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Career Technical Education –“Resources for the Future”

The mission of the CTE unit is to ensure the success of all students by promoting, enhancing, and providing Career Technical Education in Riverside County.

www.rcoe.us/cte

2014 Revision

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The Job Search

Introduction The job market is one of the most exciting markets in America. It is the place where you sell your skills and talents to fulfill your dreams. This Job Search Handbook has been designed to help you secure a job by presenting yourself positively and professionally. Knowing how to secure a job is a skill that will serve you for a lifetime. The number of career occupations (not just jobs) one has in a lifetime averages between three and seven. Knowing how to effectively facilitate the job search will help you throughout your entire life, whether you stay within one career area or have several. A major job search goal is to get to an interview, for it is through the interview that the hiring decision is made. How do you get an interview? A successful interview is possible by utilizing your cover letter (letter of application), résumé, and application.

The process involved in securing a job is called the Job Search. The steps involved often include:

1. Learning about yourself. (Self Evaluation) 2. Finding out what opportunities exist.

(Research) 3. Creating a cover letter and résumé.

(Preparation) 4. Contacting employers. (The Job Search)

Filling out application Going to interviews

5. Sending a thank-you letter. (Follow-Up) This handbook will cover Steps 1-5. It is important to make it as easy as possible for the prospective employer to notice your skills. To accomplish this, provide complete information on the application, and make your cover letter and résumé easy to read. Include names, addresses, and phone numbers of references on the résumé or on a separate references page.

Getting a job is a job! Be prepared to spend time at this—your job satisfaction and livelihood depend on it.

“There may be others out there who could do the job better than you. Who gets hired is not necessarily the one who can do the best job, but the one who knows most about how to get hired.” - Richard Nelson Bolles, What Color is Your Parachute

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Who Am I?

The first thing to think about in your job hunt is to ask yourself the question: WHO AM I? First and foremost, you need to explore who you are and what you want to do. There are many resource books available to help you if you go to your school or local library. There are also many self-assessment tools you can us (i.e. www.cacareerzone.com – see Careers/Majors, Careers Quiz). Talk with your school’s career counselor or your teacher to get more information.

You can begin to learn more about yourself by answering the questions listed below. Completing these sentences won’t tell you what you should or should not be. However, this activity will help you become more aware of what you like and don’t like. More importantly, you will be taking another step on your career exploration journey.

In trying to determine the best job or career for you, there are several areas to consider. To respond to this broad question of “WHO AM I?” fill in the blanks to these questions:

Things I really like to do are __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

Things I am really good at are ________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

Other people describe me as __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

I am skilled at _____________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

I am interested in __________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

I enjoy activities such as _____________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

My job experiences, paid or volunteer, are _______________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

My interests and past jobs are similar in that they _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

I hold the following certifications ______________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________

(Contributed by Riverside County Economic Development Agency)

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Personal Skills Inventory

How You Think and Communicate If you: You might want to tell an employer: Are good at talking on the phone… I communicate well. I am sociable and enjoy working with people.

Are a natural at telling jokes and stories…

I am self-assured and relate well to people. I enjoy speaking in public.

Enjoy numbers and solving math problems…

I have great math skills. I am precise and analytical.

Make or sew whatever you like, and friends and relatives compliment your work…

I have excellent manual dexterity, fine motor skills, and an eye for detail.

Are up on music and know every song on the charts…

I learn quickly and have a good memory.

How You Act If you: You might want to tell an employer:

Keep your promises and do what you say you will do…

I am reliable and take commitment seriously.

Practice everyday at your favorite sport to be on the school team…

I am persistent, determined, motivated and goal-oriented.

Always keep your room neat and never lose anything…

I am orderly. I have strong organizational skills.

Care about people and are patient…

I am caring, sensitive and people-oriented.

Can think of ten different ways of doing everything…

I am creative and have the ability to solve problems and come up with innovative solutions.

Were you the first one on your block to skateboard, rollerblade, spike your hair…

I am flexible and adapt easily to new situations. I am comfortable with change.

Love to shop, and find the best sales wherever you go…

I am resourceful and have great budgeting skills.

How You Work With Others If you: You might want to tell an employer:

Like leading group/school projects and playing team sports…

I work well as a team member and can take a leadership role.

Are cool in tough situations when other people around you aren't…

I am a good negotiator. I handle stress well and enjoy dealing with difficult situations.

Usually save the day when those around you are giving up…

I look for solutions, and I am persistent in getting the job done.

Write down your skills inventory and keep it handy for writing your résumé or preparing for a job interview. Be confident in the knowledge that you have the right stuff for the job.

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Which Career Pathway is right for you?

THE RIASEC TEST

Follow these easy steps to see where your iterests are.

Read each statement. If you agree with the statement, fill in the circle. There are no wrong answers!

1. I like to work on cars 22. I like putting things together or2. I like to do puzzles assembling things3. I am good at working 23. I am a creative person

independently 24. I pay attention to details4. I like to work in teams 25. I like to do filing or typing5. I am an ambitious person, 26. I like to analyze things (problems/

I set goals for myself situations)6. I like to organize things, 27. I like to play instruments or sing

(files, desks/offices) 28. I enjoy learning about other cultures7. I like to build things 29. I would like to start my own business8. I like to read about art and music 30. I like to cook9. I like to have clear instructions to 31. I like acting in plays

follow 32. I am a practical person10. I like to try to influence or 33. I like working with numbers or charts

persuade people 34. I like to get into discussions about 11. I like to do experiments issues12. I like to teach or train people 35. I am good at keeping records of my13. I like trying to help people solve work

their problems 36. I like to lead14. I like to take care of animals 37. I like working outdoors15. I wouldn't mind working 8 hours 38. I would like to work in an office

per day in an office 39. I'm good at math16. I like selling things 40. I like helping people17. I enjoy creative writing 41. I like to draw18. I enjoy science 42. I like to give speeches19. I am quick to take on new

responsibilities20. I am interested in healing people21. I enjoy trying to figure out how

things work

R I A S E C R I A S E C

R I A S E C

R = Realistic Total: I = Investigative Total:A = Artistic Total:S = Social Total:E = Enterprising Total:C = Conventional Total:

Grand T o t al

Total____________________________Total

22 Add up the number of filled in circles in each columnand then add the two columns together for a grand total.Using your grand total scores from above, transfer thescores for each letter into the appropriated column below.

1

5

3

Take the three letters with the highest scores andrecord them under "My Interest Code".

My INTEREST CODE

_________ __________ _________

4 Turn the page to see what this means!

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Which Career Pathway is right for you?

RESULTS OF THE RIASEC TEST

R  =  Realistic S   =  SocialThese people are often good at mechanical or athletic These people like to work with other people,jobs. Good college majors for Realistic people are… rather than things. Good college majors for

Social people are…•  Agricul ture

•  Health Ass is tant •  Counsel ing

•  Computers •  Nurs ing

•  Construction •  Phys ica l  Therapy

•  Mechanic/Machinis t •  Travel

•  Engineering •  Adverti s ing

•  Food and Hospita l i ty •  Publ ic Relations

•  Education

I  =  Investigative E  =  EnterprisingThese people like to watch, learn, analyze and solve These people like to work with others and enjoyproblems. Good college majors for investigative persuading and perofrming. Good college majorspeople are… for Enterprising people are…

•  Marine  Biology •  Fashion Merchandis ing

•  Engineering  •  Real  Estate

•  Chemistry •  Marketing/Sa les

•  Zoology •  Law

•  Medicine/Surgery •  Pol i ti ca l  Science

•  Consumer Economics •  International  Trade

•  Psychology •  Banking/Finance

A  =  Artistic C  =  ConventionalThese people like to work in unstructured situations These people are very detail oriented, organizedwhere they can use their creativity. Good majors for and like to work with data. Good college majorsArtistic people are… for Conventional people are…

•  Communications •  Accounting

•  Cosmetology •  Court Reporting

•  Fine  and Performing Arts •  Insurance

•  Photography •  Adminis tration

•  Radio and TV •  Medica l  Records

•  Interior Des ign •  Banking

•  Archi tecture •  Data  Process ing

Related Industry SectorsAgricultural & Natural ResoucesBuilding Trades & ConstructionEngineering & DesignHealth Science & Medical TechnologyHospitality , Tourism & RecreationInformation TechnologyManufacturing & Product Development

Related Industry SectorsEngineering & DesignFinance & BusinessHealth Science & Medical TechnologyManufacturing & Product DevelopmentPublic Serv ices

Related Industry SectorsArts, Media & EntertainmentEngineering & DesignEnergy & UtilitiesFashion & Interior DesignPublic Serv ices

Related Industry SectorsEducation, Child Development &

Family Serv icesHealth Science & Medical TechnologyHospitality , Tourism & RecreationMarketing, Sales & Serv icePublic Serv ices

Related Industry SectorsArts, Media & EntertainmentFashion & Interior DesignFinance & BusinessMarketing, Sales & Serv icePublic Serv ices

Related Industry SectorsHealth Science & Medical TechnologyFinance & BusinessInformation Technology

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The Cover Letter Cover Letter/Letter of Application Cover Letter Practice Sample Cover Letters Cover Letter Check List

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Cover Letter (Letter of Application)

The purpose of the cover letter is to interest the pro-spective employer in reading your résumé, which should further interest that employer to give you an interview. The cover letter should not be a repeat of the résumé, but rather, it should highlight qualities that make the prospective employer want to invest the time to read your résumé. It is not uncommon for an employer to receive 20 to 100 letters and applications for one job opening or open position. There are three basic parts to a Cover Letter: The letter should... 1. Begin with an interesting first paragraph

that gets attention and tells why you are writing. Identify the position for which you are applying and explain why you are interested in joining the company. Also, you may mention how you learned about the position.

Example: I am enthusiastic, hard working, thorough, a quick learner, and committed. These are words my teachers (or employers) use to describe me. I would like the opportunity to use these qualities in the administrative assistant position at Community Hospital.

2. Briefly summarize your qualifications for the job, describing relevant training or experience you have had; refer them to your résumé. Example: I am skilled in Microsoft Word, Windows, Excel, and Access. My office skills are excellent, and I am familiar with the basic operation of a business office. I am eager to learn, enjoy a challenge, and continually strengthen my skills. The enclosed résumé gives more details about my background.

3. End with a closing paragraph that asks for an interview appointment.

Example: On Friday, January 15, I will call to see if an interview can be arranged at a time that is convenient for you.

Guidelines: (Always spell check your document and proofread carefully!)

1. Address the letter to an individual whenever possible. Be sure you have correct address information, names, titles, etc. If you are writing to a woman, it is safe to use Ms. if marital status is unknown.

2. Use the “you” approach. Tell them what you can do for their company, not what they can do for you!

3. Be honest, confident, and enthusiastic. Do not be boastful, negative, or too modest. Do not call attention to weaknesses. Be specific about what you can do.

4. Be concise - keep it short, one page maximum.

5. Refer them to your résumé, since it gives facts.

6. Be professional. Avoid appearing aggressive, overbearing, familiar, or cute. Remember, you are writing to a stranger about a subject that is serious to you both.

