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the job seeker’s handbook promote yourself into a gem and jewelry career

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  • thejob seekers handbook

    promote yourself into a gem and jewelry career

  • THE JOB SEEKER'S HANDBOOK

    2 2012 GI A . Al l r ights reser ved.

    Table of ContentsCONTENTS

    Finding Your Dream Job Getting Started ........................................................................................3Resources at GIA Career Services .........................................................................................................4Writing a Great Resume ..........................................................................................................................6Writing a Great Cover Letter ...............................................................................................................12The Role of the Portfolio ......................................................................................................................14Interviewing Tips ...................................................................................................................................15After the Interview .................................................................................................................................20Keep Your Career Moving Along ........................................................................................................24

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    Finding Your Dream JobAfter many hours of dedicated study at GIA, youre ready to find your dream job.

    But where do you begin? What do you need to do? And how do you stand out from other applicants?

    This booklet contains some essential information youll need to succeed in your job search. We encourage you to use it as you begin your professional journey.

    GE T TING STA RTED

    Starting a new career or job search can be daunting. As you begin your job search, you should first make sure that you are projecting a professional image. Follow these tips to help make sure that you put your best foot forward. You dont want anything to sabotage your efforts.

    Record a professional greeting on your outgoing phone message.

    Use a professional email address.

    Watch what you post on social media sites (make sure you turn on the privacy settings).

    Be careful about what you tweet or post on blogs.

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    Resources at GIA Career ServicesLet GIA make your job search a little easier. The Career Services office has invaluable resources that can help you in your job search:

    A worldwide database of available positions throughout the gem and jewelry industry

    Assistance in writing resumes and cover letters

    Interview tips

    Assistance in writing thank you letters and creating follow-up strategies

    AT TEND GIAS ANNUAL JE W ELRY CAREER FAIR

    As one of the industrys largest recruiting events, you'll meet some of the industrys finest employers. Attend career preparation seminars and workshops, get personalized career coaching, and network with industry experts. For this years dates and locations visit www.careerfair.gia.edu

    CONTAC T C A REER SERV ICE S:

    CARL SBA D NE W YORK

    [email protected] [email protected] 421 7250 ext 7303 212 944 5900 ext 3214

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    Writing a Great ResumeYour resume is perhaps the most important tool in your job search. Its a snapshot of your skills. Its your introduction to potential employers. Its a calling card you can use at job fairs.Many hiring managers do not read resumes. Instead they scan for key information. Therefore your resume should be a brief summary of your work experience, rather than a comprehensive description of everything youve done.

    But writing a great resume can be challenging.

    POW ER WORDS FOR YOUR RE SUME

    Action verbs can turn dull sentences into exciting ones that vividly communicate your achievements. Using the power words below can help set you apart from other candidates.

    Below is a list of action verbs you can use when writing your resume.achieved composed drafted improved originated resolved

    acquired condensed edited informed oversaw reviewed

    adapted conducted eliminated insured performed selected

    addressed constructed enforced interpreted planned separated

    administered contracted established interviewed prevented set up

    analyzed converted evaluated launched produced simplified

    anticipated coordinated expanded maintained programmed solved

    assembled created explained managed promoted surveyed

    assisted cultivated forecasted marketed provided staffed

    audited demonstrated formed minimized publicized supervise

    budgeted designed founded motivated published taught

    calculated developed generated negotiated recruited tested

    centralized devised guided obtained reorganized trained

    changed discovered hired operated reported used

    collaborated doubled implemented organized researched utilized

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    SIX STEPS TO DE V ELOPING A GRE AT RE SUME

    Your resume should be attractive, informative, professional, and well organized. Here are tips for creating a persuasive one.

    1. Make a list of your accomplishments. Jot down noteworthy things youve done in your life. Include your education, training, jobs, volunteer work anything that shows personal and professional accomplishments.

