

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experiences can help you make sound career employment decisions. For information about temporary jobs and links to finding work, go to jobsearch.about.com. Job Lead 6: School Career Centers. School career centers are good sources for job leads. Contact your school career center for job opportunities. Placement counselors also may offer other services, such as assisting you with putting your resume together. You will be provided with an employment application to complete and file with your school career center and/or placement office. Your placement counselor will contact employers and provide a list of job openings. Ask the employment counselor to set up an interview for you. Job Lead 7: USAJOBS and Other Government Web sites. USAJOBS is the official Internet job site of the U.S. Federal Government. You can access the site at usajobs.gov. Find federal employment information and jobs listed here with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. This Web site posts current federal job openings, including locations, duties, salaries, necessary education and experience, and complete application instructions. Jobs with the federal government are secure, and salaries are competitive with the private sector; if you add their outstanding benefits to the salaries, government jobs often come out ahead.

•

Many federal agencies do their own hiring, so some requirements may be different. You may apply online, and if you have questions, you can e-mail the contact person.

•

You can get the same job information as is posted online at USAJOBS by telephone at 1-703-724-1850.

•

For detailed information on all student hiring programs in the federal government, including summer employment, visit studentjobs.gov.

•

Many agencies, such as Homeland Security, the FBI, and the Secret Service, post jobs on their own sites.

Job Lead 8: Online Job Listings. Many of the eleven sources of job leads presented in this step can be accessed through the Internet. This step directs you to some of the best Web sites for your job search. Here are some other good ways you can search online job listings:

•

Search for a job through the Web sites of specific companies in which you are interested. Use your favorite search engine such as Google or Yahoo, and key the employer’s name in the search box. On the company home page, you should find links such as Career Opportunities, Job Openings, or Corporate, which will connect you to information about careers with the organization. Company Web sites post available full-time and part-time jobs, company profiles, and other information to help you get a job.

•

Search job boards that target your career field or the geographical area where you want to work. Many employers post jobs on niche sites rather than large general sites. For example, craigslist.org is like a community bulletin board with a range of jobs; this is an especially good source if you are looking for a job with a small company.

•

The federal government provides information about high-growth and demanddriven jobs at careervoyages.gov. This site includes videos and links to jobs in local communities. The links to other Web sites are some of the best for students. Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

55

•

Hiring kiosks in a store or office are another way to find jobs online. Hiring kiosks allow job applicants to key online job applications while in a store or office instead of meeting face-to-face with a hiring manager. There will be a desk with a computer or a free-standing kiosk. Make sure you have a copy of your resume to help you key the application. You will be contacted by the hiring manager if the company would like you to come for an interview. This is an easy way to apply for employment. Sears, Kroger, Home Depot, and Wal-Mart are examples of companies that use hiring kiosks.

•

Online job-hunting can also be done at a public library with an automated jobs kiosk. Newspapers partner with libraries to provide this service. The kiosk uses a touch screen on which you key in a city and choose a career field; then a list of jobs comes up. You can apply for a job and print out job descriptions.

•

If you need help using the Internet or locating company Web sites, go to your school career center for assistance. Public libraries subscribe to huge databases that you can access there or at home with your library card. Library staff can show you how to research for job openings through their Internet provider and can help give you good local job links.

Be aware that some work-at-home job offers on the Internet may not be what they seem. Be careful of scams. Some claims about how much you can earn may be inflated. Never give your Social Security number or pay for training material. Be sure to research the company before you accept any job on the Internet. The company Web site should have contact information. Contact the online Better Business Bureau at bbbonline.org to find out if the company is legitimate. Job Lead 9: Industrial and Craft Unions. Industrial and craft unions (autoworkers, plumbers, garment workers, carpenters, etc.) have offices located in various cities. Look up “Labor Organizations” in the Yellow Pages. These organizations provide training opportunities and job placement. Some unions have exclusive hiring authority for certain companies. Ask how you might go about getting a job in their specialized fields of employment. For national job listings of trade and apprenticeship positions, and to review listings geographically or alphabetically, go to unionjobs.com. Job Lead 10: Associations. Professional associations can help you become familiar with the training and education required for a specific job. They are important sources of immediate job opportunities because they often publish informative magazines that include employment want ads. Their meetings and trade shows are good sources for networking and job opportunities.

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•

Check your local library for the three-volume Encyclopedia of Associations that lists established professional associations (dental, business, medical, technical, agricultural, engineering, and law). Ask your librarian for assistance in locating this publication. Look up an association in your career field for the association Web site, telephone and fax numbers, and e-mail and postal addresses.

•

You can also look in the Yellow Pages under the heading “Associations.” Telephone the local chapter for job information.

•

Associations can also be researched online at ipl.org. This is an Internet-based public library reference for associations on the Web. From the list of associations, you can read the association’s mission statement and link to its home page. The

home page gives the e-mail and postal addresses as well as the telephone and fax numbers of the association. Job Lead 11: Private Employment Agencies. Private employment agencies are listed under “Employment Agencies” in the Yellow Pages. Some job openings are placed with private employment agencies rather than listed in newspaper want ads. Private employment agencies may provide employment. They also provide job leads, career counseling, and assistance with resume writing and interview techniques. Deal only with an employment agency that has a good reputation. Some employment agencies charge you a fee for their services; others charge the employer with whom they find you a job. The latter tend to be for high-level jobs. Normally the employment agency will want you to sign an employment contract. Be sure you understand the requirements and cost, if any, of the contract before signing. Research thoroughly, and do not use an agency if you cannot find anyone to recommend it. Be sure the agency really has something to offer that you could not find elsewhere.

Why Should You Research a Company? Good, you have a job lead. You may think the job fits the self-assessment and Personal Profile you completed in Step 1. But do not make the mistake of following up this job lead without knowing something about the company. Research will give you an idea if this is the type of company that really appeals to you. When you call or walk in and make your pitch, you will be able to say what impresses you about the company if you have researched it beforehand. Employers like to hear something good about their business, and what you say will show your interest in them. You don’t want to appear that you are just contacting this lead at random. If you know something about the company and their work, you will improve your chances of being considered for an interview.

How to Research a Company To find out more about a specific company you can do the following:

1. Talk to people who work at the company. Ask them what the company does and what it is like to work there. 2. Write or call the company for any written information they can send you, such as an annual report. Explain that you are interested in learning about the work they do. Tell them that you want to learn what their mission statement is, how it got started, and what important things have happened in the company. 3. Use the Internet. Use your favorite search engine, and key in the company name to find the company Web site. Find information on the company’s mission, philosophy, products, and services. Print the pages that interest you. See if you can access the annual report. Look for the latest information of what is new. See how the organization describes itself so that you can design your cover letter to the company’s interests. The Thomas Register Web site thomasnet.com is a great resource for company information. You might also search on the Web for a city Chamber of Commerce, which will provide names of companies within the city for you to research. Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

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4. Go to the library, and see if there are any books, newspapers, or magazine articles about the company. Ask the reference librarian to help you. Many libraries subscribe to a huge research database that you can access there or from home for company research with your library card. Many libraries subscribe to the Reference USA database, where you can find information on U.S. businesses, and the Gale database, where you can search by industry, company name, and location. Your librarian can help you find which sites would be best for you to use in your research. Some publications and magazines that may help you research a publicly owned company include the following: Publications:

Magazines:

Barron’s

Forbes

The Wall Street Journal

Business Week

Value Line Investment Survey

Fortune

Thomas Register You should know as much about the company as you can before you visit, send out a resume, or go for an interview. Answers to these questions will provide the most important information:

1. What does this company do? 2. What are the company’s products or services? 3. What kinds of jobs do they have? 4. How old is the company? 5. In which cities does this company have offices, stores, or plants? 6. How large is this company? 7. Is the company growing or shrinking in number of employees or in total sales? 8. What are the company’s plans for the future? 9. Who are this company’s competitors? (Competitors are companies that buy or sell the same kinds of things, or offer the same kind of services.) After you have researched and done your best to answer the above questions about the company, there may still be some questions you were not able to answer. These are the questions you may want to ask at a job interview. Also consider any other questions that you have thought of as a result of your research. Asking good questions will show your interest and enthusiasm for the job.

Special Circumstances: Looking for Jobs The six steps you have learned in this Instruction Booklet apply to all job search situations. Here are some additional tips to follow when you are looking for work in special circumstances. Remember always to start with Step 1 and develop your

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Personal Profile. Once your Personal Profile is matched to jobs that interest you, and your resume is ready, start looking for job leads.

Volunteering for Experience Volunteering doesn’t pay cash, but it does pay in work experience and transferable skills that you can put on your resume for future employers. Other benefits are that you may obtain contacts and references for job leads. Volunteering will also give you a good feeling that you have made a contribution to the community. You may find a volunteer’s position in your dream career field. Some organizations you may want to consider volunteering for include church and civic groups, animal shelters, hospitals and nursing homes, public libraries, your career center, and school organizations. A good Web site to find volunteer opportunities is volunteermatch.org.

Looking for a Summer Job When you are looking for a summer job, the two most important rules are to allow plenty of time (begin your search six months before you want a job) and to ask for help. Let your teachers, counselors, career center specialist, parents, and friends know you are looking for a job; be sure they are aware of your skills and interests. Ask your school work-coordinator for leads, and check out the school bulletin boards for job postings. Many employers offer summer work for employees’ students and friends in high school and college. Here are some other good summer job strategies:

•

Sign up with a temporary agency. Many companies hire temporary replacements to fill in for vacationing employees. Temporary positions can often become full-time careers.

•

Look for summer jobs at parks and recreation departments in city, state, and national parks; hotels and resorts; tourist attractions; golf and tennis clubs; and summer camps.

•

Start your own summer business. Think of a service you can offer, such as lawn trimming, computer software consultant, or pet service.

•

Sign up at a local in-store hiring kiosk. The system will step you through the process of completing an application. This is a quick and easy way to apply for employment. Examples of businesses that use hiring kiosks include AmeriPark, CVS, Six Flags, and Universal Studios.

•

Use the Internet to find a summer job. Jobs in national parks, resorts, cruises, camps, ski resorts, ranches, and volunteer work are listed at coolworks.com. Another source for resort jobs is resortjobs.com. A good Web site for part-time, seasonal, student, or teen jobs is snagajob.com.

Finding a School-to-Work Program Work-based learning programs go by various names, including work experience, cooperative education, internship, apprenticeship, School-to-Work (STW), and job shadowing. Work-based learning complements school learning. Work-based learning programs give you a chance to explore different career fields, develop

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basic employment skills, and learn what employers expect of employees. Most work-based learning programs pay at least the minimum wage. Most importantly, they give you a chance to develop a work experience record. Use your job lead and researching skills to find openings. Use your resume and cover letter to present yourself as a strong candidate for these programs. For apprenticeship information from the U.S. Department of Labor, go to doleta.gov and learn how to apply for apprenticeship programs in the United States. If you are interested in on-the-job training, apprenticeship certification, or vocational certificates, go to careervoyages.gov.

Finding Work When the Job Market Is Tight When the economy goes into a slowdown, experienced workers lose jobs and young people have a hard time finding work. However, some jobs may remain strong even in a recession. Here are some jobs to consider that may be recession-proof: Medical assistant

Dental assistant

Police and sheriffs patrol officer

Correctional officer

Computer systems analysts

Ambulance driver

Broadcast technician

Network systems analyst

Bailiff

Physical therapist aide

Medical equipment preparer

Film and video editor

Library technician

Family social worker

Interpreter

Dietetic technician

Funeral attendant

Athletic trainer

Data communication analyst

Computer repairer

Teacher assistant

Physical therapist assistant

Veterinary technologist/technician

Database administrator

Postal service positions

Automotive service technician

Medical records technician

Automotive mechanic

Claims adjuster

Power plant operator

Fire fighter

Nurse’s aide

Audio and video equipment technician

Coach

Air traffic controller

Maintenance worker

Actuary

Network administrator

Pharmacy technician

Taxi driver

Preschool teacher

Animal control worker

Bus driver

Court reporter

Computer technician

Computer systems administrator

Even in the toughest job market, you can find work. It may be more difficult to find leads. You may have more competition. It may take longer to find a job. If this is the case, you may be interested in hourly employment. The site employmentguide.com prides itself for being the number one search engine for hourly employment. You

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can search by zip code for part-time and full-time hourly positions. Register free to apply for positions. You can also explore job listings at bluecollarjobs.com. That’s why it is even more important to follow the steps in this section. Use and practice the techniques we’ve discussed. If you are not successful, ask for feedback from your network of teachers, friends, and people with whom you’ve contacted. Find a mentor for support and advice. You can improve your job search with practice. Whatever you do, don’t give up.

Activity 11 Finding Job Leads ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Carefully examine each type of job lead presented in this step. Decide on three or four leads you wish to pursue. For each company and job, record the name of your contact, the phone and fax numbers, e-mail address, mailing address, and any notes you may have on your conversation with them. Remove the forms for Activity 11 on page 29 of your Activity Worksheets. Keeping track of your contacts during your job search gives an accurate record of where you applied for a job and where you want to follow up. When you have completed your job leads to your satisfaction, show them to your teacher for approval. Place all vital job lead information in your Employment Portfolio.

Activity 12 Researching a Company ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

A visit to your school career center, local library, or company Web sites will likely be necessary to complete this activity. Note the publications and magazines that are available for research in this step (see page 58). Also ask the reference librarian for other research suggestions. Remove Activity 12, Researching a Company, on page 31 of your Activity Worksheets. Select and research three well-known organizations in your field of interest for this activity. For convenience, a list of well-known organizations is provided with this activity. Of course, you may also select companies of your own choice. Record your answers to the research questions for each of your companies. When you have completed your research paper to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. This activity will help you practice researching a company in the future.

Information You Can Use SD 9 Internet Links from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Read this document to find reliable up-to-date resources for information in your job search. jobhuntersbible.com This is an excellent guide to the complete job search and a good place to start. nextsteps.org. This guide is for ages 15–24 and is tied to great resources. WEBSITE

careervoyages.gov. InDemand magazine features high-growth industry careers in each issue connecting students with careers of tomorrow.

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Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

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You have completed Step 6. Put any job lead and company research information you wish to keep in your Employment Portfolio. Place a check mark by Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

SECTION

3

The Interview

Introduction Section 3 of Getting a Job Process Kit contains Steps 7, 8, and 9 with activities and winning strategies for what to do before, during, and after your job interview. This section is critical for obtaining a job offer. Too many job applicants enter interviews vaguely aware of what they should expect. How to Prepare for an Interview in Step 7 tells what information to take to a job interview and how to appear your best. You will learn why researching the company and the job description is important before an interview. Included are 12 of the most common interview questions and suggested answers. During the Interview, Step 8, explains what to do during an interview and how to contact the employer for a hiring decision. A model interview, interview review activity, and a “Do’s and Don’ts” checklist are included. After the Interview, Step 9, outlines what is important to do after the interview to give you an edge over your competitors. You will learn how to write a successful post-interview thank-you note and a letter, as well as what to say in a phone call and an e-mail, to follow up for a hiring decision.

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How to Prepare for an Interview In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • •

A discussion of four important ways to prepare for an interview A checklist to help you prepare for an interview The 12 most common interview questions and their appropriate responses A list of questions you should consider concerning the job opening and company An activity to help you answer the 12 most common interview questions

Why Is Personal Preparation Important? Congratulations, you have an interview. Your hard work has paid off. Your cover letter and resume have convinced a prospective employer to interview you for a job. Now you need to prepare yourself for a successful job interview. Personal preparation for an interview is important. Being well prepared before the interview increases your self-confidence. Making a good first impression on the interviewer helps the interviewer determine where you will best fit in the company. Your goals at the interview will be to learn more about the job, convince the employer you are the right person for the job, and gather enough information about the company and job to determine if you want the position if it is offered.

What to Do Before an Interview 1. Find Out as Much as You Can about the Company. If you did not research the company before responding to a job lead, you should do so before you have your interview. Reread the section on researching a company in Step 6 on page 57 of this Instruction Booklet, and follow the guidelines there. Follow the instructions for obtaining an annual report, and take a copy to the interview. Prepare a question from the information you find from your research, and ask it during the interview. For example:

•

“In your annual report you say that new products are being planned. When are they going to be introduced?”

•

“The president’s letter states that your expansion plans include several new stores. What is the latest news in regard to openings?”

You will make a great impression in the interview if you relate what you know about the company. You should tell the interviewer what impresses you about the company and what you find most interesting.

2. Obtain the Job Description. In an interview, you will want to describe how your qualifications relate to those required in the job. To obtain a job description:

•

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From Google.com, key the company name to find a job description of the job title you want. Or from Google, key the job title for a general, nonspecific, company-related job description.

• •

From O*Net OnLine.org, key the job title for the specific job description. Call the company, and ask for the job description.

Describe to the interviewer how your skills and experience relate to the job and how you will be able to perform the tasks the job requires. Be sure to include how you have used these skills in a job or learned them in a class at school. Review the employment skills you identified in Step 1 and how they transfer to the specific job requirements. Make sure you include a copy of the job description in your Employment Portfolio, and use it as you describe your qualifications.

3. Be Organized. You now have your Employment Portfolio. You should bring all the material you need for the interview in it to the interview. This includes another copy of your resume, your cover letter, your reference list, a completed employment application, and a copy of the annual report and job description, if you have them. Organize this material and any other information such as samples of your work in your Employment Portfolio. You’ll also want to arrive on time and have a nice appearance. Before the interview, review and use Figure 3.1, the Interview Checklist. Use these tips to help you make a good impression at the interview. Figure 3.1 Interview Checklist Interview Checklist

F

Licenses—driver’s license or other special licenses

Read this checklist one week before the interview to remind yourself what you need to do. Reread it the night before the interview. Place a check mark beside each item as you complete it.

F

Reference letters or list

F

Other papers or materials that will help you obtain employment

When the Interview Is Scheduled F

Research the company, if you have not already done so.

F

Prepare a card with the time and place of the interview and the name of the interviewer. Mark the date and time in your calendar.

F

Get directions to the interview location. A practice run may be helpful.

Day Before the Interview ◆ Gather the following supplies in your Employment Portfolio or briefcase: F

Two pens and two pencils for ﬁlling out forms at the interview

F

Money for parking, lunch, etc.

F

Resume

F

Completed employment application from Step 5. Use it as a reference when completing the company’s employment application.

F

Samples of your work (keyboarding samples, diagrams, etc.)

F

Military records

F

Social Security number (only submit when hired)

F

Diplomas and special training certiﬁcates

◆ Plan your appearance: F

Check to see if you need a haircut.

F

Lay out clothes you are to wear. Check that they are clean, mended, pressed, and an appropriate style.

F

Polish shoes.

Day of the Interview ◆ Check your appearance: F

Hair is washed and styled

F

Body is bathed; deodorant is used

F

Makeup, jewelry, and perfume or aftershave lotion is not used excessively

F

Fingernails are trimmed and clean

F

Teeth are clean; breath is fresh

Going to the Interview F

Leave for the interview early. Take the card with the directions and phone number with you.