7. Make action easy. Instead of “may I hear from you,” say, “I will call you Friday morning to arrange an appointment at your convenience.”

8. Give the letter visual appeal. Use business letter format and good quality stationery that matches your résumé—color could be white, cream, or gray, and avoid fluorescent colors. Print it on a laser printer. Hand deliver the letter and résumé if possible. If you must mail them, use a large envelope to avoid folding them.

9. Use proper English and action verbs. Avoid abbreviations except for Mr./Miss/Mrs./Ms./Dr. and two-letter state abbreviations.

10. Keep a copy of each letter you write for future reference.

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Cover Letter Practice Return address may be typed here or at the bottom as shown. Date ___________________________ (Mr./Miss/Ms./Mrs.) ________________________________ (Company name) __________________________________ (Company street address) ___________________________ (City, state, zip code) _______________________________ Dear Ms. ________________________________________, Paragraph One: (Write a statement that captures the reader’s attention. State your reason for writing, identify the position for which you are applying, and explain why you are interested in joining the company. Also, you may mention how you learned about the position.) __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ Paragraph Two: (Briefly summarize your qualifications for the job, describing relevant training or experience you have had. Refer them to your enclosed résumé.) __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ Paragraph Three: (End with closing paragraph that asks for an interview appointment.) _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ Sincerely, (your signature) Your typed name Your street address (where you receive mail) City, State, Zip Code Phone Number E-mail address (appropriate and professional) Enclosure

Formatted in block style with open punctuation.

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Sample Cover Letter #1 Return Address at Top

Your Street Name City, State Zip Code Today’s Date Human Resources Department New Company Name Street Address City Name, State Zip Code Dear (name of person or department here): I have recently completed a Career Technical Education training program in _______________________ (name of CTE class) and would like to inquire about job opportunities within your company (or organization name). As you can see from my attached résumé, I have ___ years of (experience or training) in ______________. In addition, I am proficient in _______________________________________________ (any skills related to the job). I feel my current _____________________ (type of skills) skills, coupled with my work ________________________ (experience or training) would make me an excellent addition to your company. If you agree and would like to meet with me to discuss this further, please contact me at (951) XXX-XXXX (your phone number here). Sincerely, (your signature) Your Typed Name Phone Number E-mail Address Enclosure

Formatted with return address above the date Block style with mixed (standard) punctuation.

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Sample Cover Letter #2 Return Address at Bottom

January 18, 20__ Ms. Kathy Taylor, Director Human Resources Community Hospital 234 Tenth Street Riverside, CA 91720 Dear Ms. Taylor: I am interested in the Administrative Assistant position at Community Hospital. I am an enthusiastic, hard working, thorough, and committed individual. I would like the opportunity to use these qualities while working at Community Hospital. Mrs. Sundeen, your accountant, told me about the opening and the qualifications needed for the job. I am interested in the medical field and would be pleased to be part of the Community Hospital team. I am skilled in Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, and Access, and familiar with the basic operations of an office. Through Career Technical Education training, I have earned a Computer Information Systems Certificate. I am eager to learn, enjoy a challenge, and am determined to continually strengthen my skills. In addition, I am a team player with a strong work ethic. Please see the enclosed résumé for more details about my training and experience. I would like to work for Community Hospital and would welcome an opportunity to meet with you to discuss this further. On Friday, January 22, I will call to see if an interview can be arranged at a time that is convenient for you. Sincerely, (your signature) Mary Ann Waiting 3879 South Fourth Street Riverside, CA 92517 (951) XXX-XXX E-mail: mawaiting@yahoo.com Enclosure

Formatted in block style with open punctuation.

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Sample Cover Letter #3 Response to a *Blind Ad in a Newspaper

January 18, 20__ Press Enterprise P.O. Box 792 Riverside, CA 92503 To Whom It May Concern: Ad Reply No. 3759 While reading the Press Enterprise on Sunday, November 3, I noticed your ad for a Retail Sales Clerk position. I recently completed a Career Technical Education training program in Retail Sales & Marketing and earned a Certificate of Training for becoming proficient in a variety of sales and marketing skills. Through the program, I learned customer service, cashiering, inventory, stocking, and many other skills. Your job description in the Press Enterprise sounds like just the position I am interested in obtaining. In addition to my sales and marketing skills, I am organized, possess a strong work ethic, and am a team person. I enjoy a challenge, am eager to learn, and am determined to continually strengthen my skills. The enclosed résumé gives more details about my training and experience. I welcome an opportunity to meet with you to discuss this further. Please phone me at (951) XXX-XXXX to arrange an interview at a time that is convenient for you. Sincerely, Mary Ann Waiting 3879 South Fourth Street Riverside, California 92507 E-mail: mawaiting@yahoo.com Enclosure *A blind ad is one that doesn‘t list the company name, address or phone number, but rather, an Ad Reply No. at the newspaper address.

Formatted in block style with mixed (standard) punctuation.

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Cover Letter Check List Is the letter dated with the right date?

Is your letter addressed to an individual? (if possible)

Do you have the correct spelling of the name?

Do you know the person’s correct title?

Do you have the correct address (including zip code)?

Does your letter include your skills and abilities as they apply to the job in question?

Does the cover letter express an interest in the specific job and a desire to work for the

particular company to which you are corresponding?

Is the cover letter neatly and perfectly typed (error free)?

Is the letter well-organized?

Is the letter grammatically correct?

Did you spell check and proofread thoroughly?

Did you have another person proofread your letter for errors?

Is your address and email address included, complete, accurate and professional?

Did you include your current phone number, area code, with an appropriate voice mail

message?

Did you print your letter on a quality printer?

Did you use good, quality paper for your letter?

Does the letter state how you will follow through for setting an appointment for an interview?

Did you sign the letter above your typed name with your first and last name?

Is your finished letter clean and free of dirt and smudges?

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The Application The Application Process Online Application Process Application Checklist Employment Application

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The Application Process Most employers require a completed employment application. The employment application gives the employer facts about you that can be kept on file. The information you provide and how well you present the information indicates to an employer the following:

Your ability to follow instructions Your character and professionalism Your thoroughness

Application Form • Make a copy of the original application; use the

copy as a rough draft. ** • Print neatly, use black ink, and maintain

consistent style of writing. • Don’t leave a question blank. If you cannot

respond, use a dash or N/A (not applicable). This lets the employer know that you read the question and did not skip over it.

• Check spelling. • If possible, have someone proofread for

accuracy and neatness before you transfer information onto the original application.

• KEEP A COPY of your original application for your personal file. You may need the information on this application at a later time (it may be years later).

• Make sure you follow instructions. If you have any questions regarding the application, it’s best to call the employer to clarify.

• Know names and addresses of previous employers.

• Know the position you held at each job, dates, and salaries.

• Know the schools you attended, locations, and dates.

• List diplomas, degrees, and/or certificates earned.

• Know names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three personal references (other than former employers—use adults, avoid high school friends).

• Know the date of military services (if applicable).

• READ the fine print! • Be sure to sign the application. Materials Needed

Two black pens. Social Security Card or a right to work card Driver’s License, Resident Card (some type

of formal documentation). Résumé. Information listed above (see

APPLICATION FORM above). **Be prepared to complete an application on the premises. Some employers may not allow you to take the application home, and/or have you utilize a computer kiosk as part of the screening process.

Online Applications

In the era of ever increasing technologies and global economic trends, many companies are opting to utilize the internet and accompanying computer software as a source of employment screening. This serves a two-fold purpose:

Is the potential candidate familiar with and able to successfully utilize technological/network software and supporting components?

Does the potential candidate understand the online criterion, application process and how to effectively utilize the database tools and required support documents as attachments?

As listed in the above information of the application process, you will need to provide your prospective employer with the required bulleted information. Please note that online applications may be one to seven pages in length, and may vary with specific industries. However, it is important to also note that online application databases in certain industries are shared.

For more information, visit: http://www.ehow.com/how_2135382_fill-out-online-job-application.html#ixzz2XvYg185o

Online employment search engines: www.monster.com and www.indeed.com

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The Application Process Continued

Standard paper application is an application given out by employers asking for your contact information, your work experience, education level and references. This type of application is used in small businesses and usually is a generic type of form. If you collect several applications at one time, be sure to write the businesses name in the top corner, so you know which application to return where. Many places of business can use the same application or very similar documents. Online employment applications are applications where you log onto the company site and complete the application. Some companies use data banks where you build an application profile and you submit when different jobs are posted. Some companies’ applications are simple online forms that you complete and then submit. Be sure to complete the application in one setting if there is not a save option. Usually larger companies use an online application process . Some tips on completing online applications:

Have your personal information ready. Information that may be needed on an application include past employment, references, driver's license number, education, etc. It is best to have this information readily available to ensure the process goes much faster. If you have this on a résumé, have a copy on hand to refer to as needed.

Finding applications online. If you have a specific place in mind, look for the job application on the employer's Web site. Typically, these can be found at the bottom of the page under career or job opportunities. You will find that many companies have switched over to online applications. Make a list of businesses in your area and check for job applications on their Web site. Some employers will have specific positions for which you can apply, while others just have a blanket application.

Remember to fill in the necessary information. These will be clearly marked and a job application cannot be submitted until they are filled out. Normally, an application requires your first and last name, birth date, phone number, address, email address, social security number and even driver's license number.

Have proper contact information. Remember to include a phone number that you have access to at all times. For most people, this is a cell phone and if you plan to list a cell phone, be sure it's reliable and the outgoing message is simple and professional. An email address or physical address can also be used to inform someone of their application status.

Double check your application before submitting it. It is best to make sure that you didn't misspell a word or forget a digit in your phone number. Try to complete your application during one sitting. If you do not have enough time to start the application, do it when you do have the time. This will prevent you from forgetting about the application and leaving it unfinished. If you do have to stop for some reason, check to see if the application has a save feature.

If an employer has a section for a résumé to be uploaded, include yours. It might have the same or similar information, be sure the information on your résumé matches your application.

Check your email after submitting your application. For most employers, you will get a confirmation email. This will let you know that the application has been received. Keep this email for future reference.

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Top Ten Skills in Completing an Application

1. Arrive prepared with the information you need. 2. Read and follow instructions carefully. 3. Complete application as neat as possible. 4. Tailor your answers to the job. 5. Don’t leave blanks. (Use N/A when non-applicable) 6. Don’t provide any negative information. 7. Always answer questions truthfully. 8. Do not put specific salary requirements – “Listed position pay”. 9. Provide “quality” references. 10. Proofread application.

Application Types

Standard Paper. Online Applications.

Job Search

Dress the part when applying. Ask if they are hiring and when would be a good time to turn in the application. Do not fill out the application at the register or front desk unless asked to do so. Do not ask for a pen. Be prepared. Have all the information needed to complete the application. Be prepared for an on-site interview.