    2. Analyze the job description for the required skills. By carefully reviewing it, youll learn what talents an employer wants, and be able to tailor your resume accordingly.

    3. Highlight skills that are relevant to the opportunity. Ninety percent of individuals cant identify their skills, and many overlook ones theyve developed at other jobs. Take a personal inventory of what you can do, and identify the ones that would make you an ideal applicant for the position. Look for skills that are transferrable. If youve worked in customer service, sales, or management, for example, its likely that you have skills that are applicable to the jewelry industry.

    4. Be sure to put the most important information first, and the least relevant information last. Also highlight information to your advantage. For example, you might have extensive education, but not much work experience. In this case, list your education near the top of your resume. Or, if you have some outstanding skills or qualifications, you can highlight them by placing them first.

    5. Write short, descriptive phrases that describe your achievements and job responsibilities. Use action verbs whenever possible. Be concise and specific. Make sure verb tenses and punctuation are correct. Then prioritize content in the order of relevance to the job.

    6. Choose a format for your resume. (See page 811, Resume for Recent Graduates and Resume With Significant Work Experience.) Present background, qualifications, and skills to your advantage.

    There are, of course, many resume styles. Career Services has found that the style recommended in this handbook is widely used. Therefore, you may want to use the following format presented, especially if you are beginning a career in the gem and jewelry industry.

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    RE SUME FOR RECENT GR ADUATE S

    A quick Internet search will reveal dozens of different resume styles. Here is a traditional one that you can use.

    CONTAC T INFORM ATION

    Name

    Address

    Phone

    Email

    You can also include the web addresses of your LinkedIn profile or personal web page if they are professional in nature.

    QUA LIFIC ATIONS SUMM A RY

    Use phrases that are relevant to the employers job description. This portion of your resume should be customized every time you apply to a position.

    For example, the job description posted reads: Diamond sorter, GIA GG skilled in grading and identifying diamonds and must be comfortable with working with customers. Your qualification summary may be written as follows:

    Graduate Gemologist skilled in grading diamonds

    Expert at detecting diamonds from diamond simulants

    Adept at identifying diamond enhancement techniques such as fracture-filling

    Excellent communications skills

    Skilled at customer serviceThese qualification statements, when appropriate, should also be highlighted in the experience section.

    EDUCATION

    Only list schools you attended after high school.

    Include the degrees you earned.

    List schools you attended from the most recent to the first.

    Heres an example:

    Gemological Institute of America, Carlsbad, CA, Graduate Gemologist, 2012

    WORK E XPERIENCE

    List most recent job or internship first.

    Stress accomplishments, such as things you achieved or created.

    Quantify your accomplishments if possible (e.g., Increased sales 25%).

    Include how long you were at the position and the titles you held.

    Include other relevant jobs using the same formatting.

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    PROFE SSIONAL AFFIL IATIONS

    TECHNOLOGICAL SKILL S

    L A NGUAGE S

    VOLUNTEER WORK /COMMUNIT Y SERV ICE

    Only list if relevant, such as, Mentor, Big Brother/Big Sister of San Diego County or Event Volunteer, WJA New Member Recruitment Night

    SA MPLE RE SUME FOR RECENT GR ADUATE S

    Jennifer K. Jones222 N. Anystreet WaySmalltown, NY 12345

    [email protected]

    QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY Graduate Gemologist expert at detecting synthetic gems and treatments Skilled at identifying more than 1,700 colored gemstones Proficient in sorting, plotting, and grading diamonds Proven track record in sales, with excellent interpersonal skills

    and extensive customer service experience Successful in translating technical grading and manufacturing terms

    into a simple, concise language customers understand

    EDUCATION Gemological Institute of America (GIA), New York, N.Y.

    Graduate Gemologist diploma, expected May 2012Graduate Pearls diploma, February 2012

    George Washington University, Washington, D.C.Bachelor of Business Administration, 2009Major: Marketing; Minor: Economics

    EXPERIENCERocks and Crystals Inc., Washington, D.C.