F

Go to the interview alone.

F

Be polite in the outer ofﬁce.

F

Know the name(s) and title(s) of the person(s) who will interview you.

F

Allow enough time for the interview.

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4. Think about Questions You’ll Be Asked and How to Answer Them. You may be asked to provide more detail on information in your resume or application. There are many possible questions that may be asked during an interview. Of these, the 12 questions that follow—or some variation of them—are among the most common. Prepare yourself for your own interview by reading these questions and their suggested answers. Keep in mind the suggested answers are examples of good, businesslike responses. Consider what makes each response a good one. Whenever you have an interview, read these questions with that specific company and job in mind. You may want to use one of the three jobs you researched in Step 2 and the company you researched in Step 6. Then prepare and practice, practice, practice your answers until you feel comfortable and sound confident.

The 12 Most Common Interview Questions 1. We need a reliable person for this job. Can we depend on you? ©Dragan Trifunovic, 2009/ Used under license from Shutterstock.com

Be prepared for this question by having a letter from your school attendance clerk or copy of your attendance record. You may also suggest that the interviewer contact your prior employer:

•

“ I am very reliable and will be here as scheduled. This can be verified by calling my last employer.”

2. Why do you want to leave your current job? or Why did you leave your last job?

Plan what you will wear and what you want to say before the interview.

When you respond to this question, be honest but positive about why you want to leave your current job or left your last job. If you were fired from a job, this may be a difficult question to answer. Keep in mind that most employers are willing to give an applicant a chance if it can be determined that the person understands why he or she lost the job and is trying to improve. Always be honest. You will lose your chance of obtaining a job if it is discovered that you lied during the interview. See Section 4, Step 12, page 103 for more guidance on answering this question when you are terminated or laid off. Possible responses might be the following:

•

“While I enjoy working for my current company, I want a more responsible and challenging position.”

•

“I realize that I do not enjoy working at a desk all day. I am interested in pursuing a career in retail sales.”

•

“My company eliminated my job in a downsizing.”

3. What pay do you expect? Know what the range is for the position you want before the interview. You may find this out from the company employment office or from the original job ad. The ad may also include some clues to the salary range. “No Experience Necessary” suggests a salary range at the low end of the range. If no salary information is available, find out what the salary range is for that type of work.

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If you do not know what the range is, ask. You may also ask if the salary is negotiable.

• •

“Considering my experience, what is the hourly pay range for this job?” “I understand that the annual salary range for this position is $20–35,000. Based on the responsibilities you’ve described and my experience, I believe $25,000 would be appropriate.”

4. Why do you want to work for our company? Obtain information about the company before attending the interview. To answer this question, you will want to gather as much positive feedback about the company as you can. If possible, obtain information about the type of products, services rendered, working conditions, work environment, and career opportunities. This information might come from your company research as described in Step 6, from people who work for the employer, from past employees, from customers who use the company’s products or services, from persons who are familiar with the industry, and even from your own observation and judgment. Your efforts will show that you are seriously interested in working for the company. This information will allow you to discuss the company intelligently. Note the following responses:

•

“I have reviewed your company’s products and I believe you manufacture the best office machines available. I want to work for a company that sells quality products.”

•

“I understand that you are the number-one manufacturer of medical supplies and one of the top 15 companies to work for in the state. People I’ve spoken to tell me that you treat your employees with respect and provide training and other career opportunities.” (Only say you’ve spoken to people about the company if you really have.)

•

“I enjoy working with and helping people. The challenge of this position is exciting.”

5. Have you had any serious illness or injury that might prevent you from performing your duties in this position? The response to this question is easy if there has been no problem. However, if in the past you had a medical problem or injury, be prepared to show a clearance slip from your physician. The clearance slip should state that you are physically able to perform the job you are seeking. If you have no physical problem, you might say:

•

“No, I am in excellent health and can perform all duties required as a machinist.”

However, if you had a problem in the past, the following answer would be appropriate:

•

“At this time, I can perform all of the duties of an accounting clerk. My medical problem in the past has been corrected and here is my physician’s clearance slip.”

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6. Do you have references? Your ability to get good references says a great deal about you. A reference (or recommendation) is generally a positively written series of statements about your personal qualities, interests, and skills. Most reference checking is done by phone. Be prepared to hand over a reference list like the one shown on page 36 of Step 3. If you have a reference letter, be prepared to discuss that as well. An example of a reference letter is shown in Section 4, Step 12, on page 102.

•

“Here is my reference list. Jane Smith is very familiar with my word-processing skills. She advised me to tell you that the best time to reach her by phone is before noon.”

7. What did you like best or least about your last job? Do not criticize previous employers or supervisors. Always remain positive about your last job. Tell what general and specific things you liked most. You might say something like:

•

“There were many things I liked about my last job. The two most important items were the people I worked with and my specific job duties.”

Try not to respond to things you did not like about your last job.

8. Are you looking for a permanent or temporary job? Do you want full-time or part-time work? The time structure of jobs may be temporary part-time, temporary full-time, permanent part-time, or permanent full-time. A temporary part-time job may involve a few hours of work per week, or the job may last only one month during the year. A temporary full-time job may involve daily work for a week, month, or half a year. A permanent part-time job would be fewer than 35 hours a week for a year or more of employment. A permanent full-time job would involve the regular 40-hour week with vacations and holidays. Remember, you gain experience with a temporary or permanent part-time job. This experience may lead to a permanent full-time job with the same company. Employers are more inclined to hire experienced help from within the company than they are to hire someone from the outside. If you really want to work for a particular company, try to be flexible. You might say something like:

•

“At this time I am interested in a permanent full-time position, but if one is not available I would agree to a part-time job until a full-time position becomes available.”

9. Tell me something about yourself. Why do you think we should hire you for this job? Your answer should leave the interviewer with the right picture of you. You should describe your personal characteristics that will contribute to the job. You might say:

•

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“ I give my wholehearted effort to whatever I do. I think it is exciting to try new things. I look forward to learning your computer PC procedures and systems.”

Keep your answer to why you should be hired on a professional level. Discuss only those traits that relate to the job. Be specific. Explain how your educational background, work experience, and any skills, interests, and hobbies you have would make you the best choice for the job. You can use the information in your Personal Profile, resume, and job description to develop an answer to this question.

•

“My skill of accurately keying 65 words a minute really helped me keep ahead of the workload, so I had time for students who came seeking help in the office. I was known as the go-to, fix-it lady.”

•

“In school I was on the baseball team. From that experience, I learned the importance of working as a team member.”

10. How well do you work under pressure? Almost all jobs require a worker to meet some deadlines. To give a positive answer to this question you might say:

•

“My present work requires me to meet deadlines for customer orders and shipping. I have excellent time management and organizational skills to meet these deadlines without undue pressure.”

11. What are your strengths and weaknesses? Describe your strengths. This shows confidence and a positive attitude. If possible, do not discuss any weakness you might have. Sell yourself; modesty will not win you a job. Be prepared to back up statements with past examples. Possible strengths might be the following:

•

“I learn new skills quickly. On my last job, I became proficient in Microsoft Word 2007 and front-office procedures within a week.”

•

“I work well under pressure. With Baxter Medical, I never missed a monthly billing deadline.”

•

“I am thorough with my assignments. My proofreading skills are excellent.”

If the interviewer presses you to describe a weakness, use the following suggestions to turn a weakness into a strength:

•

“I’m a perfectionist. I do not feel comfortable handing over a job that is less than the best I can do—even if it means working on it on my own time.”

•

“Some coworkers think I am too organized. But I find it really saves time in the long run if I budget time each day for part of a big job so I meet the deadline.”

12. What are your short-term and long-term employment goals? A safe short-term goal answer might be the following:

•

“My goal is to become a productive employee in a short period of time. I am eager to learn all I can about the alarm system business and the security industry.”

A safe long-term goal answer might be:

•

“My long-term goal is to become a true professional and team member as an accountant. In addition, I would like to obtain my CPA credential.”

How to Prepare for an Interview

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There are, of course, hundreds of potential questions. Some other common interview questions include the following:

• • • •

How would you describe yourself working as a member of a team? Tell me about your education. Tell me about the achievement of which you are most proud. Tell me about a time when you encountered a difficult situation. What happened, and how did you handle it?

Take each question as an opportunity to talk about your skills and strengths and to learn more about the requirements of the job for which you are applying.

Getting the Right Answers to the Right Questions Generally speaking, you should not start a discussion about salary or wages. Let the interviewer initiate this conversation. Job seekers should not ask certain questions during an interview because they may seem inappropriate or insensitive. For example:

• • • • •

How much will I make? What days do I get off? How much vacation time do I get? How many paid holidays do I get? How much sick leave do I get?

These questions are self-serving. More concern is shown for getting out of work than for getting a job. Although the questions are important, they usually will be answered before you need to ask. This kind of information is a normal part of any serious interview. Therefore, a very important part of the interview process is asking the right questions in the right way and at the right time. By researching the company thoroughly, you will be prepared to ask a number of appropriate questions that could determine whether you would in fact enjoy the type of work the company has to offer. Many people have accepted job offers only to find that the work, the company, and the services were not what they expected. These people did not adequately research the employer or ask the right questions at the interview. Think about the Questions You Want to Ask. An interview is a two-way process, and you also want to find out about the job, working conditions, and growth opportunities with the company. Employers expect the right answers from you, and you should expect the right answers from them. You will spend a significant amount of your time at work. Decisions about job offers should always be made with care and research. Good decisions will lead to job satisfaction and add greatly to your career success. There are several important questions you will want answered before accepting a job offer. The employment questions that follow are divided into two categories:

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• •

those regarding you and the job opening those regarding you and the company

Asking good questions about the job opening and the company indicates to the employer that you are a serious, informed candidate for the position. More importantly, the answers to these questions may give you the information you need to make a very important life decision—accepting a job you will love. These questions and their answers will come from the following:

• • • •

your research of the company your observation of the workplace information provided during the interview questions you ask during the interview

You and the Job Opening

• •

Why is there a job opening?

• • • • • •

When might a person expect to be promoted?

• •

Is the physical work environment clean, pleasing, and properly maintained?

Where have others who have held this job been reassigned within the company?

How and when is a new employee to be evaluated? Does the employee evaluation system seem fair? Is the position challenging, or will it be boring work as time goes on? What training can a new employee expect? Will there be an employee probationary period (a trial period before becoming a permanent employee)?

Are coworkers compatible with you in age and experience?

Add any other questions that you would like to have answered.

You and the Company

•

How does the company’s employee wage and benefits package compare with others in the same industry?

• • • •

Can a new employee expect regular wage increases? What is the employee turnover rate at this company? What are some of the company’s new product lines or services? What is the employer’s reputation in the community and in the industry?

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• • •

How are the products or services offered by the company rated in the field? How will the employer’s rules and regulations affect you? How will the employer’s work expectations and work hours affect your private life?

Add any other questions that you would like to have answered.

Activity 13 Answering Interview Questions

ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

To begin this exercise, identify a specific job at a specific company for which you would like to interview. You may want to use one of the jobs you identified in Step 2, or a job for the company you researched in Step 6. Then remove the worksheets for Activity 13 on page 33 in your Activity Worksheets. In pencil, so that you can make corrections, write your answers to the 12 most common interview questions. You may refer to the answers provided in this Instruction Booklet when writing your answers. Writing responses to interview questions helps you keep the answers in your mind; so you won’t be caught off guard in an interview. When you have answered the questions to your satisfaction, show them to your teacher for approval. Then work in groups of two or three. Have one person act as the interviewer and ask each question. Answer them with your written replies. Have the interviewer and a third person give you their impressions of your performance, then switch roles. If you practice answering the questions before you attend an actual interview, your confidence will definitely increase.

Information You Can Use SD 10 Practice Interview Evaluation Form Copy this form to use in a practice interview. The form describes how you might be evaluated in a job interview. Knowing what to expect will give you the confidence you need to succeed.

One-Stop Career Centers

WEBSITE

Call the nearest Career Center and find out about the free interview help they offer. You may be able to set up a mock interview session to improve your interview skills. Phone 1-877-872-5627 to find the nearest Career Center phone number and address, or go online at careeronestop.org.

Job Bank USA The Job Bank USA Web site (jobbankusa.com) offers potential answers for a wide variety of interview questions.

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Employment

PORTFOLIO UPDATE

You have completed Step 7. Put your answers to the interview questions with any changes or comments suggested by your teacher in your Employment Portfolio. Place a check mark by Answering Interview Questions on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

How to Prepare for an Interview

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Step 8

During the Interview In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • •

A general description of an interview “Do’s and don’ts” for interviews A case study of a model interview An activity with questions about the model interview

The Interview The interview is your chance to sell yourself. You must give the impression that you have the skills necessary for the job you are seeking, that you are dependable, and that you get along well with people. Knowing what to do and what not to do during the interview ensures confidence and success. Be aware that most interviews usually contain the following four stages.

• • • • Blend Images/Jupiter Images

First impressions are important. You should look the interviewer in the eye, shake hands ﬁrmly, and smile.

Introduction (what the position is about) Questions about you and your qualifications Questions from you about the position, company, etc. Closing remarks

Stage 1 Introduction. Start your interview like a winner. Show your enthusiasm. Your first greeting to the interviewer is critical to your being hired. Frequently, interviewers make hiring decisions based on first impressions. Project confidence. Make a positive first impression by smiling and establishing eye contact with the interviewer when you introduce yourself. Smile, extend a firm handshake, and with a strong voice say, “Hello, Mrs. Sutton, I am Nancy Karr.” Practice this technique with a family member or friend. Stage 2 Questions about You. During the question stage, the employer will be leading the interview. The interviewer will be asking questions such as, “How would you describe your ability to work as a member of a team?” or “What are your qualifications?” Listen carefully. Answer all questions in a brief, concise manner. Relate all answers directly to the job. Relate your answers to the job description. Use standard English and avoid using slang. Two little magic words are “yes” and “no.” Never respond “yah” and “nah.” Many interviewers believe that the best predictor of future performance is past performance. Therefore, they will ask for details about your experience. Be prepared to give specific examples of past performance. Stage 3 Questions from You. This is the time when questions from you are welcomed. Be sure to ask questions about the job and the company. Have one or two thoughtfully prepared questions ready to refer to when asked. Review Step 7 on page 70 for questions to ask. You may also want to take the company annual report to the interview and ask a question you have prepared that relates to the report. Employers are generally impressed when an applicant has good questions prepared in advance. Impress upon the interviewer that you would very much like to work for the company.

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iofoto/iStockphoto.com

Stage 4 Closing Remarks. Watch for clues from the interviewer that indicate the interview is ending. Do not draw out the interview. If you are not immediately offered the job, you need to know when and how to follow up. To find out, you may ask a few final questions about the next step in the hiring process:

•

Find out the date when the interviews will be completed. (“When will the interviews be completed so that I can follow up?”)

•

Find out how to contact the employer for the hiring decision. (“Do you want me to call or e-mail you for the hiring decision?”)

•

Ask the interviewer for a business card. (“May I have your business card?”)

You will have one final moment to sell yourself. Show that you are interested in the job by one of the following:

Before you leave an interview, ﬁnd out how to contact the employer for the hiring decision.

•

Stressing a strength. (“My good communication skills qualify me to coach Internet customer service representatives.”)

•

Mentioning a quality that might not have been discussed. (“Along with my mechanical aptitude, my ability to work from drawings and operating instructions is important for the job of mechanical assembler.”)

•

Stressing your willingness to learn. (“I find learning new job responsibilities exciting.”)

•

Making a complimentary observation about the company. (“I am impressed with your company’s concern for its employees.”)

Smile, shake the interviewer’s hand, and make your closing remarks. Say, “I’m happy to have interviewed with you. Thank you for your time.” This will leave a positive image.

Do’s and Don’ts When Interviewing Study the following list. Make a note of the items that you need to practice or review before your interview. Do:

• • • • • • • • • •

Smile and shake the interviewer’s hand firmly when introduced. Be courteous. Say, “Good morning, Miss Kinoshita. I am John Stevens.” Know the interviewer’s name in advance; use the name in conversation with the interviewer. Remain standing until you are asked to sit down. Make yourself comfortable, and maintain your poise. Present your resume to the interviewer. Leave it with him or her. Allow the interviewer to lead the interview. Look the interviewer in the eye. Answer all questions directly and truthfully. Use correct English. Avoid slang. During the Interview

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• • • • •

Be agreeable at all times.

• • •

Indicate a willingness to start at the bottom. Do not expect too much too soon.

Demonstrate your ability to take constructive criticism in a mature way. Show interest in the company. Ask questions about the job opening and the company. Make the interviewer aware of your goals and your sincerity about planning your career.

Express your appreciation for the interviewer’s time. Take any examination requested.

Don’t:

•

Place your handbag, briefcase, or other articles on the interviewer’s desk. (Keep them in your hands, or place them on the floor beside you.)

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Slouch in your chair. Play with your tie, rings, bracelets, hair, etc. Chew gum. Smoke. Make excuses, be evasive, or hedge on facts presented in your record. Answer a question before the question is completely asked. Interrupt the interviewer. Brag. Mumble. Make jokes or argue. Gossip or bad-mouth former employers. Ask too many questions. Beg for work.

A Model Interview Carefully read the interview between Mr. Ryan Phillips, Human Resources Director, Home Improvement USA, and job applicant Susan Ruiz. This is a model interview. It is an ideal interview. Not all interviews are this smooth and perfect! The annotations highlight important benchmarks that occur in most interviews. Benchmarks are key points on which employers place special emphasis. As you read this model interview, think about how you can incorporate these points in your own interviews. You can observe and learn good interview skills by the way Susan conducts herself in the interview. Note that Susan:

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Handles all aspects of the interview in a courteous manner. Takes an active role.

•

Speaks with confidence and her confident attitude shows that she has done her homework.

• • • • •

Describes her work skills well. Reflects research of the company. Asks good questions. Is enthusiastic about the job. Is not passive.

Susan speaks well and demonstrates that she is a good prospect for employment. Susan’s assertive role offers pointers that can be used in your own interviews. Figure 3.2 Home Improvement USA Ad

Merchandising Display Associate Home Improvement USA, a large home improvement retailer, has a career opportunity for the right person. If you are experienced or have a strong interest in merchandising display at multiple stores, you’ll enjoy an excellent base salary augmented by health benefits and generous employee discounts. Fax your resume to (203) 555-0121. For an immediate interview at our Stoneridge Shopping Center in Hamford, call Mr. Ryan Phillips Monday or Tuesday from 10 AM–2 PM at (203) 555-0180. Home Improvement USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Susan Ruiz is seeking a merchandising display associate position that Home Improvement USA has advertised in the newspaper ad, Figure 3.2. Susan has faxed her resume and cover letter, has completed an application, and has been granted an interview. Susan walks into the office of Mr. Phillips, the interviewer. Mr. Phillips: Hello, Susan, I’m Mr. Phillips. Please be seated. Get off to a good start.