Application Pitfalls – Things to Avoid or Not Do

Using colored ink. (Black ink only) Messy, not legible. (Print with best penmanship) Misspelled words. Leaving blanks. (Dash or N/A if the item does not apply) Missing information. (Bring all pertinent information with you) Missing signature on application. (Remember to sign your application) Not following directions. Inappropriate email. (set-up an email account/address that is appropriate, if necessary) Inappropriate voicemail/message/non-musical. (Make sure your voicemail message is professional

and simple. Do not have music play as part of your message.) (Sample: “Hello, your call is important to me. I will return this call as soon as possible. Thank you.”)

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Employment Application – fill out with black ink only Applicant Information

Full Name: Date:

Last First M.I.

Address:

Street Address Apartment/Unit #

City State ZIP Code

Phone: ( ) E-mail Address:

Date Available: Desired Salary:

Position Applied for: _________________________________________________

Are you a citizen of the United States?

YES

NO

If no, are you authorized to work in the U.S.?

YES

NO

Have you ever worked for this company?

YES

NO

If yes, when? ____________________________

Have you ever been convicted of a felony?

YES

NO

If yes, explain: _________________________________________________________________________________________

Education

High School: Address:

From: To:

Did you graduate?

YES

NO

Degree:

College: Address:

From: To:

Did you graduate?

YES

NO

Degree:

Other: Address:

From: To:

Did you graduate?

YES

NO

Degree:

References

Please list three professional references.

Full Name: ______________________________ Relationship: __________________________________

Company: ______________________________ Phone: ( )________________

Address: ____________________________________________________________

Career Technical Education

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Full Name: ______________________________ Relationship: __________________________________

Company: ______________________________ Phone: ( )________________

Address: ______________________________

Full Name: ______________________________ Relationship: __________________________________

Company: ______________________________ Phone: ( )________________

Address: Previous Employment

Company: Phone: ( )

Address: Supervisor:

Job Title: Starting Salary: $

Ending Salary: $

Responsibilities:

From: To:

Reason for Leaving:

May we contact your previous supervisor for a reference?

YES

NO

Company: Phone: ( )

Address: Supervisor:

Job Title: Starting Salary: $

Ending Salary: $

Responsibilities:

From: To:

Reason for Leaving:

May we contact your previous supervisor for a reference?

YES

NO

Availability Technical Training

Days of the Week: From / To AM-PM CTE Course Certification Date Completed Sunday Monday Yes No Tuesday Wednesday Yes No Thursday Friday Yes No Saturday

Disclaimer and Signature

I certify that my answers are true and complete to the best of my knowledge.

If this application leads to employment, I understand that false or misleading information in my application or interview may result in my release.

Signature: Date:

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Application Check List

Is the application neatly printed?

Is it free of spelling errors?

Is it grammatically correct?

Is it presented in a well-organized format?

Is the information provided job related?

Is every question answered?

Are you using N/A where needed?

Does the result highlight your strengths?

Be sure to include the following information:

Name

Address

Appropriate email and phone message

Work and/or voluntary experience

Educational background

Skills and abilities related to the target job

Awards, certificates, and accomplishments

References

Is it PERFECT?

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The Résumé The Résumé Résumé Headings Résumé Worksheet Contacting Employer by Phone Employer Contact Sheet Sample Résumés Electronic Submission of Résumés Résumé Check List Online Résumé Submission

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The Résumé Résumé: French word: meaning summary. (It is a short summary of important facts about you.) Plan to spend time on this. It is one of the most important documents you will ever create. Often it is the deciding factor in whether or not you get an interview. The résumé should be added or modified for each specific position you are applying for. A résumé may be mailed, e-mailed, submitted online, or hand-delivered to prospective employers. Preparing a résumé will help you make an inventory of your experience and abilities. The résumé offers you the best opportunity to demonstrate that you are qualified for the position. Having all the facts about yourself at your fingertips will increase your self-assurance and confidence for the make-or-break

personal interview with an employer. You can discuss your qualifications with an employer without fumbling for dates and significant facts. Most employers prefer one-page résumés. If a job objective is used, be as specific as possible. A résumé should be results-oriented, built on your strengths and accomplishments, clarify experience and progression, be concise, logical, and to the point. A résumé should not list your reasons for leaving previous employers, include personal information, (marital status, number of children, religion, etc.), contain negative comments, or list lengthy job descriptions. A résumé should be modified for specific positions you are applying for.

REMEMBER: Résumés often get less than one minute of an employer’s time—make that time count for you! Your goal is to get an interview. Ask yourself this question before presenting or sending your résumé: “Would I, if I were an employer, call me for an interview after looking at this résumé?”

CHRONOLOGICAL RÉSUMÉ-emphasizes dates Lists positions you have held by dates, beginning with the most recent. Stresses organizations for which you’ve worked. Highlights strong steady work background.

FUNCTIONAL RÉSUMÉ-emphasizes skills Lists skills and abilities for those with limited work experience. Stresses professional or personal growth (e.g. volunteer experience or classes taken). Lessens impact of weak job history (people who take time out of career to start family, etc.).

SCANNABLE RÉSUMÉ More businesses are requiring résumés to be formatted for scanning into their computer systems. Omits features that make résumés more attractive such as graphics, lines, and symbols. Format for online submissions need to be submitted in common software such as, Word, PDF or plain

text.

Résumés must never have an error! Proofread carefully!

Remember to print your résumé on quality paper—black ink only.

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Résumé Headings Topics or categories may vary according to your background. Your résumé may include some of the following categories:

Awards Related Studies Clubs Special Certificates Community Involvement Special Interests Education Special Skills Extracurricular Activities Industry Certifications Familiar Tools/Machines Training Field Related Experience Volunteer Work Memberships Work Experience Publications Workshops and Seminars

Key Résumé Action Words The following list of words will help you in describing your duties, skills, or abilities when writing your résumé: ACCOUNTING OFFICE developed SUPERVISORY influenced administered approved diagnosed lectured moderated allocated arranged educated administered motivated analyzed cataloged enabled analyzed negotiated appraised classified encouraged assigned persuaded audited collected evaluated attained publicized balanced compiled expedited chaired recruited budgeted dispatched explained contracted reconciled calculated executed facilitated consolidated spoke computed generated familiarized coordinated translated developed inspected guided delegated wrote forecast monitored informed developed managed operated initiated directed MISCELLANEOUS marketed organized instructed executed accelerated planned prepared persuaded increased accomplished projected processed referred organized assembled researched purchased rehabilitated oversaw built recorded represented planned conceived ARTISTIC retrieved set goals prioritized conducted acted screened stimulated produced demonstrated conceptualized specified recommended designed created tabulated RESEARCHED reviewed eliminated developed validated clarified strengthened engineered directed collected supervised equipped established PEOPLE critiqued fabricated fashioned adapted developed VERBAL founded illustrated advised diagnosed addressed implemented instituted assessed evaluated arbitrated improved integrated assisted examined arranged motivated introduced clarified extracted authored organized invented coached identified corresponded overhauled originated communicated inspected directed recommended performed coordinated interpreted drafted remodeled planned counseled interviewed edited revamped revitalized demonstrated investigated enlisted scheduled reviewed formulated upgraded summarized

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Common Core Vocabulary That Can Be Used in Developing a Résumé

FACTUAL CONCEPTUAL PROCEDURAL METACOGNITIVE access adhere analyze advocate define apply assess build describe classify comply compile find communicate compare contrast identify compare contrast create label demonstrate deconstruct design list develop deduce devise locate discriminate defend formulate match employ detect invent name explain diagram plan recall implement differentiate predict recite infer discern produce recognize interpret distinguish reconstruct remember maintain enhance reorganize retrieve organize evaluate synthesize select participate experiment state practice explore promote illustrate summarize integrate transfer research understand solve use test

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Sample Job Objectives for Résumé

It is not necessary to use a job objective. However, if you use an objective, you will want to carefully write one that meets the employer’s needs as well as outlines the job you are seeking. Agriculture & Natural Sciences Seeking a position as a floral designer where I

can utilize my skills in horticulture procedures for designing arrangements and provide shop management by performing customer service and sales promotion.

Seeking a position as a horticulturist for a

nursery where I can utilize my skills in plant and flower procedures.

Arts, Media Entertainment Seeking a position as a graphic artist in

photography and drawing where I can utilize my design skills in media production.

Seeking an entry-level position using Creative

Suite software to produce media print, video and web images for a marketing company.

Building and Construction Trades Seeking an entry-level position as a general

laborer for construction. Qualified in safety and general knowledge of tools and equipment used in the building trades industry.

To obtain a position as a carpenter apprentice where I can gain general building skills in framing, plumbing and electrical work.

Business and Finance Seeking a position as a bank teller where I can

utilize my skills in banking procedures for receiving and disbursing cash, performing customer service and sales promotion.

Interested in an office administration position where I can utilize my communication, clerical, and software skills in a business office setting.

Hospitality, Tourism and Recreation Seeking a position as host/hostess and food

server where I can utilize my experience in customer service and cashiering.

Seeking a position as an assistant chef. Qualified in kitchen management, inventory control, customer services, and cooking methods.

Education, Child Development, and Family Services Seeking an entry-level preschool aide position. To obtain a position as a preschool teacher with

the ultimate goal of becoming a preschool director.

Health Science and Medical Technology Seeking a position as a medical receptionist to

utilize my excellent people and organizational skills.

To obtain a position in the health services field with the ultimate goal of becoming an emergency room registered nurse.

Information and Communication Technologies and/or Manufacturing/Engineering Seeking an entry level position with an internet

web design firm where I can utilize my computer services and software skills.

Interested in an information and communication technologies support and services position within a firm that specializes in the administration and management of information and communication systems.

Marketing, Sales and Service and/or Fashion and Interior Design To secure an entry-level position in a major

fashion outlet. Flexible and willing to take on a variety of tasks.

To utilize my business, communication, and human relation skills to sell products/services for your organization.

Transportation Interested in a position with an auto body repair

shop. Ability to perform auto body repair, sanding, and painting.

Seeking an entry-level position as a mechanic’s helper. Trained in repairing and replacing engine parts, tune-ups and basic automotive principles.

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Résumé Worksheet NAME: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

TELEPHONE: _________________________________________________________ E-MAIL: _____________________________________________________

JOB OBJECTIVE: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ EDUCATION NAME AND ADDRESS OF HIGH SCHOOL: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ LAST YEAR COMPLETED: _____________________ DID YOU GRADUATE? ______________________YEAR GRADUATED: ______________________ NAME AND ADDRESS OF COLLEGE: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ LAST YEAR COMPLETED: ________________________DID YOU GRADUATE? ________________________ YEAR GRADUATED: _________________ MAJOR: _______________________________________ MINOR: ___________________________________ DEGREE: _______________________________ SKILLS CHECK AREAS OF PROFICIENCY:

Accounting Desktop Publishing Insurance Billing Scheduling Acting Digital Hardware Marketing & Sales Singing Answering Phones Digital Software Medical Terminology Spreadsheets Auto Technology Drafting Microsoft Office ______ Typing _______ wpm Cashier Drawing Modeling Web Design CPR / First Aide Electronic Filing Personal Data Assistant Web Development Dance Filing Presentation Program Windows ___________ Database Industry Certifications Public Relations 10-Key By Touch

Computers (Please indicate specific programs you have used) _____________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Second Language:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Other (Be Specific):______________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ WORK EXPERIENCE (BEGIN WITH MOST CURRENT EMPLOYMENT, BE SPECIFIC, INCLUDE ALL PAID WORK SUCH AS CHILDCARE, LAWN SERVICE, PAPER ROUTE, ETC.)