    Sales Manager 2009-2011 Successfully managed a team of 12 sales associates Increased entries in the customer database by 50% Created customer service standards, such as customer feedback forms

    and sales associate follow-up calls Plotted and graded all stock diamonds Verified customers diamonds when brought in for repairs

    PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

    GIA Alumni Association New York Chapter, 2012 Present

    TECHNOLOGY SKILLS

    Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop

    LANGUAGES

    Fluent in Spanish

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    RE SUME W ITH SIGNIFIC A NT WORK E XPERIENCE

    If youve been in the workforce for several years or more, its likely that you have honed skills transferable to the jewelry industry. For example, if youve worked as a real estate agent, you have sales skills that would be applicable in a retail setting. If youve worked in finance, this may be relevant to a manufacturing or grading position.

    If you graduated from college more than two years ago, you probably have developed some important work skills and can share noteworthy achievements. You should therefore put your work history right below your qualifications summary, and highlight your successes. Using our template, your resume would be formatted as follows:

    CONTAC T INFORM ATION

    QUA LIFIC ATIONS SUMM A RY

    WORK E XPERIENCE

    Include job title, company name, dates of employment, key job responsibilities, and skills related to the job posting. List employers starting with the most recent.

    EDUCATION

    PROFE SSIONAL AFFIL IATIONS

    TECHNOLOGICAL SKILL S

    L A NGUAGE S

    VOLUNTEER WORK /COMMUNIT Y SERV ICE

    RE SUME DO'S A ND DONT 'S

    Use these tips to create an attractive and readable resume.

    1. Use an easy-to-read font (e.g., Arial, Garamond, or Cambria).

    2. Use 11- to 12-point font sizes.

    3. Use a professional email address.

    4. Only bold your name and headings (e.g., professional summary, experience, education, etc.).

    5. Margins should be approximately one inch on all sides.

    6. Use different font styles (e.g., italics, underline, or regular font) to distinguish subcategories.

    7. Use the past tense for all previous jobs; use the present tense for your current position.

    8. Do not use I or My this is not necessary. Begin each sentence fragment with an action verb to describe your experience.

    9. Your resume should be one to two pages in length.

    10. Quantify whenever possible; be specific and show the results of your work.

    11. Use numbers when appropriate (especially for managing budgets, sales goals attained, staff you managed, etc.).

    12. Use clear, specific language eliminate unnecessary and vague words.

    13. Do not include personal information (e.g., age, marital status, number of children, etc.).

    14. Do not repeat words such as responsibilities, proficient, or experienced.

    15. Avoid abbreviations, symbols, or slang (i.e., &, TTYL).

    16. Proofread, proofread, and proofread. Then proofread again! Typos can be deadly!

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    SA MPLE RE SUME W ITH SIGNIFICANT WORK E XPERIENCE

    Tom Thomas, GIA GJ, GG66 Straight Road

    Anytown, MO 54321(555) 555-5555

    [email protected]

    QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARYTo be a member of a team where my 7 years of experience in jewelry manufacturing, operations, and office systems management will be a positive asset.

    WORK EXPERIENCEGem Jeweler Manufacturers, Schenectady, NYManufacturing Manager, 2009 present

    Responsible for all manufacturing processes, quality control, and employee relations. Processes included all design, wax casting, and finishing needed to turn precious metals into fine jewelry.