Susan: Thank you, Mr. Phillips. I am happy to meet you. Mr. Phillips: Welcome to Home Improvement USA, Susan. Did you have any trouble finding our personnel office? Susan: No, last week I programmed the address in my cell phone GPS, and I located the office by driving here.

Shows good preparation.

Mr. Phillips: That shows good planning on your part, Susan. According to your application and resume, you are interested in our merchandising display associate opening. Is that correct? During the Interview

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Susan:

This question invites you to talk about your work skills. Do you know all of yours?

Yes, Mr. Phillips, I’d like to start my career in merchandising display with a large home improvement retailer. The Home Improvement USA position would allow me to use my creative talents plus provide the opportunity to develop my career. I am ready for a fast-paced retail merchandising career that Home Improvement USA can offer. Mr. Phillips: I see that your resume indicates that you have a sales associate job and have had some experience in merchandising display. Can you tell me more about your work experience? Susan: In my job at Western Supply, my main responsibilities are customer sales, ensuring customer satisfaction, and inventory control. I have learned to determine customer’s needs and provide appropriate sales assistance. It is important to show and explain various types of products in the kitchen and bath department so customers are satisfied with their project. Sometimes customers do not know exactly what they are looking for, and it is my job to help them visualize their project. I also help build seasonal displays and set up vendor displays for new products. I enjoy creating attractive displays that help customers buy the right products. My duties require working in cooperation with management for sales, inventory turnover, and profitability of the store. Mr. Phillips: It’s true we need people who enjoy helping customers. How do you think your education has helped prepare you for a merchandising career?

What school courses gave you useful skills?

Susan: My three years of art classes in high school helped me decide to combine my artistic talent and a job. When I took visual communication, I created advertising designs. In my sculpture class, I was taught to be aware of design details. Effective displays require close attention to detail. My computer operation and keyboarding class gave me the computer skills necessary to track and research new company products online. My retail sales class gave me information I used to increase my sales at Western Supply. I have been a student at American Community College for a year this June. There I took classes in marketing techniques, business math, and economics. I think I have developed sales knowledge from these courses that can be applied to the merchandising display position. My future plans are to get an AA degree in Merchandising in another two years. Mr. Phillips: You’re right. We need someone who is creative and has the sales skills you describe. Susan, this position is for a full-time multistore merchandising display associate. In this position you would have five stores in the Tri-City area. You would be

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required to provide product knowledge to store employees and ensure products are displayed correctly at each store. How do you feel about working solely in product display merchandising and having the responsibility of doing that in five stores? Can you describe how your skills can transfer to the job requirements?

Susan: Mr. Phillips, I would find the responsibility of five stores exciting and challenging since this is the career field I have chosen. Balancing school and work has taught me to be organized. This would help me set and keep a schedule for five stores. School and work have given me experience meeting deadlines. Many of the marketing strategies I have developed at Western Supply and through school classes could be used in product merchandising at Home Improvement USA. The skills that I use assisting customers at Western Supply could be used to develop a strong relationship with department personnel. The communication skills I use with customers would help me describe the features and benefits of products to employees. My experience would help me train department employees how products should be displayed and promoted. From my experience helping customers, I would be able to explain to employees the steps that are needed to complete displays that are visually appealing. Mr. Phillips: Susan, your enthusiasm and the communication skills that you’ve described are important. In this position, teamwork is key. Sometimes there may be conflict. Can you describe your experience dealing with conflict? Susan: At American Community College my class in workplace human relations has taught me skills that are necessary when dealing with conflict. As I work with my sales team at Western Supply, we sometimes have disagreements. I try to listen to other points of view. In high school I worked with a group that designed sets for our performing arts department. Staying flexible was the key for my finding a way to resolve any conflicts. Instead of being frustrated with conflict, I find it important to remain good natured and find a way to cooperate. Mr. Phillips: Susan, why have you decided to start your merchandising display career with Home Improvement USA?

Note how Susan’s research makes a good impression.

Susan: Mr. Phillips, I’ve read several articles about Home Improvement USA’s plans to expand. I’m hoping this means there will be opportunities for advancement. There is a Home Improvement USA store located near my home. My parents shop there often because of its quality merchandise, reasonable prices, and great service. I researched online and found confirmation of this. The latest survey of retail home improvement businesses showed Home Improvement USA has an excellent reputation for quality merchandise and customer service. I read the annual report on the company Web site, which said that Home Improvement USA is the world’s largest home improvement retailer. I would very much like to work for a company with this kind of reputation and career opportunity. During the Interview

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Mr. Phillips: Susan, you’re right, Home Improvement USA plans to enlarge its chain of stores throughout the nation. I feel there will be many opportunities for advancement. We will need more management people as our new stores open. It’s good to know you are familiar with our merchandise and appreciate its reputation. In this merchandising display position, you would be working under the merchandising area supervisor. You would work individually with moderate supervision but must execute directives from our merchandising area supervisor. It is important that the person in the merchandising display position be capable of this. How do you see yourself performing in this capacity? Susan: I know I have a lot to learn about the merchandising display position. But I am anxious to learn and would appreciate and cooperate with direction from a supervisor. I would be conscientious about reporting customer feedback and submitting merchandising display reports. Mr. Phillips: Susan, for this job, we are looking for a person who can work on weekends. Of course, you would have an equal number of weekdays off. Would this be satisfactory for you? Show you have a ﬂexible attitude.

Susan: Working weekends would be fine. At Western Supply I work every Saturday. It seems to me having weekdays off could be an advantage. What days would I have off if I were to work weekends? Mr. Phillips: You probably would have Mondays and Tuesdays off. The final decision will depend upon the needs of our stores. Susan: That would be fine with me. Mr. Phillips: As you know this position services a multistore territory that requires daily travel to five store locations. The position requires a valid driver license, insurance, and reliable transportation. Will traveling in the Tri-City area to the five stores work out for you? Susan: I am fine with those requirements and driving from store to store would work out for me. I recently purchased a car and should have no problem. Mr. Phillips: Susan, I see by your employment application you are presently working for Western Supply part-time. Do you feel you are ready for a full-time job?

Keep your job change positive.

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Susan: Mr. Phillips, since I graduated from high school I have worked at Western Supply while attending community college full time. Now I am ready to join a company

such as Home Improvement USA while I continue my education at night part-time. This is the career I have been dreaming about. Mr. Phillips: Susan, do you have a reference list? Susan: Yes I do. Here it is. (Hands Mr. Phillips her reference list.) Mr. Anderson at Western Supply would be a good person to talk with about my customer service skills. Mr. Phillips: Since we are a large organization and are expanding throughout this state, we may need your service in another area. Would you be willing to relocate when necessary? Susan: Yes, I would enjoy a change, and since I’m single, I would easily be able to relocate if necessary. Be prepared to ask good questions.

Mr. Phillips: Do you have any questions you would like to ask? Susan: Yes, can you give me information about the Home Improvement USA merchandising display associate training program and evaluation policy? Mr. Phillips: All beginning employees start their training with a three-day welcome and orientation session. This session covers our general operation and company policies. After orientation, an employee is assigned to a store. There the starting employee receives on-the-job training for six weeks. After this training period, as a new employee, you are placed on probation for six months covering the five stores in your assigned area under a merchandising area supervisor. Every two months during this probationary period, your supervisor will evaluate you. After successfully completing the probationary period, you would be classified as a “regular” employee and receive a raise in pay. Each regular employee is evaluated twice a year, generally every six months. After each successful evaluation, the employee can earn a raise in pay. Susan: That sounds great to me. Do you have an employee benefits package? Mr. Phillips: Our employee benefits package is excellent for this industry. Home Improvement USA gives employees holiday pay and two weeks of vacation after one year of working. We also give medical and dental insurance coverage and have a 401(k) retirement plan. We like to see that our employees have the opportunity to further their education. You will be pleased to know we would give tuition reimbursement for your continued education. Does that sufficiently explain what you wanted to know in these areas? During the Interview

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Susan: Yes, thank you. That gives me some good information. It’s great to hear that I am encouraged to continue my education. Mr. Phillips: Susan does a great job! She does not ask for a speciﬁc pay rate.

We haven’t discussed wages. What pay do you expect? Susan: Could you tell me what the pay range is for beginning merchandising display associates at Home Improvement USA? Mr. Phillips: Our pay range varies depending on the length of time with our company and the responsibilities an employee assumes. The starting salary is $600 a week plus a car allowance since you need to travel in this position. How does that sound to you? Susan: That sounds very good. With the added benefit of my tuition being covered, I am very pleased. Mr. Phillips: When could you start work if hired?

Show respect for past and present employers.

Susan: I would have to give my manager, Mr. Anderson, enough time to hire another person. I could be ready to start in two weeks, perhaps sooner. When do you expect to complete interviewing for this position, Mr. Phillips? Mr. Phillips: I still have a few people left to interview, but I hope to finish by next Tuesday.

Establish a follow-up phone call; ask for a business card.

Susan: May I call you Wednesday morning? May I have your business card? Mr. Phillips: Certainly. (Hands Susan his business card.) We would like you to follow up.

Leave in a courteous and positive way.

Susan:

Don’t forget a postinterview e-mail or thank-you letter.

Mr. Phillips:

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Thank you for this opportunity, Mr. Phillips. Now that my interview is over, I am even more convinced that Home Improvement USA is the company for me. I really am impressed with its career possibilities. It was good talking with you.

You are welcome, Susan. Thank you for interviewing with Home Improvement USA. Good-bye.

Activity 14 Model Interview Review ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

When you have finished reading the interview, remove Activity 14, located in your Activity Worksheets on pages 35-36, and complete the model interview review. By completing this review, you will learn the information that you need to know to be successful in a future interview. When you have completed this activity to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval.

Information You Can Use SD 11 Federal Laws to Prevent Discrimination in Hiring This document describes the laws that prevent job discrimination. It tells you who to contact if you believe you have been discriminated against in the hiring process. SD 12 Pre-Employment Inquiry Guidelines This document tells you what questions are legal and illegal in an interview.

WEBSITE

Job Interview Strategies for Teens, Parts 1 and 2. This information will give you confidence talking to employers in your interview. Visit the Web site at quintcareers.com

Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

You have completed Step 8. Put any “During the Interview” information you wish to keep in your Employment Portfolio. Place a check mark by Model Interview Review on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

During the Interview

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Step 9

After the Interview In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • •

Reasons to follow up an interview with a letter A sample post-interview letter, post-interview note, and follow-up e-mail How to follow up an interview for a hiring decision An activity to construct a post-interview letter How to evaluate a job offer

Why Follow Up an Interview with a Letter? After all interviews for a position have been completed, there sometimes may be two or three equally qualified applicants for the one job opening. All of the applicants would probably make good employees, but only one may be selected. However, one determining factor in making such a selection may be based on the applicant who exhibits the strongest desire for or interest in the job. Therefore, the applicant who follows up the interview with a thank-you letter may be the one selected for the job. Photodisc/Getty Images

A post-interview letter makes a powerful impression. It shows you are really interested in the job. It shows you go beyond what is ordinarily done. It shows you are assertive. An employer may consider you a better candidate because of the letter you have written. If you really want a particular job, write a letter immediately after the interview. To ensure a thank-you arrives immediately, you may want to send an informal e-mail right after the interview. Then prepare your more formal thank-you letter. Don’t put this off! Pay as much attention to the quality and accuracy of this letter as your earlier correspondence. Proofread your letter before you mail it. If you have an error on this follow-up letter, you could lose your chance at a job you want. See Figure 3.3 for a sample post-interview letter. Read it carefully. Use the following guidelines when writing a post-interview letter.

Even if you make a follow-up e-mail or telephone call, send a thank-you letter within 24 hours.

1. Address your letter to the person who interviewed you. (You should have the interviewer’s business card for the information you need.) 2. Thank the potential employer, and state the position for which you are applying. Restate your interest in the position and/or the company. 3. Briefly restate those qualifications that make you well suited for the job. 4. Add any additional information you failed to mention in the interview. 5. Include a date when you’ll follow up with the interviewer, and indicate how you will do so (e.g., phone call or e-mail). An alternative to a keyed letter is a handwritten note. Send a handwritten note only if your handwriting is legible. A handwritten thank-you note is a shortened version of a follow-up letter. Use plain, good-quality note cards and avoid colored stationary because it does not look businesslike. Figure 3.4 shows a sample handwritten note.

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Figure 3.3 Post-Interview Letter 2⬙ (Line 13) 1⬙

1⬙

2460 Circle Drive San Jose, CA 95148 March 15, 20-4S Mr. David Favor Human Relations Manager Procter Industries, Inc. 1816 Providence Road Fremont, CA 94538 2S

Dear Mr. Favor 2S you for giving me the opportunity to interview for the position of associate sales A Thank representative with Procter Industries, Inc. I enjoyed meeting you. I found the interview informative and Procter Industries’ plans for expansion exciting. 2S

B

The interview confirmed my opinion that I have the selling experience and marketing knowledge required for the position. My experience handling customer concerns and computer operations would be beneficial to Procter Industries. 2S

C

I would enjoy working for Procter Industries. If hired, you could depend on me to work well with your team. I will call for the hiring decision Wednesday morning, March 22 as agreed upon in the interview. 2S Sincerely 4S

Milissa Frances Milissa Frances (408) 555-0156 [email protected]

A B C

Thank-You and Positive Comment about Interview Emphasize Strengths Continued Interest, Additional Reasons for Hiring, and When and How to Contact

After the Interview

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Figure 3.4 Post-Interview Note

June 2, 20— Dear Mr. Hall, Thank you for interviewing me for the accountant position. I enjoyed meeting you and appreciate learning more about Tax Accountants, Inc. I am excited about the possibility of joining your team. If hired, I would be a dependable employee. I will call for a hiring decision on June 9 as agreed upon in our interview. Sincerely, Jan Greenstein (925) 555-1212

How to Follow Up an Interview for a Hiring Decision How to find out if a hiring decision has been made depends on the arrangements you have made in the interview and what the interviewer would like you to do. You must ask in the interview how you should follow up. The interviewer may want you to phone on a particular date after the interviews are completed, or e-mail the company for the hiring decision.

Follow Up an Interview with a Phone Call By making a prearranged phone call, you can determine if a decision has been made and restate your interest in the position and in working for the company. Here is a follow-up plan when you call a company.

1. Reintroduce yourself, and restate your interest in the job. “Hello, Mrs. Vaughn. This is Miguel Nieves. I interviewed with you last Wednesday for the job of assistant manager. I wanted to thank you for discussing the position and let you know again that I am very much interested in the job.”

2. Find out if a hiring decision has been made. “Has a hiring decision been made for the position of assistant manager?” If you are offered the job, express your thanks and ask for the starting data so you can make resignation arrangements with your current employer. However,

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if a decision has been made and you did not get the job, ask the interviewer how you might have been a more competitive candidate. You could say the following: “I am sorry you don’t feel I am the person for the job. At some future date I would like to interview again with your company. Could you give me some suggestions for being a stronger and more qualified candidate?” Or you might say the following: “Thank you for considering me for this position. I would appreciate your comments on my resume and interviewing skills.” You may receive constructive criticism that will help you in future interviews. Make this a learning experience. Keep in mind, however, that companies are not obligated to answer your question.

3. If a hiring decision has not been made, add any additional thoughts you may not have covered when you interviewed: “I did not mention in our interview my present plans for enrolling in an accounting class. Having some accounting background would be helpful when performing the job duties as assistant manager.” Emphasize once again your strengths for the job: “Mrs. Vaughn, the interview confirmed my belief that I have the skills required for the position of assistant manager. My experience in dealing with people and my attention to detail are valuable skills that will be needed for this job. I also believe that the position of assistant manager will be a challenging career opportunity.”

4. Thank the interviewer. “Thank you for your time. When may I call you for a decision?” If you did not get the job, thank the interviewer again for considering you for the position, as well as for any feedback he or she may have given you about your resume or interviewing skills.

Follow Up an Interview with an E-Mail At the end of the interview, you may find that the employer would like you to follow up for a hiring decision by e-mail rather than by phone. If that is the case, be sure your e-mail includes the date of the interview, job title, and your contact information. Figure 3.5 provides an example of what you might write in a follow-up e-mail.

Activity 15 Preparing a Post-Interview Letter

ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Read the post-interview letter, Figure 3.3, on page 85. Next, read the case study below, and draft in pencil a post-interview letter using Activity 15 on page 37 of your Activity Worksheets. Refer to the sample letter to write your post-interview letter. After you have drafted your letter, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any necessary corrections. After the Interview

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Figure 3.5 Follow-up E-mail

Dear Ms. Dorman,

Thank you the sales about the services.

for the interview Wednesday March 20 for associate position. I am still very excited opportunity to sell Amgen products and Has a hiring decision been made?

Sincerely, Robert Cray (408) 555-4141

Then, using your drafted post-interview letter and Resume Generator, follow the instructions in Section 5 to key your post-interview letter. Save the final letter on the same thumb drive you used to store your resume. Print your final post-interview letter on the same size and quality paper used for your resume.

ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Case Study for Activity 15: You have interviewed for the job of (insert your job choice). The job pays well. The working conditions and hours meet your needs, and you are a good prospect for this position. Mr. Michael Rooney, the personnel manager, has told you that he has other applicants to interview. You have decided to follow up with a post-interview letter to Mr. Michael Rooney, the personnel manager. His employment address is Harris Corporation, 200 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63103.

Evaluating a Job Offer Congratulations! Your hard work has paid off. You are offered the job. Now you will have to decide whether or not to accept it. This decision should be an easy one to make if you have gathered the necessary information about the company and the position, and if you have evaluated the job’s advantages and disadvantages. The information you have gathered along with the following questions will help you make the right decision:

1. Does this position provide the kind of work that will be satisfying day after day? 2. Can you live on the wages being offered? 3. How are wage increases earned?

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4. Does the company offer satisfactory job security? (Job security is how the company deals with layoffs and other unemployment issues.) 5. Is the company’s benefits package satisfactory? 6. Is your supervisor the kind of person for whom you could easily work? 7. Are the coworkers the kind of people with whom you could easily work? 8. Is the company location convenient? 9. Does this job offer opportunities for training, education, and advancement?

Information You Can Use SD 13 Post-Interview Thank-You Letter This letter describes what you might say to show that you would fit well with the job and the company. You may want to use this sample as a guideline for a post-interview thank-you letter. The Employer’s Evaluation. Research on the web and find attributes employers may use to evaluate you during an interview and questions to ask yourself after an interview. WEBSITE

Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

You have now completed Step 9. Put your final post-interview letter in your Employment Portfolio for future reference. Place a check mark by Post-Interview Letter on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

After the Interview

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SECTION

4

Leaving a Job. . . Gracefully

Introduction Section 4 of Getting a Job Process Kit contains Steps 10–12 with activities for valuable advice that can help you grow in your job, and insight concerning how to leave a job gracefully and with excellent references. There is far more to leaving a job than rashly saying, “I quit.” Step 10, What to Do Before Leaving a Job, presents important questions you should ask yourself before leaving a job. You will learn how to talk to your supervisor so you can “ace” your performance review. A case study activity will help you decide how to make a job leaving decision. The Best Way to Leave a Job in Step 11 explains the positive way to leave a job. You will learn the importance of following company policy. Included is what to say to your employer and your coworkers, and how to write a resignation letter that could lead to a good recommendation. Step 12, Reference Letter, shows you how to obtain a reference letter that can be used to obtain future jobs. This section ends by outlining positive procedures for handling serious employment problems. If you are laid off, downsized, or fired, this information is essential.