Date Started Date Ended Employer’s Name, Address, and

Phone Number Supervisor’s Name

Duties Performed and Skills Acquired

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CAREER TECHNICAL TRAINING

Course Name and Address Skills Acquired Certificate Date

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

Date Started Date Ended Employer’s Name, Address, and

Phone Number Supervisor’s Name

Duties Performed and Skills Acquired

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES/INTERESTS

(INCLUDE CLUBS, SPORTS, SCOUTS, ETC.)

Activity Organization Years Involved

AWARDS/CERTIFICATES (INCLUDE SPORTS, ACADEMICS, EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITES, INDUSTRY CERTIFICATES)

Organization/Group Awards/Certificates

REFERENCES (DO NOT USE RELATIVES OR HIGH SCHOOL FRIENDS)

Name Address, City, State, Zip Code Phone Number

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456 Rocky Road Morgan City, CA 92876

1 (800) XXX-XXXX akessler@net.com

Ann L. Kessler Objective To use my sales, fashion knowledge and customer

service skills in a retail sales position.

Education 6/07 San Simeon High School Oakridge, CA 92876 Diploma

College Prep Courses Retail Sales and Marketing – Career Technical Education

Experience 2/07 to present Toys R Us Oakridge, CA 92876 Sales Associate

Cashier, inventory, display design, sales promotion, pricing, stocking, customer service

11/06 to 2/07 Toys R Us Sales Associate - CTE Internship

Cashier, customer service, stocking

Oakridge, CA 92876

Skills Microsoft Word Computer Graphics Trustworthy Articulate

Microsoft Excel Computer Scanning Reliable Efficient

Awards Outstanding Student of the Month (January 2007) – CTE Varsity Basketball (2005/06) – Lettered CIF League Champions (2005/06)

References Available upon request

Formatted with Word Résumé Wizard – Professional

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45 Day Street, Riverside, CA 92504 1 (800) XXX-XXXX

abby_hatfield@net.com

Abby Hatfield

OBJECTIVE

Seeking to utilize my diverse knowledge and skills as an Automotive Insurance – Claims Adjuster within the Central Claims Division of the Riverside Auto Center.

QUALIFICATIONS

Estimated parts-labor cost on 40 major auto collisions. Estimated parts-labor cost on 15 auto electrical fires. Estimated parts-labor cost on 8 auto theft recoveries. Negotiated settlement with insurance company on 35 collisions. Negotiated settlement with customers for insufficient coverage. Negotiated settlement with automakers for refinishing charges. Disassembled and repaired front/rear/side collision jobs. Repaired collision jobs with bent frames or cowls. Experienced with smog check evaluations, certifications, and repairs. Experienced with Tri-Acme Auto computer software.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Auto Body Technician Crunch’s Auto Repair Riverside, CA

70% of my repair estimates are not challenged by insurance companies. 20% of my estimates, employer agreed to reduce repair costs. 10% of my estimates, customer agreed to pay added costs.

EDUCATION

Certificate of Training, Automotive Technology Class—Career Technical Education Certificate of Excellence, Insurance-Claims Adjusting Certificate—Auto Body National

Association Certificate, Insurance Estimates, Frame Straightening, Refinishing—Auto Body National

Association Diploma, Riverside Valley High School, Riverside, CA 92508

REFERENCES Available upon request

Functional Résumé Format

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Phillip Garza 2876 Enchanted Way, Hemet, CA 92672 Telephone 1 (800) XXX-XXXX phillipgarza@net.com

OBJECTIVE To obtain a challenging position in an office that will utilize my skills with the long-range goal of being in a management level position.

EDUCATION 6/14/2008

VALLEY WEST HIGH SCHOOL Hemet, CA 98732 Diploma Courses: Computer Aided Drafting (CAD), Computer Graphics, English, Math, and Science

9/13/08 to 6/14/08 Word Processing CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION Certificate of Training

EXPERIENCE 1/14/08 to 6/14/08

VALLEY WEST HIGH SCHOOL Guidance Office Receptionist/Clerk (CTE Internship) Responsibilities: Answered multi-line phone, processed messages for counselors, answered questions from students and parents, filed student records, prepared student records for mailing, and general clerical duties.

6/13/07 to 1/14/07 PARKVIEW HOSPITAL Hemet, CA 98732 Medical Records Clerk (Volunteer) Responsibilities: Filed medical records, separated and alphabetized doctors’ reports, entered data into the computer on medic 555I information, prepared records for closing files, and general clerical duties.

6/11/06 to 6/13/07 THE PRESS ENTERPRISE Hemet, CA 98732 Delivery Service Responsibilities: Delivered the paper to subscribers and solicited new customers.

SKILLS Knowledgeable in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Skilled in AutoCAD and computer graphics Experienced in public relations and multi-line phone systems

REFERENCES Available upon request

Chronological Résumé Format

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Sally Kwan

186 Durango Circle Livermore, CA 94550

Home: (800) XXX-XXXX Email: skwan1@net.com

KEYWORDS

Human Resources, Management, Organizational Skills, Project Coordinator, Supervisor, 4+ years experience, Team Player, 401K, Service Award, B.S., IBM, Macintosh, MS Word, PowerPoint, GroupWare, Outlook, Resumix, Communication, President’s List, SAM, SHRM, Willing to relocate, Willing to train, Spanish Fluency

OBJECTIVE

Seeking a Human Resources position, which will utilize my management and organizational skills and lead to increased responsibility and advancement.

EDUCATION

Cal State Hayward, Hayward, California Bachelor of Science, Business Administration Degree, 2008 Management and Human Resources Major, 3.33/4.0 (Overall) GPA Chabot College, Livermore, California Associate in Arts Degree, 2005 Liberal Arts Major, 3.25/4.0 (Overall) GPA Computer Experience and Training. Hardware: IBM PC, Macintosh, VAX VT120 (UNIX); Software: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Access, MS Schedule+, Outlook, NetMeeting, email, Synchronics, GroupWare.

Relevant Coursework. Human Resources Principles, Staff Development, Training and Development, Compensation and Benefits Planning, HR Computer Applications, Communications for Management.

EXPERIENCE

Tools-R-Us, Livermore, CA 94550 September 2005 to present Human Resources Specialist and Supervisor

Manage 15 employees in human resources department, coordinate medical, 401K, and pension plans, train employees in human resources hiring procedures, ensure compliance with affirmative action programs.

ACHIEVEMENTS/ACTIVITIES

President’s Honors List; Community and High School Tennis Coach; BSA Den Leader; Member of Society for the Advancement of Management and Society for Human Resource Managers.

Copied with permission by Carol Larson Jones, Professor, Cal Poly Pomona

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Scannable Résumés for Today’s Job Search

Many organizations, including Microsoft, Apple, Verizon and UCLA, are beginning to incorporate applicant tracking computer systems into their human resource departments. With the applicant tracking systems, when a potential employee sends in a résumé for either a solicited or unsolicited position, the résumé is scanned and placed in an electronic employment folder. The résumé is then compared with the job opening possibilities and either a letter for an interview or a letter of rejection is generated depending on the final recommendation of the human resource personnel.

Résumés for individuals who are hired are stored in an electronic folder that is periodically updated with their job performance information. This database is used to locate candidates for job advancement. Therefore, if you are hired by a firm with this system, remember to update your résumé every six months and date your résumé! A word of caution—since the majority of these computer scanning systems are housed in the human resource department, be careful about sending duplicate résumés because it will appear that you don’t know what position you want or what you want to do!

Keywords: The scannable résumé follows the traditional style, but includes a section with a listing of the keywords. Keywords are placed at the top of the résumé because many programs will scan only the first 50 words of a résumé. Keywords are generally nouns that label you; it is best to have around 20-25 keywords for a scannable résumé. Since the keywords mark the electronic trail, you must learn the keywords that are used in the field for which you are applying to improve your chances for a job interview. Each time one of your keywords matches a keyword for the particular position, you have a “hit.” The more “hits” you receive, the better your chance for a job interview! Include only keywords that correctly and honestly describe you and your qualifications. The key-words are generally nouns. Include job titles, department names, companies and organizations, degrees, skills or knowledge possessed by the applicant, class ranking, skills, and interpersonal traits. Examples of keywords are as follows:

Examples of Keywords / Acronyms ability to delegate leadership accountant loyal accurate manager adaptable management analytical marketing assertive organized bilingual payroll college graduate program coordinator communication skills resourceful ethics salesperson experience software programs flexible team player fluent in Spanish technology skills Fortune 500 tenacious high energy willing to travel human resources Word, Excel, Outlook integrity 50 WPM B.A. / B.S. (Bachelors Degrees) MBA (Masters of Business Administration) SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) Preparing a Scannable Résumé: Organization and appearance of the scannable résumé are essential to the success of your job search. The applicant’s name and address should be centered and be the first lines of the résumé because the scanned résumé must conform to the client’s standardized profile sheet. The type font should be sans serif and the font size between 10-14 points—12 is the preferred font size. Boldface is acceptable, but the résumé should not have any italic, script, or underlined text. The computer will read these styles as blurs. Your goal is to have a plain vanilla styled résumé. Use high quality, clean, 8 1/2 by 11 inch white bond paper. Remember to send your résumé to the company in a 9" by 12" mailing envelope to avoid folding the résumé; otherwise, the fold may cause the scanner to skip words. To have your résumé selected for human review in this computerized process, you must learn how the computer programming works. If you know your résumé will be scanned by a computer, using key words is imperative.

Copied with permission by Carol Larson Jones,

Professor, Cal Poly Pomona

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Résumé Check List

Is the résumé neatly typed?

Is it free of spelling errors?

Is it grammatically correct?

Is it presented in a well-organized format?

Is the information provided job related?

Is the résumé limited to one page?

Does the result highlight your strengths?

Be sure to include the following information:

Name

Address

Appropriate email and phone message

Work and/or voluntary experience

Educational background

Skills and abilities related to the target job

Awards, certificates, and accomplishments

References on a separate sheet

Is it PERFECT?

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Contacting an employer by phone requires preparation on your part. Expressing yourself clearly will impress the employer and give you a sense of confidence. Practice your speech. Write down some questions that you want to ask and some notes about what you want to say about yourself. Take notes during the conversation so you can remember what was said after you hang up. Telephone Calling Script: 1. Speak clearly and loudly enough to be understood. Develop a friendly speaking voice. Use good grammar and

articulation. 2. If you know a specific person at the company you are calling, have the name and telephone extension handy.

Otherwise, ask to speak to the person in charge of hiring—or the person an employment ad may have directed you to contact.