    Supervised staff of 35 Increased employee productivity by 17 percent Served as liaison between the jewelry department and customers Responsible for employee meetings and department operations

    Smiths Gem Center, Albany, NY Jewelry Supervisor, 2006 2009

    Supervised 12 employees Restructured jewelry department work flow Computerized department Improved repair turnaround time by 20 percent

    EDUCATIONGIA (Gemological Institute of America), Carlsbad CA

    Graduate Gemologist diploma January 2006Graduate Jeweler diploma October 2005Applied Jewelry Arts diploma February 2005

    New York College of Jewelry Arts, Albany, NYJewelry Manufacturing Associate Degree May 2004

    PROFESSIONAL AFFLIATIONSManufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of AmericaJewelers of AmericaGIA Alumni Association GIA Alumni Association Kansas City Chapter, 2012 Present

    TECHNOLOGY SKILLSMicrosoft Office, Adobe Photoshop

    LANGUAGESFluent in Spanish

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    Writing a Great Cover LetterA cover letter is important. Its your chance to introduce yourself, share your accomplishments, and differentiate yourself from other candidates.Employers place great value on cover letters. So take the time to write an effective one.

    Heres an outline you can use to help craft an effective cover letter.

    1. INTRODUC TORY PAR AGR APH

    Tell the employer who you are.

    Say you are interested in the job.

    Let the employer know how you learned about the position.

    Tell him/her why youre interested in the position.

    Include the name of an employee or mutual acquaintance if someone referred you.

    2. BODY

    Share three to five of your skills/accomplishments relevant to the position.

    Show that you know about the company/division/agency.

    Include information about your professional and educational background.

    3. CONCLUSION

    Restate your interest in the job.

    Explain how you would like to follow up on the letter (e.g., I would be happy to provide samples or references if they are helpful to you).

    Thank the reader for his/her consideration.

    Type your name and sign above it.

    MORE COV ER LE T TER WRIT ING T IPS

    Here are additional guidelines you can use to make sure your cover letter is effective.

    The letter should be no more than one page in length.

    Use a standard business letter format.

    Cover letters are viewed as writing samples. Be sure your spelling and grammar are correct.

    Use clear, accurate language eliminate wordiness.

    Never use negative statements be positive and professional.

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    Emphasize your achievements and accomplishments, as opposed to your responsibilities. Remember that there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance.

    Read your cover letter out loud, and/or record it and play back to hear how it sounds. This can ensure that the letter flows smoothly and is free from grammatical errors.

    SENDING A COV ER LE T TER

    If you are applying by email, send the cover letter as the email and the resume as an attachment.

    SAMPLE COV ER LE T TER

    January 16, 2012

    Dear Ms. Smith:

    I am writing to apply to the diamond and gem grading position at Contemporary Laboratory, which I learned about through GIA's job database. Having received my Graduate Gemologist (GG) diploma from GIA, I believe I have the technical skills to make a significant contribution to your company.

    At GIA, I gained a comprehensive knowledge of diamonds and gemstones. I am proficient at grading diamonds, as well as plotting them. Furthermore, I am skilled at identifying more than 1,750 colored gemstones, determining synthetics from their natural counterparts, and detecting enhanced and treated diamonds and colored gemstones.

    In addition to receiving my GG diploma, I also earned the Jewelry Design certificate and Accredited Jewelry Professional diploma at GIA. Earning these diplomas have given me extensive experience in rendering faceted gems and metals, and in using traditional drafting techniques to design jewelry. I also can translate technical grading and manufacturing terms into simple, concise language customers understand. My organizational skills and my ability to communicate effectively, which I have honed through my retail experience, enhance my technical skills.

    Having researched Contemporary Laboratory, I was particularly impressed by its commitment to providing quality laboratory services, and I would be honored to be part of its team.

    I welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy in greater detail, and look forward to hearing from you.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Sincerely,

    (SIGNATURE)

    Jennifer K. Jones

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    The Role of the PortfolioA portfolio lets you share your artwork and designs with an employer. Sharing your work is essential for designers. It also differentiates you from other candidates.Portfolios can be Word documents, digital images, multimedia or PowerPoint presentations, and websites. Many prospective employers request a JPG or PDF file, so you should be prepared to send your portfolio in this format.

    When unsure about sending an attachment, ask the prospective employer what is the preferred format.