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Step 10 What to Do Before Leaving a Job In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • •

Questions to consider before leaving a job A procedure for acing your job performance review Advice that can help you continue to grow in your job A quiz to help you decide if you should leave a job A case study activity

Why Does Someone Change Jobs? Each month, more than a million Americans make a job change. People have many reasons for deciding to leave an employer. These include the following:

• • • • • •

Finding another job that shows more promise or pays better. No longer feeling satisfaction with the work. Being passed over for promotion. Wishing to make a career change. Having the job affect your health. Having important responsibilities taken away.

Questions to Consider Before Leaving a Job Stockbyte/Getty Images

Choosing to leave a job can be a very emotional, stressful decision. It can cause insecurity and a loss of career progress. You should understand the impact of leaving a job and look for ways to improve your job before rashly deciding to quit. Carefully consider the following before you leave a job:

Job Satisfaction

•

If your job is not satisfying or challenging, have you spoken to your boss about making changes?

• •

Have you looked into other jobs within your company?

•

Are any promotional opportunities available at your company?

Have you applied for additional training, education, or special company programs?

Financial Impact Consider all the advantages and disadvantages of a job change.

• •

At this time, can you afford to leave this job? Can you obtain a comparable job that will provide equal or higher pay and benefits? What to Do Before Leaving a Job

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•

What benefits will you lose (medical, dental, etc.), and can you afford to lose them?

•

What impact does leaving have on long-term benefits such as retirement and employee profit-sharing plans?

Personal Conﬂicts

•

Have you done everything possible to resolve any personality conflicts with your supervisor or fellow employees?

•

Have you discussed these conflicts with your supervisor or the person with whom you are having the conflict?

•

Is it possible that this person will eventually be transferred out of your work area?

Work Environment

•

What is it about your environment you don’t like? An example of work environment includes having a comfortable and well-equipped workspace where health and safety standards are met.

•

Have you discussed ways to improve the work environment with your supervisor?

•

Is it possible to transfer to another workspace within your company?

Career Plans

• •

What impact will leaving your job have on your career plans?

•

Have you compared the features of another company with your present company?

If you are considering employment with another company, what do you know about the company’s financial condition, goals and objectives, management philosophy, and competition?

The answers to these questions will make your job likes and dislikes more apparent. Ask yourself if you have done everything to improve or to make the most of your current situation. You may see ways to improve your present working conditions. It is important to take control of what you can change.

Ace Your Performance Review One way you can make the most of your current job is by having a good performance review (evaluation). Most likely you will have formal performance reviews with your supervisor on a regular basis. These job evaluations are designed to help you improve your performance, determine if you will keep your job, and get a raise in pay and/or a promotion. Your job description tells you most—but not all—that is expected of you on the job. Your supervisor may not take time to spell out some of what you are expected to know—and what you don’t know may cause problems for you in your job. You should have a clear picture of what is expected of you before your formal performance review so you can perform your best and get a good job evaluation.

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Here are steps to take before your formal performance review with your supervisor. Your goal is to have job expectation transparency. This means that you and your supervisor should agree on your job expectations. These steps will help clear up any potential misunderstandings. They will help put you in control of your job. 1. Do a self-assessment of how well you perform your job duties. Take an objective look at your job performance. Make sure you are performing all of your job duties to the best of your abilities. Review your job description, if you have one, and make a list of the job duties. If you do not have a job description, make a list of the exact job duties that you have been assigned. Evaluate yourself honestly. If you find any deficiencies, begin to make corrections. 2. Talk to your supervisor about your job duties. Ask for a time that is private and convenient for your supervisor to meet with you. Give a copy of your duties to your supervisor for a review. Tell your supervisor that you would like to make sure your list of job duties is complete, and that you would appreciate any suggestions. Be sure to ask your supervisor which personal work qualities he or she feels are most important, and which you may need to improve. Make note of any suggestions from your supervisor. For example, your supervisor may value neatness, organization, teamwork, and selfmotivation. You should leave this meeting with a clear understanding of what is expected of you. Knowing your job duties will help you become a more confident and productive worker. 3. Do a daily self-check. Each day until the date of your performance review, check yourself against the job duties and personal work qualities that you listed. Record any dates you went beyond your regular duties, and make a note of what you did, such as the following:

• • • •

working overtime to cover for an employee who was ill. reporting early to help handle a customer rush. volunteering to help and train a new employee. taking a night class to improve your job skills.

Your Performance Review Now you can be confident in your performance review. Be prepared to discuss your strengths. Have a copy of your job duties with dates and notes of how you went beyond your regular duties. Your supervisor may not be aware of some of the additional tasks you performed. Ask your supervisor if there are any areas you could improve. Ask for specific suggestions of what you can do to improve in these areas. Keeping your supervisor informed about your progress, combined with your own self-evaluation, can help you reach your full potential within the company.

Continue to Grow in Your Job Along with maintaining a good performance review, there are other ways you can improve your job satisfaction. Some aspects of your job, such as the company management, will not be within your power to change. Accept these realities. Keep in mind your overall feelings about your job and do not dwell on something you What to Do Before Leaving a Job

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cannot control. Concentrate on changes you can make. By taking control, you will improve your physical and mental health and have a better relationship with your coworkers. If you improve some work skill or personal work quality, you may find that other parts of your job that once seemed discouraging will not bother you anymore. If you ace your performance review, use suggestions from the Questions to Consider Before Leaving a Job section found in this step, and consider some of the following suggestions, you could very well be in line for a raise or promotion:

• • • • •

Maintain a positive attitude. Keep a good balance between your work and personal life. Learn new skills to increase your value to your company. Improve any human relation problems you have at work. Redesign your work.

However, if you have done everything to try to improve your job, and you still are not satisfied, you can take the quiz in Figure 4.1 to help you think through your decision to possibly leave your job.

Trust Your Instincts If you go through the suggestions in this step, you will know when it is right to leave a job. Respect your inner feelings regarding your employment. Since your job represents a large portion of your daily life, it is important to feel good about what you are doing. Regardless of your reason, never let leaving a job become a negative, stressful experience. If a paycheck is necessary, make sure you have another job (or at least the promise of one) before leaving your current job. You can use the employment information in Steps 1–9 to find a job whether you are currently employed or not. Figure 4.1 Ten-Question Quiz Is It Time for a Job Change? Ten Questions to Help You Decide Whenever you are wondering if it is time to change jobs, take the following ten-question quiz. Check a “yes” or “no” box for each question. When you have completed the quiz, add your “yes” and “no” answers. If you have answered more questions “yes” than “no,” you may be ready for an employment change. Yes 1. Does your manager ignore your suggestions? 2. Have you been passed over consistently for promotions? 3. Do you feel underpaid for work you perform? 4. Is your job harming your physical or emotional health? 5. Do you ﬁnd yourself constantly watching the clock at work? 6. Does your employer regularly break promises made to you? 7. Have you received poor performance reviews? 8. Would your coworkers say you are a difﬁcult person with whom to work? 9. Do you feel unrecognized for your good work? 10. Do you have more bad workdays than good?

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No

Activity 16 Case Study: Decision Time ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Carefully read the case study about Steve Chu on page 39 of your Activity Worksheets. Steve needs your help to decide what to do about his job. Remove the Activity 16 worksheet on page 39 of your Activity Worksheets and create a list showing the advantages and disadvantages of Steve remaining in his current employment. Decide for yourself what his decision should be. If you decide Steve should remain, tell what Steve could do to improve his job situation. To help you determine what Steve should do, be sure to review the sections Questions To Consider Before Leaving A Job and Ace Your Performance Review found in this step. Also review the quiz given in Figure 4.1. When you have completed this activity to your satisfaction, show it to your instructor for approval and class discussion.

Information You Can Use SD 14 What Your Boss May Expect You To Know It isn’t always easy to figure out everything your boss expects of you. Read this to get you started on the right track. SD 15 Career Growth Self-Evaluation Complete this self-evaluation to help you become aware of personal work qualities that make work satisfying and are needed for promotion

Quintessential Careers WEBSITE

This excellent site (quintcareers.com) links to many issues important to job satisfaction. Some of the topics covered are as follows: Managing Stress, Getting The Raise You Deserve, Teamwork Tips, and Are You Sabotaging Your Career?

Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

Now you know the questions to ask yourself and the process to follow before deciding to leave a job. You have completed a case study using the information you have learned. Refer to the information in this step when deciding if you should keep or leave a job in the future. Place a check mark by Case Study: Decision Time on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

What to Do Before Leaving a Job

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Step 11 The Best Way to Leave a Job In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • • •

Positive ways to leave a job What to tell your employer What to tell your coworkers A sample resignation letter A resignation letter activity An exit conversation activity

Positive Ways to Leave a Job Your employer expects you to know how to end your employment in a positive, mature way. Do not feel you are doing the wrong thing by leaving your job. According to U.S. government statistics, the average person will have six or seven different jobs during a lifetime. Since your first job probably won’t be your last, it is important to know how to leave a job in a positive way. Leaving a job in a businesslike manner protects your reputation and may help you obtain a favorable reference. Keep the door open for future business dealings you may have with your former employer. Perhaps one day you may even want to rejoin your old company or work with a former supervisor or coworker at another company.

Follow Company Policy Usually two weeks’ notice is expected, although some employers may require more or less time in order to hire and train your replacement. Your employer will appreciate an offer to help train your replacement and will most likely remember your spirit of cooperation. This could definitely influence the type of reference you receive.

Write a Resignation Letter This letter informs your employer and/or supervisor of your decision to leave. Present this letter to your supervisor before telling your coworkers and friends that you are leaving. You do not want your employer to find out from another employee that you are leaving. A well-written resignation letter could lead to a good recommendation. Be sure to include the following required elements:

• • • •

The date you wish to leave Your reasons for leaving (keep them positive) Your thanks for the skills you have learned Your appreciation of the people with whom you have worked

Figure 4.2 provides a good example of a well-written resignation letter. Study it carefully.

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Figure 4.2 Resignation Letter

2⬙ (Line 13)

1⬙

1⬙

1603 Stone Lake Drive Reno, NV 89500 June 20, 20-4S

A B

C

D

Ms. Erin Burnette Manager United Micro 1852 Geneva Technology Park Reno, NV 89509 2S Dear Ms. Burnette 2S Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation to become effective July 1, 20--. 2S I have accepted a sales management position with Applied Electronics, Inc., in Fallon, Nevada. I am to report to work on July 15, 20--. 2S I would like to thank United Micro for giving me the opportunity to learn many new and useful leadership skills. Your management training program has been especially helpful. 2S It has been a pleasure to have worked for United Micro. I will always be proud to have been associated with such a fine company and great coworkers. 2S Sincerely 4S

Mark Kudlow

Mark Kudlow A Date of Resignation B Positive Reason(s) for Leaving C Appreciation of Skills Learned D Appreciation of Fellow Employees or Company

The Best Way to Leave a Job

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The Exit Conversation: What to Tell Your Employer Digital Vision/Getty Images

Some companies have formal exit interviews for employees who have resigned. Many companies have a less formal policy for leaving, a simple exit conversation. The exit interview or conversation may be completed with your supervisor or with someone from the human resources department. When you hand in your resignation letter, your supervisor will expect you to tell why you are leaving. Prepare yourself. Before you have your exit conversation, make a list of some positive things you have learned from your job. Think hard! Your experience may have taught you job skills such as computer operation, cashiering, bookkeeping, inventory control, welding, and teamwork. Your job may have also improved such work habits as performing work with minimal instructions, following orders, accepting responsibility, being dependable, dealing with customers in a positive way, and being able to work under pressure.

Job Skills I Have Learned Plan your exit conversation so you leave your job on a positive note.

Work Habits I Have Improved

A Model Exit Conversation The following conversation is a good example of how to inform your employer that you are leaving your job. Note that Mark Kudlow’s exit conversation is short and to the point. He is polite and leaves a positive impression. “Ms. Burnette, it is necessary for me to give you and United Micro notice that I am leaving. (Hands letter of resignation to Ms. Burnette.) I have enjoyed working with the many great people that make up this company. I have accepted a job with Applied Technology as sales manager. By making this change, I will be able to develop and improve my sales, marketing, and management skills. I want to thank you for the excellent sales and marketing experience I have gained working for United Micro. I have learned the importance of sound organizational sales strategies and effective leadership skills. Would you like me to train my replacement?”

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What to Tell Your Coworkers After you have told your employer that you are leaving and submitted your resignation letter, you should also tell your fellow employees. Keep your remarks short and your reasons for leaving positive. Make sure your reasons for leaving are the same positive ones you expressed to management. Tell your fellow employees that it was great working with them and that you will miss them. Whatever you do, don’t brag about any greater benefits of your new job. Your coworkers may become jealous. Save those comments for your family and for close friends not associated with your company. Out of fairness to your company and coworkers, do not mention any negative conditions about the job you are leaving. This will reflect poorly on you. Your fellow workers will not appreciate negative remarks about their employer.

Activity 17 Write a Resignation Letter ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

RESUME GENERATOR

Carefully read the sample resignation letter in Figure 4.2. Remember a time that you left a job or assume that you are resigning from your present job, or one you have in mind for the future. Assume that you have been successful and learned a great deal. Using the sample letter as a guide, write your own resignation letter in pencil. Remove the Activity 17 worksheet, found on page 41 of your Activity Worksheets. After you have drafted the letter, show it to your instructor for approval. Make any necessary corrections. Then, using your Resume Generator, follow the instructions in Section 5 to key your resignation letter. Save the final resignation letter on the same personal thumb drive as your resume and other documents. Print your final resignation letter on the same size and quality paper used for your resume.

Activity 18 Compose an Exit Conversation ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Using the model exit conversation on page 98 as a guide, write your own exit conversation. Address your conversation to either a present or a past employer. If you have never had a job, select an employer that you have researched. Remember to be discreet and keep your exit conversation short and to the point. Remove the paper provided for Activity 18 on page 43 of your Activity Worksheets, and write your exit conversation in pencil. After you have written your exit conversation, show it to your instructor for approval. Make any corrections that are needed.

Information You Can Use SD 16 Career Change Resignation Letter This resignation letter is written for a change of career fields. This is a positive reason for leaving a job and will be respected by your supervisor and coworkers.

Quintessential Careers WEBSITE

This excellent site (quintcareers.com) links to many issues concerning job resignation. Sample Resignation Memo, Resigning with Class, and Resignation Do’s and Don’ts are covered. The Best Way to Leave a Job

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Employment PORTFOLIO UPDATE

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Section 4

You have now completed a resignation letter and exit conversation. Place your printed resignation letter and exit conversation in your Employment Portfolio. Place a check mark by “Resignation Letter” and “Exit Conversation” on the back of your Employment Portfolio. Remember, when you leave a job, you should also update your resume with new skills that you have learned.

Step 12 Reference Letter In this step, you will ﬁnd the following:

• • • • •

The deﬁnition of a reference letter How to obtain a reference letter A sample reference letter What to do when you must leave a job A reference letter activity

What Is a Reference Letter? A reference letter contains statements about your character, abilities, skills, and attitudes. It can be a valuable tool for future job interviews. You will use this reference letter when applying for future jobs by attaching a copy to your employment application, resume, or post-interview letter. You may also want to present your reference letter during your job interviews. Always keep your original letter in your portfolio. Distribute copies only.

How to Obtain a Reference Letter Before leaving a job, ask your employer or supervisor for a reference letter or letter of recommendation. Sometimes employers are very busy and will ask you to prepare your own reference letter, which they will edit and then sign. Usually they will suggest some of the points they would include in the letter. If they don’t, ask them if there is anything they would like to say about you in the letter. Do not pass up this opportunity to present the very best side of yourself. An example of a good reference letter is shown in Figure 4.3. Notice that the letter is specific about Mark’s contributions to the company and mentions positive personality traits. You should try to have a reference letter from each of your employers in your portfolio. Do not overlook including a reference letter from a favorite instructor. This reference letter can include your attendance record and work habits in the classroom. A prospective employer will look favorably on this type of reference letter. Reference letters may not, however, be enough for all prospective employers. You should also have references with whom a prospective employer can make personal contact. Ask your employer to include in his or her reference letter an invitation to readers to call for more details.

Special Circumstances: When You Must Leave a Job Unless you are very lucky, you probably won’t always be able to leave a job on your own schedule. You may be laid off, downsized, or fired. This last section of Getting a Job Process Kit includes some suggestions for making the best of these difficult situations. Reference Letter

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Figure 4.3 Reference Letter

UNITED MICRO 1852 GENEVA TECHNOLOGY PARK RENO, NEVADA 89509 1½⬙–2⬙ (Line 10-13) (775) 555-8611 1⬙

July 5, 20-4S Dear Hiring Manager 2S Mr. Mark Kudlow was an employee with United Micro for the past three years. As a sales representative, he displayed excellent leadership and sales skills. His timely suggesA tions for reducing product distribution and inventory costs led to increased profits for our company. 2S Besides being very helpful, Mark is responsible and gets along well with customers and B coworkers. His most impressive characteristics are his natural drive and desire to excel. I would highly recommend Mark Kudlow as an excellent employee. 2S Please call me at (775) 555-8611 if you would like to speak to me directly about Mark’s C contributions to the company. 2S Sincerely 4S

Erin Burnette

D Erin Burnette Manager

A Abilities, Skills, and Accomplishments B Attitudes and Character C Invitation to Reader to Call for More Details

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1⬙

What to Do if You Are Laid Off Or Downsized To be laid off is to be put out of work through no fault of your own. Frequently, a general layoff is temporary. If you are laid off, you have two choices: wait until your job reopens or find another job. Before you decide to wait until your job reopens, find out what your chances are of being rehired. If you decide to wait until you are called back, plan your time and financial resources carefully. If you decide to find another job, ask your employer for a reference letter. This letter could help you during interviews for your next job. Some companies have policies about not giving out references in order to avoid lawsuits. You should have several sources as references. Being downsized means that the company has decided to reduce its labor force. If you are a victim of downsizing, you are unemployed through no fault of your own. You need to look for another job immediately.

What to Do if You Are Fired/Terminated Being fired is a serious matter. As a reaction to this unpleasant experience, your confidence and self-esteem may suffer, but it is certainly not the end of your working career. Many people have been fired from jobs. There are many reasons a person may be fired. Some common reasons are the following:

• • • • • •

poor performance poor work habits negative attitude personality conflicts falsifying company documents violation of company policy

How Can You Get the Best Outcome from Being Fired? When you are told by your supervisor that you are fired, ask if you can talk about it. You should try to make the best of this difficult situation. You do not want your leaving to reflect poorly on your next job opportunity. Your goal is to try to neutralize the reason you were fired. In the conversation with your supervisor, you should:

• • • •

Listen to the reason(s) given for the firing. Not argue. Tell your supervisor that you have learned from the situation. Point out qualities that you have contributed to the position, such as specific work skills.