3. State the purpose of your call. Name the specific job opening if you know it.

4. Ask if the position has been filled yet. If not, describe your qualifications for the job and request an interview.

5. If the position has been filled, tell the individual you are talking to that you are interested in being considered for any future openings and offer to send a résumé. Ask when would be a good time to call back in case an opening occurs.

6. If you don’t already know it, get the name and job title of the person with whom you are speaking.

7. Be pleasant and positive. Say “thank you” before hanging up. Remember, this is the employer’s first impression of you. Make it good!

Remember, this is the employer’s first impression of you. Make it good!

Phone Contact With Future Employers

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Employer Contact Sheet

Date Phone # Company Name

and Address Name and Title

of Contact Job Title

and Duties

Time and Date of Application or

Interview

Result of Interview or Contact and Next Step

App:

Interview:

App:

Interview:

App:

Interview:

App:

Interview:

App:

Interview:

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The Interview Interview Process Tips on Interview Questions Dress for Success

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The Interview Process

The primary idea of the interview is to share information. It is your goal to sell the employer on the concept that you are the best person for the job. Successful interviewing will be essential in order for you to lock in an offer. To be prepared, here are some tips to remember before, during, and after the interview. Research should always be your first step. Gathering background information on employers is a crucial element in successful interview preparation. You will need to be prepared to answer the questions, “What do you know about our company?” and “Why do you want to work here?” Knowing as much as possible about the company’s past performance and future plans can make your interview more interactive and could be the leg up you need in the competitive job market. Before the Interview Do your homework, practice answers to

questions that might be asked. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer. Visit the site prior to the interview to determine

location, parking, and travel time. Have a copy of your résumé ready. Develop and prepare your career portfolio to

take with you. Take time for good grooming and hygiene. Go alone and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes

early.

During the Interview Do not chew gum or smoke. Relax, be yourself, and demonstrate self-

confidence. Don’t tell hard luck stories or appear desperate. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Don’t interrupt the interviewer. Demonstrate good posture and mannerisms. Be enthusiastic. Don’t be negative, impatient, or

hostile. Stress your qualities and skills. Don’t speak unkindly of former employers or

teachers. Keep a businesslike attitude. Ask questions about the job or company. Use proper language, such as, “yes” in reply to a

question. Do not ask about salary, unless the interviewer

brings it up or you are offered the job. Once you have been offered the job, you can

negotiate salary. After the Interview Thank the interviewer(s) for their time; smile

and shake hands. Thank the receptionist for his/her courtesy, and

ask for the interviewer’s business card for the thank you card or letter.

Send a thank-you card or letter within 24 hours of the interview (see Sample Follow Up letter on page 45).

Behavioral Interviews Behavioral based interviewing is becoming more common. It is based on the premise that a candidate’s past performance is the best predictor of future performance. Rather than the typical interview questions on your background and experience, you will need to be prepared to provide detailed responses including specific examples of your work experiences (e.g. “Give an example of how you worked as part of a team”, “What do you do if you disagree with someone at work?”). The best way to prepare is to think of examples where you have successfully used the skills you’ve acquired. Take the time to compile a list of responses to both types of questions and to itemize your skills, values and interests as well as your strengths and weaknesses. Emphasize what you can do to benefit the company rather than just what you are interested in.

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Tips on Answering Interview Questions Tell me something about yourself. The interviewer does not want to know your life story. He or she wants to know how your skills and background are good for the job. For example, you might say: “I always knew I wanted to work in a business environ-ment. Over the past ten years I’ve worked in a variety of businesses and have learned how various businesses run. For example, I was given complete responsibility for daily operations of a clothing retail outlet. There I learned to supervise other people and to solve problems under pressure. I really enjoyed working with the public so I went to work for Sky Airlines. After working as a Reservation Agent for two years I was promoted to Customer Service Manager....” Remember, a different job would require you to stress different skills. Why do you think you would like to work for our company? The usual answer to the question is “I am looking for a job,” which is saying that your only interest in the com-pany is that the company has something that YOU want - a job opportunity. One of the most important things you should do before you go to an interview is to find out all you can about the company. This infor-mation is available at the library and on company websites. People who have a good reason to seek work in a particular organization will be seen as more organized and more committed. Here is an example: “This particular organization seems to be the type that would let me develop my problem-solving skills. It is well run, rapidly growing, and open to new ideas. If I work hard and prove my value here, I feel I would have the opportunity to stay with the business as it grows, and grow with it.” What would your former employer say about you? The interviewer really wants to know if you will be easy to get along with and if you can be depended on. Be sure to emphasize your good worker traits and work habits. Then give an example to prove it! For example, you might say:

“He would tell you I can always be counted on to get the job done. I even took work home a few times to help him meet an important deadline. He would also tell you that I’ve only missed two days of work over the last five years.” If you have a personal letter of recommendation from your last supervisor this would be a good time to share it. You could also let the interviewer know you’re quite comfortable with having your former supervisor contacted. Almost everyone has had some type of problem with an employer. If the interviewer is likely to find out about your problem by checking with previous employers, honesty could be the best policy. Tell it like it was and accept responsibility for being part of the problem. If you learned something from the experience, say so. Here is an example: “My three former employers will all tell you I worked very hard and always got the job done. The reason I left my previous job, however, is the result of what I can only call a personality conflict. I was deeply upset but we both agreed it was time I moved on. They would give me a positive reference, but they may also tell you there were conflicts. I had no idea the problem was so serious because I was so involved in my work. That was my error and I have since learned to pay more attention to interpersonal matters.” Note: Often previous employers will only disclose information about your start and end date of employ- ment and possibly whether you are eligible for rehire. Why should we hire you instead of someone else? When answering this question, quickly inform the interviewer of your skills and positive characteristics as they relate to the job for which you are seeking. Be specific with your response. For instance, if the job requires meeting deadlines, tell the interviewer how often in the past you have worked evenings and weekends to make sure an assignment or project was completed on time. Remember, know what the job calls for, and then take time to prepare a response.

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Here is an example from a person who has recent training but little work experience: “I have recently completed career training in this field and know about all the latest equipment and methods. That means I can get to work and be productive almost right away. And, as you know, I have five years experi-ence in a variety of jobs. While this job is in a different industry, it requires similar skills such as managing people and meeting the public. I am also willing to work hard to learn new things. I am willing to invest extra time after regular hours to learn anything this job requires.” Where do you want to be one (three/five/ten) years from now? This is not the time to talk about your dream of opening your own business. An employer wants to know how much “staying power” you have when they ask this question. If they believe you will simply move on to another position at your first opportunity, you probably will not be hired. On the other hand, if the interviewer feels threatened by you (that you may take his/her job), you may not be hired. The best response is one where you indicate your sincere desire to get into a company willing to utilize your skills and talents, and where you can make a contribution to assisting the company in meeting its goals. What are your greatest strengths? The employer is concerned with both skills and personal qualities. Mention two or three strengths that will make you successful in the position you are interviewing for. Be sure to tell the interviewer that you are a good worker who can be counted on. Emphasize qualities such as determination, cooperation, reliability, etc. Then follow it up by giving a specific example to demonstrate you are what you say you are. What is your greatest weakness? This is a question most job seekers don’t handle well. If you tell what you do poorly, you may not get the job. If you say you have no weakness, the interviewer won’t believe you. Ask yourself what the interviewer really wants to know. She wants to know that you are aware of your weaknesses, and that you have learned to overcome them so they don’t affect your work. Whatever weakness you choose, your answer should

emphasize “the fix” not the weakness. One approach to use is to constructively criticize yourself. A secretary might say, “Although I’ve had excellent training in word processing, I need to become familiar with your computer system.” Another approach would be to state a “weakness” that could actually be construed as a strength. For example, you could say, “I tend to be impatient. I’m accustomed to working quickly and efficiently, so I become frustrated with myself when a project is not done on time.” What did you like most about your last job? Be very positive and enthusiastic when answering this question. This would be a good time to compliment your former supervisor and/or company. The compliment is a nice touch, especially if you were laid off from your last job. It’ll show the interviewer you handle adverse situations in a mature and professional manner. In addition, the interviewer will regard you as appreciative and pleasant if you speak in a positive way about a job you just left. What did you like least about your last job? Don’t criticize the company or the supervisor when answering this question. State something relating to the job itself or to your abilities. If you make negative com-ments about the company or supervisor, the interviewer will believe you’d do the same to him/her if you were hired. Whatever situation you focus on, make certain the same negative situation isn’t part of the job for which you are interviewing. This question can be difficult. You don’t want to complain or make it seem as if all the problems you had with your last job were caused by those with whom you worked. At the same time, you don’t want to respond with statements making you look inefficient. The best response is demonstrating disappointment in yourself as a result of desperately wanting to do well for the department/company. For instance, you could state you were disappointed at being unable to expand your department due to budget cuts. You could state that you believed you could have done a better job on a specific project had you had more time to work on it, or there was limited opportunity for growth in the organization.

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Do you have any questions for us? When do you see this position starting? What growth do you see for advancement in

this position? When should I expect to hear back from you?

Why did you leave your last job? The interviewer wants to know if you had difficulties with your last company that may be problematic with his/her company. Many employers will check references, so if you are not honest you could get caught. Employees usually quit a job for numerous reasons. You should mention only those reasons that are favorable for you. If you were laid off, you might mention other factors that contributed to your readiness to move on. For example, you might explain how the job didn’t sufficiently use your skills, training, or abilities. Many people have been terminated at sometime in their careers: It’s no sin and often has little to do with being a good worker. If you learned something from the experience, say so. The right answer to this question could get you the job, even if you reveal some negative information.

What salary would you expect if you were offered this job? The real point of this question is to help the employer either eliminate you from consideration or save money at your expense. If you’ve done your homework, you should know what similar positions pay. However, never mention a salary figure unless you’re absolutely certain there is a set figure, with no room for negotiation, already established for the position. Your objective in an initial interview is to create a positive impression. It is unlikely you would get a firm job offer in a first interview, so if salary comes up, avoid getting nailed down. Here are some things you could say:

“Are you offering me the position?” “Can you discuss your salary range with me?” “What would you pay someone with my

skills?” “I’m very interested in the position and my

salary is negotiable.” (Contributed by Riverside County Economic Development Agency)

Imagine showing up for a job interview only to discover four or more applicants waiting to speak with the hiring manager at the same time as you. It’s a predicament job seekers are more likely to face as companies streamline the recruitment process. Interviewing multiple candidates at once also provides employers the opportunity to observe how individuals behave when under pressure in a group setting. A multiple-person interview may seem more nerve-racking than a one-on-one meeting, but it’s a prime opportunity to showcase your strong leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Here are some tips to help you shine: 1. Be ready to focus on your strengths Before any interview, list three characteristics associated with the job description and prepare to demonstrate that you possess them during the session. For example, if you are interviewing for an event

coordinator position, you might recount a conference or school activity you helped organize at the last minute to highlight your exceptional time-management and multitasking abilities.