    An attractive website can significantly enhance an employers opinion of you. If you have HTML or other web programming skills, you may want to consider creating an online portfolio. Present your work so that it is easy to view, and navigate, and is aesthetically pleasing.

    A number of websites allow you to upload your portfolio for free or at a nominal cost. You can use a search engine to find free or low-cost website hosting services.

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    Interviewing TipsYouve passed the first hurdle. The employer has read your cover letter and was impressed with your resume. Now youll have the opportunity to tell the hiring manager all the reasons youre a perfect fit for the job.

    Making a good first impression is key whether its over the phone, online, or in person. Keep these tips in mind as you move through the interview process. PROJEC T A POSIT IV E IMAGE

    Do not chew gum, eat, or smoke.

    Smile. Smiling will project a positive image, and change the tone of your voice.

    Speak slowly and enunciate.

    Address the interviewer by his/her last name and the appropriate prefix (Mr., Mrs., or Ms.)

    M A KE A GRE AT IMPRE SSION

    Be professional and respectful.

    Be enthusiastic about the job.

    Give concise answers; do not ramble.

    Think before answering.

    Always tell the truth.

    Do not interrupt the interviewer.

    Ask questions about the position and the company.

    Thank the interviewer for his/her time at the end of the conversation.

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    T IPS FOR PHONE INTERV IE WS

    Good news! The hiring manager wants to have a phone conversation with you. Make sure that you have a great phone interview by following these tips.

    RE ADY YOUR INTERV IE W SPACE

    Make sure there will be no distractions where you are talking.

    Make sure friends, relatives, and pets stay outside of the room during the interview.

    Turn off call waiting on your phone.

    Do not do anything else during the phone interview.

    BEFORE THE PHONE CALL

    Research the potential employer.

    Have a clear understanding of the job description.

    Think of one piece of information you want the interviewer to know about you (e.g., Why you instead of other candidates?).

    Practice for the interview by having others ask questions and critique your answers.

    Watch what you post on social media such as Twitter or Facebook. Turn on your privacy settings to keep personal information private.

    DURING THE PHONE CALL

    Have in front of you:

    A hard copy of your resume

    The job description

    Notes about the company

    The interviewers name

    A pen and a notebook

    What about this job opportunity interests you?

    MORE T IPS DURING THE CALL

    Ask the interviewer questions, such as:

    What qualities are important in an ideal candidate?

    Are there other skills that would help one succeed here?

    What opportunities are there for growth?

    How would you describe the work environment?

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    ONLINE INTERV IE W TIPS

    Some companies may wish to conduct an online interview with you using Skype or a similar service. Prepare for an online interview as you would for a phone interview (see Tips for Phone Interviews).

    HERE ARE SOME SPECIFIC T IPS FOR ONLINE INTERV IE WS.

    Dress for success: Dress professionally and make sure you are well-groomed, just as you would for an in-person interview.

    Dress wisely: Wear solid colors. Stripes or patterns may come across like strobe lights on a computer screen.

    Eliminate distractions from your room: Remove from view photos, statues, and piles of papers. Your desk and room should be clean, orderly, and uncluttered. Make sure all friends, relatives, and pets stay out of the room during the interview.

    Turn off phones: Turn off your phone and keep it out of view.

    Check lighting: Test the lighting in the room before the interview to make sure it is flattering, and that objects do not reflect off of you.

    Sound quality: Use a USB connected-headset, as the built-in microphone jacks in computers usually have poor sound quality. Test it prior to use.

    Prevent technical difficulties: Make sure that your Internet connection is working prior to interview.

    Look into the camera: During the online interview, do not stare at your image on the computer screen. This might give the impression that you are not making eye contact with the interviewer. Excellent posture and eye contact enhance your image.

    Be aware of body language: Make sure that the computer camera captures a flattering shot of your head, shoulders, and hands. We form our opinions of others from their body language and other non-verbal cues. Make sure that the upper half of your body is visible.