After you have listened calmly and expressed your intent to make the necessary changes, ask your supervisor: Reference Letter

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“If a prospective employer should call for a reference, would it be possible for you to give a neutral reason for my leaving?” The employer might be willing to say you were laid off or just making a job change if he or she thinks you have learned and will make an attempt to change. Many employers will go along with this line of thought, especially if your conversation was constructive. Most employers will not want to destroy a person’s future source of income. With the promise of a neutral reference, you can use the agreed-upon reason for leaving on your next job application or in a job interview. It is important not to make excuses, to take responsibility for the reason you were fired, and to learn something from the experience. Carefully examine these reasons and ask yourself the following:

• • • • • •

If poor performance was a problem, do I need more training? Did I not fully understand the job requirements when I was hired? Did the job requirements change? Did personality problems affect my work? If poor attendance was the reason, have I matured and become more responsible? Do I need to change certain work habits and attitudes in order to meet the expectations of another employer?

You should answer these questions for yourself before you begin your next job search.

What Do You Tell Prospective Employers? Should you mention being fired on an employment application or during future interviews? You, of course, are the only one who can answer this question. Revealing being fired to possible employers might not be in your best interests. Many individuals who have been fired simply say that they are making a change in order to pursue a new career opportunity, or that they are seeking employment in a different industry. If your former supervisor has agreed to a neutral reason for your leaving, you should feel confident in expressing that reason. In most cases, this type of positive comment satisfies the question, “Why did you leave your last job?” A prospective employer may find out that you were fired in the course of checking your references. If this embarrassing question, “Were you fired?” arises in an interview, you need to answer “yes.” If you are not truthful, and you are hired, you could subsequently be fired for providing false information. At this point, what you say and the manner in which you say it are extremely important. You should:

• • • • 104

Section 4

Handle yourself calmly. Be honest and acknowledge your mistake. Show responsibility for what happened. Avoid blaming your past employer.

Tell the prospective employer that you learned a lesson from the experience. You should stress that because of what you learned from being fired, you are now prepared to be a better employee. Your next employer may be more willing to give you a chance to move forward if you are sincerely trying to improve your job performance.

Questions to Answer if You Are Fired from a Job Assume that you have been fired from your job. Although you regret the company’s decision, you agree with your employer’s reasoning. From the information you have learned, answer the questions presented here: 1. What actions would you take if you were fired?

2. What questions should you answer for yourself before you look for another job?

3. What would you say to the employer who fired you?

4. If you were fired from a job, what reason for leaving would you place on an employment application?

5. What would you say to an interviewer who discovered that you were fired from your last job and asked for an explanation?

Reference Letter

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Activity 19 Construct a Reference Letter ACTIVITY WORKSHEETS

Use your present job or think about a job you have had (it may have been a paid job with a company, work done for a neighbor, or volunteer work). Using the sample reference letter as a guide, remove Activity 19 on page 45 in your Activity Worksheets and write yourself a reference letter in pencil. (If you have never had a job with a company, write a reference letter for yourself to be signed by an instructor who could write you a letter of reference based on your participation in the classroom, as a volunteer, or as part of a group or association.) After you have drafted your reference letter, show it to your instructor for approval. Make any necessary corrections.

RESUME GENERATOR

Then, using your Resume Generator, follow the instructions in Section 5 to key your reference letter. Save the final reference letter on the same thumb drive you used to store your resume and other documents. Print your final reference letter on the same size and quality paper used for your resume.

Information You Can Use SD 17 Employer Reference Letter This reference letter describes a person moving to another company for a promotion and increased responsibilities. This decision is positive and is easily accepted by a supervisor and coworkers.

Quintessential Careers WEBSITE

This excellent site (quintcareers.com) links to complete rebounding information when you lose your job. Included is a tutorial on how to prepare for a layoff, reenter the job market, the “elevator speech” tool, and what you need to know about networking business cards.

Employment

PORTFOLIO UPDATE

You have now learned how to construct a reference letter. Place the printed copy in your Employment Portfolio. Place a check mark next to “Reference Letter” on the back of your Employment Portfolio.

Using the Nine-Step Process to Get Another Job Whenever you leave a job, you should follow the nine-step process in Sections 1–3 of Getting a Job Process Kit to find a new one. Always update your resume. Even if you left your job under unpleasant circumstances, you have probably sharpened current skills or acquired new skills and experiences. Get in touch with your network of people. Identify and pursue job leads. You may want to practice interview situations to discuss why you left your last job. Whatever you do, don’t give up. There is a good job that is right for you. Your first task is to find it.

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SECTION

5

Using the Resume Generator

Introduction The Resume Generator included in your Getting a Job Process Kit is designed to help you complete your resume and prepare your employment documents and personal profile for the job search. It also includes sample of resumes, letters and a reference list to help you complete these samples of employment documents. Throughout Getting a Job Process Kit, you are encouraged to save your keyed document files on your personal thumb drive. Your saved files will allow you instant use of your employment documents, as well as the ability to update them easily. You can also save and store documents on the Resume Generator to retrieve at a later date. You may print copies of your resume, reference list, and employment letters and place them in your Employment Portfolio. The Resume Generator provides two ways to create employment documents: You may generate your own documents with your Employment Profile or you may edit the sample documents.

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Generate Your Own Documents with Your Employment Proﬁle A Resume Generator is included in the Getting a Job Process Kit. After you complete selected activity worksheets, you may use your Resume Generator to generate employment documents. After entering your personal information under the heading Employment Profile, the software will generate personalized employment resumes, a reference list, and employment letters. To enter your personal information, click “Employment Profile” from the options on your screen and key in your information. After you have completed your Employment Profile information, select the Resume Builder tab to begin creating your resume or to generate a reference list. To Create a Cover Letter or other employment documents, select the Letter Builder tab. The documents generated from the Resume Builder include:

1. Resumes with up to 196 different heading combinations to fit a general or specific resume style. 2. Reference List The documents generated from the Letter Builder include:

1. Personalized Cover Letter 2. Cover Letter for a high school student 3. Cover Letter for a career change 4. Cover Letter for recent college graduate 5. Cover Letter for an internship 6. Cover Letter highlighting transferable skills 7. Cover Letter for an entry-level job 8. Cover Letter requesting a specific salary range 9. Job-Inquiry Cover Letter 10. Standard Cover Letter 11. Post-Interview Letter 12. Resignation Letter 13. Reference Letter The Resume Generator includes Spell Check in all of the pop-up boxes. You will want to spell check all information entered before saving. Spell Check does not correct grammar or punctuation. Be sure to proofread your information before saving it.

Using the Resume Builder The Resume Builder is set up with 14 different heading options from which to choose. They are organized in the order that they should appear on a resume. You have the choice of selecting which headings you want to include and in what

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Section 5

order you want to include them by going to the Assign Heading button on the top right hand side of the Resume Builder screen. Once you have decided which headings to include on your resume, select “add” to go to an edit box where you are asked to fill in specific information to create the resume. The items that have an asterisk next to them are mandatory fields that need to be included on a resume. All other fields can be utilized at your discretion. If you are unsure of the type of information to include in the field boxes, refer back to your workbook, or simply review the “tips” box on the right hand side of the screen. This section will provide you with background information and give you suggestions for filling out the selected boxes. Once you have completed your resume, you will want to select a layout view for it. Go to the Layout View at the top of your toolbar and select “Layout.” See below for more information. Once you have selected a resume layout, you can save the resume in your Employment Profile, save to your desktop for later use, or print the resume from your computer.

Using the Reference List in the Resume Builder You can store an unlimited number of references in your Employment Profile. By keying this information prior to building you resume, you can select which references you want to include in your resume via a drop down list, or you can generate a reference list attachment to your resume. You can also generate a reference letter to send to your references from the Letter Builder Screen.

Using the Letter Builder You can choose from ten different Cover Letters based on your level of skill and the type of employment you are seeking. You may also choose a Resignation Letter, Post-Interview (or Thank-You) Letter, and a Reference Letter from this screen. The letters will be generated with sample body text that you can edit to your specific job and skills. A blank cover letter template is also provided if you would like to create your own information and personalize the letters. The Letter Builder allows you to edit all text included in the text fields. However, you have the option of using the pre-selected text and only changing the boldface text within the brackets. Be sure to change all of the boldface text before saving with your specific information.

Choosing a Unique Layout for your Employment Documents The Resume Generator includes eight different layouts with stylized heading designs. You can select a layout design to create a consistent, unique stationary look for all of your employment documents that will make you stand out from the rest. To select a layout, go to the Layout button in the toolbar and select the Layout of your choice. After you have selected a Layout, you can view your document in the Layout design at any time by going to Preview in the toolbar.

Using the Resume Generator

109

You cannot edit your documents in the Preview screen. If you need to make a change, you must exit Preview to the builder screen. Once you have made your edits, you can preview the layout again using the Preview button and save or print your document. LAYOUT TIPS: If you are creating a Resume Package to send to a potential employer, you may want to consider using the same layout for your cover letter, reference list, and resume to give your package a consistent look and feel. This same layout style can be applied after you have interviewed for the position on the post-interview letter, to give the employer an easy way to identify you with the resume they have received.

Using the Sample Documents In addition to generating employment documents with Your Profile, you may use sample documents on your Resume Generator to create your own resumes and letters. After you complete selected activity worksheets in the Instruction Booklet, you may use your Resume Generator to key these documents. You may open the files by clicking “View” next to the sample documents located on the Sample tab inside the Resume Generator. The documents will have sample text. You can replace the sample text by keying your own information to personalize the documents. The chart below includes section number, step number, filename, and specific directions for each of the files included on the Resume Generator. Sample Documents:

110

Section 5

Section 2 Step

File Name Sample:

Directions

3

General Resume

3

Specific Resume

Two resume formats are provided on your Resume Generator. Select and edit the resume that is appropriate for you. Use your corresponding Activity 5, General Resume, or Activity 7, Specific Resume practice sheets for editing information. Supply your personal information under each heading. Maintain suggested spacing when editing your resume.

3

Reference List

A reference list format is provided on your Resume Generator. Edit this reference list with your personal information, keeping the main heading and using the suggested spacing.

4

Cover Letter 1

4

Cover Letter 2

Two cover letter formats are provided on your Resume Generator. Select and edit the cover letter that is appropriate for you. Use your corresponding Activity 9 cover letter practice sheet for editing with your personal information. Maintain suggested spacing when editing your cover letter.

Section 3 Step

9

Directions

Post-Interview Letter

Section 4 Step

A post-interview letter is provided on your Resume Generator. Select and edit the post-interview letter. Use your corresponding Activity 15 post-interview practice sheet for editing with your personal information. Maintain suggested spacing when editing your post-interview letter. Directions

11

Resignation Letter

A resignation letter is provided on your Resume Generator. Select and edit the resignation letter. Use your corresponding Activity 17 resignation letter practice sheet for editing with your personal information. Maintain suggested spacing when editing your resignation letter.

12

Reference Letter

A reference letter is provided on your Resume Generator. Select and edit the reference letter. Use your corresponding Activity 19 reference letter practice sheet for editing with your personal information. Maintain suggested spacing when editing your reference letter.

Using the Resume Generator

111

Supplemental Documents

SD 1

The SCANS Report for America

113

SD 2

Getting a Job Now

116

SD 3

Job-Objective Resume

119

SD 4

Reading Between the Lines of a Classiﬁed Job Ad

120

SD 5

Action Verbs That Get Results

122

SD 6

Transferable Skills Cover Letter

123

SD 7

Reynolds Corporation Employment Application

124

SD 8

Mid-Level Employment Application---World Corporation

126

SD 9

Internet Links from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

129

SD 10 Practice Interview Evaluation Form

131

SD 11 Federal Laws to Prevent Discrimination in Hiring

133

SD 12 Pre-Employment Inquiry Guidelines

134

SD 13 Post-Interview Thank-You Letter

137

SD 14 What Your Boss May Expect You to Know

138

SD 15 Career Growth Self-Evaluation

139

SD 16 Career Change Resignation Letter

141

SD 17 Employer Reference Letter

142

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Supplemental Documents

SD

1

The SCANS Report for America By completing the self-assessment exercises in Step 1, you have learned that you have many transferable skills. To understand better what they are and to help identify your transferable skills, study this SCANS report. Use your Personal Profile results, and compare them to SCANS. If you find weak areas, start a plan to improve. You may want to refer to this SCANS report to emphasize your strong transferable skills in your resume, cover letter, and interview.

The SCANS Report for America Because the world of work is changing, the U.S. Departments of Labor and Education formed the Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS) to study the kinds of competencies and skills that workers must have to succeed in today’s workplace. The results of the study were published in a document entitled What Work Requires of Schools: A SCANS Report for America 2000. A summary of the findings is provided in the tables below. Table 1

SCANS’ Five Competencies

Resources: Identifies, organizes, plans, and allocates resources

•

Time—selects goal-relevant activities and ranks them, allocates time, and prepares and follows schedules

•

Money—uses or prepares budgets, makes forecasts, keeps records, and makes adjustments to meet objectives

•

Material and facilities—acquires, stores, allocates, and uses materials or space efficiently

•

Human resources—assesses skills and distributes work accordingly, evaluates performance, and provides feedback

Interpersonal: Works with others

• • • •

Participates as member of a team—contributes to group effort Teaches others new skills Services clients/customers—works to satisfy customers’ expectations Exercises leadership—communicates ideas to justify position, persuades and convinces others, and responsibly challenges existing procedures and policies

•

Negotiates—works toward agreements involving exchange of resources and resolves divergent interests

•

Works with diversity—works well with men and women from diverse backgrounds (Continued) The SCANS Report for America

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Table 1

SCANS’ Five Competencies (continued)

Information: Acquires and evaluates information

• • • •

Acquires and evaluates information Organizes and maintains information Interprets and communicates information Uses computers to process information

Systems: Understands complex interrelationships

•

Understands systems—knows how social, organizational, and technological systems work and operates effectively with them

•

Monitors and corrects performance—distinguishes trends, predicts impacts on system operations, diagnoses deviations in systems’ performance and corrects malfunctions

•

Improves or designs systems—suggests modifications to existing systems and develops new or alternative systems to improve performance

Technology: Works with a variety of technologies

•

Selects technology—chooses procedures, tools, or equipment including computers and related technologies

•

Applies technology to task—understands intent and proper procedures for setup and operation of equipment

•

Maintains and troubleshoots equipment—prevents, identifies, or solves problems with equipment, including computers and other technologies

Table 2 A Three-Part Foundation of SCANS Skills and Personal Qualities

Basic Skills: Reads, writes, performs arithmetic and mathematical operations, listens, and speaks

•

Reading—locates, understands, and interprets written information in prose and in documents such as manuals, graphs, and schedules

•

Writing—communicates thoughts, ideas, information, and messages in writing; and creates documents such as letters, directions, manuals, reports, graphs, and flow charts

•

Arithmetic/mathematics—performs basic computations and approaches practical problems by choosing appropriately from a variety of mathematical techniques

•

Listening—receives, attends to, interprets, and responds to verbal messages and other cues

•

Speaking—organizes ideas and communicates orally

Thinking Skills: Thinks creatively, makes decisions, solves problems, visualizes, knows how to learn, and reasons

• •

Creative thinking—generates new ideas Decision making—specifies goals and constraints, generates alternatives, considers risks, and evaluates and chooses the best alternatives

•

Problem solving—recognizes problems and devises and implements plan of action

•

Visualizing—organizes and processes symbols (Continued)

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Supplemental Document 1

Table 2 A Three-Part Foundation of SCANS Skills and Personal Qualities (continued)

•

Knowing how to learn—uses efficient learning techniques to acquire and apply new knowledge and skills

•

Reasoning—discovers a rule or principle underlying the relationship between two or more objects and applies it when solving a problem

Personal Qualities: Responsibility, self-esteem, sociability, self-management, integrity, and honesty

•

Responsibility—exerts a high level of effort and perseveres toward goal attainment

• •

Self-esteem—believes in own self-worth and maintains a positive view of self

•

Self-management—assesses self accurately, sets personal goals, monitors progress, and exhibits self-control

•

Integrity/honesty—chooses ethical courses of action

Sociability—demonstrates understanding, friendliness, adaptability, empathy, and politeness in group settings

The SCANS Report for America

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SD

2

Getting a Job Now

Getting a Job Now—Jobs That Do Not Require a 4–6-Year College Degree In today’s world, it is a myth to think you need a college degree to be successful and earn a high wage. Innovations and advancements in technology happen so quickly that it is often an advantage to work in the field to keep up with the knowledge required. Passion pays more than higher education in many cases. While one person is spending four years getting a post-secondary degree, another is gaining work experience in a satisfying job. In the time it takes for someone to graduate from college, the person who entered the workforce out of high school has quickly learned new job skills and advanced in his/her field. Such experienced workers could become self-employed because they have gained loyal contacts and are dedicated to their work. For example, we know of one person who began working in a pizza parlor after high school and ended up owning a restaurant. Another person began working for a construction company, learned the skills, and started his own home construction company. While one person is spending a large amount of money paying college tuition and perhaps incurring debt, another is getting paid for learning on the job. Almost all jobs require some knowledge, training, and post-secondary education. But 75% of all jobs do not require four or more years of college. You can gain more education while you work. Education comes in many forms. Find a mentor to learn from. Having a mentor will give you the guidance and encouragement you need. Even while you work, you can take advantage of home courses, night school, computer-based education, conferences, and certificated programs. If you continue to work, you will become proficient in skills employers need today and keep up with the demands brought on by technology and the changing world. You will become more valuable in the workplace. You will be more productive, advance more quickly, and discover more opportunities in the field to which you are dedicated. Here are some jobs that do not require a four- to six-year college degree. You may want or need to get a job after high school graduation. These jobs will give you experience in today’s ever-advancing marketplace. You will have the know-how to use your transferable skills for new opportunities. After you read the following job titles, you can continue to explore more jobs in this category from those listed in the Occupational Outlook Handbook or on the O*Net OnLine Web site.