2. Get the lay of the land A group interview can involve multiple job candidates, as well as multiple hiring managers. So, once the meeting begins, try to read the different personality types in the room. Don’t assume the person who is quietly observing possesses no clout; often, the least talkative person is the ultimate decision maker. You can get a sense of the hierarchy by observing whom your interviewers make eye contact with as they speak; typically, employees will watch for their managers’ reactions to what they are saying. Regardless of who appears to be in charge, show equal respect and professionalism to everyone in the room, including other applicants.

Pointers for Group Interviews How to Stand Out in a Crowd

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3. Assert yourself If the interview is structured as an open dialogue, make sure your voice is heard -- but never at the expense of interrupting others, which is a sign of poor sportsmanship. If you have something meaningful to say and someone else is speaking, wait your turn. At the same time, avoid dominating the conversation -- another sign of poor team play. 4. Show grace under pressure Because there are multiple people being interviewed, you may not have much time to formulate your responses to questions posed by an interviewer. If others start chiming in, and you’re still considering your answer, resist the urge to immediately insert your thoughts; a poorly phrased answer can do more damage than saying nothing at all. 5. Expect the unexpected With more than one person vying for the spotlight, don’t be surprised if someone makes your point first. If this happens, think of a statement that adds to the conversation; this will show the hiring manager you can listen well and think on your feet. 6. Play up your people skills During a group interview, a hiring manager may split the group into small teams and assign a hypothetical problem or case for each to resolve. In these situations, the interviewer is likely looking to see who takes charge, how well the person delegates tasks and how the other members react to his or her leadership. The hiring manager might also observe how well individuals improvise, use their reasoning powers to win others over, and give and receive criticism. 7. Up the ante Interviewers often favor candidates who ask meaningful questions because quizzing a prospective employer shows that applicants are genuinely interested in the organization and have done their research. Posing insightful questions is also an easy way to stand out in a group interview, since some candidates will likely arrive unprepared. To develop thoughtful questions, study the job description and research the company beforehand. Preparing for a group interview is very similar to getting ready for a traditional one-on-one interview. The key to succeeding, however, is acknowledging the other applicants, and then acting strategically to

distinguish yourself as the candidate of choice. If you can do this in a professional and polished way, you may be chosen for a follow-up interview or the job itself. 8. Panel Interviews Panel interviews are often considered a more time-efficient process for the employer. A number of those involved in the decision-making process from different parts of the organization can interview the candidate at the same time; only one job interview is needed. Each panel member will take turns to ask questions relevant to their interests and after the interview the candidate can be discussed and rated from each member's perspective. Job interviews conducted by a panel are seen to be fair and valid as a number of different views are taken into consideration when making the hiring decision. These interviews are considered to be an effective way to determine how well the candidate handles stress and how the candidate interacts with a diverse range of individuals. Normal panel interviews are one candidate to four to five panel members. Be sure to greet all members and have eye contact with all members throughout the interview.

9. Phone Interviews Phone interviews allow applicants to participate in the process when it is difficult for the job seeker to travel. Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical phone interview questions. In addition, plan on being prepared for a phone conversation about your background and skills. Keep your résumé in clear view, on the top of your desk, or tape it to the wall near the phone, so it's at your fingertips when you need to answer questions. Have a short list of your accomplishments available to review. Have a pen and paper handy for note taking. Turn call-waiting off so your call isn't interrupted. Clear the room, it should be just you. Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door. Unless you're sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your cell phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line.

For more information on Interviews, visit: http://www.best-job-interview.com/ (Contributed by Robert Half International) Robert Half International is the world’s first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com.

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Dress for Success

1. Choose your clothing based on your body type, age, work function, seasons, and skin tone.

2. Plan your wardrobe the day/night before. 3. Have a core wardrobe you can build around.

You can create dozens of looks with just a few pieces.

4. Type of styles: soft, flowing – sleek, tailored – casual, simple lines – bold, trendy – traditional, conservative.

5. Choose appropriate footwear. 6. Casual doesn’t mean you can’t be dressy. The

right accessories can extend your wardrobe (belt, jewelry, vest, and scarf).

7. Sports pride is a wonderful thing, but it doesn’t belong on clothes worn in the workplace. Team sports apparel can often excite passions between fans of rival teams.

What NOT TO DO:

1. Don’t wear floppy, slipper type shoes. 2. Don’t wear well-worn pants or jeans. 3. Don’t wear spandex, or other body-hugging

fabrics. 4. Don’t wear anything that bares too much skin

(halter-tops or muscle shirts); cover any tattoos.

5. Don’t wear anything ripped or tattered. 6. Don’t wear mini skirts; skirts should be of an

appropriate length. 7. Don’t wear excessive jewelry (gaudy, nose

rings, 10 rings in your ear). 8. Don’t wear loud, expressive, artistic nail

polish or long acrylic nails. 9. Don’t wear decorated designer hosiery. 10. Don’t wear clothes that are too tight or too

short; don’t wear baggy clothes. 11. Don’t wear see-through fabrics. 12. Don’t wear ties that are too loud, cartoonish,

or too busy in design. 13. Don’t display body piercings. 14. No hats or sunglasses.

What TO DO:

1. Wear neat, clean, ironed clothing. 2. Wear items that match (look in the mirror

before you leave home and ask for a second opinion).

3. Keep accessories and jewelry comfortable and moderate; do not wear color contact lenses.

4. Keep a blazer or jacket at the office in case an important meeting gets scheduled or visitors arrive.

5. Wear socks. 6. Keep nails clean and manicured. 7. Keep cosmetics/makeup applied moderately

and appropriate for daywear. 8. If new shoes aren’t in your budget, keep your

shoes polished and get old run over heels redone at a shoe repair shop.

9. If you’re not sure what is “too casual”…ask management.

10. Think quality, comfort, and a successful image when shopping.

11. Your smile and positive attitude are part of your wardrobe; don’t forget to put them on each day.

12. Keep safety pins (or pocket-sized sewing kit) in your desk, purse, or pocket in case of unexpected lost button, broken zipper, bra strap showing, or a hem that becomes unraveled.

13. Remember to get dressed to go to work, not a fashion show or a backyard barbecue.

14. Remove body piercings, including tongue piercings. Ear piercing is acceptable; however, ensure it is the standard small ear piercing, preferably female only. (Many employers are requiring employees to have excessive piercings surgically repaired.)

15. Ensure all tattoos are appropriately covered with sleeves or other article of clothing.

(Contributed by Jewel Diamond Taylor, Motivational Speaker/Consultant/Author 213-964-1736)

“Employers judge you by the way you look”

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The Follow-Up How to Say Thank You Follow-Up Letter Practice Sample Follow-Up Letter

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How to Say Thank You (After the Interview)

WHEW! It’s over and time to relax, right? WRONG! After leaving the interview: Record the names and titles of the people you

met. List the key points about the job. List questions you did not answer very well.

After the interview, it is good manners to write a follow-up letter, thanking the person for the interview is a must. In fact, some employers think less of those interviewees who fail to follow-up promptly. Fewer than half the people follow up an interview with a thank-you letter. A simple thank-you letter helps you stand out from the competition (which could get you the job). It keeps your name in the manager’s mind and lets him/her know you want the job enough to take the time to write. How to say “Thank you” Within 24 hours create and mail the follow-up letter, thanking the interviewer for the interview. Indicate your understanding of what the job entails and how your skills qualify you for the job. Make sure the letter is error free. Finally, print the letter on good quality

stationary. Thank you letters need to be printed. Hand written notes must be in an appropriate thank you card. After one week, phone the company to find out their hiring decision. If you were told a date to call back, be sure you do so on the given day. You could say some-thing like this: “This is Mary Ann Waiting. I interviewed for the administrative assistant position last Thursday. Ms. Taylor said the decision would be made by Wednes-day. I wonder if that decision has been made.” (Be sure to thank the person for the information.) If you are talking to the interviewer, review the points you made in your letter and find out when the company intends to make its selection. Keep notes on this call. If you didn’t get the job, say you would be happy to be considered for future opportunities. When you least expect it, you may get a call offering you the job. Keep a list of questions handy in case you need more information to evaluate the offer.

Interview Follow Up Tips

Purchase a box of thank you cards and stamps in advance. Follow-up after both in-person and phone interviews. Send a personal hand written note or email to everyone you met with. Email is the fastest way to say thank you. (Ensure your e-mail address is business appropriate.) Ensure that your response is within 24 hours of the interview. Use this opportunity to reiterate your interest in the job and the company. Highlight your relevant skills. Mention anything you wished you had said, but didn’t, during the interview. Keep your correspondence short. Proofread your email and notes before you send them. Review sample thank you notes at (http://jobsearch.about.com/od/thankyouletters/a/thankyounote) if you

are not sure what to write.

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Follow-Up Letter Practice

Return address may be typed here or at the bottom as shown. Date _____________________________________________ (Full Name and Title)_________________________________ (Mr./Miss/Ms./Mrs./Dr.) (Company name) ____________________________________ (Company street address) ______________________________ (City, state, zip code) _________________________________ Dear Ms. ___________________________________________: Paragraph One: (Write a thank-you statement.) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Paragraph Two: (Express appreciation for meeting with the interviewer(s) and tell why you feel your qualifications match the job requirements.) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Paragraph Three: (End with a closing paragraph, restating your desire to work for their company and that you are looking forward to hearing from them or you will phone them.) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Sincerely, (your signature) Your typed name Your street address City, State, Zip Code Phone number E-mail address (appropriate/professional) Enclosure

Formatted in block style with mixed (standard) punctuation

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Sample Thank You Letter (Thank you letter)

January 18, 20___ Dr. Kathy Taylor, Director Human Resources Community Hospital 234 Tenth Street Riverside, CA 91720 Dear Ms. Taylor: Thank you for giving me the opportunity on Thursday, January 18, to interview for the administrative assistant position at Community Hospital. I really enjoyed meeting you and learning more about the position. After talking with you, I am even more excited about working for Community Hospital. The requirements for the position and my qualifications are a match! I enjoy using my office skills and take pride in doing excellent work. I hope you will give me the opportunity to demonstrate these skills. I am very interested in being part of the Community Hospital team and hope to hear from you soon. Sincerely, (your signature) Mary Ann Waiting 3879 South Fourth Street Riverside, CA 29507 (800) XXX-XXXX Email: mawaiting@yahoo.com

This format is used for formal letters or the contents of the letter can be used in a “thank you” card Formatted in block style with mixed (standard) punctuation

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Keeping a Job Twenty-Five Tips to Keep a Job

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Twenty-Five Tips on How to Keep A Job

Number 1 – Get off to a good start When you get a job, you win an important opportunity. It is an opportunity to be successful and prove your value to yourself, your family, your friends, and those who hired you. Getting off to a good start is really vital. Do some advance planning so that you are sure to report on time. Check distances, locations, traveling times and arrange the details of your transportation beforehand. Remember that the first few days will be hectic and energy draining. Get some extra rest so that you can report feeling fit and alert. Get down to business immediately and learn to do your job as quickly as possible. Remember that you are of little value to your employer until you learn how to handle all of your responsibilities on your own. Number 2 – Follow the rules Most employers know that people who are new to a company really feel lost. For that reason, these employers often go to a lot of trouble to provide special directions for their employees. A Company Handbook is one such direction-giving tool. Read and study it carefully. It is a good way to learn the policies of your company and avoid asking unnecessary questions. Following directions also includes using the time clock properly. People who continually forget force their supervisors to sign their time cards. This creates poor impressions. Remember tardiness and unreasonable absences are cause for dismissal. Don’t abuse sick time or other employee benefits. Number 3 – Keep a learning attitude A learning attitude means staying alert for any new knowledge or training. That means observing where supplies are kept and how various tools, machinery, and work areas are used, as well as how your particular responsibilities are completed. Be sure you understand all instructions thoroughly and correctly. It’s a good idea to carry a notebook with you at all times, jot things down as you notice them, take notes, and make diagrams during all training sessions. Pay attention. If you are not clear about something, ask about it. Use common sense and demonstrate your maturity by handling simple problems yourself. Spare co-workers unnecessary interruptions.