    Slow down: Its easy to talk over people during an online meeting, so wait for the interviewer to stop speaking before you answer.

    Be enthusiastic: Online interviews tend to make one seem subdued, so make an effort to smile and be enthusiastic.

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    T IPS FOR IN-PERSON INTERV IE WS

    The potential employer liked you enough that he/she wants to bring you in for an in-person interview. This is your chance to impress the hiring team and potential co-workers with your knowledge and enthusiasm. To make a great impression, follow these suggestions.

    PRIOR TO THE INTERV IE W

    Write down the names of the interviewer(s) (if theyve been provided), and if possible research their roles so you know what they do at the company.

    Have directions to get to the interview.

    Make sure your clothing is clean and pressed.

    Think of key facts you want the interviewer to know about you.

    DAY OF THE INTERV IE W

    Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes early.

    Dress professionally, paying close attention to grooming details.

    Bring multiple hard copies of your resume and cover letter in a folder.

    Bring a list of references, but only provide them upon request.

    Bring a pen and a small notebook to take notes.

    Turn off your cell phone and do not have it visible.

    Treat everyone you meet, including the receptionist, with respect and courtesy.

    AT THE INTERV IE W

    Be enthusiastic about the job.

    Maintain eye contact.

    Think before answering questions.

    Be a good listener.

    Always tell the truth.

    Ask questions about the position and the company.

    Take notes, but ask permission before doing so.

    Ask for the interviewers business card.

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    COMMON INTERV IE W QUE STIONS

    What about this job opportunity interests you?

    What did you like about working at your last company?

    What did you do at your previous jobs?

    What are your career goals?

    What unique skills can you bring to the job?

    How do you handle pressure and deadlines?

    How do you get along with co-workers?

    What are your salary requirements?

    What were your reasons for leaving past jobs?

    How are your previous job experiences relevant to this opportunity?

    What are your strengths and weaknesses?

    What did you study in college, and how is it relevant to the opportunity?

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    After the InterviewBe sure to send a thank you note within 24 hours of your interview. According to Monster.com, most job seekers do not to their detriment. Sending one shows your enthusiasm and professionalism.

    Out of the job seekers who do send thank you letters, most send an email. Handwritten notes on a note card or a typed letter also are acceptable.

    THANK YOU LE T TER W RIT ING T IPS

    Here are guidelines for writing a thank you note.

    First paragraph: Thank the hiring manager for taking the time to meet with you. Confirm your understanding of the job description.

    Second paragraph: State why you are a strong candidate for the position. List specific skills that are relevant to the opportunity. Share details about skills and experiences you did not mention during the interview.

    Third paragraph: Reiterate your appreciation for being considered for the job, and let the hiring manager know that you are looking forward to hearing from him/her.

    Closing: Sincerely or Best Regards.

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    SAMPLE THANK YOU EMAIL OR LE T TER

    Mr. John MarkDirector of Human Resources Gem World Inc.100 Oak StreetNew York, N.Y. 11111

    February 21, 2012

    Dear Mr. Mark,

    Thank you for taking the time to meet with me. It was exciting to learn about the gem grader position at Gem World Inc.

    Having earned my Graduate Gemologist diploma from GIA, I am confident that I have the skills needed to succeed at Gem World Inc. I spent almost two weeks on the GIA campus grading diamonds and determining synthetics under the trained eye of a master grader, and during that time, honed my skill set. I also wanted to let you know that I spent a summer as a jewelers apprentice something that I didnt mention during the interview. I believe that these skills would be of value to Gem World Inc., if not in the gem grader position, than in other capacities.

    Thank you once again for considering me for the position of gem grader. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can provide you with additional information.

    I look forward to hearing from you,

    Sincerely,

    (SIGNATURE)

    Jennifer K. Jones

    NOTE: Use the full address, title, and signature when sending a typed letter. Emails and handwritten notes do not need to include this information.