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Supplemental Document 2

Air Traffic Controller

Farm Equipment Repairer

Aircraft Mechanic

Fitness Instructor

Aircraft Pilot

Fire Fighting Occupation

Antique Broker/Collector

Floral Designer

Armed Forces Occupation

Food Service Manager

Auto Detailer

Freight Agent

Automated Teller Machine Repairer

Funeral Director

Automotive Body Repairer

Gaming Service Occupations

Baker

Glazers

Bartender

Guard

Bicycle Repairer

Hazardous Materials Removal Worker

Bricklayer

Heating and Cooling Mechanic

Broadcast and Sound Technician

Home Health Care Aide

Bus Driver

Income Tax Preparer

Butcher

Industrial Machinery Mechanic

Carpenter

Industrial Machinery Repairer

Cartoonist

Industrial Production Manager

Cement Mason

Insurance Sales

Chef

Interviewer

Computer Consultant

Language Translator/Interpreter

Communication Equipment Operator

Line Installers and Repairer

Computer Programmer

Locksmith

Construction—Building Inspector

Lodging Manager

Construction—Equipment Operator

Logging

Correctional Officer

Machinist

Cosmetologist

Marketing Specialist

Cost Estimator

Medical Assistant

Court Reporter

Millwright

Data Entry Operator

Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Dental Assistant

Motorcycle, Boat, and Small Engine Mechanic

Dental Lab Technician

Musical Instrument Repairer

Detective

Nursing Aide

Diesel Mechanic

Painter

Diesel Service Technician

Paralegal

Dog Groomer

Paramedic

Drafter

Plasterer

Dry Wall Finisher

Plumber

Dry Wall Installer

Police Officer—Detective

eBook Publisher

Postal Service Worker

Electronic Home Entertainment Installer—Repairer

Precision Instrument Repairer

Engineering Technician

Private Detective

Getting a Job Now

117

Property Manager

Surgical Technologist

Psychiatric Aide

Surveyor

Radiation Therapist

Surveyor Technician

Radio Announcer

Technical Writer

Rail and Transportation Occupations

Telecommunication—Repairer, Installer, Mechanic

Real Estate Investor

Tool and Die Maker

Refrigeration Mechanic

Tour Guide

Respiratory Therapist

Travel Agent

Science Technician

Truck Driver

Security Guard

Tutor

Sheet Metal Worker

TV/Film Assistant

Ship Fitter

Upholsterer

Software Office Processing Specialist

Vending Machine Mechanic

Sound/Recording Technician

Veterinary Assistant

Steam Fitter

Video/Computer Game Tester

Structural Iron Worker

Water Transportation Occupations

Structural Metal Worker

Webmaster

Stucco Mason

Welder

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SD

3

Job-Objective Resume

Robert James 511 High Street Dallas, TX 57210 (214) 555-4548 Cell (214) 555-0122 [email protected] JOB OBJECTIVE 1⬙

EDUCATION 20-- to present

20-- to 20--

Entry-Level Computer Support Specialist Arlington Community College, Dallas, TX Studies: Computer Information Systems Degree: AA Computer Information Systems, June 20-Woodland High School, Dallas, TX Studies: General Education—Computer Programming Degree: High School Diploma

WORK EXPERIENCE 20-- to present Capital Electronics, 1847 Vine Street, Dallas, TX 57208 Customer Sales 20-- to 20-Dallas General Hospital, 2000 24th Street, Dallas, TX 57225 Volunteer Aide RELATED SKILLS

• • • • •

Hard Disk Arrays Desktop Communication Software Configuration Management Software Operating Systems Software Internet Directory Software

PERSONAL QUALITIES • Solve complex problems • Instruct others • Highly motivated • Reliable • Solid work ethic • Loyal References available upon request (See Reference sheet page 36 in your Instruction Booklet)

Job-Objective Resume

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SD

4

Reading Between the Lines of a Classiﬁed Job Ad Newspaper ads often contain useful information that can help you write an effective resume and cover letter. Before you begin writing your cover letter, analyze the ad for information. Here are some things to look for: 1. What is the title of the job being advertised? What tasks and responsibilities does someone with this job title have? What job duties and responsibilities are identified in the advertisement? Who does the person doing the job report to? Does that tell you anything more about this job and its responsibilities? 2. What type of company or organization is running the advertisement? How does this affect the job or your response to the ad? 3. Distinguish between the actual requirements for the job and other skills and experiences that would be considered useful. 4. Make sure you understand the instructions you are asked to follow in the advertisement (mail or fax resume, call, don’t call)? 5. What other information in the ad provides clues to the amount of experience needed, salary and benefits, and work environment? How can you use the information in your cover letter? For example, the following statements appeared in actual classified job ads. What do they tell you about the job, the desired candidate, or the company? Position will require flexible hours, including weekends and holidays. Benefits available. Are you good at dealing with the public? Salary commensurate with experience. RN with at least five years’ experience. No degree req. with solid exp. Experience a must. Fast-growing company. Must be energetic, ethical, and willing to work hard. Come join our team. Growing practice needs assertive self-motivators. Organized and detail-oriented to handle many projects simultaneously. Starting range $15–20/hr with opportunity for advancement. The following table will help you understand common abbreviations in newspaper help-wanted ads. Read each abbreviation, and compare it to its meaning.

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Supplemental Document 4

Abbreviations Used in Employment Ads and Their Meanings Abbreviation

Meaning

apps.

applicants, applications

ASAP

as soon as possible

avail.

available

co.

company

D/L

driver’s license

exp.

experience

hr., hrs.

hour, hours

HS

high school

immed.

immediate

K

thousand

lic.

license

loc.

location

M–F

Monday through Friday

max.

maximum

min.

minimum

mo.

month

nec.

necessary

PC

computer

OT

overtime

PT

part-time

pw

per week

pref.

prefer, preferred

ref.

references

req

require, required

sal.

salary

sec’y.

secretary

tel.

telephone

temp.

temporary

w/

with

wk.

week, work

wpm

words per minute

yr., yrs.

year, years

Reading Between the Lines of a Classiﬁed Job Ad

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SD

5

Action Verbs That Get Results

These action verbs can make a difference during an interview and when completing your employment documents. Use action verbs when completing your resume, cover letter, and post-interview letter.

accomplish achieve adjust advise align analyze apply assemble budget change clean collate collect communicate complete compute conduct consolidate coordinate correspond create credit debit decrease demonstrate deposit design develop direct disassemble display distribute edit

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Supplemental Document 5

establish estimate expand expedite extend file hire implement improve increase inspect instruct interview invoice maintain manage market measure motivate open operate order organize originate perform plan polish position prepare present process produce program

proofread purchase quote reassemble recap receive record reduce replace report research review route save sell set up simplify solve sort strengthen suggest supervise tabulate teach test train trim update upgrade weigh write

SD

6

Transferable Skills Cover Letter

1420 Deer Drive Chicago, IL 60004 April 14, 20-FAX (847) 555-0101 Dear Medical Office Manager Please consider me for the part-time Medical Office Assistant position advertised in the Chicago Tribune, April 13, 20--. My academic and volunteer work experience has been directed toward a career in the medical field. My grades in English, science, math, and keyboarding were excellent. In addition, I have experience using Microsoft Word for Windows. My interest in the medical field began when I was volunteering at the Valley Hospital medical facility. Working as a gift shop attendant, I became skilled working with people, organizing, and being aware of necessary details. I was given the responsibility of opening and closing the gift shop. I believe that my skills, especially my computer skills, will be useful in the medical office position you have available. I will call you next week to determine when we might meet to discuss the job opening. If you wish to contact me before, then my telephone number is (847) 555-0184. My cell number is (847) 555-4242. Sincerely

Susan Lee

Susan Lee

Enclosure

MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT No experience necessary. Organizational and communication skills needed. Fast-paced valley clinic located in south Chicago. Team player essential. P/T Mon–Fri. Benefit package and competitive pay. Fax resume to (847) 555-0101.

Transferable Skills Cover Letter

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SD

7

Reynolds Corporation Employment Application

REYNOLDS CORPORATION APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT Type or Print Clearly

PERSONAL INFORMATION DATE NAME Last

First

Middle

PRESENT ADDRESS Street

City

State

ZIP Code

Street

City

State

ZIP Code

PERMANENT ADDRESS

PHONE NO. IF YOU ARE OFFERED EMPLOYEMENT, CAN YOU SUBMIT VERIFICATION OF YOUR RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES?

Yes

No

EMPLOYMENT DESIRED SALARY DESIRED

POSITION ARE YOU EMPLOYED NOW?

Yes

No.

EVER APPLIED TO THIS COMPANY BEFORE?

DATE YOU CAN START

IF SO, MAY WE INQUIRE OF YOUR PRESENT EMPLOYER? Yes

No.

Yes

No.

WHEN/WHERE:

EDUCATION NAME AND ADDRESS OF SCHOOL

DEGREE OR CERTIFICATE

SUBJECTS STUDIED

HIGH SCHOOL

UNIVERSITY OR COLLEGE

TRADE, BUSINESS, OR CORRESPONDENCE SCHOOL

GENERAL DO YOU HAVE ANY EXPERIENCES, SKILLS, OR QUALIFICATIONS THAT WILL BE OF SPECIAL BENEFIT IN THE POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE APPLYING?

Continued on other side.

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WHAT FOREIGN LANGUAGES DO YOU SPEAK FLUENTLY? READ WRITE WHAT PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS DO YOU BELONG TO?

WORK EXPERIENCE List all present and past employment, including part-time or seasonal, beginning with the most recent.

EMPLOYMENT DATES AND SALARY

EMPLOYER

DESCRIBE THE WORK YOU DID IN DETAIL

REASON FOR LEAVING

NAME FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR NAME

FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR NAME

FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR

REFERENCES Give the names of three persons no related to you, whom you have known at least one year.

NAME

BUSINESS NAME/ADDRESS

BUSINESS PHONE

OCCUPATION

1.

2.

3. I AUTHORIZE INVESTIGATION OF ALL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION. I UNDERSTAND THAT MISREPRESENTATION OR OMISSION OF FACTS CALLED FOR IS CAUSE FOR DISMISSAL. FURTHER, I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT MY EMPLOYMENT IS FOR NO DEFINITE PERIOD AND MAY, REGARDLESS OF THE DATE OF PAYMENT OF MY WAGES AND SALARY, BE TERMINATED AT ANY TIME WITHOUT ANY PREVIOUS NOTICE.

DATE

SIGNATURE

Reynolds Corporation Employment Application

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SD

8

126

Mid-Level Employment Application—World Corporation

Supplemental Document 8

(Continued on other side)

Mid-Level Employment Application—World Corporation

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Supplemental Document 8

SD

9

Internet Links From the Bureau of Labor Statistics Internet Links Bureau of Labor Statistics Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections

http://online.onetcenter.org

O*NET, the Occupational Information Network, is a comprehensive database of worker attributes and job characteristics. The database contains information about knowledges, skills, abilities (KSAs), interests, general work activities (GWAs), and context. It provides the essential knowledge foundation for identifying prospective careers to explore, career counseling, planning education and training initiative, job classification, and employment counseling. O*NET also links to related occupational, educational, and labor market information databases to provide a comprehensive network of occupational information. http://www.careeronestop.org/ Finding a new job? Hiring new employees? Getting ahead in your career? It all starts here! This is your gateway to job listings, resumes, and career information nationwide—the biggest and best collection of free employment and career resources on the Internet. America’s Career InfoNet is your information source for finding wage and employment trends, occupational requirements, State-by-State labor markets, millions of employer contacts, and more. America’s Service Locator and Toll-Free Help Line (1-877-US-2JOBS) together provide a comprehensive database of service providers accessible to the public via the Internet or telephone. It directs users to a range of services available in their area: unemployment benefits, jobs training, youth programs, seminars, education opportunities, disabled or older worker programs and more.

http://www.usajobs.opm.gov USAJOBS is operated by the Office of Personnel Management and is the United States Government official source of Federal job and employment information. It lists job openings with Federal Government and allows you to apply online. Internet Links From the Bureau of Labor Statistics

129

Internet Links Bureau of Labor Statistics Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections Occupational Outlook Handbook http://www.bls.gov/oco/ The Occupational Outlook Handbook, a nationally recognized source of career information since the 1940s, is designed to provide valuable assistance to individuals making decisions about their future work lives. The hundreds of occupations covered in Handbook accounted for about 7 out of 8 jobs in the economy in 2004.

Career Guide to Industries http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/ The Career Guide to Industries provides occupational information from an industry perspective. The Guide describes occupations employed, earnings, and advancement opportunities in the Nation’s key industries. The 42 industry grouping covered in the Guide accounted for 3 out of 4 wage and salary jobs in the economy in 2004.

Occupational Outlook Quarterly http://www.bis.gov/opub/ooq/ooqhome.htm The Occupational Outlook Quarterly is the BLS magazine for students, career counselors, and others interested in the information on careers and other workforce topics. It is also available on the Internet. This site provides the latest issue of the Quarterly and the contents of all past issues back to the spring 1999 issue. The special winter 2005–06 issue presents “Charting the projections: 2004–2014,” an easy to follow summary using charts of the latest BLS projections. The spring 2006 issue features “The 2004–14 job outlook in brief,” a convenient summary of the outlook for employment in each of the occupations covered in the 2006–07 Handbook. http://www.bls.gov/emp/ The Employment Projections homepage of the BLS Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections is your Internet source for comprehensive information on the latest BLS 2004–14 projections. Anyone who enjoys getting into the data will find detailed projections tables and articles, special analyses, interactive searchable projections databases, and supporting data.

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Supplemental Document 9

SD

10

Practice Interview Evaluation Form

NAME __________________________

DATE ________________________

Directions: Using the 12 most common questions from the Instruction Booklet on pages 66–70, please rate the performance of the person being interviewed. Use the criteria listed below. For each attribute, rate the person on a scale from 1 to 5 as appropriate for the interview (1 is poor, and 5 is excellent). Circle one number. Use the “comments” line to make constructive remarks. Criteria

Rating

1. Interview dress 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 2. Grooming for the interview 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 3. Makes eye contact with the interviewer 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 4. Facial expressions 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 5. Mannerisms and body movements 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 6. Posture and body position 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 7. Attentiveness to the interview question 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 8. Self-confidence while answering the interviewer’s questions 1 2 3 4 5 Comments Practice Interview Evaluation Form

131

9. Interest and enthusiasm 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 10. Willingness to volunteer information 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 11. Effectiveness in describing skills and abilities in relation to the job 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 12. Has appropriate answers to the questions asked 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 13. Effective when asking questions about the company and job 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 14. Asks effective questions for an interview follow-up 1 2 3 4 5 Comments 15. Overall evaluation 1 2 3 4 5 Comments

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Supplemental Document 10

SD

11

Federal Laws to Prevent Discrimination in Hiring

What Are The Federal Laws Prohibiting Job Discrimination? Federal Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Laws The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces all of these laws. EEOC also provides oversight and coordination of all federal equal employment opportunity regulations, practices, and policies. 1. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. 2. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 (EPA), which protects men and women who perform substantially equal work in the same establishment from sex-based wage discrimination. 3. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA), which protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older. 4. Title I and Title V of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), which prohibit employment discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in the private sector, and in state and local governments. 5. Sections 501 and 505 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities who work in the federal government. 6. The Civil Rights Act of 1991, which, among other things, provides monetary damages in cases of intentional employment discrimination.

Federal Laws to Prevent Discrimination in Hiring

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SD

12

Pre-Employment Inquiry Guidelines

Pre-Employment Inquiry Guidelines: What Questions Can Potential Employers Legally Ask You About the Subjects Shown? SUBJECT

ACCEPTABLE QUESTIONS

UNACCEPTABLE QUESTIONS

NAME

“Have you ever used another name?” “What is your maiden name?” “Is any additional information relative to change of name or use of an assumed name or nickname necessary to enable a check on your work and education record? If yes, please explain.”

PLACE OF RESIDENCE

“What is your place of residence?”

“Do you own or rent your home?”

BIRTHPLACE, CTTIZENSHIP

“Can you, after employment, submit verification of your legal right to work in the United States?”

Birthplace of applicant, applicant’s parents, spouse, or other relatives.

Statement that such proof may be required after a decision is made to hire the candidate.

AGE

“Are you a U.S. citizen?” /or/ citizenship of applicant’s parents, spouse, or other relatives. Requirements that applicant produce naturalization, first papers, or alien card prior to a decision to hire.

Statement that hire is subject to veri- Age. fication that applicant meets legal age Date of birth. requirements. Dates of attendance or completion of “If hired can you show proof of age?” elementary or high school. “Are you over 18 years of age?” Questions that tend to identify

NATIONAL ORIGIN

“If under 18 can you, after employment, submit a work permit?”

applicants over age 40.

Languages applicant reads, speaks, or writes, if use of a language other than English is relevant to the job for which applicant is applying.

Questions as to nationality, lineage, ancestry, national origin, descent, or parentage of applicant, applicant’s parents, or spouse. “What is your mother tongue?” /or/ language commonly used by applicant. How applicant acquired ability to read, write, or speak a foreign language. (Continued)

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SUBJECT

ACCEPTABLE QUESTIONS

UNACCEPTABLE QUESTIONS

SEX, MARITAL STATUS, FAMILY

Name and address of parent or guardian if applicant is a minor.

Questions regarding pregnancy, child bearing, or birth control.

Statement of company policy regarding work assignment of employees who are related.

Name or address of relative, spouse, or children of adult applicant.

“With whom do you reside?” /or/ “Do “The job involves some travel, would you live with your parents?” that be a problem?” “Are you straight?” “The job involves some overtime “Are you gay?” work, would that be a problem?” “Do you have any roommates?” “Would you be willing to relocate?” RACE, COLOR

Questions as to applicant’s race or color. Questions regarding applicant’s complexion or color of skin, eyes, and hair.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION, PHOTOGRAPH

Statement that photograph may be required after employment.

Require applicant to affix a photograph to application. Request applicant, at his or her option, to submit a photograph. Require a photograph after interview but before employment.

PHYSICAL CONDITION, Statement by employer that offer HANDICAP may be made contingent on applicant passing a job-related physical examination. “Do you have any physical condition or handicap that may limit your ability to perform the job applied for? If yes, what can be done to accommodate your limitation?”

Questions regarding applicant’s general medical condition, state of health, or illnesses. Questions regarding receipt of workers’ compensation. “Do you have any physical disabilities or handicaps?” “Have you ever been hospitalized? If so, for what condition?” “Have you ever been treated by a psychiatrist or psychologist? If so, for what condition?” “Is there any health-related reason you may not be able to perform the job for which you’re applying?” “Are you taking any prescribed drugs?” “Have you ever been treated for drug addiction or alcoholism?”

RELIGION

Statement by employer of regular days, hours, or shifts to be worked.

Questions regarding applicant’s religion. Religious days observed /or/ “Does your religion prevent you from working weekends or holidays?” (Continued)

Pre-Employment Inquiry Guidelines

135

SUBJECT

ACCEPTABLE QUESTIONS

UNACCEPTABLE QUESTIONS

ARREST, CRIMINAL RECORD

“Have you ever been convicted of a felony?” Such a question must be accompanied by a statement that a conviction will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from employment.

Arrest record /or/ “Have you ever been arrested?”

BONDING

Statement that bonding is a condition Questions regarding refusal or cancelof hire. lation of bonding.

MILITARY SERVICE

Questions regarding relevant skills acquired during applicant’s U.S. military service.

General questions regarding military services such as dates and type of discharge. Questions regarding service in a foreign military.