Number 4 – Find out where you fit You should know how what you do fits into the bigger picture. In other words, learn how the work that you are doing is processed before it gets to you and what happens after you have finished with it. This will help you to understand your part in the flow of work and to solve some of your own problems on the spot. Do the job as instructed. Remember that you were hired for a specific job. Follow your supervisor’s instructions and do the job as well as you know how. Later, when your experience and skills are established, your ideas and suggestions will be welcomed, but not at the beginning. Number 5 – Work smoothly with others People who work together in a particular department or on a certain project can be compared to the gears of a machine. If each gear does its job smoothly and in cooperation with the others, the machine runs smoothly and efficiently. The success of your job assignments could depend on cooperation with your co-workers. Expect to cooperate with others and help them cheerfully. Be friendly and give others a chance to get to know you. Be willing to meet others halfway. A give-and-take attitude is a mark of a mature person who understands that two heads are better than one. Number 6 – Be aware of the grapevine Don’t become part of the grapevine. Many unthinking employees have fallen into this trap, though it’s an easy one to avoid. Simply refuse to pass on the rumor—no matter how strongly you might believe that it is true. There are three important things to remember about a grapevine:

1. Usually, whatever is being passed around through the grapevine is inaccurate.

2. More often than not, grapevine rumors will interrupt a smooth workflow, hurt people’s feelings, and may result in dismissal.

3. Just one person who refuses to pass on the rumor can break a grapevine circuit.

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Number 7 – Respect others You will be more comfortable and more productive in an atmosphere where fellow employees like and respect each other. You do your part when you:

1. Respect the importance of others. We all like to feel needed and important. We all like to be complimented for a job well done, so make it a point to compliment others.

2. Respect the ideas of others. Listen to the plans and ideas of your co-workers. Be a good listener.

3. Respect the ambitions of others. Usually there are many opportunities for advancement. Be fair. Don’t take credit for the work of a fellow employee.

4. Be aware to be culturally sensitive to other peoples needs.

Number 8 – Be loyal – but be true to yourself Most people like feeling and behaving loyally toward the company that employs them. That is why it is important to consider a position carefully before accepting it. How you perform on your job and the possibility for future advancement will depend on how you feel about your company. Don’t take the job if you can’t honestly have faith and confidence in the firm’s products and policies. Once a job is accepted, loyalty to the company usually does not become a problem unless there is some question of honesty and ethics. In those situations, employees must decide for themselves. Usually it is not an easy choice because it may mean being significantly different and standing up for what you believe. Number 9 – Show strength of character It is no accident that Americans chose an eagle as a national symbol. The eagle has long stood for strength and courage - two characteristics most of us admire and that are important to the way in which we do our jobs. People develop and show strength and courage when they: don’t always take the easy way; stand up for what is right; admit mistakes and take responsibility for errors; master their problems by seeking help; work with poise, dignity and patience; assume all of their responsibilities and offer to help others. Remember that “passing the buck” may be an easy way out, but it will reap loss of respect.

Number 10 – Develop positive traits Usually, whatever we practice becomes a natural and automatic part of us if we do it often enough. That is one reason why actors work from a script and rehearse and practice so much. They want their performances - or whatever goes on that reel - to be believable by being natural-looking. You can write your own script for developing positive work traits. Simply decide what you want those traits to be and begin practicing them. Three traits worth developing are: Enthusiasm – the magic ingredient that makes tasks lighter; Responsibility – the characteristic that makes an employee someone the employer can depend on and trust; and Good judgment – the ability that makes a worker reliable. Number 11 – Eliminate negative traits None of us are perfect, but we can all work at eliminating our negative traits. By doing so, you can become more productive, pleasant, and enjoyable in the workplace. Remember: Don’t be a know-it-all. Such people discourage the friendly help and cooperation of others and often create discord. Don’t indulge in self-pity. People who feel sorry for themselves waste valuable energy that can be put to better use. Don’t be lazy and indifferent. People who have an I-don’t-care-about-anyone-but-myself attitude are soon left to their own misery. Don’t be argumentative. People who continually argue show a severe lack of respect for the opinions of others. Don’t flaunt your knowledge. People who do, usually create resentment. Number 12 – Communicate In order for any business to succeed, the staff involved must communicate with one another. In fact, poor communication can be the reason an employee is not promoted, or the reason a project, department or entire company fails. Most companies go to a great deal of trouble and expense to set up various communications systems. Learn as much as you can about the purpose and mechanics of the systems available to you and use them properly. But remember that the system you use is just that - a system - and each time you use it you are really communicating with a person. Remember also that communicating means listening to or receiving information as well as talking or giving information.

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Number 13 – Professional phone etiquette Always use the telephone properly for work:

1. Identify yourself when you answer by giving your company or department name followed by your own name.

2. Respond warmly. 3. No personal calls on cell phones and business

phone lines.

Your voice reflects the pleasure you find in your position and it can affect the mood of a customer or co-worker. Make it a rule to smile when you talk on the phone. It will automatically help you use a pleasant voice. Be attentive and listen carefully and patiently. Sometimes people have trouble expressing their needs so give them a chance. Take time to be helpful. If you personally cannot help, try to find someone who can. Watch your manners and your language. There is no room for rudeness, vulgarity or slang at the work place. If a person has waited to speak with you, thank them for their patience; this will set a better tone for the conversation. Number 14 – Create a businesslike image Every company and every department within that com-pany has a business image. It can be one of success and productivity or one of shoddiness. You are an important part of the business image at the place you work. Make sure that your business image is professional. Pay attention to your personal appearance; dress appropriately and use good grooming. Remember most people consider smoking unhealthy, discourteous, un-business like and often a safety hazard. If you smoke, do so only in designated smoking areas. Do not chew gum or eat while on the job. Number 15 – Plan your work Efficiency and productivity hinge on planning. Planning ahead may seem like a waste of time, but, in reality, good planning is a time saver. People who begin the workweek by listing their tasks and mentally reviewing the steps necessary to complete them usually avoid making false steps or repeating work that has already been done. Efficient workers always plan their work to meet deadlines. They schedule appointments appropriately and are careful about keeping them. They eliminate wasted time, such as arriving late,

leaving early, needless conversations or phone calls, and personal visitors at the work place. Number 16 – Increase your efficiency You can increase your value and importance to your employer and your feelings or self-worth by increasing your efficiency. You can do this by:

1. Being neat and orderly. A well-organized work station and key planning produces better results.

2. Concentrate. Pay attention to details as well as the overall pictures.

3. Showing initiative. Take the initiative. Become a self-starter.

4. Being punctual and developing a consciousness of time.

5. Avoiding carelessness. Carelessness can be costly to people’s safety, your career, and your employer’s property.

6. Treat others with respect. 7. Exercise self-control. 8. Always cooperate, but especially when the

pressure is on. Number 17 – Employment policy on sensitivity to others Once a person has established her/himself as a troublemaker it is almost impossible to change that perception. The best policy is to avoid establishing such a reputation in the first place. Follow the simple rules of courtesy. Be mindful that something is not funny or a joke if it hurts someone. Use sympathy, warmth, tact, and understanding. Learn to discuss and present a point of view without arguing. Don’t speak negatively about others. Remember to follow professional protocols when dealing with Harassment or Bullying.

1. Sexual Harassment is defined as any unwanted sexual advances, jokes, request for sex or comments and slurs.

2. Bullying is the use of force, coercing, abuse or intimidation to others. Bullying in the work place is referred to as peer abuse.

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Number 18 – Take advantage of in-service training If your company has training or education programs, it expects you to take advantage of them. You owe it to yourself and to your employer to increase your value by increasing your knowledge. Don’t be afraid to learn something new. The best way to cope with change is to learn all you can and begin using the new procedure, tool, or machine as soon as possible. Welcome the opportunity to learn something new and increase your efficiency. This alone will set you apart from other employees who resist change. Learning and change are parts of a lifetime process for self-improvement and growth. Don’t stunt your growth by refusing to learn. Number 19 – Challenge yourself When it comes to a challenge, we can all learn from the lowly ant that will not hesitate attempting to move something hundreds of times its own weight. What’s more, it is often successful in doing so. To a great extent, the ant’s success is due to the fact that it never considers failure. The ant automatically assumes that if it tries it will succeed and therefore does. You will never know what you can do, unless you try. Don’t let fear of failure keep you from trying. Remember that not succeeding is different from failing. People who never attempt are failures. Those who try may not be successful at that time, but they are not failures. Number 20 – Think about your management potential It is never too soon to begin thinking about your potential for a management position. Begin developing these skills: oral communication; written communication; flexibility (changing one’s approach to better accomplish a task); performance stability (maintaining a consistent level of performance) decision-making; leadership; organizing and planning; and inner work standards (one’s capability, potential, and willingness for a challenge). Discuss your future and plans for self-improvement with your supervisor. Show an active and acute interest in any training and education programs. Take responsibility for your own continued education.

Number 21 – Personal Phone Use at Work When you have your cell phone at work you must have the ringer turned down and it should only be used on your break periods unless it is a part of your job duties. Phone calls and text messaging can be very disruptive for your employer and may result in discipline action. Follow all company rules for personal phone usage. Let your friends and family know you will check your phone on breaks. Every employer will provide an emergency number should you need to be reached during your work hours by your family. Number 22 – Internet Use at Work As the internet has become an increasingly critical tool for most employers in the workforce, there are some features to using the internet at work that give rise to concern. While many employees think that it is okay to go online for reasons not related to work, most company internet usage policies do not allow for employees to openly surf the web. Follow all company polices on using the internet for non-work items. Most employers do not care if your check the weather or traffic conditions, but do not want employees using the net to do non-work related tasks. Under various internet technology law provisions, employers have the full right to monitor company internet usage of their employees and can block any websites from employee access while at work. Stay within you companies policies when using the internet at work. Number 23 – Social Responsibilities In the technology based world of today many people have YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter postings. Know that all these posting are public and can be viewed by employers. Many employers will search data bases to see what you are really like. If you have inappropriate postings for viewing that depicted you as irresponsible or unethical, employers will not choose you to work at their company. Some companies will also have policies about not having any of their logos in your postings, such as work shirts, hats or products. More and more companies are using social media to do marketing, yet still want their company and products presented in a professional manner. BE AWARE – your private life is not as private as you think and it can affect your employment.