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    FOLLOWING UP IF YOU DON T HE AR BACK

    You can send an email to follow up on your application if you have not heard from the employer after a week. Write an effective follow-up email by using these tips.

    Make sure your email looks professional.

    Thank the interviewer for meeting with you.

    Restate your interest in the position.

    Inquire politely about the status of your application.

    Provide your contact information.

    Be polite and respectful throughout the entire process. Even if you dont get the position, there may be future opportunities at the same company. Conducting yourself in a professional manner will create a favorable impression, and can help you in the future.

    Jennifer K. Jones222 N. Anystreet WaySmalltown, NY 12345

    [email protected]

    Mr. John MarkDirector of Human Resources Gem World Inc.100 Oak StreetNew York, N.Y. 11111

    February 21, 2012

    Dear Mr. Mark,

    Its been seven days since we last communicated about the opportunity at Gem World Inc. for a gem grader. As I have not heard from Gem World Inc., I am unsure if I am still being considered for the position.

    I wanted to once again express my interest in this opportunity. I know I can be a real asset to Gem World Inc., and am sure that I can immediately start making a contribution. My diplomas from GIA also ensure that I can be a resource in other areas.

    Thank you, once again, for taking the time to meet with me. I look forward to hearing from you.

    Sincerely,

    (SIGNATURE)

    Jennifer K. Jones

    NOTE: Use the full address, title, and signature when sending a letter. Emails do not need to include all this information. Be sure to include your return contact information.

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    REFERENCE S

    Employers who are interested in you are likely to request references. They typically contact three individuals. Do not include the names of your references on your resume.

    Selecting the right references is important. Here are some suggestions you can use to make sure these individuals are your advocates.

    Pick your references wisely: When deciding who to ask to be your reference, select individuals who know you and your work. Ideally, they should have supervised you, so that they can attest to your work ethic, character, and skills.

    Remember that the quality of an employers or professors reference can make or break your candidacy for the position. Do not use family members.

    Share information with the person providing the reference: Tell the individuals giving references the types of jobs you are applying to, and what skills they should highlight. Also provide a copy of your resume.

    The more information you can give about the job opportunity to the individuals providing references, the more appropriate the recommendation they can give. This includes giving your references copies of the job description. Doing so will allow them to stress relevant accomplishments, skills, and traits. For example, if you are applying for a sales position, your references can talk about your interpersonal skills.

    Stay in contact: Contact the individuals on your reference list each time you submit their names to an employer. Let them know that your potential employer will be contacting them.

    SA MPLE REFERENCE L IST

    Below is an example of a reference list. You can use it as a template.

    References for Jennifer K. Jones222 N. Anystreet WaySmalltown, NY [email protected]

    REFERENCES

    Jerry JonesCIO, Gems [email protected]

    Diedre SmithManager, Gems [email protected]

    Dara AndersonSales Manager, The Gem [email protected]

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    Keep Your Career Moving AlongTo keep your career moving ahead, its imperative to network and stay up-to-date on the industry. Take full advantage of the resources online at www.gia.edu/alumni after earning your GIA credentials. Become an active member of your local GIA Alumni chapter or any industry gem or jewelry association. Grow your knowledge of the industry and current trends by subscribing to industry publications. Attend

    local and international jewelry shows. Join social business networks such as LinkedIn to find the online gems and jewelry community.

    World Headquarters The Robert Mouawad Campus5345 Armada DriveCarlsbad, CA 92008T 760 603 4000F 760 603 4080www.gia.edu

    Established in 1931, GIA is the worlds foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls. A nonprofit institute, GIAs mission is to ensure the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism through education, research, laboratory services, and instrument development.

    After many hours of dedicatedstudy at GIA, youre ready tofind your dream job.Resources at GIA Career ServicesWriting a Great RsumWriting a Great Cover LetterThe Role of the PortfolioAfter the InterviewKeep Your Career Moving Along