ORGANIZATIONS, ACTIVITIES

“Please list job-related organizations, “List all organizations, clubs, societies, clubs, professional societies, or other and lodges to which you belong.” associations to which you belong— you may omit those which indicate your race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, or age.”

REFERENCES

“By whom were you referred for a position here?”

NOTIFY IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

136

Names of persons willing to provide professional and/or character references for applicant.

Questions of applicant’s former employers or acquaintances that elicit information specifying the applicant’s race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, physical handicap, medical condition, marital status, age, or sex.

Name and address of person to be notified in case of accident or emergency.

Name, address, and relationship of relative to be notified in case of accident or emergency.

Supplemental Document 12

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13

Post-Interview Thank-You Letter

5751 Center Street San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 555-9224 cell (415) 555-2332 [email protected] September 6, 20-Brent Lin, D.D.S. Stockton Dental Clinic 2545 East Avenue San Francisco, CA 94103 Dear Dr. Lin Thank you for taking the time to interview me yesterday for the position of dental assistant. I became aware from my recent internship of how well my skills would fit Stockton Dental Clinic. My knowledge of office procedures, including dental bookkeeping, collections, insurance forms, and dental assisting including x-rays, would allow me to contribute immediately as a team member. Please call or e-mail me for further discussion of my qualifications that may be needed. Thank you and your staff for taking the time to talk to me. I feel that this is an exciting opportunity. I will call for a hiring decision September 13 as agreed upon in the interview. Sincerely

Joan De Campo Joan De Campo

Post-Interview Thank-You Letter

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What Your Boss May Expect You to Know

It is important to start a new job by figuring out the behaviors your boss expects of you that are not in your job description. The following list includes some things your boss may expect of you but will probably never tell you. Study this list to help you get off to the right start in a job. 1. Remember the importance of honesty. 2. Take your job seriously. Be sure to show up every day and be to work on time. 3. Set goals and attempt to exceed your employer’s expectations. 4. Try to anticipate and avoid problems. 5. Communicate openly with your supervisor. 6. Take note of details of the job. 7. Think about the big picture of what’s important to the organization. 8. When things go wrong, make clear what happened. Admit any part you had in it. If you made a mistake, say this was a learning experience. Do not make excuses or place blame. 9. Aim to accomplish more than what your supervisor expects. 10. Attempt to stay uninvolved in workplace gossip or politics. 11. Respect your coworkers and build a rapport with them. 12. Respect the privacy of your coworkers and be careful about sharing information that may be confidential.

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Career Growth SelfEvaluation

Complete the following self-evaluation of your personal qualities. After each quality, check the answer that best describes you at work. If you are honest with yourself, you probably will have answers in all three categories. You will become aware of your strengths as well as the qualities you need to improve. The following list describes personal qualities that make work satisfying and are needed for promotion. This self-evaluation can help you reach your full potential within your job and company. Personal Quality

Always

Sometimes

Never

1. I have well-defined career goals. 2. I have an excellent work attitude. 3. I am highly motivated to do good work. 4. My work is creative and innovative. 5. I plan and organize my work. 6. I work well with all coworkers. 7. I work well with my supervisor and management. 8. I am a team player. 9. I respect the rights of other workers. 10. I use good communication skills (speaking, listening, and body language). 11. I complete my work on time. 12. My work is neat and accurate. 13. I do not distract others at work. 14. I am careful to follow directions. 15. I try to improve my job performance.

Career Growth Self-Evaluation

139

Personal Quality 16. I work well without supervision. 17. I take on additional responsibility. 18. I take pride in completing work. 19. I accept total responsibility for my behavior. 20. I am courteous toward other workers. 21. I wear proper work clothing and have good personal hygiene habits. 22. I have good attendance and am punctual. 23. I think my work is important. 24. I try to learn more about my job and my company. 25. I observe all company rules and policies.

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Always

Sometimes

Never

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Career Change Resignation Letter

2⬙ (Line 13)

160 Beacon Street Houston, TX 77057 December 1, 20--

1⬙

Mr. John Sayers Director of Personnel Digital Technology 2400 High Street Houston, TX 77057

1⬙

Dear D ea Mr. Sayers

A B

Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation as of December 15, 20--. I am making a career change and have accepted a sales position with Emerson Insurance, Inc., in Toledo, Ohio. I am to report to work on January 5, 20--. I will complete my projects and train my replacement if necessary. I will make every effort for the transition to go smoothly for my coworkers.

C

The training of transforming technical information into understandable language that I received at Digital Technology has been invaluable. The experience in editing technical reports and overseeing preparation of illustrations and diagrams is greatly appreciated.

D

It has been a pleasure to have worked for Digital Technology. I will always be proud to have been associated with such a fine company and coworkers. Sincerely

David Lee David Lee

A B C D

Date of Resignation Reason(s) for Leaving Appreciation of Skills Learned Appreciation of Fellow Employees or Company

Career Change Resignation Letter

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Employer Reference Letter

17

1½1½-2⬙ (Lin (Line 10-13)

DENTAL SUPPLY 1891 Bay View Court Richmond, Virginia 23175 (804) 555-1911

anag Dear Hiring Ma Manager 1⬙

I can easily recommend Sharon Sidney for employment. Sharon was employed in our administrative office from 20—to 20—as a staff assistant.

A

O ur staff assistant position requires that the employee have excellent written and verbal Our communication skills, in addition to being organized, able to work independently, and able to follow through to make sure the job gets done. I can say that Sharon excelled in all of these skills and personal qualities.

B

Sharon was responsible for supervising and training the department office assistants. Sharon displayed her leadership skills by effectively scheduling and managing these coworkers.

C

Sharon would be an asset to any employer and we will miss her. Please call me if you have any questions. Sincerely

Charles Berning Charles Berning Vice President

A B C

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Abilities, Skills, and Accomplishments Attitudes and Character Invitation to Reader to Call for More Details

Supplemental Document 17

1⬙

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date ______________________

Step 1

Discover Yourself—Who Are You?

Activity 1 Developing Your Personal Proﬁle DIRECTIONS: Review the boxes in Step 1 of your Instruction Booklet in which you completed your self-assessment and wrote your five strongest personal qualities, interests, skills, and personal and work values. This is your Personal Profile. It will have a big impact on your choice of a career field. In this step, you began to think about yourself in regard to work you would enjoy. Copy your Personal Profile lists in the boxes provided here. Then using your Personal Profile lists, answer the questions on the lines provided. After you answer the questions, you’ll be ready to explore how to find work you’ll love in Step 2. When you have completed this activity to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for evaluation. Keep this information in your Employment Portfolio, and update it on a regular basis.

PERSONAL PROFILE Personal Qualities 1. _______________________________________ 2. _______________________________________

1. Which of your personal qualities could you bring to a job? Describe how you have demonstrated this quality. 2. Look at your personal qualities, and tell how you would describe yourself to someone who does not know you.

3. _______________________________________ 4. _______________________________________ 5. _______________________________________

Interests 1. _______________________________________ 2. _______________________________________

3. What are your interests and hobbies outside of school? Tell how they could relate to a job or career. 4. List your favorite classes in school. How would your favorite classes help you get a job?

3. _______________________________________ 4. _______________________________________ 5. _______________________________________

Discover Yourself—Who Are You?

1

Skills

5. What do you find easy that other people find hard?

1. _______________________________________

6. Name some things you know or can do that people have complimented you on.

2. _______________________________________ 3. _______________________________________ 4. _______________________________________ 5. _______________________________________

Personal Values 1. _______________________________________ 2. _______________________________________ 3. _______________________________________

7. Describe how you have used one of your skills to solve a problem or complete a project or activity. 8. Many jobs use the same skills. We call these transferable skills. List two jobs that use the skills you listed.

9. Describe the ideal community where you would love to live. Here are some questions to consider: Would you live in a town or the country? Is being close to theaters, bookstores, or museums important to you? Should your community have a school, park, or sports facilities? Would you drive to work or would you take mass transit, walk, or bike?

4. _______________________________________ 5. _______________________________________

Work Values 1. _______________________________________ 2. _______________________________________ 3. _______________________________________ 4. _______________________________________ 5. _______________________________________

10. Describe the ideal workplace where you would love to work. Here are some questions to consider: Do you want to work outdoors or indoors? Do you want a job in an office building, in a shop, on a farm, or at your home? Do you want to travel? Do you want to work at a desk or would you prefer working with tools, technology, or other equipment? Do you want a quiet workplace or one with lots of activity? How much contact with the public would you prefer? Do you want to work at a small or large business? Would you like to operate your own business?

11. Study the work values you identified, and write a sentence that says what you most want to accomplish in your work life. List any careers you want to explore for jobs that would fulfill your work values.

2

Section 1

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date ______________________

Step 2

Research and Explore Career Options

Activity 2 Preferred Job Research With the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) or O*NET Online To complete this activity, you will either use the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) or the computer Web site O*Net OnLine. If you are using the OOH, turn to the index in the back of the book. Locate the three preferred job titles you selected. Next, read the information about your first job choice and complete the career information form provided here. Repeat the same steps with your remaining two job choices. If you are using O*Net OnLine, first click the Find Occupations link on the homepage to access the drop-down menu in the Career Clusters section, select your career cluster choice, and then select your first preferred job choice to access the job report. Next, read the information about your first job choice and complete the career information form provided here. Repeat the same steps with your remaining two job choices. As an alternative, you may print the information for each job and, using a marking pen, highlight the information the forms require.

Research and Explore Career Options

3

PREFERRED JOB 1 Name: Preferred job title:

List job duties, tasks, or responsibilities:

List 3–5 skills you feel most important to this job:

Describe the work environment:

Describe the education or training required to perform this job:

What is the yearly salary?

Describe the job outlook:

Name related occupations that interest you:

Is this job you researched still one you would like for your career?

Describe the things you found out through your research that helped you decide you would like/dislike this job:

4

Section 1

PREFERRED JOB 2 Name: Preferred job title:

List job duties, tasks, or responsibilities:

List 3–5 skills you feel most important to this job:

Describe the work environment:

Describe the education or training required to perform this job:

What is the yearly salary?

Describe the job outlook:

Name related occupations that interest you:

Is this job you researched still one you would like for your career?

Describe the things you found out through your research that helped you decide you would like/dislike this job:

Research and Explore Career Options

5

PREFERRED JOB 3 Name: Preferred job title:

List job duties, tasks, or responsibilities:

List 3–5 skills you feel most important to this job:

Describe the work environment:

Describe the education or training required to perform this job:

What is the yearly salary?

Describe the job outlook:

Name related occupations that interest you:

Is this job you researched still one you would like for your career?

Describe the things you found out through your research that helped you decide you would like/dislike this job:

6

Section 1

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date ______________________

Step 2

Research and Explore Career Options

Activity 3 Matching Your Personal Proﬁle to Jobs List on this form your top-ranked personal qualities, interests, skills, and personal and work values you identified in Step 1. Then list the three job titles you selected as your preferred job titles. (See page 17 or page 19 in your Instruction Booklet.) Compare your preferred job titles to each of your personal profile attributes. If you feel a personal profile attribute matches your preferred job title, circle Yes; if not, circle No. Ask yourself: Does my preferred job title compare favorably to my Personal Profile attributes? Personal Profile Preferred Job Title

Preferred Job Title

Preferred Job Title

Rating Personal Qualities 1.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

2.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

3.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

4.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

5.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

1.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

2.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

3.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

4.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

5.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

1.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

2.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

3.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

4.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

5.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Interests

Skills

Research and Explore Career Options

7

Preferred Job Title

Preferred Job Title

Preferred Job Title

Rating Personal Values 1.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

2.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

3.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

4.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

5.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

1.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

2.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

3.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

4.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

5.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Work Values

Total Scores (Yes and No): Add the total Yes and No answers. Below the names of each of your preferred job titles, write 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. Now you have rated your preferred jobs, and have narrowed the selection down to one or two if there was a tie.

8

Section 1

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date ______________________

Step 2

Research and Explore Career Options

Activity 4 An Information Interview To prepare for your information interview, follow the directions for this activity on page 23 of your Instruction Booklet. Be sure to arrive on time, introduce yourself, and know the questions you want to ask. Ask the person for a business card. As the interview progresses, be a good listener and take brief notes. Keep your visit to the 20–30 minutes or whatever time you agreed upon, and thank the person for his/her time and information. After the interview, complete this form to your satisfaction, and show it to your teacher for evaluation. Don’t forget to write a thank-you note the same day!

Information Interview Record The person I will speak to: Name: Title: Organization: Address: Telephone number: Interview date and time: 1. What are your job duties or responsibilities?

2. What education and training are required for this job?

3. What do you like most about your job? What don’t you like?

4. What is the average starting pay for this job?

5. Interview question I would like to ask.

6. Can you recommend anyone else I should talk to?

_____ I have mailed my thank-you note to the person I interviewed. Research and Explore Career Options

9

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Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 3

Resume

Activity 5 Construct a General Resume DIRECTIONS: Gather information about your education, strong skills, interests, and work experience. Complete this outline by writing your resume information on the lines below. Be sure to use a pencil to complete this activity. When you have completed this outline to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any necessary corrections. Next, using your Resume Generator and this completed outline as a guide, key your resume. Save your resume for easy updating on the thumb drive you used in Step 1. Keep it updated as you gain experience and education. Use a good grade of white, beige, buff, or cream 8½⬙ × 11⬙ bond paper to print your final resume. Place your completed resume and your Resume Generator in your Employment Portfolio. PERSONAL INFORMATION (Name) (Street Address, Apartment Number) (City)

(State)

(Zip Code)

(Area Code, Telephone Number) (Area Code, Cell Number) (E-mail Address) EDUCATION (List most recent school first) (Year to Present) (If you have graduated, write Year to Year) (School Name)

(City)

(State)

(Curriculum Studied) (Degree, Diploma, or Projected Degree/Diploma; Month and Year of Graduation)

Resume

11

(Year to Year) (School Name)

(City)

(State)

(Curriculum Studied) (Degree or Diploma) WORK EXPERIENCE (List most recent work experience listed first) (Year to Present) (Name of Business)

(Job Title)

(Street Address)

(City)

(State)

(Zip Code)

(State)

(Zip Code)

(State)

(Zip Code)

(Year to Year) (Name of Business)

(Job Title)

(Street Address)

(City)

(Year to Year) (Name of Business)

(Job Title)

(Street Address)

(City)

WORK SKILLS

HONORS, ACHIEVEMENTS, OTHER INTERESTS

12

Section 2

REFERENCES (Name and Job Title)

(Name and Job Title)

(Company or Organization)

(Company or Organization)

(Street Address)

(Street Address)

(City, State, Zip Code)

(City, State, Zip Code)

(Area Code, Phone Number)

(Area Code, Phone Number)

(Name and Job Title)

(Name and Job Title)

(Company or Organization)

(Company or Organization)

(Street Address)

(Street Address)

(City, State, Zip Code)

(City, State, Zip Code)

(Area Code, Phone Number)

(Area Code, Phone Number)

Resume

13

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Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 3

Resume

Activity 6 Write Job Objectives DIRECTIONS: Write a job objective statement for each of the employment ads presented here. Then write a job objective for one of your favorite jobs that you researched in Step 2. Write the objective for a specific job title, type of work, or career goal. Your job objectives should be clearly and concisely written. Use the example of job objectives on page 29 of your Instruction Booklet as a guide. Be sure to use a pencil to complete this activity. When you have written your job objectives to your satisfaction, show them to your teacher for approval. Make any necessary corrections. Place your completed job objective worksheet in your Employment Portfolio for future reference Position Applying For: Medical

Job Objective:

VALLEY MEDICAL RECORDS ASST. Established senior health care facility has F/T position available for a medical records assistant. Interested? Call for appointment at (222) 555-0100. Equal Opportunity Employer.

Restaurant Angelo’s Pizza–Now Hiring

Position Applying For: Job Objective:

Sales counter Cooks Drivers Assistant Managers Join a great employer-owned co. that is growing 30% per year. Great beneﬁts, fun, best pizza on earth! Send resume to: CareerJobs@ Angelo’s.com or fax (936) 555-0165.

Resume

15

Retail Lamson’s

Position Applying For: Job Objective:

Job Opportunities No Waiting Lamson’s is one of the largest and most successful clothing retailers in the U.S. because of the enthusiastic efforts of our team members. We will train. Opportunities are available in: All sales departments Warehouse Security Lamson’s offers a full beneﬁts package and competitive hourly wages. Please fax resume to (925) 555-0196.

Select one of your favorite job titles you researched in Step 2. Write a job objective for that posistion.

16

Section 2

Position Applying For: Job Objective:

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 3

Resume

Activity 7 Construct a Speciﬁc Resume DIRECTIONS: Gather information about your education, strong skills, interests, and work experience. Complete this outline by writing your resume information on the lines below. Use either one of the jobs and the job objective you wrote in Activity 6 or another job and objective that you have in mind. Be sure to use a pencil to complete this activity. When you have completed this resume outline to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any necessary corrections. Next, using your Resume Generator and this completed outline as a guide, key your resume. Save your resume to the thumb drive on which you saved your general resume. Use a good grade of white, beige, buff, or cream 8½⬙ × 11⬙ bond paper to print your final resume. Place your completed resume and Resume Generator in your Employment Portfolio. PERSONAL INFORMATION (Name) (Street Address, Apartment Number) (City)

(State)

(Zip Code)

(Area Code, Telephone Number) (Area Code, Cell Number) (E-mail Address) JOB OBJECTIVE EDUCATION (List most recent school first) (Year to Present) (If you have graduated, write Year to Year) (School Name)

(City)

(State)

(Curriculum Studied)

Resume

17

(Degree, Diploma, or Projected Degree/Diploma, Month and Year of Graduation) (Courses)

(Year to Year) (School Name)

(City)

(State)

(Curriculum Studied) (Degree, Diploma, or Projected Degree/Diploma, Month and Year of Graduation) (Courses)

WORK EXPERIENCE (List most recent work experience first) (Year to Present) (Name of Company) (Street Address)

(City)

(State)

(Zip Code)

(City)

(State)

(Zip Code)

(Job Title) (Responsibilities) (Supervisor) (Year to Year) (Name of Company) (Street Address) (Job Title)

18

Section 2

(Resonsibilities) (Supervisor) MEMBERSHIPS

HONORS

SPECIAL SKILLS

REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Resume

19

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Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 3

Resume

Activity 8 Construct a Reference List DIRECTIONS: Begin this activity by identifying several people who you may use as job or personal references. Then write the reference information on the lines below. Be sure to use a pencil to complete this activity. When you have completed your reference list to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval and make any necessary changes. Next, using your Resume Generator and this completed outline as a guide, key your reference list and save it on the same thumb drive as your resumes. Print your final reference list on the same size, color, and quality paper as your resumes. Place your printed reference list and Resume Generator in your Employment Portfolio for easy updating and future reference. References of (Your Name) Name

Title

Business Name Number and Street Name City

State

Zip Code

(Area Code) Telephone Number

Name

Title

Business Name Number and Street Name City

State

Zip Code

(Area Code) Telephone Number

Resume

21

Name

Title

Business Name Number and Street Name City

State

Zip Code

(Area Code) Telephone Number

Name

Title

Business Name Number and Street Name City

State

(Area Code) Telephone Number

22

Section 2

Zip Code

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 4

Cover Letter

Activity 9 Write a Cover Letter DIRECTIONS: To complete this activity, first write your practice cover letter on this paper. Use the sample cover letters on pages 41 and 42 of your Instruction Booklet as guides. Your telephone number, with area code, needs to be shown in your request for an interview, or immediately below your keyed name. Your cell phone, fax number, or e-mail address can also be included. Be sure to use a pencil to complete this activity. When you have drafted your cover letter to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any necessary corrections. Next, using your Resume Generator and this completed draft, key your cover letter and save it on the same thumb drive as your resumes. Print your final cover letter on the same size, color, and quality paper as your resume. Place the keyed cover letter and Resume Generator in your Employment Portfolio for future reference. Your Mailing Address

Date of Letter Name of Person Title of Person Company Name Street Address City, State, Zip Code Dear

:

Purpose of Letter

Cover Letter

23

Qualifications or Reasons Why Applicant Should Be Interviewed

Request For Interview

Phone/Cell Number

Sincerely, Your Signature

____________________

Your Name Keyed

____________________ Enclosure

24

Section 2

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 5

Employment Application

Activity 10 Completing an Employment Application DIRECTIONS: Complete this application with pencil. Show it to your teacher for approval, and make any necessary changes. Then use your pencil draft, and copy the second employment application in ink.