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Number 24 – What To Do When You Make a Mistake Growing at a job means that you learn from mistakes and not repeating them again and again. When you make a mistake go to your supervisor and let them know as soon as possible. Have an idea of how you might correct it or an idea of how not to repeat it again. Present your plan clearly. Tell your supervisor how long it will take to implement your plan to fix the mistake. Don't blame anyone else for your mistake. Pointing fingers won't help anyone if you make a mistake. Encourage those who may share responsibility to follow your lead in confessing to your supervisor. Apologize and correct the situation is what an employer expects.

Number 25 – You are the deciding factor In the pursuit of being successful in long term employment or growing to better positions as you develop your career path, you are the deciding factor on the outcome. All employers are under fair employment laws, so if you do your job as asked you will be seen as an asset to the company. You have to be on time, follow company polices, be prepared to work and set goals to grow with the company. Develop a career plan of what you want to do in the future and talk to employers or customers of your plans, as you never know who can help you grow in your career dreams. It is up to you to be the employee you would want working for you if you were the supervisor. Grasp every opportunity!!

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Sources of Employment Resources for Job Search Employment Background Checks Resources for Job Training CTE Information

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Sources of Employment

There are many paths to take when looking for a job. Follow as many that fit your search and use them at the same time! This is called marketing yourself. Temporary agencies and volunteer organizations are excellent places to gain experience. Often a temporary worker is hired as a permanent employee. Seventy-five percent of job openings are filled through networking, and five to ten percent are filled through answering ads. Here are the approaches:

Resources

1. Networking: In this method, you tell people you know that you are looking for a job. Tell them what type of job you are seeking and ask if they know of openings. Ask:

Friends Parents of friends Relatives Friends of parents Neighbors Teachers

2. Internet:

Access to over 55,000 jobs worldwide, all levels, all fields: www.monster.com Federal Government job openings: www.usajobs.gov Job Bank, (pathway to state job openings): www.jobbankinfo.org Résumé help: www.résumé-help.org Two good search engines: www.yahoo.com and www.altavista.com (Just enter your search word like

résumés, job search, etc., and it will find sites containing that information.) 3. Advertisements:

Newspapers Trade Journals and Magazines

Professional Journals Yellow Pages

4. Broadcasting: This is the method that utilizes a mass mailing to companies that you are interested in. Mail each company a letter asking for a job interview. Since it takes about 50 contacts to get one interview, to triple your return, identify the person in each company who has the power to hire you and send your letter to him or her. A few days later, phone each person and ask for an interview. This increases your chances of getting an interview to 1 out of 17 contacts. This approach permits you to zero in on those specific companies that interest you. Sources of places to send letters:

Chambers of Commerce Community Agencies Computerized Job Banks Employment Development

Department (EDD) Job Fairs Library

Newspaper Ads Referrals (from people you know) State Indexes Trade Directories Trade Journals Yellow Pages Local Businesses

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5. Placement Services: Private Employment Agencies - for permanent and temporary jobs (check for phone numbers under “Employment Agencies” in your Yellow Pages.)

Accountants Overload Apple One Kelly Temporary Services Manpower

Public Employment Agencies School and College Placement

Offices

6. Miscellaneous: County Agencies

School Districts U.S. Office of Personnel Management (202) 606-1800 www.jobbankinfo.org Job Postings on the Internet – www.jobbankinfo.org County of Riverside Human Resources Department, (951) 955-3500, Recorded Job Information

(951) 955-3550 Professional Associations

Volunteer Services

Volunteer Center of Riverside 2060 University Avenue Room 212 Riverside, CA 92507 (951) 686-4402

California Municipal Services 1450 University Avenue Riverside, CA 92507 (909) 886-7111

(Similar agencies will be available in your area. The possibilities are endless!)

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Riverside County Office of Education

Career Technical Education

Riverside County Office of Education Career Technical Education (CTE) offers career preparation training to high school and adult students. CTE currently offers training in over 40 career areas based upon current and future labor market demands. Courses are offered in different locations. INDUSTRY COURSES INCLUDE:

Acute Hospital/Community Health Services Animation Animal Health Occupations Agricultural Mechanics Auto Collision and Refinishing Automotive Technology Banking and Financial Services Certified Computer Specialist Child Care Occupations Cisco Network Training Computer Aided Drafting Computer Repair Construction/Cabinet Making Construction Technology Culinary Arts Dental Assisting Dental X-Ray Technician Dentrix Office Occupations Registered Dental Assisting Digital Imaging Digital Photography

Emergency Medical First Responder Forensic Science Graphics Technology – Printing

Occupations Hospitality/Hotel Services Law Enforcement Manufacturing Technology Masonry Occupations Medical Assisting – Clinical Medical Assisting – Front Office Nurse Assistant Plant and Soil Science Retail Fashion Merchandising Retail Sales and Marketing Sign Language Small Business Management Sports Therapy and Fitness Television/Video Production Welding Occupations and Certification Web Design & Development

Upon successful completion of course you will receive a Certificate of Training. The certificate and accompanying competency list will verify your employability in your area of training. If you’ve been looking for the right job, feel it’s time for a change or would like to improve your skills, CTE may be just what you’re looking for.

For Additional Information

(951) 826-6450 or (760) 863-3300

CTE

Riverside Indio

“Resources for the Future!”

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Ready for Employment? Expect Background Checks You have prepared your cover letter, a résumé and are ready to submit an excellent error-free application. Once you have submitted these documents are you aware that your potential employer may complete a background check on you, which could possibly include a great detail of personal information such as:

FICO Score Employment History Credit History Education Criminal Activity Online Activity DMV Record

According to a special documentary produced and aired by CNBC, May, 2007, titled “Big Brother, Big Business”1 our shopping habits, expenditures, credit history, criminal activity, employment history, education, persons related to us, and even our online activities are kept in large data banks with various companies such as Choice Point® and ACXIOM.® This is known as Data Mining. The companies then sell the information to other companies such as those that may perform background checks for employers. Did you know that ALL of your online activities completed on Google® are stored forever? Additionally, both MSN® and Yahoo® retain online activity records for three years and AOL® for two years.2 Your activities are traced via the IP address on your computer. The Privacy Law of 1974 prohibited our government from gathering personal information on people, but not private companies. According to a study released by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), an astounding 80 percent of Human Resource professionals say they conduct criminal background checks to screen potential employees.3

1 “Big Brother, Big Business” Video, Part 3, CNBC, 5/2007 2 “Big Brother, Big Business” Video, Part 5, CNBC, 5/2007 3  Jobseekers: Beware, by Laura Morsch, CareerBuilder.com

Know Your Rights When employers run their own background checks on applicants, it is possible to commit a human error which could cost you the job. Errors such as typing in the wrong Social Security number, an incorrect initial, spelling of a name or even a similar name, could potentially list a host of information that is not yours and often times employers may not contact you to explain why you were not selected for the position. According to the Federal Trade Commission’s Fair Credit Reporting Act, employers must inform you and get your written permission before they conduct a criminal or credit check. If something is disclosed on the report that makes an employer decide not to hire you, the employer is required to share with you the information that is on the report.4 You are your best advocate. Be sure to check your educational and employment history. Additionally, experts recommend checking your credit report every six months to a year to catch errors, identity theft and credit history. Each of the three credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax and Trans Union offer free annual reports on their respective web sites. You can print additional reports for a nominal fee and even have them contact you via your e-mail if there is any suspicious activity. www.CareerBuilder.com FREE See SureCheck (Verify personal information) www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/fcra.htm FREE (Regarding your rights to background checks) www.intelus.com Paid Service (Background Checks/Relatives) www.public-records-now.com Paid Service (Background Checks/Relatives)

4 Jobseekers: Beware, by Laura Morsch, CareerBuilder.com 

Employment Background Checks

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The Riverside County Office of Education Career Technical Education (CTE) offers career preparation training to high school and adult students who are residents of Riverside County. In 2009, CTE received a six (6) year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. CTE currently offers training in over 115 courses based upon current and future labor market demands and availability of state funds. Programs are limited to training in those occupations where there is a reasonable expectation of employment and where there is sufficient student interest and need. Why take CTE?

CTE courses are sequenced to create pathways for students in a course of study which can lead to employment and/or post-secondary education opportunities. Experience is the best teacher. CTE can help you get the experience needed to get a job of your choice, help you upgrade your skills, or train completely in a new field. You may have the opportunity to actually do your training in a community-based business. Who can enroll?

CTE classes are open to all students 14 years of age or older, regardless of sex, race, creed, marital status, or physical handicap. Priority is given to high school seniors, then juniors, followed by persons 14 years of age or older, and adults. Some classes have special requirements and/or age prerequisites.

How much does the training cost?

There is no tuition fee for high school students. Students may incur some costs for books, uniforms, protective equipment, supplies, medical/legal clearances, and state certification exams as required by the specific courses of study. What do I get when I finish my training?

Upon successful demonstration of competency, you will receive a Certificate of Training. The certificate

and accompanying competency list will verify your employability in your area of training. What career guidance services does CTE provide?

CTE Student Services Representatives (SSRs) provide career guidance, aptitude and interests testing, and educational and occupational information. High school students may contact the SSR at their local high school campus. How are CTE classes taught?

CTE training is given in actual business/ industry locations or classrooms equipped to industry stan-dards. Classes are a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training taught by profes-sionals in the industry who are credentialed by the State of California to teach in their areas of expertise. Can I get credit for taking CTE classes?

Credit is given to high school students through their home high school. Some CTE courses offer the opportunity for advance placement and/or credit at local community colleges. Please check individual course descriptions for details. Will I get a job?

Your CTE course will include job search skills. While you are not assured a job, our placement rate is generally very high.

Sound good?

If you’ve been looking for the right job, feel it’s time for a change, or would like to improve your skills, CTE may be just what you are looking for.

All About High School CTE

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Connected To the World of Work

SCHOOL OF CAREER EDUCATION At School of Career Education, you’re our future. Let us help you get connected to the world of work. Riverside County Office of Education offers adult learns different opportunities in affordable career training. Our state-approved credentialed instructors are leaders within their respective industries with years of real-world experience, giving you a competitive advantage in connecting to a prosperous future in today’s tough job market. Courses are offered in the following subject areas:

Call the School of Career Education Today!

Riverside Area: Grindstaff Center- (951) 826-4723

Desert Area: Indio Center- (760) 863-3333

SCE - Connected To the World of Work Visit our website at: www.connected2worldofwork.com

Acute Care for Nursing Medical Clinical Administrative Professional

Banking & Financial Services Medical Office Professional

Child Care Occupations Nursing Assistant

Dental Assisting Nursing Services & Support Occupations Dental Continuing Education Courses Pharmacy Technician

Emergency Medical Technician Registered Dental Assistant

Home Health Aide Welding

Medical Assisting/Clinical Other Courses To Be Announced