REYNOLDS CORPORATION APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT Type or Print Clearly

PERSONAL INFORMATION DATE NAME Last

First

Middle

PRESENT ADDRESS Street

City

State

ZIP Code

Street

City

State

ZIP Code

PERMANENT ADDRESS

PHONE NO. IF YOU ARE OFFERED EMPLOYEMENT, CAN YOU SUBMIT VERIFICATION OF YOUR RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES?

Yes

No

EMPLOYMENT DESIRED SALARY DESIRED

POSITION ARE YOU EMPLOYED NOW?

Yes

No

EVER APPLIED TO THIS COMPANY BEFORE?

DATE YOU CAN START

IF SO, MAY WE INQUIRE OF YOUR PRESENT EMPLOYER? Yes

No

Yes

No

WHEN/WHERE:

EDUCATION NAME AND ADDRESS OF SCHOOL

DEGREE OR CERTIFICATE

SUBJECTS STUDIED

HIGH SCHOOL

UNIVERSITY OR COLLEGE

TRADE, BUSINESS, OR CORRESPONDENCE SCHOOL

GENERAL DO YOU HAVE ANY EXPERIENCES, SKILLS, OR QUALIFICATIONS THAT WILL BE OF SPECIAL BENEFIT IN THE POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE APPLYING?

Continued on other side.

Employment Application

25

WHAT FOREIGN LANGUAGES DO YOU SPEAK FLUENTLY? READ WRITE WHAT PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS DO YOU BELONG TO?

WORK EXPERIENCE List all present and past employment, including part-time or seasonal, beginning with the most recent.

EMPLOYMENT DATES AND SALARY

EMPLOYER

DESCRIBE THE WORK YOU DID IN DETAIL

REASON FOR LEAVING

NAME FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR NAME

FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR NAME

FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR

REFERENCES Give the names of three persons no related to you, whom you have known at least one year.

NAME

BUSINESS NAME/ADDRESS

BUSINESS PHONE

OCCUPATION

1.

2.

3. I AUTHORIZE INVESTIGATION OF ALL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION. I UNDERSTAND THAT MISREPRESENTATION OR OMISSION OF FACTS CALLED FOR IS CAUSE FOR DISMISSAL. FURTHER, I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT MY EMPLOYMENT IS FOR NO DEFINITE PERIOD AND MAY, REGARDLESS OF THE DATE OF PAYMENT OF MY WAGES AND SALARY, BE TERMINATED AT ANY TIME WITHOUT ANY PREVIOUS NOTICE.

DATE

26

SIGNATURE

Section 2

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 5

Employment Application

Activity 10 Completing an Employment Application DIRECTIONS: Complete this application neatly in blue or black ink. Use your pencil copy as a guideline. Show it to your teacher for approval. Then put the completed application in your Employment Portfolio for future reference. This will save time and help you accurately complete job applications in the future.

REYNOLDS CORPORATION APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT Type or Print Clearly

PERSONAL INFORMATION DATE NAME Last

First

Middle

PRESENT ADDRESS Street

City

State

ZIP Code

Street

City

State

ZIP Code

PERMANENT ADDRESS

PHONE NO. IF YOU ARE OFFERED EMPLOYEMENT, CAN YOU SUBMIT VERIFICATION OF YOUR RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES?

Yes

No

EMPLOYMENT DESIRED SALARY DESIRED

POSITION ARE YOU EMPLOYED NOW?

Yes

No

EVER APPLIED TO THIS COMPANY BEFORE?

DATE YOU CAN START

IF SO, MAY WE INQUIRE OF YOUR PRESENT EMPLOYER? Yes

No

Yes

No

WHEN/WHERE:

EDUCATION NAME AND ADDRESS OF SCHOOL

DEGREE OR CERTIFICATE

SUBJECTS STUDIED

HIGH SCHOOL

UNIVERSITY OR COLLEGE

TRADE, BUSINESS, OR CORRESPONDENCE SCHOOL

GENERAL DO YOU HAVE ANY EXPERIENCES, SKILLS, OR QUALIFICATIONS THAT WILL BE OF SPECIAL BENEFIT IN THE POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE APPLYING?

Continued on other side.

Employment Application

27

WHAT FOREIGN LANGUAGES DO YOU SPEAK FLUENTLY? READ WRITE WHAT PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS DO YOU BELONG TO?

WORK EXPERIENCE List all present and past employment, including part-time or seasonal, beginning with the most recent.

EMPLOYMENT DATES AND SALARY

EMPLOYER

DESCRIBE THE WORK YOU DID IN DETAIL

REASON FOR LEAVING

NAME FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR NAME

FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR NAME

FROM: ADDRESS TO: CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE STARTING SALARY:

PHONE

ENDING SALARY:

SUPERVISOR

REFERENCES Give the names of three persons no related to you, whom you have known at least one year.

NAME

BUSINESS NAME/ADDRESS

BUSINESS PHONE

OCCUPATION

1.

2.

3. I AUTHORIZE INVESTIGATION OF ALL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION. I UNDERSTAND THAT MISREPRESENTATION OR OMISSION OF FACTS CALLED FOR IS CAUSE FOR DISMISSAL. FURTHER, I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT MY EMPLOYMENT IS FOR NO DEFINITE PERIOD AND MAY, REGARDLESS OF THE DATE OF PAYMENT OF MY WAGES AND SALARY, BE TERMINATED AT ANY TIME WITHOUT ANY PREVIOUS NOTICE.

DATE

28

SIGNATURE

Section 2

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 6

Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

Activity 11 Finding Job Leads DIRECTIONS: For each job lead, record your type of lead, job title, employment contact, contact numbers, addresses, and important remarks on the forms provided here. When you have completed your job lead information, show it to your teacher for approval. Place any employment contacts you want to save in your Employment Portfolio. Remember to use these common sources of job leads:

• • • • • •

• • • • •

Networking The Yellow Pages The Local Newspaper One-Stop Career Centers Temporary Employment Agencies

USAJOBS and Other Government Web sites Online Job Listings Industrial and Craft Unions Associations Private Employment Agencies

School Career Centers

Job Lead 1 Source

Job Title

Name of Business Area Code

Telephone Number

Person Contacted

Date of Contact

Fax

E-mail

Address City

State

Zip Code

Remarks

Job Lead 2 Source

Job Title

Name of Business Area Code

Telephone Number

Person Contacted

Date of Contact

Fax

E-mail

Address Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

29

City

State

Zip Code

Remarks

Job Lead 3 Source

Job Title

Name of Business Area Code

Telephone Number

Person Contacted

Date of Contact

Fax

E-mail

Address City

State

Zip Code

Remarks

Job Lead 4 Source

Job Title

Name of Business Area Code

Telephone Number

Person Contacted

Date of Contact

Fax

E-mail

Address City

State

Zip Code

Remarks

Job Lead 5 Source

Job Title

Name of Business Area Code

Telephone Number

Person Contacted

Date of Contact

Fax

E-mail

Address City

State

Remarks

30

Section 2

Zip Code

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 6

Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

Activity 12 Researching a Company DIRECTIONS: To complete this activity, first select three well-known companies. You may make your selection from the list of companies provided here. Of course, you may also select your own favorite companies. Be aware that it may be difficult to find published information about many small companies. If you cannot find published information about a company that interests you, you could write, telephone, or e-mail the company with your questions. If convenient, you could also visit the company. Do your research at your school library or career center, local public library, or on the Internet. You may want to use the publications and magazines suggested on page 58 of your Instruction Booklet. Answer the questions that are provided here for each company you select. When you have completed your research paper to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. Place your completed research paper in your Employment Portfolio. In the future, this activity will help you know how to research companies for important information and what company questions you need answered before any job interview. Here are the names of a few well-known companies. You may select three of these companies to research, or others of your choosing. Microsoft Corporation, www.microsoft.com

IBM Corporation, www.ibm.com/

Apple Computer, Inc., www.apple.com/

Boeing Corporation, www.boeing.com/

Pepsi Cola Corporation, www.pepsico.com/

Kellogg’s Company, www.kelloggcompany.com/

Exxon Mobil Corporation, www.exxonmobile.com/

Hershey Foods Corporation, www.hersheys.com/

McDonald’s Corporation, www.mcdonalds.com

Google Corporation, www.google.com/

Goodyear Corporation, www.goodyear.com/

Disney Corporation, www.disney.com/

General Electric Corporation, www.ge.com/ Company Name What does this company do? Who are the company’s competitors? (Competitors are companies that buy or sell the same kinds of products or services.) What are the company’s products or services? What kinds of jobs do they have? How old is the company? In what cities does this company have stores or plants?

Finding Job Leads and Researching a Company

31

What is the size of this company? Is it growing or shrinking in number of employees or total sales? Questions I have about this company:

Company Name What does this company do? Who are the company’s competitors? (Competitors are companies that buy or sell the same kinds of products or services.) What are the company’s products or services? What kinds of jobs do they have? How old is the company? In what cities does this company have stores or plants? What is the size of this company? Is it growing or shrinking in number of employees or total sales? Questions I have about this company:

Company Name What does this company do? Who are the company’s competitors? (Competitors are companies that buy or sell the same kinds of products or services.) What are the company’s products or services? What kinds of jobs do they have? How old is the company? In what cities does this company have stores or plants? What is the size of this company? Is it growing or shrinking in number of employees or total sales? Questions I have about this company:

32

Section 2

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 7

How to Prepare for an Interview

Activity 13 Answering Interview Questions DIRECTIONS: To complete this activity, remember to have a particular job and company in mind. Then write your answers in pencil to each interview question. You may use the suggested answers in Step 7 on pages 65–70 to help you answer the interview questions. When you have completed the answers, show them to your teacher for approval. Then work in groups to practice answering the questions with your written replies. 1.

We need a reliable person for this job. Can we depend on you?

2.

Why do you want to leave your current job? or Why did you leave your last job?

3.

What pay do you expect?

4.

Why do you want to work for our company?

5.

Have you had any serious illness or injury that might prevent you from performing your duties in this position?

How to Prepare for an Interview

33

6.

Do you have references?

7.

What did you like best or least about your last job?

8.

Are you looking for a permanent or temporary job? Do you want full-time or part-time work?

9.

Tell me something about yourself. Why do you think we should hire you for this job?

10.

How well do you work under pressure?

11.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

12.

What are your short-term and long-term employment goals?

34

Section 3

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 8

During the Interview

Activity 14 Model Interview Review DIRECTIONS: Carefully reread the model interview between Susan and Mr. Phillips on pages 77–82 of your Instruction Booklet. Then complete the following review in pencil. By completing this review, you will learn the information that you need to know to be successful in a future interview. When you have completed the interview review to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. 1.

2.

3.

Make a list of six facts that Susan knows about the job after the interview. a.

d.

b.

e.

c.

f.

Make a list of six facts that Mr. Phillips knows about Susan after the interview. a.

d.

b.

e.

c.

f.

List three ways Susan helps customers purchase products in her job at Western Supply. a.

4.

b.

c.

List four high school and four American Community College courses Susan mentioned in her interview. Describe what she learned from each course. a.

e.

b.

f.

c.

g.

d.

h.

During the Interview

35

5.

6.

List six courses you have taken and record what you have learned from each course that you can discuss in an interview. a.

d.

b.

e.

c.

f.

List two ways Susan says she would apply the skills she uses at Western Supply to the merchandising display job at Home Improvement USA. a.

7.

b.

List eight personal qualities or transferable skills that describe Susan. a.

e.

b.

f.

c.

g.

d.

h.

8.

What work skills does Susan say will help her be responsible for five stores?

9.

What personal qualities help Susan deal with conflict?

10.

What two reasons did Susan give to answer the question, “Why have you decided to start your merchandising display career with Home Improvement USA?” a. b.

11.

What kind of research did Susan do to find out about the company’s reputation?

12.

List three ways Susan describes how she would work with a supervisor. a. b. c.

13.

What answer did Susan give to the question, “What pay do you expect?”

14.

In closing the interview (page 82), Susan said, “Now that my interview is over, I am even more convinced that Home Improvement USA is the company for me. I really am impressed with its career possibilities.” What other closing remark might Susan have used? Reread Stage 4 Closing Remarks, on page 75 for suggestions.

36

Section 3

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date________________________

Step 9

After the Interview

Activity 15 Preparing a Post-Interview Letter DIRECTIONS: To complete this activity, first write in pencil your practice post-interview letter below using Figure 3.3 on page 85 of your Instruction Booklet as a guide. When you have drafted your letter to your satisfaction, show it to your teacher for approval. Make any necessary corrections. Next, using this completed draft and your Resume Generator, key your post-interview letter and save it on the same thumb drive used for your resume. Print your final post-interview letter on the same size and quality paper used for your resume. Place your keyed post-interview letter and your Resume Generator in your Employment Portfolio for future reference. Your Mailing Address

Date of Letter

Name of Person Title of Person Company Name Street Address City, State, Zip Code

Dear

:

Thank You and Positive Comment About Interview

After the Interview

37

Emphasize Strengths

Continued Interest, Additional Reasons For Hiring, and When and How to Contact

Sincerely, Your Signature Your Name Keyed Your Area Code, Phone Number E-mail address

38

Section 3

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date ______________________

Step 10 What to Do Before Leaving a Job Activity 16 Case Study: Decision Time DIRECTIONS: Read the following case study on Steve Chu, who wants to make a decision about leaving his job. In the space provided, write the advantages and disadvantages of Steve staying in his current position, and answer the questions that follow. When you have completed the answers to your satisfaction, show them to your instructor for approval and class discussion. Then place this activity in your Employment Portfolio for future reference.

Steve Chu has been employed by Maumee Auto Center for almost three years. At first he was happy with his job. He enjoyed his independence and the casual atmosphere of the company. Now, Steve goes home most nights with a splitting headache. His doctor recently told him that his blood pressure was up and he should relax more. Steve’s problems developed when the company started making a lot of changes in the last year. Steve has a new boss, who often questions how he does things. Worse, two people who started working there after Steve have been promoted. Steve felt he was ready for the supervisor positions they received. Also, the company is a lot more rigid than it was when he started. There are more paperwork and rules to follow than before. While he is not happy with the work environment, Steve still enjoys his work. He is also looking forward to becoming trained on state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment that has just been installed. Sometimes Steve thinks he should just quit, but then he remembers that his car loan will not be paid off for another year. In two years, he will be fully eligible for the company’s profit sharing and savings plan.

1. From the case study, identify at least three advantages and three disadvantages to Steve’s staying in his current employment. Advantages of Staying

Disadvantages of Staying

a.

a.

b.

b.

c.

c.

What to Do Before Leaving a Job

39

Other Advantages

Other Disadvantages

2. Do you think Steve should or should not leave his current position? Why?

3. If you decide he should stay, list three things Steve could do to improve his job situation.

40

Section 4

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date ______________________

Step 11 The Best Way to Leave a Job Activity 17 Write a Resignation Letter DIRECTIONS: To complete this activity, first write your practice resignation letter below in pencil. Use the sample resignation letter given on page 97 of your Instruction Booklet as a guide. When you have drafted the letter to your satisfaction, show it to your instructor for approval. Make any corrections that are needed. Next, using your Resume Generator and this completed draft, key your resignation letter and save it on the thumb drive used for your resume. Print your final resignation letter on the same size and quality paper used for your resume. Place your printed resignation letter and your Resume Generator in your Employment Portfolio for future reference. Your Mailing Address

Date of Letter

Name of Person Title of Person Company Name Street Address City, State, Zip Code Dear

:

Date of Resignation Positive Reason(s) for Leaving Appreciation of Skills Learned Appreciation of Fellow Employees or Company Sincerely, Your Signature Your Name Keyed

The Best Way to Leave a Job

41

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date ______________________

Step 11 The Best Way to Leave a Job Activity 18 Compose an Exit Conversation DIRECTIONS: Complete this activity by writing in pencil your practice exit conversation below. Use the sample exit conversation on page 98 of your Instruction Booklet as a guide. Notice the positive remarks in this example, and construct your own positive exit conversation. Try to make this as relevant as possible to your situation by having in mind a present or past employer. When you have completed your written conversation to your satisfaction, show it to your instructor for approval. Make any changes that are suggested. Place your written exit conversation in your Employment Portfolio for future reference. Notice of Resignation and Positive Reason(s) for Leaving

Positive Comments about Work Experience (Company or Coworkers)

Statement of Job Skills Learned/Work Habits Improved

Offer to Train Replacement

42

Section 4

Name ___________________________________________________________ Date ______________________

Step 12 Reference Letter Activity 19 Construct a Reference Letter DIRECTIONS: To complete this activity, first write your practice reference letter below in pencil. Use the sample reference letter on page 102 of your Instruction Booklet as a guide. You may want to use the name of a present or past employer as your reference. When you have drafted your letter to your satisfaction, show it to your instructor for approval. Make any needed corrections. Next, using this completed draft and your Resume Generator, key your reference letter and save the file to the same thumb drive on which you have saved your resume and other job-related documents. Print your final reference letter on the same size and quality paper used for your resume. Place the keyed reference letter and your Resume Generator in your Employment Portfolio for future reference. Reference Letters from Employers Should Be on Company Letterhead

UNITED MICRO 1852 GEVEVA TECHNOLOGY PARK RENO, NEVADA 89509 (775) 555-8611

Date of Letter Dear Hiring Manager: Abilities, Skills, and Accomplishments

Attitudes and Character

Invitation to Reader to Call for More Details Sincerely, Signature of Employer Name of Employer Title of Employer

Reference Letter

43

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